Wow! Intense, emotional and at times heartbreaking this is a book you will not be able to put down once you pick it up. I should also add that it is heartwarming and provides some smiles in spite of dealing with a disturbing issue the world needs to address – seeing it through Ruby’s eyes is difficult but definitely worth doing.

The Skipper is a pub that has seen at least three women in need come through the doors – and – it has managed to provide support, friendship and love while seeing these women through difficult times. In this book Ruby Soto, an employee that came to her job through a women’s shelter, finds herself trying to handle the kitchen without the skill set to do so. Tim Veldman steps in to help out and as he does so sees Ruby in a new light. With an offer to teach her to cook, something she mentions she has always wanted to learn how to do, the basis for a friendship is laid.

Ruby’s past must be dealt with before she can be truly free. And, with 30 of her 44 years on earth horrific and out of her control that is not an easy task to accomplish. It requires the support of Tim, his brother, the FBI, Pam from the shelter and those she works with at the pub.

I loved the Veldman family dynamics – the parents of Tim and Mark were oh so special! Tim and his brother, Mark, were keepers and had their own set of difficulties to contend with. Ruby was a survivor with so much to give in spite of all she has endured. The Skipper team is one that I want to hear more about and hope that Dino and Matt will get stories, too. The plot at times was a bit predictable and I have doubts that the Nina subplot is realistic but otherwise this was brilliant.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ( )