Despite their differences in backgrounds and personalities, the women of Briarwood House forge a deep bond of friendship. Grace's arrival acts as a catalyst, drawing them out of their shells and creating a space where they can confide in one another, share their burdens, and offer mutual support. This theme explores the strength and resilience women find in each other, especially during challenging times.

Each resident of Briarwood House carries a secret, ranging from hidden pasts to forbidden desires. As the story unfolds, these secrets slowly unravel, revealing their impact on the characters' lives and relationships. Kate Quinn masterfully illustrates the weight of unspoken truths and the danger of keeping them buried, showcasing how secrets can both unite and divide.

Set against the backdrop of the 1950s Red Scare, the novel vividly captures the atmosphere of suspicion and fear that permeated American society. The characters grapple with the constant threat of being labeled a communist, facing distrust from neighbors and even within their own circle. Quinn highlights the devastating consequences of this paranoia, exposing the dangers of blind accusations and the erosion of trust in a climate of fear.