One of the novel's premises is the strength of the bond of a small town on its inhabitants, when they are placed under stress of the changing religious sexual and religious tensions in the 1950s. The series of interlocking stories about ordinary people is given dimension through Binchy's empathetic insights.

1. Is Maddy brainwashed by the Family of Hope or has she lost her sanity?

2. Should Leo's father have called the police when her mother shot Danny?

3. Why did Chris's parents not question their daughter's staying to live with Eddie and his mother?

4. Should Father Barry remain a priest? Was it for the best that Father Barry left the parish?

5. Did Maura believe Gerry would marry her and stand by her forever?

6. Does Dr. Kelly feel remorse for killing the child of the son he never loved?

7. Did Nessa love Niall when she turned her attention to...