The story is set in Alaska, 1974. Ernt Allbright came home from the Vietnam War a changed and volatile* man. When he loses yet another job, he makes the impulsive* decision to move his wife and daughter north where they will live off the grid in America’s last true frontier.

Cora will do anything for the man she loves, even if means following him into the unknown. Thirteen-year-old Leni, caught in the riptide* of her parents’ passionate, stormy relationship, has little choice but to go along, daring to hope this new land promises her family a better future.

In a wild, remote corner of Alaska, the Allbrights find a fiercely independent community of strong men and even stronger women. The long, sunlit days and the generosity of the locals make up for the newcomers’ lack of preparation and dwindling* resources.

But as winter approaches and darkness descends, Ernt’s fragile mental state deteriorates*. Soon the perils outside pale in comparison to threats from within. In their small cabin, covered in snow, blanketed in 18 hours of night, Leni and her mother learn the terrible truth: They are on their own.

Author Kristin Hannah has created layered, fleshy characters and an engrossing story, told through innocent Leni. Reading her description of Alaska is like watching a documentary about the state where we are swept from the water up to the glaciers and see a great panoramic* view of the wild and pristine state.

(SD-Agencies)