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book_concierge's review
4.0
This was one of Oprah's last selections of her FIRST book club (she quit and restarted later), and as was typical of her choices it dealt with abuse, incest, dysfunction.
MacDonald carefully controls the revelations however, so that there are still surprises toward the end. Still, looking back, you recognize foreshadowing used throughout. It's a powerful book, but NOT an enjoyable read. I did not like Frances at all; but I love Lily.
Our book group had a great discussion.
MacDonald carefully controls the revelations however, so that there are still surprises toward the end. Still, looking back, you recognize foreshadowing used throughout. It's a powerful book, but NOT an enjoyable read. I did not like Frances at all; but I love Lily.
Our book group had a great discussion.
csgiansante's review
4.0
Was going to give this three stars because it was a lot, but the last third proved to be more engaging and earned that extra star.
alidottie's review
I gave this book ZERO stars. I remember going on reading it thinking this has to have a redeeming ending and it just got worse and worse.
ovenbird_reads's review
4.0
Don't read this book for a pick-me-up. Tragedy after tragedy, the story drags you to the depths of despair with only the slightest bit of redemption at the end. However, this books stirs up a tempest of emotions, plunging the reader into a twisted family mystery where no one is quite sure where they came from and where they might be headed.
lorainemoon's review against another edition
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0