Community Reviews

Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
21(21%)
4 stars
34(34%)
3 stars
45(45%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 14,2025
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This was an absolutely amazing read!

Reading this story has once again re-confirmed why Jodi Picoult is without a doubt one of my favorite authors.

I firmly believe that it's one of her finest works. Not only do I wholeheartedly enjoy her beautiful prose and highly expressive style, but I also cherish the fact that every single time I pick up a Jodi Picoult book, I am bound to learn something new and extremely interesting. In this particular case, she masterfully weaves the complex issues of eugenics and genetics into an original and captivating story of a love that was lost.

There are so many intricate layers to this book, and that's precisely what makes it so utterly fascinating. The fact that a multitude of seemingly unconnected characters were introduced in the first part of the book didn't confuse me in the slightest. On the contrary, it piqued my curiosity and intrigued me even more. It's truly thrilling when, as the story unfolds, you discover how they are all connected or related. In that sense, it is indeed a real page turner. Additionally, I found the ghost angle of the story to be completely believable.

My favorite character was undoubtedly the 103-year-old Abenaki, Az Thompson.

I will highly recommend this book to all of my friends without hesitation.

July 14,2025
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I listened to this book on audio.

At first, it took me a while to get into it as the beginning was a little sluggish. There were so many characters introduced right from the start that I had to pause a few times and rewind to keep track.

This book covers multiple generations, which can sometimes make it a bit confusing. However, about one-third of the way through, it suddenly picks up pace.

Things start to click together, and the story becomes truly engaging. I really enjoyed this aspect of the book.

It makes you deeply think about the afterlife and who might always be with you.

The way the author weaves the different storylines and generations together is quite remarkable.

Overall, it's a thought-provoking and enjoyable listen that I would recommend to others.

July 14,2025
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When I wasn't engrossed in reading this book,

I found myself constantly longing to be immersed in its pages,

for I had an insatiable curiosity to discover what would unfold next.

Although I managed to anticipate a few of the plot twists relatively early on,

there were still several unexpected turns that left me pleasantly surprised.

I firmly believe that Jodi Picoult is a literary genius.

Her remarkable ability to weave together such complex and intricate stories truly astounds me.

She has a unique talent for creating characters that are so vivid and real,

and for constructing plots that keep the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end.

Each of her books is a captivating journey that takes the reader through a myriad of emotions,

and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
July 14,2025
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My first encounter with her work that I have read truly left a profound impression on me.

Her writing encompasses a fascinating mix of various story types. There are elements of love that tug at the heartstrings, taking readers on an emotional journey of passion and longing. The inclusion of ghostly tales adds an element of mystery and the supernatural, sending shivers down the spine. The historical aspects provide a rich backdrop, allowing readers to immerse themselves in different eras and cultures. And the detective stories keep you on the edge of your seat, with their intricate plots and clever twists.

Overall, it is truly great. Her ability to seamlessly blend these diverse story types into one captivating narrative is a testament to her writing prowess. I can't wait to explore more of her works and see what other wonderful stories she has in store for us.
July 14,2025
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This is not my favorite Picoult novel, but there are indeed some good elements within it.

Prior to reading this book, I was not familiar with the entire concept of eugenics. It is truly appalling to learn about such things. What makes it even more impactful is that it is based on real events.

One line that I particularly liked is: "Men...were like an accessory, like a belt or purse or shoes. You didn't necessarily need one to complete your look. Granted, if you walked around barefoot you got a few odd stares every now and then, but the important parts of you were covered." This line presents an interesting perspective on the role of men in a woman's life. It makes you think about how we view relationships and the importance we place on different aspects of our lives.

Overall, while this may not be my top pick from Picoult, it still has its merits and offers some food for thought.
July 14,2025
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Absolutely amazing.

The story is filled with bold and determined characters from beginning to end. Each one of them has a unique personality and a strong will that drives them forward.

These characters face numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, but they never give up. Their courage and perseverance are truly inspiring.

We see them take risks, make difficult decisions, and fight for what they believe in. Their actions have a significant impact on the outcome of the story.

Overall, the bold and determined characters in this story make it a truly remarkable and unforgettable read.
July 14,2025
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A book that delves deep into the profound themes of fate and enduring love. It poses thought-provoking questions such as who truly has the right to decide whether a child should be born or not, and who should be permitted to have children. This book is an absolute gem, captivating the reader from the very first page.

It takes you on an emotional journey, exploring the complex and often controversial issues surrounding reproduction and the choices that individuals make. The story is filled with heart-wrenching moments and unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat.

The author's writing style is both haunting and wonderful, painting vivid pictures in your mind and making you feel as if you are a part of the story. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page, making you question your own beliefs and values. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the deeper meaning of life and love.
July 14,2025
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I am an avid enthusiast of Jodi Picoult's literary works. I have a profound love for the way she crafted a book that ingeniously incorporated the paranormal with the concept of eugenics.

