Helpful Score: 13
This is another wonderful Picoult book. I loved it. It was really interesting to see how my perceptions of the characters in the book evolved as I continued. There are plot twists with the main characters and I also enjoyed the subplots with Father Michael and his struggles, as well as with Maggie and hers. The book was a little slow about 1/3 of the way through for me, but as it continued it got better and better and I didn't want to see it end. Definately another classic from Picoult!
Helpful Score: 13
I'm a little let down by Picoult's latest, to tell the truth. I typically only pick up her books when I know I'm going to have time to read them straight through in a day or two, because I usually find her stories and their complexities riveting. Normally, I just cannot put them down. This one has taken me almost a month to get through. I was really disappointed. I've read 11 of her 15 novels to date, and this is my least favorite.
The story was very, very slow moving until the last 50-75 pages, I'd say. And for awhile, I had to keep reminding myself that I wasn't re-reading "Keeping Faith," for the subject matter is very similar, and characters from that novel make return appearances in this one. I just sort of feel like Picoult is running out of stories to tell. How many more stories do we need about abuse, murder, religious beliefs, and organ transplants? (LOL)
I found, in this novel, that Picoult's characters didn't have the depth that characters in her other novels have had. I didn't feel any particular sympathy for ANY of the characters until the very end, and even then, it was only for one character. I'm hesitant to say more because I don't want to be a spoiler, but overall, I wasn't nearly as thrilled with this endeavor by Picoult as I usually am with her books. A definite letdown for me.
The story was very, very slow moving until the last 50-75 pages, I'd say. And for awhile, I had to keep reminding myself that I wasn't re-reading "Keeping Faith," for the subject matter is very similar, and characters from that novel make return appearances in this one. I just sort of feel like Picoult is running out of stories to tell. How many more stories do we need about abuse, murder, religious beliefs, and organ transplants? (LOL)
I found, in this novel, that Picoult's characters didn't have the depth that characters in her other novels have had. I didn't feel any particular sympathy for ANY of the characters until the very end, and even then, it was only for one character. I'm hesitant to say more because I don't want to be a spoiler, but overall, I wasn't nearly as thrilled with this endeavor by Picoult as I usually am with her books. A definite letdown for me.
Helpful Score: 10
As with her other books, Jodi Picoult tells the story through several characters. This novel is slightly slower in the beginning than some of her other books, but it quickly picks up, and pulls the reader completely in. If you like Jodi Picoult's works, or even if you have not read anything from her, in my humble opinion, this is a book you don't want to miss. It has everything...mystery, intrigue, love, crime, friendship, and religion. Just like her other novels, the reader may have one belief, or opinion, but bounces back and forth when other views are expressed. Every time I think I have a book of hers that is my favorite, she writes another one that trumps it. While reading, the reader will want to note the details as they will come full circle in the end. Great book!
Helpful Score: 7
Jodi Picoult has been one of my favorite's for some time. I love how she pushes the envelope and writes books about things we as a society often don't want to talk about. This one was little on the edge for me in terms of the reality of the subject matter. While I totally get that there can be redemption, all of the things that it took for the plot of this book to come together were a little unrealistic for my taste. Still, a good read and I recommend just about anything Picoult has written.
Helpful Score: 7
as usual, jodi piccoult delivers a good read. not just good, moving, well thought out...it makes you feel for each and every one of the characters. i will say that if you're sensitive for any reason about religion, it may not be your favorite book, but it was thought provoking as all her books are. intense.
