Following a massive stroke, Elizabeth (Bets) Marshall is in an extended care facility. Her daughters, Emily and Sarah, are handling the chore of sorting through their mother's things to ready the house for new owners. In doing so, they find their mother's diary, which has them completely confused and in awe. In the diary are entries of a fascinating love named AJ; someone who's never before been mentioned.

As Emily and Sarah become engrossed in their mother's diary, a secret love story unfolds. In the early 50's in the small town of Cement Town, Nebraska, Bets is anticipating her engagement to a wonderful man. But her heart is held by another young man, A.J., with an unsavory past. When A.J. is blamed for setting a barn fire, Bets eventually admits to being with him at the time. He is released and leaves town, promising Bets he will return. Bob again proposes to Bets, but she's still undecided, especially when A.J. suddenly reappears and begs her to go away with him and become his wife.

At Bets' funeral, an older gentleman attends. When Emily and Sarah question him, nothing is what it seems, including the man. The mystery of their mother and father unfolds to reveal a tender love that comes along only once in a lifetime.

THE DIARY is an excellent story of a beautiful nostalgic love. The ending will surprise and delight you. Expect a real twist in the conclusion. I found Eileen Goudge's story to be warm, interesting and full of tenderness. The characters are wonderful and very well- portrayed. Excellent reading that should not be missed.