I read this solely as part of a challenge on the recommendation of my sister. Normally, as a Kentuckian, I find it difficult to read portrayals of life in rural Kentucky or Appalachia. There always seems to be something just a little off about the setting. However, this felt so real and true to the area. I fell so deeply in love with every character and felt everything they did. It was as if these were all real people near my home. I laughed and cried with them through all of the good and bad times I was privy to. Could not recommend this book more!!