Readers' Comments for Ordinary Grace
In April, a select group of readers who participated in one of our Special Contests won copies of ORDINARY GRACE, a stand-alone novel from William Kent Krueger, best known for his Cork O'Connor mysteries. Take a look at some of the readers' comments to give you more insight into this book.
Karen J., of Martinsville, NJ
I was thrilled to have won a copy of William Krueger's ORDINARY GRACE and am looking forward to suggesting this novel as one of our books for discussion. The vivid descriptions of the town and characters were outstanding. While reading the book, my emotions covered the gamut-from a deep, visceral sadness for Ruth to sweet tenderness for Jake. My favorite character was Gus and I found myself casting him for an HBO screenplay. I am lucky to have won such a captivating book.
Candace B., of Grand Island, NY
I just finished this excellent book --- can't begin to say how much I enjoyed it. I'm not normally a fan of mysteries but this was much more than I expected. The writing was beautiful --- descriptive and evocative. I liked the way it was told from Frank's perspective many years later suggesting how memories can be faulty but the feelings memories carry never go away. At first I thought that I might not enjoy it because of the dark tone but I felt good but oddly satisfied by the end --- in fact, I hated to see it end. I am going to suggest this to all of my 4 book clubs --- so many good themes for discussion.
Betty R., of La Habra, CA
Hi...Thank you so much for the book. I have just finished reading it and was much impressed. I reviewed it on the Bookreporter Word of Mouth sweepstakes site today. I try to read at least a book a week so I can enter that contest and review as many as I can. I'm not the best writer but I try to be as honest as I can while trying to be constructive. Thank you for giving me another good reading experience. Betty Ramsey
Deborah P., of Hillard, OH
I loved this book! It drew me in right from the beginning, and I kept taking time throughout my day to stop and read a little bit more. I am recommending it to my book club, because I want to discuss it with them and share the story. Thank you for introducing me to this book and this brilliant author!
Paisley R., of Scottsdale, AZ
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The author handled the theme of dealing with tragedy and grief in a thoughtful, textured manner by revealing each character's unique thoughts and behaviors. The plot was riveting and the characters nuanced and well-developed.
I have, and will continue to recommend this book to others. Thank you!
Jeanne J., of Portland, OR
A beautifully written book. There is lots to think about and ponder while reading this quiet yet powerful story and linger over again when finished.
Will definitely recommend this book to the two book groups I belong to as well as to many reader friends as a "must read".
It was truly a gift to win this book!
Sheila D., of Polk City, IA
The only thing “ordinary” about this book was that word in its title. Krueger captured small towns of that era, which is not easy, but he also captured the dilemmas of a young boy as he became a man. Should I tell, should I not tell; should I step in, should I not step in; and are adults people with real flaws or perfect heroes?
This book was, to me, one of those “low key” books that grab you without smacking you in the face. The characters were people I have met at other times. I rarely stay up to finish a book, but I did this one!
I am so glad to have encountered ORDINARY GRACE! Thank you!
Mimi W., of Windsor, CT
I enjoyed the book and am recommending it to our group for our summer read as we do not meet in July and August. Thank you very much.
Miriam B., of Madisonville, LA
I received a copy of ORDINARY GRACE by William Kent Kruger and loved it! A wonderfully written book full of grace and with a very engaging narrator, Frank.
I enjoyed so much reading about the Drum family --- the mystery of the deaths that occur that summer when everything was happening for Frank made this book so memorable. I will recommend that my book club read this book --- the underlying sense of God's grace during times of trouble was well conveyed and made this book unforgettable.
I found so many characters engaging and I especially loved the ending --- from when Frank grew up looking back on that fateful summer.
I agree --- this was a "resonant tale of fury, guilt and redemption" and will stay with me for quite a while.
It reminded me of PEACE LIKE A RIVER by Leif Enger and gave me that same sense of peace in the writing.
I will be recommending this title to other readers and to book clubs. Thank you so much for sending this title to me.
Diane G., of Black Mountain, NC
Living in a small town where almost all know your business takes grace. Living in one and facing tragedies takes ORDINARY GRACE. Great book! Already recommended to my book club.
