Lucy S

The author kept changing perspectives from the standpoint of each character and how they were reacting to the death of one of the main characters. Her characterizations were sensitive and authentic and the story kept you involved in the story and how things would finally get resolved. She made the characters very likable and you felt like you were right there watching the scenes play out. It was an easy read and a hopeful read - good entertainment.

I typically enjoy mystery and/or crime novels and this was one that was difficult to finish, although the ending, while improbable, was a little more suspenseful than the previous chapters. To me the novel dragged in places. I would have preferred a greater character development, never feeling really connected to the characters.

I typically do not read non-fiction books, but living in the Boston area, this book caught my interest. Doug Most brought the late 19th century to life. His attention to detail and the way he wove the background of the characters and was incredible. His writing style was incredibly interesting and filled with detail about life in Boston and NYC in those times. He adeptly, but not laboriously detailed the challenges, obstacles - successes and failures of the brilliant men that brought the subway to America. Tremendous research - there are passages that make you just want to read it aloud and share the interesting facts. It was very entertaining as well as being tremendously informative. I would definitely recommend this book.

It's the kind of book where you dread the last page because the story ends. The characters stay with you after that last page. Mary Beth Keane brilliantly brings the characters to life and makes you feel like you are right in the midst of their lives with all the frustration, cruelty and helplessness. I found myself cheering Mary on as she fights for her freedom and tries to hold on to some little happiness. I'll never think of Typhoid Mary the same way before I read this book.