The novel is a heartwarming tale of friendship and love that transcends the boundaries of time and age. Set in Alabama, it alternates between two storylines: one in the 1980s where an unhappy housewife befriends an elderly woman in a nursing home who tells her the story of an indomitable woman in the 1930s. The other story focuses on the life of that woman who runs a café with her sister-in-law, their strong bond, and the murder mystery surrounding them. The narratives intertwine to create a touching and inspiring story about the power of female friendship, resilience, and courage.

"A Lost Lady" is a story set in the American West, focusing on a beautiful and captivating woman who is married to a much older, wealthy railroad magnate. As her husband's health and fortune decline, she becomes involved with a younger man, which leads to scandal. The narrative explores themes of changing societal norms, the decline of the pioneer era, and the transformation of the American West.

"The Lamplighter" is a 19th-century novel that follows the life of Gerty, a spirited and neglected orphan girl who is rescued from her abusive caretaker by a kind lamplighter named Trueman Flint. Under Flint's guidance, Gerty grows into a virtuous and pious young woman, despite the many hardships and emotional trials she faces. The novel explores themes of Christian redemption, the importance of kindness and mentorship, and the transformative power of love and perseverance. As Gerty matures, she navigates complex social relationships and personal challenges, ultimately finding her place in the world and the possibility of happiness.

The novel presents the story of a wealthy Chinese woman who, upon reaching her 40th birthday, decides to change the course of her life. She arranges a concubine for her husband to take over her marital duties and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. Throughout the narrative, she explores the constraints of traditional roles and the possibilities of intellectual and spiritual freedom, forming a deep connection with a foreign missionary. This relationship challenges her beliefs and the societal norms of the time, leading her to question the very foundations of her existence and her place in the world.

"There Is Confusion" explores the complexities of African American life in the early 20th century, focusing on the intersecting lives of three young black protagonists from middle-class backgrounds. As they navigate the challenges of racism, societal expectations, and personal ambitions, the novel delves into themes of racial identity, class, gender roles, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of their experiences in New York City, highlighting the tension between assimilation and cultural heritage, and the struggle to achieve personal and professional success in a world rife with discrimination and prejudice.

The novel explores the intricate tapestry of women's experiences in the 1950s and 1960s, focusing on the coming-of-age story of a young woman as she navigates the challenges of friendship, love, and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of the feminist and civil rights movements, the protagonist grapples with her desires for independence and artistic expression while confronting the constraints placed on her gender. Through her relationships with friends and lovers, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately seeking to forge her own identity and a life that intertwines personal fulfillment with social activism.

Set in the late 19th and early 20th century Japan, the novel follows the life of a young American girl who, after a tragic twist of fate, finds herself orphaned in Kyoto. She is taken in by the family of a tea master, where she becomes deeply immersed in the culture and traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony. As she grows and navigates her complex identity and the societal changes of a rapidly modernizing Japan, her unique perspective as an outsider within a traditional world offers a poignant exploration of belonging, love, and the intersection of cultures.

"The Able McLaughlins" is a historical novel set in the 19th century, revolving around a Scottish immigrant family in Iowa. The story follows Wully McLaughlin, the eldest son, who returns home from the Civil War only to discover that his sweetheart, Chirstie, has been violated and is pregnant. Wully marries her to protect her honor, and sets out to find the man responsible, leading to a dramatic climax. The novel explores themes of family, honor, justice, and the immigrant experience in America.