Marcia H., of Waterford, MI
Thanks for the book. I just finished reading it while on vacation and enjoyed it. Although, I wasn't as excited about it as I thought I would be. But that could be from all the rave reviews I had seen prior to reading it. It's like going to see a new movie that everyone went on and on about, to walk away feeling only moderately happy about it. I did enjoy this book, but wasn't feeling like I wanted to recommend it to everyone. I didn't feel compelled to recommend it to our reading group either. It was perhaps too tragic, too sad. I will pass it along as a suggestion to my avid reader friends though. Thanks again for running these contests. I'm glad I read this book and did finish it very quickly.
Cathy A., of Staten Island, NY
The back cover caught my attention when I saw Hot Stuff comic books mentioned. I had a flashback right then. I have never read a book by William Krueger before. Now I know why he is so prolific! A moving novel that is beautifully written.
Mary Ann B., of Salem, MA
ORDINARY GRACE is an extraordinary book. I was enthralled by the characters. I grew up in the 60s and it was such a different time. The author, William Kent Krueger, brings that time to life again.
The ending of the story was a surprise; one I was not expecting. I highly recommend ORDINARY GRACE to all readers. It is a book that definitely calls for discussion.
M. J. A., of Warner, NH
First, I must thank you for the copy you sent me. I am so thankful. It is a book to be shared.
ORDINARY GRACE falls into the category of one of the most enjoyable, thought provoking books I have read. I loved it for so many reasons--- its relevant themes, its picture painting descriptions, its memorable characters, and its poignancy.
As a former English teacher, I unreservedly have placed this novel on a bookshelf among the classics I have read and reread over the years.
Thank you for this treasure!
Rebecca G., of Haverton, PA
I loved this book. The characters were believable, well developed. I fell in love with them all. This book made me cry at times yet I also felt hopeful and it restored my faith in God and people and the power we have when we believe. I have already recommended this book to my friends and family. One of the best books of the year so far
Lana J. of Blue Springs, MO,
Because of an illness in the family, I’ve only just begun reading it but I can hardly put it down. I’ll send more comments when I’m finished. If it continues to be as good as its beginning, this will definitely be a suggested book club read!
Lois L., of Maitland, FL
I loved ORDINARY GRACE by William Kent Krueger and intend to recommend it to my book club the 39ers at the JCC which will meet in June.
The characters were so real to me and the events so surprising. For a while I worried that all the religion in the book would be a turn off, but that was not the case. The fact that Frank’s dad was a preacher was an important part of the story. I was impressed by the way he handled each problem as it occurred.
I very much enjoyed the relationship of the two brothers. For me that made the story endearing. Of course the killings were ugly, but that made the novel all the more exciting to read. Once I started reading the book I couldn’t stop. Thank you, Mr. Krueger.
Anita W., of Summerville, SC
It was a great family saga, and I agree with one reviewer who said "it reminded me of the classic TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD." I enjoyed the rural setting of Minnesota and the dynamics of the Drum family. The story line was intriguing with Nathan, the father, being a Pastor. I also enjoyed the brothers Frank and Jake and felt the author developed the boys accurately. They were maturing as the book progressed. The mother Ruth had many unique attributes. The untimely death of the Drum daughter Ariel and the grief of the family after her passing, was very well described.
I also enjoyed the time spectrum, in that the story is told in first person by Frank forty years later.
I do plan on suggesting this novel to my book club, and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy this new selection.
Diane C., of Kingsland, GA
I just finished the book and want to thank you for sending it to me to read. One of the best I have read this year.
William Kent has written an amazing story in ORDINARY GRACE. The story really held me.
I so enjoyed the story and characters. The story show us a time of innocence, but also a time of much sadness for one so young.
I love the closeness of the two brothers and how now matter what Frank stood up for his young brother and tried to protect him.
Also the author showed us how the love of family and faith can pull us through the rough times if we just keep our faith and let it lead us.
I would recommend this book for everyone and I'm recommending it to my book club to read.
Candace S., of Pride, LA
I absolutely loved this book. I related to this book in so many ways. I loved how the author was to make me feel like I was in this small town. Although the story was sad, I enjoyed it being told from the perspective of the young boy.
I will definitely recommend this book to my friends!!
Annette P., of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I think it was well-written and the characters were very believable. I would recommend the book and have passed it on to friends.
