I love Nicole Baart. I’m privileged to call her friend. Which can sometimes make it awkward when a writer friend has a new book out. What if I don’t like it?

I needn’t have worried.

Beneath the Night Tree is stunning. Beautiful words, well woven story, impeccable characterization. I have a crush on Baart’s writing style and wordsmithing. But it’s the delicateness of the story, the way the characters experience angst that makes me love her all the more.

The story question is: What happens when you have to choose between the man who wants to marry you (and is a huge catch) and the man who fathered your child, but walked out. It seems like a simple quandary, but to Julia, the main character, it’s not so easily discerned. I read the book in two settings, frustrated when I had to leave it behind. This is a strong testimony to the power and skill of Baart to weave a story.

I don’t often recommend books, but this one is quite worthy.