I almost put the book down after reading the first line. I didn't want a book about dead babies, my heart just can't take that! Luckily, I continued, else I would have missed an excellent story. Written in a conversational style, I quite enjoyed this book as it reminded me of talking with my closest friends. You know about the protagonist's life from the start, but learn the deeper layers of who she is at heart as the novel progresses. The realization at the end that everyone has deep pain that has touched their lives and it's how you choose to deal with that pain - let it break you or make you stronger - rang true for me. The midwife journal was a nice touch as you see her progressing in confidence as she gathers experience. That reminded me of teaching, starting out with some knowledge and showing confidence, then feeling the confidence in time. While everything is not wrapped up in a neat tidy bow at the end, the author gives glimpses of what lies in the future for each character.
I also appreciated the side stories, including the racial tension that occurred. The author handled it respectfully, yet there wasn't a moral being thrusted down my throat. Some authors are very heavy handed when writing about racial topics, but this was done quite well. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.