What is the author's tone in the novel, World Without End?

The overall tone is one of hope and optimism, though there are many scenes in which characters face overwhelming odds, terrible tragedy, and hardships. For example, Gwenda and Wulfric are landless. It is clear that Ralph will never allow them the opportunity to get ahead in life. However, they reach a successful conclusion with their small family intact and it becomes clear that they are in love with each other. Caris battles herself and officials in her quest to find her place in the world, and she winds up happily married and the matriarch of a hospital.