I was so impressed with the story that I decided to read another of Kreuger's books, VERMILLION DRIFT. Though it was good, it did not compare with ORDINARY GRACE. I think I will try another of his books in the future.
Kay C., of Springfield, VA
I was SO excited to see a book on my front porch when I came in from work one day! I really have never won much of anything so this was a pleasant surprise! That same day I read an article in the Washington Post that discussed the nominees for The Edgar Award and I saw that ORDINARY GRACE was nominated along with one of my very favorite authors, Louise Penny's book HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN. Wow! Good company for sure! I skimmed ORDINARY GRACE as I was finishing another book for our book club meeting. It looked so good that I added it to my list of potential books for when I am the hostess. Then I read your article about the fact that ORDINARY GRACE did indeed win The Edgar. I plan to read the book this summer and it will be my pick for October or November. We like to read books that are current and we also like to read books that are available in paperback. This book looks like a winner! Thank you, thank you for making it available to me!
Jeanette B., of Lexington, KY
I read a lot so I know what I like and I definitely liked this book. A great read.
Eileen H., of Merrimack NH
ORDINARY GRACE had an interesting look at reflecting on your life and growing up too soon. The book held my interest throughout. I look forward to reading William Kent Krueger's other books.
Bridget, L. of Belleville, NJ
I loved ORDINARY GRACE!
It was a sad, but compelling story that I had a hard time putting down. There were lots of twists and turns that kept the story moving, but it was really the characters that kept me spellbound. Each was depicted in a way that made them real. Their connections to each other were so well drawn I could not stop thinking them.
When I finished I lent my copy to a friend who reads as much as I do. I told her to read it quickly because I needed to talk about it to someone else who'd read the book. She's recently finished and we've been talking about it on and off ever since.
Thank you so much for this book that reminds me a little of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I'm sure it's going to be on some coming of age fiction lists!
Jessica M., of Round Mountain, NV
ORDINARY GRACE by William Kent Krueger is everything I love about a coming of age novel.
Set in the summer of 1961, young Frank Drum first comes to terms with death when a boy from his small community dies in a tragic accident. Upon the path of pondering life's questions and answers, the Drum family and the community of New Bremen, Minnesotta find themselves working through a season of tragedy as three other deaths happen in a short span of time, one of which will affect the Drum family personally.
With Frank's younger brother, Jake, as his constant companion he gradually learns the profound lessons about life that can be gleaned from everyone around him including the joy of being loved by an older sister, the rock solid faith of his preacher father, the anger simmering in his mother, and all the other characters sprinkled though out the novel that make the town of New Bremen come to life with triumphs and tragedies.
With its nuances of childhood innocence and adult truths ORDINARY GRACE reminded me of the best of A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT by Norman Maclean, COLD SASSY TREE by Olive Ann Burns, and the novella THE BODY by Stephen King (the basis for the movie Stand By Me).
Jimmy W., of Burien, WA
I started reading this book, and after a couple of pages I couldn't put it down. The author did a great job. I kept trying to find a stopping spot, but I just kept telling myself, maybe after the next paragraph.... The book just holds your attention and you kept wondering what's going to happen next.
ORDINARY GRACE was a great read and a great book for your library.
Karen S., of Phoenix, AZ
Thank you so much for sending me a copy of ORDINARY GRACE. I enjoyed it very much and plan on suggesting as a fall read for my Book Club, Phoenix Divas.
Elise D., of Charlotte, NC
I just finished it and all I can say is Wow! It was really captivating. I thought Krueger nailed it with his main character, and he got the small town feel just right. While there was a somewhat morbid undertone, and the mystery was never far from mind, I could still relate to the family dynamics. I am so excited to discover a new (to me) author! Thanks for sending me the copy!
Emma S., of San Carlos, CA
I have just finished reading ORDINARY GRACE. I had been quite busy and finally picked it up while on vacation and promptly finished it in one day on the beach. It is an incredibly compelling read, with just enough mystery to keep the reader guessing about the future. I really liked the fact that while the main plot was focused on the deaths and trials that were faced by the characters, it was not like most murder mystery books. The narration by a young boy gives a lighthearted feel to the book and a side interest to the reader. Even thought at some points I could guess ahead what had happened (Lise killed Ariel) it did not ruin the story. Krueger did a wonderful job in shaping such complex characters that created a real report with the reader that it was more important what was experienced and thought by them, than just solving the mystery of the deaths. I would highly recommend this book to many of my friends and look forward to reading some of the many other novels by Krueger. Thanks for the chance to read this book!
