...is in this book. It is a long whiny self pitying attempt to present her opinion as fact. More power to someone who pulls themselves out of poverty. Others who do it have pride.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The interweaving of true historical events and fictional characters made for a great read. I wanted to pick it up again; and when I did it was uncomplicated and easy to do. Characters are well developed and realistic. Plot is believable. I was a child at the time but remember most events. And have many Cuban friends who will attest to its authenticity.

Loved it. Easy to read. Original plot. Well developed characters came across as believable people. In the time frame set, all the discriminatory thoughts and acts are believable and realistic. Yet the book is not judgemental not does it try to form the reader’s opinions, as I find in so much modern fiction. It also does not find “fault” or “blame” for the character’s situation. How refreshing to have a book where folks are troubled, yet find satisfaction with their situations in life. Although justice is vigilante, the reader is held to keep reading to find out the conclusion.

Loved this book. As I live close by and am familiar with the culture, I do not dispute any of it. I would love to know the author’s opinion as to why some are educated and some are not.

As a grown child of an abusive parent I applaud your decision for no contact. It was the best thing I ever did for me. And those around me.

I have read books that are quite similar - one in Alaska abusive parents, mother supported him, etc. “religious.”

Spellbinding page turner exposes different types of folks who question the paths their lives have taken, and the difficulty of facing negative realities.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Easy to read, interesting plot, good characters. Enough twists and turns to keep your interest. And no unnecessary hard to believe plot twists.

This is a very well written book that flows. It is a letdown after “the Nightingale” as that plot was quite original. I felt the characters and plot in this book were cliche and predictable. Like the story was designed to fit a framework.

Not a big surprise given government and its disinterest in honesty. The two black men whose cases were featured were clearly considered less than people by those in control. Interesting how folks take something so helpful - progress in forensic science - and corrupt it to $ benefit. The book is smooth reading, not tedious like some non fiction. Also does not become overly judgmental, which I find in many books today. Exposes just one aspect of medicine where the members protect each other at the cost of many others. What clearly comes across as well is how so many involved feel distorting the evidence to get a conviction is okay because the accused did it anyway. And if not this crime, other crimes. About their only “defense” is that the public is looking for x conviction rate; and they are under pressure to deliver in order to keep their elected or otherwise political jobs.
Also the book is just the right length. No beating of a dead horse.
An eye opener if you are unfamiliar with what can and often does go on anywhere.

When I read the premise on the first few pages, I was underwowed. As I read on, I changed my mind as the author wove this through the plot in a believable and clever way. The characters were limited and well defined, so as to make the book a pleasant read. As heavy as most of it is, there is enough upbeat and hope that I fell good at the end. It is also easy to read. Stays out of injected opinions about social issues or politics which seems so present in many books today. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a slightly heavier than normal read with a different premise and plot twists.

I thought this book has a great message; but it is tough to read. Too much embellishment; and I found myself having to go back and read pages over and over. Perhaps it feels like a retelling of so many of today’s stories.

This book captured my attention and I couldn't wait to find out what happened. I loved the "novel as truth" format. The unbelievable premise of recovery was made quite "believable. " the characters were well developed. They were likable and came across as real.

Only downside is a personal peeve - towards the end the "political" commentary on a social issue came on too strong.

Positive: it is an easy read; not at all tedious. Negative: this book comes across to me as the author's platform to vent her negative political thoughts, and negative opinions of midwestern people. The plot is very thin, the characters boring and not well developed. It reads like so many novels of dysfunctional families, however with no depth or originality.

I was not familiar with this author; will be reading her other books. Pleasant read, well-developed characters. Great handling of an intricate plot. Doesn't over-emphasize the "deeper" aspects (cartoon characters and plot). And a fair realistic treatment of politically charged issues - race and crimes. Feels agenda-free.