I have to be honest: I scanned the last 250 pages of this book. Afterthe "big reveal" it all went downhill from there. Donna Tarrt paints an appealing picture of New England life, but I got sick of the entitlement, the way of talking, and how unrealistic everything seemed. I know many readers love this book, but I didn't. How many ways can you say the same thing over and over again? What really happens in this book? Someone please tell me.

I enjoy Louise Penny's delicate style; it seems that every word is fraught with meaning and nuance. And yet her style is so accessible and interesting, the mystery compelling, and the characters flawed yet lovable. Its like eating a fancy meal where you don't exactly know how to pronounce every word on the menu, but you know that it just tastes good. Very glad this series was recommended to me.

I typically like to get books from the library, but this is one that I had to buy because I read it, chapter by chapter, over a year's time. Its one of those books that I couldn't read in a few days, like I usually do. I had to ponder over it, write notes in the margins, and discuss it with others. Its a wonderful book for a serious book study with friends or church members, because it contains so many different viewpoints and the individual spiritualities of renowned people. Fascinating and written for skeptics, this book will definitely challenge anyone's ideas of Christian life and work.