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3.61 AVERAGE
3.61 AVERAGE
Surprisingly very good, even though the book is told from the viewpoint of an elderly woman who is in denial about her alcoholism. Very entertaining as an audio book.
Leary made a provocative choice to tell this story from the perspective of an alcoholic who is in denial about her disease. She manages to provide a window into the psychology of addiction while telling an endearing and engaging story. I could tell the tone was meant to be humorous, but I had a tough time with it in some parts. As someone whose family has been affected by addiction and alcoholism in particular, I found it difficult to laugh at some of Hildy's antics as they felt so heartbreakingly close to home.
Audio book was amazing. The voice, tone and inflections made Hildy so real. Interesting story of a small town in New England. I especially liked the generational view of lives in a small town and the shared history.
This book is about small town New England real estate agent, a real tough old broad with two grown children, a gay ex-husband, and a serious drinking problem. It is by turns funny, warm, and sad. The main character, Hildy, is incredibly likable and unlikable at the same time, and she makes a wonderful (if highly unreliable) narrator of the comings and goings of the small town. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, from beginning to end.
I listened to the audio book narration, and it's one of the best I have heard. The narration really brings it to life in a wonderful way. Highly recommended.
I listened to the audio book narration, and it's one of the best I have heard. The narration really brings it to life in a wonderful way. Highly recommended.
This book is FANTASTIC on audio! Mary Beth Hurt narrates the heck out of this one!
Pretty sure I would have enjoyed this more had someone other than Mary Beth Hurt been the reader.
emotional
funny
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I wanted to love this. I liked the story, but not the main character/narrator, however, as someone who works with alcoholics/addicts, her voice is accurate.
A complex book...had a slow start but picked up a bit into it. This book was not at all what I anticipated...the ending left me wondering a little too, what REALLY happened?
A book club member recommended this to the group, and mentioned it had some pretty funny lines. And it had some zingers. I'd love to be Hildy Good's friend. She knows most of the towns secrets, but she might spill them if she doesn't quit drinking. And she's worried she might not even remember telling the secrets. Set in Massachusetts, near Salem, Hildy is a descendent of one the original Salem witches, and she even has her own "psychic" abilities. She's a local and a relator so she knows everyone. And they are all characters you'd expect from a small town. Great story and believable characters.