This was on my 'to read' list for years. I've finally checked it off and so glad I did. An amazing read by a fabulous Wisconsin author. She really delves into relationships and the changes that come to them in the blink of an eye. Very compelling - but sad read on the nature of people and their propensity to follow the herd.

This book is fabulously written. The author's descriptions of the characters and use of analogy and symbolism are unmatched. I felt as if I was inside the characters' minds or that I was listening to them from a therapist's point-of-view. The story itself was not as important as the way the story's potential to change you as a reader and a person. This book did not change me per se, but rather confirmed and reminded me of the things I have struggled to learn through my own difficulties, trials, and unfortunate circumstances. The lesson: somehow, because of the personal growth that takes place (if one CHOOSES growth), those unfortunate circumstances are ALWAYS turned for good and turn into blessings in one way or another. Loved this book.

What I learned... that life can suddenly take such a twist, that you never know what can hit you and all you can learn to do is sit still and quiet and let it all flow around you. is what the protagonist does, but is that enough when you have a husband and 2 children? and you are accused of the most horrible of crimes, that society shuns you and family without giving you the benefit of the doubt, especially when a child is the one who points the finger? Child psychology and its effects and how it can be used and how the other side can also turn it ugly, makes you wonder, about courts, laws, people, neighbours, friends, family? Its something that makes you think as Jane puts it, ... there is so much good, and gradually it slips away from you. It brings p so many situations, that given such, it is so difficult to point a finger at, and as the author finally puts it, "... the forgiveness itself was strong, durable, like strands of a web, weaving around us, holding us." A raw kind of book that grips you gently, swirls you around, the world around, especially if you put yourself in Alice's place, and wonder if you could still sustain your thoughts and want to forgive!

Alice Goodwin is the most insufferable character. Majority of the book follows her pov, and besides self-pity what does she really contribute with to the plot?