What a letdown of a book after The Red Tent. Full of typographical and grammatical errors - was this even proofread before it went to press? I borrowed this from the library and somebody else marked all the errors she found.

The basic story was a decent one, but totally not what I expected out of the same author. Too much Anna Quindlen, not enough Anita Diamant.

Probably more of a 3.5⭐️ but I thought it deserved a round up. I like the idea that 2 grown women can meet as adults and form a special bond, that we are capable at any age of finding a connection that feels like home. It also was a good reminder that not everything is at it seems … people live and grow and change and make mistakes and sometimes have to face problems either self-created or handed down by the universe. I personally liked the sprinkle of Judaism (not any heavy handed religious touts) as I have strayed from my religion, but have fond memories of growing up in and around the synagogue. This slim novel did absolutely hold my attention, and this was my 3rd title by the author.

Meh. I’ve loved other books by Diamant, but this didn’t really go anywhere. And there were a couple moments where she made a point to share that someone was “chubby” or “bigger” that added nothing to the plot, but was meant to feel like a character flaw.
I was also unclear about the series one of her characters was writing - was it about a slave falling in love with a master during the civil war?
It all just felt odd and out of touch.

I enjoyed this novel but I think it has to be read at a particular place and time in someone’s life for it to work.

I loved Anita Diamant's other novels, but this one definitely didn't measure up to the others. The storyline had a lot of potential, but the execution was poor. I felt no liking for the main characters. Despite what was taking place in their lives, they both came across as selfish, whiny and incapable of talking to their partners. I had more sympathy for their husbands than for them. Joyce, was especially annoying and her transgression seemed rather silly in terms of who was involved and what occurred. My favorite aspect to the book was the location. Having grown up in a nearby town and visited Good Harbor during the summer, it was fun to read about the area.

Didn't finish it. Too schmaltzy

Liked, not loved, this.

It ends abruptly - obviously leading into a sequel. Frustrating.

This is a good story of female friendships but nothing like the Red Tent.