In a 2016 interview, Ivey said that Sophie's part of the story, especially her desire to pursue photography, was also inspired by early female photographers such as ornithologist Cordelia Stanwood.
[6] Molly Hagan, in Magill's Literary Annual, compared the themes of the book, particularly its incorporation of magical realism, to Ivey's previous novel The Snow Child.
She also criticized the lack of depth in Sophie and Allen's characters, writing that "their personalities remain uncomplicated by ambiguous deeds".
[7] In a review published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Mike Fischer said that the characters challenged their readers "to see the mystery in everyday life".
[8] Publishers Weekly praised the voice acting in the audio book version, in particular highlighting Christine Larkin's performance as Sophie Forrester.