Dr. Tyler Wilkes comes from old money and an aristocratic upbringing in Philadelphia. Against the wishes of his mother, Ty becomes a physician in a tiny town called Wayne's Crossing. He buys the practice from an old doctor dying of consumption. Ty really wants to study diseases instead of treating patients but he feels an obligation to the people he serves.

Carrie Wiggins is dirt-poor and living with a violent, abusive step-father, who lusts after her. Carrie has created a life for herself by treating animals (in her own 'hospital') and writing about her treatments and the birds that surround her. From the time that Ty meets Carrie, he wants to help her because she doesn't seem to be able to speak. However, Carrie has lots of secrets.

When Carrie lets Ty into her world of wonder and little miracles, he falls in love with Carrie but knows he cannot marry someone of such a low social class. The author helps the reader see the uniqueness of each character and how their interaction changes them.

This is a well-written story but I thought it dragged at points and had too many internal conversations. On the positive side, the plot was interesting. Sometimes I complain that the end is too short; one cannot complain about that in this novel.

Share/Like this Review?