Nancy A., of Lakewood, NY
I just finished the book last evening and wanted to send a note regarding it off to you the first thing this morning. I thoroughly enjoyed it and thank you for making it possible for me to win a copy of the book. I will be putting it on the list of possible book club selections for my club for next year. I will also share my copy with others.
I thought it was interesting how the author touched upon so many issues that are present in society yet was able to weave them all together within the framework of the story. For some reason, Frank's comment about numerous deaths occurring in one summer and that one of them would be devastating to him kept me reading to learn the identity of the person and then the mystery surrounding his sister's death kept me reading. The wisdom of several passages resonated with me.
Gail J., of Summerfield, FL
Krueger's rendition of New Bremen, Minnesota, could be any small town in America. Frank Drum looking back on his 13th summer, when he begins to move from childhood to adulthood could be any young person male or female starting to come to grips with the complexities of becoming an adult. The events that caused Frank to begin his journey seemed to be a bit excessive. The death of his sister alone would have been enough for him to start to question his view of the world compared to others' views and the reason for why things happen and why people act the way they do. I enjoyed the book and Krueger's meditative notes on the ordinary miracles in all of our lives and the need for us to take notice of them.
Valerie W., of Fortuna, CA
I just finished this book and wrote a review on Goodreads for it. I have to say this is one of the best books I have read this year, and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in being a compassionate human being.
Pam S., of Olney, IL
I just finished ORDINARY GRACE this evening sitting on my front porch. What a wonderful read! I will have to say probably one of the best books I have read in my lifetime (I am 63 have been a voracious reader since age 6). I am also sorry the book had to end --- as I felt so connected to each character in the book.
This book touched something deep in my heart, and even though death was the central theme of the book, the hope of recovery from grief was so prevalent at the end of the book. The author has written a brilliant, yet very readable book that I would think would appeal to almost any age. His character development is excellent. I could feel the pain and despair of the family as they looked for Ariel and then had to accept her death. So many lessons in this small book. A jewel. And one that will stand the test of re-reading more than once.
I am so happy to have won such a wonderful book. It will be one that I will recommend to our book club and one that I will share with friends and family.
Sandy D., of New Cumberland, PA
ORDINARY GRACE is an outstanding book. Its characters were quite well developed. The reader can relate to them in a personal way. Growing up during this time brought back so many memories of a small town. Thanks for sending me this book that I won in your contest. I will be sharing the book with my book group.
Dan K., of Andover, NJ
A well written novel depicting small town life in the early sixties and what it is like as seen through the eyes of a young boy. Even the mystery of a murder and the tragedy that follows is done gracefully. Definitely done well.
Mary P., of New Brighton, MN
ORDINARY GRACE is a very satisfying read. Even though there is violence along with other unpleasant events in the plot, the author deals with them in a way that leaves the reader with a positive feeling. The book is as much a small-town coming-of-age story as it is a mystery, and both parts work equally well.
Sally L., of Commerge, GA
Yes, I am enjoying the book very much so far. I'm about a third of the way through and have already recommended the book to several friends and family but not to my book group yet but will do at our next meeting when titles we enjoyed are asked for.
I intend to give it a full feedback when I've finished reading it.
Susan M., of Venice, FL
I absolutely LOVED this book ! I literally could not put it down!!
What a great mystery and coming of age story, with family values, and the moral issues of the post war America, not just thrown in, but woven beautifully into to this amazing story.
I am currently sharing the book with the "founder" of our Book Club, and have recommended it to the entire group.
ORDINARY GRACE should have been called Amazing Grace! Definitely on my "must read" list.
Thank you for sending it to me!!
Janet K., of Victoria, TX
William Kent Krueger has captured the essence of living in a small town in a slower time. Gossip is rampant, ignorance builds on ignorance and people will create a story from what they hear. The minister's family is under a proverbial microscope with no relief. Sadly, this tale is all too true and Krueger tells it wisely and beautifully. So much is up for discussion and our book group will do just that with ORDINARY GRACE.
