Bittersweet, but leaning sweet. I wanted more heartwrenching, rending relationships who simply could not be but this was more gentle. Overall, I liked it. I think of the phrase "the center cannot hold" and this book and all her lovely characters ultimately could hold. I wish it was more devastating but I'll miss these characters and the heyday they were glimmering in. Now I know a group of starlings is called a descent. I would read more by this author. But make it sadder.