Just finished 'Winter Garden' by Kristin Hannah, and wow—I'm emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. This book isn't just a story; it's an experience.

The first half had me questioning if I should DNF (shocking, I know!). It felt slow, like trudging through actual Russian snow. But then—BAM! The second half hit me like a freight train. Suddenly those "boring" details became crucial pieces of the most heartbreaking puzzle.

Pro tip: Keep tissues within arm's reach. I cried so hard my cat gave me concerned looks. The Leningrad siege scenes? Brutally beautiful. Hannah doesn't just describe history—she makes you LIVE it through Anya's haunting fairytale.

What surprised me most was how much I related to modern-day Meredith. That scene where she packs up her dad's things? Felt like someone peeked into my soul after my own father passed.

Bonus discovery: The ebook version includes Russian recipes! Though fair warning—reading about pirozhki while sobbing makes for messy cooking attempts.

This isn't just another WWII novel. It's about how trauma echoes through generations, how love persists in impossible circumstances, and why we should all ask our parents more questions while we still can.

PSA: Don't let the slow start deter you. Push through—that emotional payoff is SO worth it. Now excuse me while I go hug my mom extra tight and research all of Hannah's other books.