Margaret L., of Neenah, WI
Many thanks for sending the copy of this book. I read it right away when I received it, and read it fast. I don't recall that it was billed as a "suspense" novel, but that's how it seemed to me. The early statements about the deaths that happened that summer kept me reading to find out more. The sleuthing of the young protagonist was believable, as were the discoveries. I would have liked more first-hand observation of the parents' relationship and how they resolved their distance at the end. I have recommended it to my book club for "summer reading" and for consideration for one of next year's books.
Doreen B., of Slinger, WI
I enjoyed the book, the detailed writing made the small town come alive. It covered so many subjects, life, death, coping with loss, lost love, how war can change lives, naming a few. I think our book club would be interested in reading this book and would make for some good discussions. I have already passed the book along to a friend.
Sarah G., of Eugene, OR
I absolutely loved this book. The voice of Frank was authentic and sweet. You could feel his pain and his conflicting emotions about all the events that took place. I especially loved the character of Gus and although he was damaged he was also a source of strength and comfort to the boys and the father. The message of the book was thought provoking and powerful. I think this book will incite a lot of great discussions in book clubs. The story and the characters have stayed with me and I find myself thinking about them as if they are real people and wondering what has happened to them. A beautiful story! Thank you.
Lynn W., of Lexintgon, IN
Thank you so much for the copy of this book. I finished it yesterday evening...as a matter of fact, I was late to a meeting because I would not quit reading till I knew how it ended! I'm a fan of Krueger's Cork O'Connor series so I knew he was a good writer. The pitch-perfect depth of this story convinced me that he's a great writer!
I talked about the book at last night's book club meeting, will be talking about it at tonight's book club meeting, and again at next week's book club meeting. Thanks again for sending me something so great to talk about!
Pat G., of Liverpool, NY
I just finished reading ORDINARY GRACE by William Kent Kreuger. I loved it! Something about the tone of the story reminded me of another favorite, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. The book lured me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go. Even when I was not reading, I kept thinking about the characters. I will definitely recommend this to my book club when we meet again next month.
Rod V., of Owasso, OK
I just finished reading ORDINARY GRACE and really enjoyed it, another outstanding novel by William Krueger. I was thinking about ordering it when it arrived in the mail, thank you very much as I never really expected to win a book, especially one I wanted to read.
Joyce K., of Creve Coeur, MO
This book is a cut above the usual coming-of-age novel. Krueger evokes an earlier era (1960), a small town (New Bremen, MN) and a loving, close-knit family of a Methodist pastor Dad, a musically talented stay at home Mom, two boys, aged 9 & 13, and a girl, 16. A formula for sweetness? Realistically, no.
The characters are skillfully drawn, making the reader care about them. And, reflective of reality, each character goes deep. Dad came to God late, after devastating war experiences. Mom gave up dreams of a career in music when she became pregnant; her master music instructor, disfigured and maimed in the war, lives nearby and is her confidante and friend. Daughter Ariel, a talented composer and pianist, was born with a harelip, older son Frank at 13 is persistently curious and trying to find knowledge and meaning in life, Jake, the youngest, shy and fearful, is handicapped with a devastating stutter.
Krueger, an acclaimed mystery writer, sows clues to future events --- right away the reader is told, in the voice of the 13 year old Frank, that this is a summer of 4 deaths. Suspense grows as the reader learns, bit by bit, who these unfortunates may be.
Each character is so much more than themselves --- Krueger shows how lives are woven together, how the loss of one individual becomes a wider loss in many ways. He says, in Frank’s voice, that there are no “true” events. And in light of life’s complexities and the difficulty in knowing all of these, is he not correct? He gives some answers, but others are never found --- again reflective of life. The ending is satisfying, and weaves story threads together, giving the reader resolution. The book makes for
absorbing reading --- it is sad and tragic, but hopeful, and raises good points for discussion and thought. Helpful discussion questions for book groups are included.
