"The Safe Gap" by Lisa Stukel is a novel that tells the story of two women and how their lives intersect. Tammy, a school crossing guard, finds hope after enduring a challenging marriage and battling weight gain. Ashley, a cringe-worthy affluent stay-at-home mom, loses herself to denial and addiction, going through the motions of motherhood and marriage. 

The characters in the book, each distinct yet interconnected, evoke a range of emotions - from disgust to compassion - as their layers are slowly peeled back, revealing the complexities of their lives and experiences. Through the eyes of these two women, the novel offers profound insights into the inner workings of humanity, reminding us of the immeasurable impact of past experiences on shaping our present selves. 

The novel kept my attention from start to finish with its unique presentation of two seemingly unrelated women, their families, and their life experiences. The ending is powerful. 

"The Safe Gap" is a moving exploration of life journeys and the intricacies of humanity. I highly recommend it for its compelling message.