From the New York Times bestselling author of Always and Blackberry Winter, a heartbroken woman stumbles upon a diary and steps into the life of its anonymous author.

In her twenties, Emily Wilson was on top of the world: she had a bestselling novel, a husband plucked from the pages of GQ, and a one-way ticket to happily ever after.

Ten years later, the tide has turned on Emily's good fortune. So when her great-aunt Bee invites her to spend the month of March on Bainbridge Island in Washington State, Emily accepts, longing to be healed by the sea. Researching her next book, Emily discovers a red velvet diary, dated 1943, whose contents reveal startling connections to her own life.

A mesmerizing debut with an idyllic setting and intriguing dual story line, The Violets of March announces Sarah Jio as a writer to watch. "Mix a love story, history, and a mystery and what takes root? The Violets of March, a novel that reminds us how the past comes back to haunt us, and packs a few great surprises for the reader along the way."—Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of Leaving Time and My Sister's Keeper

"Sarah Jio is one talented writer!"—Claire Cook, bestselling author of Must Love Dogs and Seven Year Switch

"A book for anyone who has ever lost love or lost herself."—Allison Winn Scotch, author of Time of My Life and The One That I Want

"An enchanting story of love, betrayal, and the discovery of an old diary that mysteriously links the past to the present."—Beth Hoffman, author of Saving CeeCee Honeycutt

"A gem of a book, perfect for reading on the beach or under a cozy quilt."—Sarah Pekkanen, author of The Opposite of Me and Skipping a Beat

"A captivating, bittersweet tale of what happens when the long-buried truth finally makes its way to the surface. I didn't want this book to end!"—Kelly O'Connor McNees, author of The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott

Praise for Sarah Jio and her novels:
 
“Jio has become one of the most-read women in America.”—Woman’s World (on Morning Glory)
 
“Delightful and uplifting.”—Historical Novel Society (on Goodnight June)
 
“Linger[s] long after the last page.”—Romantic Times (on The Last Camellia)
                                                                                                                                                    
“Eminently readable . . . a tribute to family and forgiveness.”—Booklist (on Goodnight June)
 
“Terrific … compelling … an intoxicating blend of mystery, history and romance.”—Real Simple (on Blackberry Winter)