Firstly, the supernatural has always held an irresistible allure for me. It has the power to transport me to otherworldly realms and ignite my imagination.

Secondly, while I was aware that eugenics had been practiced in the United States, I was truly astonished to discover the vast number of people who were affected by it. This realization added a layer of depth and significance to the story.

Jodi Picoult's ability to seamlessly blend these two diverse elements together made for a captivating and thought-provoking read. Her exploration of the paranormal within the context of eugenics not only entertained but also educated me.

I found myself completely immersed in the narrative, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the mysteries and revelations that awaited.

Overall, this book by Jodi Picoult is a remarkable achievement that showcases her talent as a writer and her ability to tackle complex and controversial topics with grace and sensitivity.
July 14,2025
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I really like the books of this author, but this one is a bit dull.

It talks about ghosts, loves that超越 death itself and about discovering the truth.

However, even so, it took me some time to catch the rhythm and I was a bit lost.

But I didn't dislike the ending.

The story had its moments of mystery and intrigue, which kept me reading.

The characters were well-developed and their relationships added depth to the plot.

Although the beginning was a bit slow, it picked up towards the end and had a satisfying conclusion.

Overall, it was an okay read, but not one of my favorites from this author.
July 14,2025
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I grabbed this novel because I am a die-hard Picoult fan.

Although I had heard a medley of reviews from others, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I thoroughly relished the novel.

The plot is a twisting and winding labyrinth, encompassing a ghost story, diverse love stories, and an exposure of a dark secret in American History.

Since it is a Picoult novel, it naturally delves into a sensitive topic - this time, stem cell research.

The dark secret pertains to something known as Eugenics, which involves the development of perfect people and the sterilization of those considered less than desirable candidates for procreation.

This primarily took place in Vermont, but I was deeply disturbed to discover that this project originated in 1910 at the Cold Spring Harbor lab, which is just two towns away from my current abode.

Picoult listed all the research information and websites at the end of the novel, so while one might hope she fabricated this, it is unfortunately true.

I believe one has to have an appreciation for a ghost story to fully enjoy the novel.

Since my family and I have experienced some of the events (such as finding change after a loved one passed), I could allow myself to get just a little spooked by the ghost story aspect.

I also relished the way the characters ultimately became interconnected.

However, incidentally, this is also the reason I did not award the book five stars.

In the beginning of the novel, there are an abundance of characters and perspectives, even for a Picoult novel, which could easily have led to confusion or disinterest.

But I persevered because I knew she would somehow connect their lives, as is her signature style.
July 14,2025
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So, typically, I am quite critical of Jodi Picoult's books.

Her writing often follows a formula, with an overabundance of crisis and drama, and storylines that seem more like propaganda.

However, this particular book earns my criticism for an entirely new set of reasons.

The characters in this book were extremely poorly developed. They lacked depth and authenticity, making it difficult for the reader to form any sort of connection with them.

Moreover, the storyline was so discombobulated that it bordered on the ridiculous.

The plot seemed to jump around randomly, without any clear direction or purpose.

This book was truly a stinker, and its premise was simply goofy.

This was the last book of hers that I had promised myself I would read, and I am determined to stick to that decision.

I had initially hoped that, given the "ghost hunters" storyline, this book would be an improvement.

Unfortunately, it was actually worse than I had anticipated.

This book has only served to confirm my belief that Ms. Picoult is likely the most over-rated female author currently in the US.
July 14,2025
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This was truly one of my all-time favorite Picoult books. I am well aware that some reviewers had a rather challenging time with this particular work, precisely for the very reasons that I found it so utterly captivating.

The book was incredibly complicated and intricate, weaving a story that spanned across many generations. It delved deep into the fabric of history and human nature.

But the main reason that I am literally on the verge of digging up the author's information and sending her an email filled with admiration is that I have the utmost appreciation for her meticulous research, unwavering dedication, and resolute determination in bringing to light a topic that has seemingly been overlooked and left out of American history.

As a person with a disability, learning about the eugenics movement was not only particularly infuriating but also deeply upsetting. For this very reason, I was extremely nervous to embark on reading this Picoult novel. However, she masterfully blended fact, story, and philosophical considerations together in such a seamless manner that it left the reader not only questioning the horror of a movement that appears to have been forgotten but also reflecting on the broader implications and lessons that can be drawn from it.

Thank you, Jodi Picoult, for not allowing your readers to forget this important and often overlooked chapter in history.

P.S. I also must mention that I really adored the characters in this book. It was impossible for me to hate a single one of them in this novel. They were all so well-developed and complex, adding yet another layer of depth and richness to the already engaging story.
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