The Great Alone—it's the first book I've thought about long after finishing it, not just while reading it. I keep wondering, "What's Leni up to?"

When I had just gotten the book and started reading reviews online, I heard the beginning was slow. At first, I didn't agree. As an only child with somewhat of a turbulent childhood, I could relate to the early story of Leni—listening to her parents, not understanding all of what was going on but picking up enough. Those first few chapters weren't slow at all. I cherished them... UNTIL I got into the good stuff.

If you compare the beginning of this book to its later chapters, then yes, it's very slow. The rest of this book flew by for me—I couldn't get enough. Kristin Hannah has a wonderful way of building suspense, leaving the reader wanting to devour every page. And what's better—she explores really valuable themes, important topics to consider in the world today.

Here are the key questions or topics on my mind while reading:

If the man I loved suddenly changed for the worse because of a situation out of his control, would I stay with him or would I leave? Could I leave?
Could I uproot my life and live in a place that challenged me everyday—mentally and physically?
It's so important and valuable to have a support system of men and women around you for life's challenging moments.

This is a story about strong women. Exploring. Triumphing. Doing whatever it takes to survive. If you like novels with strong women protagonists, this one's for you.