In this daring collection, the author struggles with the sudden death of her husband and domestic violence in a subsequent relationship, reveals customs and prejudices of the rural Midwest, reflects on lessons learned from parenting, dating, teaching, and poor role models, and observes the changes in a river and the surrounding landscape over time. Scenes of gripping anxiety are followed by moments of insight, sardonic humor, and simple beauty. Readers will root for Angie as she confronts overwhelming obstacles, and watch with a smile as three husbands, three careers, and five children later—she comes out swinging.