"Captivating"
I listened to the entire book in a day. The author carefully doled out just enough information in each chapter about the key character in that chapter so that I understood what was happening, but at the same time it was clear that there were secrets yet to be revealed. I could not turn off my iPod until I reached the end. The book was particularly enjoyable when all four key characters were together in Maine.
I found all four main characters well developed and interesting, albeit quirky. None was terribly likable, yet none was entirely dislikable either. I felt like I was reading about family members I have met in friends' families, but, thankfully, not about my own family members.
This is the first performance by Ann Marie Lee I have heard. I did not read any of the other reviews before I listend to the book and was surprised by the number of negative reviews. I never noticed that the narration was particularly slow. In fact I found the pace enjoyable. Some performances are read so quickly, I find myself rewinding to catch what I missed. I was also not troubled by the Boston accent. While the accent may not have been perfect, as a former New Englander, I felt quite at home. I would not hesitate to buy another book narrated by Ms. Lee.
Ms. Sullivan's first novel Commencement has been on my wishlist for some time. After reading Maine, Commencement is moving to the top of the list for my next purchase.