EL

I purchased this because of the reviews, but I thought it dragged on and on. I finished it, but kept checking my iPod to see how much more time was left. I'm really surprised by all the great reviews. It was just an average story in which the author took way too much time discussing characters and their issues - all of which meant nothing in the end.

This is another instance where I've purchased a book because of the great reviews. I agree with Kathy's review, except I thought the narrator was OK. I didn't feel any character was well developed and really disliked the back and forth between the character stories. At first I thought I didn't "bond" with the book because I wasn't traveling very much and therefore was only able to listen in short spurts. When it was over, I was glad. I also felt there was too much time spent on the son, who was not integral to the story in my opinion. The other characters could have used all that story line time.

As others have said, there is much sadness in this book, which can hang over one for days. I couldn't stop listening, because I wanted to know what happened next, but it is very sad. Please don't let this fact make you miss this book, just do a little "mood" planning. Many have mentioned that this book is similar to The Help. I loved The Help and gave it five stars (rare for me). The Help showed how slavery still impacted 100-plus years after the timeline in this novel. The slaves made the best of their plight, and I felt their lives were much richer that the white owners they served. This was probably true for most slaves, as they were forced to have deeper connections with each other and with their faith. The slaves in this novel worked in the house/kitchen, which was the best luck of the draw. I can't imagine reading this if it were about the slaves in the fields. There's a part of me that can't wrap my head around the heartache they endured. I guess slavery comes in many forms, even today. All I can say is the slaves depicted in this novel were greater men and women than I've read about in a long time. This book won't soon be forgotten. Narration was excellent and added immensely to the story.

I enjoyed this book and feel it deserves four stars. It was a different type story and made me think about how officials should look at crime scenes to get into the heads of the murderer(s). Also made me aware of how a person acts/dresses to "blend in" and not be noticed. A different premise than most action/detective type books.

Good plot that kept my interest. Loved Sean's cocky attitude. The twist at the end was great. I love it when a book is good throughout - and a great twist at the end is icing on the cake. Couldn't wait to get in my car to listen (which is the mark of a good book for me). Will be looking for more by this author. Always love Scott Brick.

I love long, unabridged books but I could not wait for this to end. This was my first Griffin and his style was OK, but I just didn't care about the plot or the characters, etc. I kept hoping it would pick up, but it didn't. I agree with Samyann, Louise and Daniel. Buy something else.

I loved this book and was sorry when it ended. I thought the audio version was superb, with all the different character voices. It's hard to believe that our country was like this in my lifetime. It opened my eyes. I still can't believe these society women thought it was OK for the maids to cook their food, raise their children and keep their homes - while also thinking the maids were dirty and needed to have separate bathrooms. Can't wait for the author's next book.

The review by Catalyn on page 4 of these reviews sums up my thoughts exactly; I was disappointed to say the least.