There are so many great things about this novel there is no way I can write a review that does it justice.
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1) It was so nice to read a book about two mature women. There is nothing wrong with gorgeous, sexy twenty-somethings, but those ladies age and turn 50. They still fall in love, they still get overwhelmed, they still get frightened and they still like sex.
2) The language that Levig uses when she describes Jinx and what Jinx does is perfect in how it shows her particular innocence and naiveté as a result from spending her adult life in prison. There are just little things throughout the book that speak volumes. At one point, Jinx leaves E.J. a note signed with a smiley face. That reveals so much of Jinx's character.
3) Jinx over and over again with her words and actions shows a humility that transcends the typical good deeds from main characters in this genre.
4) E.J. has a wonderful arc. Despite the fact that Jinx has spent twenty years in jail, she is the "stronger" of the two women. E.J. needs to draw on Jinx's quiet strength if she is going to change her life and begin to live authentically.
5) I love a book that makes me cry and I had to break out the tissues at least two times.
I look for books like this to speak to me on an emotional level and dare me to experience the feelings of the characters. When an author is successful, I feel like their book was a gift. This was a great read and I can't wait to read more from this author.