After the devastating trauma she suffered in Olivia, Mourning and finally knowing the reality with which she must contend, Olivia strives to rebuild herself – emotionally, socially, and financially.
She seeks a new life in Detroit, the young and exciting city on a river, where she has come to feel at home. New friends help the healing process, while she continues to search for the two people she loves, who have disappeared from her life. She finds some solace in helping fugitive slaves escape over the river to Canada. She believes, as one of her new friends says, "In this time and place it is the most worthy thing a person can do."
Olivia remains a compelling protagonist on a journey to find a way to do the right thing in a world in which so much is wrong.

1,260 Amazon ratings – 4.6 average This is what some of them said:

"I loved Olivia, Mourning so much. I could not wait to read the 2nd book of the series ... and I was not disappointed. The writing is so good, that the author makes you feel as if you can touch the characters." – E.A. Stowers

"A memorable read. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Olivia, Mourning, I purchased The Way the World Is. I was NOT disappointed. It has the same fast pace, strong characters and fascinating historical setting. The well- researched events are fascinating, believable with interesting twists and turns." – Carol Fuhrman

"It took me no time at all to fall in love with Olivia and Mourning. After finishing the first of the series, I immediately dove into Book 2. I like the attention to historical detail, as well as the well-defined plot. There is so much character development in these books, you will feel like you are with friends by the time you finish. I highly recommend this book and this series." – Pomptonqueen

"I couldn't put these books down. The characters are so vivid and real. You can feel the strength, weakness, joy and sorrow of each of these people. I would recommend this to any who enjoy a good story, by an author who captures the essence of each of the characters in this series. Yael Politis, my hat is off to you. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!" – Lady Di

"This story is very enlightening. The details about life in the early 1840s make you feel more of a participant than observer. The emotions evoked are strong and real. Many times I thought "why didn't I know that" and wondered how I would have reacted. Olivia is smart, headstrong and courageous. The supporting characters are developed over time to be a real part of the story. Keep on writing, Yael." – Patti Miller

"The story, as well as the writing, are so satisfying. This second novel is as good as the first and while it is not necessary to read the first in the series before you read the second, I would highly recommend it. It is a novel that you can lose yourself in ...Very, very enjoyable." – fshinbaum

"I love this series. It is not a sappy sweet love story, but it is a love story. It is also a story of struggle, grappling with the harshness of life and mankind, hurt, anger and pain. Beautifully though, it is more a story of strength, friendship, a worthy cause, finding yourself, and independence." Zoe@Blessed and Bewildered

"One of the best series I have ever read. I got hooked on it when I read Olivia, Mourning. Enthralling story, masterfully told, thought provoking." – Kindle Customer