Posted Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Actual Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I don’t specifically remember all of the details of what day it was or where I was, yet I remember my reaction upon first seeing this book and reading its synopsis; I knew that I had to read this book! This book set itself apart from the other options available on the surrounding shelves firstly due to its striking cover art. Its colors and contrast surrounding the mysterious lady in the flowers…you just wanted to learn about her, to read her story. Once I picked up the book and read the synopsis I knew I would read it because the main character was a Hawaiian girl which touched a chord in me because I am part Hawaiian myself and I was fascinated with the idea of sharing that part of my heritage with a main character.

While I loved the setting and adored Rachel before I had actually read her story, by the time I finished the book I realized that she had an impact on me. It wasn't the typical reaction where you are disappointed the story comes to an end or even wishing there had been more. I had realized that I wanted to be more like Rachel, I wanted her strength, her ability to persevere in adversity, and find happiness in the life she had, rather than pining for a life denied her. That is what made this book truly beautiful to me.

Originally posted on my Tumblr.