Helpful Score: 8
I thought this is a good, but very different book. I was engrossed in the story almost immediately, although I couldn't put my finger on why. The book starts in the perspective of Alice, an unhappy and persevering wife of a dairy farmer. Alice is an odd character; she sees things in a way that no one else does. Sometimes I couldn't decide whether she was just eccentric with a wide-ranging and vivid imagination, or whether she was just mentally ill. The events of the story could send anyone into a downward spiral of questioning all that you hold true in life. The perspective changes for the middle of the book to that of Alice's husband, Howard. The contrast is very interesting and gives much insight into Alice's character as well as the background of their lives. Then, for the last part the perspective is Alice's again. All in all, there valuabel themes of perseverance, love despite adversity, forgiveness, and respecting others. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys character-based stories. This is not a fast-moving story though, so if you enjoy action and lots of twists and turns in plot, this probably isn't the book for you.
Helpful Score: 7
Beautifully written, but I have to agree with another reviewer on this list that I basically couldn't stand the main character here. She seemed to me to be self-absorbed and just plain weird. Her husband seemed nasty. Her friend Theresa was almost just a sketch of a character. Anyway, blah....I don't mind a depressing story, but give me something to grab onto to already......
Helpful Score: 4
This is one of those books that stays with you for a long time after you read it. Have you ever wondered what a fine line we walk between our happy everyday lives and sudden total disaster? One lapse in attentiveness sets into motion a series of events that will forever change the main character's (Alice) life and those around her. Having endured bouts of depression during my life, I could totally relate to the Alice's feelings--the author puts you inside her head with so much ease that you find yourself thinking the same things right along with Alice. A fantastic, easy to read book. The only negative comment I have was that the ending left me unfulfilled--it was too abrupt.
Helpful Score: 3
I did not really enjoy this book. A tragedy turns the characters absolutely bitter. It was a depressing read.
Helpful Score: 3
The beginning of this book was especially painful to read, and I believe anyone with a child will find it so. But, the book touched so great a nerve within me that it was a most memorable read. You just can't help but sympathize with the main character, and constantly imagine how her (ex) best friend, and all family members felt. It really is a case of a tragedy occuring by accident. Preventable? Of course. But, that's the case with all true accidents. You will not forget the powerful emotions in this book.
