The Stars are Fire by Anita Shreve

A novel based on the true story of the largest fire in Maine's history follows the experiences of a pregnant woman who struggles to protect her two young children and watches her home burn while her husband joins the volunteer firefighters.

Good book with good characters. The story of the fires that happened in Maine during this time period makes me want to learn more. Felt that the ending seemed rushed given the build up of the characters to that point. But overall liked it.

This was the right book at the right time. Although it contained a lot of tragedy, ultimately it was a story of hope, which fit what I needed at that moment.

I loved Grace. I empathized with Grace. I spent a lot of time wondering what I would do in Grace's shoes, both as a woman of her time, and as a woman of my time.

A lot of the book is about what makes a house a home. The same space can be heaven or hell based on with whom you share that space. Beauty or squalor.

Ultimately, Grace realizes her life is her own, full of possibilities.