Anne and Gilbert are married, and they settle into their first home while Gilbert starts his medical practice in a small harbor town on Prince Edward Island. They befriend their neighbors, Captain Jim, Leslie Moore, and the formidable Miss Cornelia.

Captain Jim tells them fascinating stories of his adventures at sea. Miss Cornelia hates men and criticizes them mercilessly. Leslie Moore has had a tragic life, and her heart is bitter. Each of these people find solace and compassion with Anne as they form strong friendships that help them through the storms of life.
A tragedy befalls Anne and Gilbert, and they need the support of their new friends. The newlyweds even have their first serious disagreement, and have to find a way to reconcile their different opinions.

I love this fifth book, but it is more serious than other books in the series. There is more tragedy, but there is also beauty and adventure and humor. As Anne grows older, the timbre of her life changes and the themes of the books change as well.

One of the things I enjoy in this book is the closer look into Anne and Gilbert’s relationship. Their joyful love and easy friendship shine on every page.