Helpful Score: 14
After reading Patchett's novel "bel canto" I was hesitant to read another of her works but, the premise of this book sounded interesting so I decided to give it a try. I have to admit I liked this one. Her style brought just the right amount of weight to the depression the wife feels after her husband's death without making the mood gloomy. My only complaint is I felt let down by the ending. It felt unfinshed in some way.
Helpful Score: 11
I loved this book. The story and the characters just take you along on a crazy ride from LA to Nowhere in the midwest. You keep wondering how it will all turn out. At first, I did not like the author's ending, however, after a day, I realize that the ending is all part of the magic of the book. A great read!
Helpful Score: 10
I love how there are no villians in Ann Patchett's novels but the conflict is still very gripping. This novel was not as wonderful as Bel Canto, but still was a very enjoyable read.
Helpful Score: 7
Lovely and sad with a perfectly magical ending.
I liked Bel Canto, but everything else I've read by Patchett (including this) has been disappointing. The early part of the book was pretty interesting, but as it went on, it was just weak and reminiscent of a million other family dramas. The ending was a little too neat and I found myself rolling my eyes.