When Kat Jamison retreats to the Blue Ridge Mountains, she's counting on peace and solitude to help her make a difficult decision. Her breast cancer has returned, but after the death of her husband, her will to fight is dampened. Now she has a choice to make: face yet another round of chemotherapy or surrender gracefully.
Self-reflection quickly proves impossible as her getaway is complicated by a pair of abandoned dogs and two friendly children staying nearby, Lily and Nirav. In no time at all, Kat's quiet seclusion is invaded by the happy confusion of children and pets.
But when lightning ignites a deadly wildfire, Kat's cabin is cut off from the rest of the camp, separating Lily and Nirav from their parents. Left with no choice, Kat, the children, and the dogs must flee on foot through the drought-stricken forest, away from the ravenous flames. As a frantic rescue mission is launched below the fire line, Kat drives the party deeper into the mountains, determined to save four innocent lives. But when the moment comes to save her own, Kat will have to decide just how hard she's willing to fight to survive-and what's worth living for.
"How hard will you fight to survive? Hodge never rushes this heart-pounding story, letting us savor every exhilarating, life-affirming moment."
Apple Books, Best Books of February
"[An] assured debut...Those looking for an inspirational story about one woman coming to terms with life and death will be rewarded."
Publishers Weekly
"Alongside the taut suspense, Hodge has created a likeable, sympathetic character in Kay, and fans of Cheryl Strayed's Wild or Kristin Hannah's The Great Alone won't want to put down this nail-biter."
