Writing about a woman known and admired the world over in a new and fresh way must be difficult, kind of like writing about Princess Diana. I had never really thought much about the emotional trauma that must have lingered until the end of her life. This book is well written and interesting, and does present a new look at someone I thought I knew about.

Ms. Forsyth is a genuinely talented author. This book weaves the stories of three women together without confusing the reader. You jump from past to present but never lose the story. One is based on the fairy tale Rapunzel, which you will recognize if you have read it. A second story is based on the life of the author of Rapunzel, and a third story on one of the characters in the fairy tale, a sort of back story. It amazed me how the three are separate yet blend so perfectly. The end was a really unexpected surprise for me. This would be enjoyable alone or shared with a reading group.

Absolutely enchanting! This book gives the reader a unique perspective on what family is. The story of a college professor, a bookstore manager, and a small boy, along with various supporting characters, the plot is fresh and surprising. I really expected something more traditional and overdone. Occasionally the author gives a gentle poke at society's rules and expectations, but doesn't drag up a soap box to lecture from. You stay amused as secrets are revealed one by one. A very nice story.

I have always been interested in history and will read almost anything, but it takes a talented author to really catch my interest like Mr. Most has with this book. Not living in an area where the subway is an option, I never really thought much about its development. This is much more than an account of the progress of mass transportation. It is the story of the people involved, from the inventors to the backers to the workers. The people are what really bring it to life and make it so enjoyable.

For a first novel this was a good one. Some of my favorite authors have improved dramatically as they write. This was well written but I am not sure how believable some of it was, like a bedroom scene with Francis and Castlemaine. The author was very professional and included notes at the back to explain her point of view. That is a feature I much appreciate!

This fictional account of Robert Louis Stevenson and his wife Fanny is moving, beautifully written and almost poetic. Ms. Horan's story captures you right from the start. I was looking forward to this book eagerly, and started it the minute it arrived on my doorstep. The author takes her time describing scenes and people, yet the story never drags. It is like a nice warm drink by the fire, to be savored and not gulped. I am sure this is another best seller, perfect for book clubs, definitely more of a woman's book than a man's, probably not as appreciated by the young adult audience as by someone who has lived, and suffered, and loved.

The story of Shipwreck Lane is told from 2 different points of view. Janine Brown, called Janey, has won a house in Maine in a contest. Janine Brown, called Nean, hearing her name on television announcing the win, spends every last cent on a bus ticket to what she believes is her new home. Both women are leaving behind a trainwreck of a past and entering a new phase in their lives. I really felt attracted to one of the characters more than the other, but wanted to cheer for both! There is sadness, pain and betrayal, but ultimately hope and joy win out. You can't stop yourself from laughing and will probably cry, but this book won't leave you unmoved. This would make a great read for a book club.