Michelle A., of Jackson, TN
I just wanted to thank you for the copy of ORDINARY GRACE. I haven't even finished it and I can already tell it is going to be one of my favorite reads this year. I have in fact already recommended it to several people. The author paints such a "true" picture of this town and these characters that you feel you are right there with this young boy experiencing these events. I keep thinking about these characters even after I close the book. I know this is classified as a mystery but it is also a beautiful coming of age story. Lovely writing, excellent characterization and an interesting mystery, who could ask for more? Just a great book!
Alice G., of Norwood, PA
ORDINARY GRACE is a book that I could not put down. It was filled with the nostalgia of a simpler time. Krueger's depiction and development of the characters through the various stages of the story were so believable and came to life easily. I loved the way the story unfolded. My two brothers were about Frank and Jake's ages in 1961 and it brought back the freedom of our childhood --- the ability to wander and play without much concern for our safety. I now have two grandsons that age and there lives are so different. The times may have been simpler --- but not necessarily more innocent. This is a "definite read" book.
Judy S., of Gilbert, AZ
I received this book in a contest and had no expectations as I had never read anything by the author. I very much enjoyed this coming of age in the 60s story that is reminiscent of THE BODY AND A PRAYER for Owen Meany. The story takes place in New Bremen, Minnesota in the summer of 1961. Frank Drum is one of the preacher's children and as seen through his eyes (although with the perspective of 40 years of hindsight) we come to know the town's people, their secrets, and their tragedies. So much is rolled up in one summer: death, love, regret, forgiveness, and grace. Great character development and fodder for discussion on a variety of subjects. Can't wait for my friends to finish reading so the conversing can begin.
Kathleen H., of Caldwell, ID
Thank you for the copy of ORDINARY GRACE which I won in a Reading Group Guides contest.
I really enjoyed the book.
Well written and a good story.
Susan J., of Las Vegas, NV
There are some books that are so exquisitely wonderful that the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. You literally cannot do anything besides read it. This is one of those books. I am so hesitant to reveal too much because I don't want to spoil it for anyone. None of my words would compare to the author's but I will give a small recap.
Frank Drum is a 13 year old boy in a small town in a small Minnesota town in 1961 when a summer full of death occurs. The story is told by him forty years later. I was eight that year and the time is perfectly encapsulated. I was literally swept back to that time and my childhood. The freedom we had to roam the town all day and only come home for meals is now lost sadly. What seems as careless parenting now was a common occurrence.
The tone is set by a quote by Greek playwright Aeschylus who said, "He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep pain, which cannot forget, falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God." Frank and his 11 year old brother, Jake, learn this hard lesson as they experience death in many forms. There are deaths caused by accidents, nature, suicide and murder. And these two boys must learn to cope.
As their father, a Methodist minister preaches in a memorable service after a death, "The miracle is this: that you will rise in the morning and be able to see again the startling beauty of the day." The line haunts me because this book is about the miracles that occur in everyday life. It leaves you with a sense of hope and joy. It is Jake who leads Frank to the discovery of every day miracles.
This book has an echo of the movie "Stand By Me" with writing as wonderful as TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I expect, as others do, that it will be a classic. I know it is a book that will stay with me for a long time. As I sit here with tears streaming down my face, I know I have read one of my favorite books. I cannot recommend it more highly. If you read nothing else this year, please read this one.
Rhana O., of Kenyon, MN
Thanks so much for the book I won. I have read ORDINARY GRACE and loved it. I heard the author talk about writing this book before it came out. He begged us to love it and said it was his heart. He was afraid all the fans of his other books would not want him to veer away from that lead character. I had already planned to discuss this with my book club in September. I am so glad I will now have my own copy. I will post comments then. Thanks again.
Chris L., of Wichita, KS
Thanks so much for this book. I enjoyed it. It was one of the top books I've read this year. I average about 3-4 books a week.
It reads like a memoir. The language is lyrical, the dialogue real and, of course, the story like it could have happened.
George P., of Baton Rouge, LA
It was the best book I have read in recent memory. It reminded me a lot of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I think the main reason I enjoyed it so much was that I grew up in the 50s and did many of the same things Frank and Jake did like playing with the baking soda frogman, reading comic books, putting together models and doing paint by numbers.
Terry M., of Barron, WI
I would like to thank you for the free copy of ORDINARY GRACE. I read it and it was my choice for our book club book for August. What a GREAT read, I thoroughly enjoyed the read and gave it five Stars.