Selene M

This was a very quick read only hampered by how often I had to wipe my eyes and blow my nose. It was poignant and true to life as we examine one mom's struggle with accepting a newborn with Down's Syndrome. The story takes us through the year long journey from shock and disbelief to acceptance and happiness. A sweet memoir.

This is just an average mystery. I believe this is part of a series which may be why there isn't much character development. Based on the simplistic writing style and improbable storyline, I don't believe I will be reading any more Piper Donovan mysteries.

I enjoyed this book on some level. The mother, Jean Saint, was wholly unsympathetic and I disliked the sections written about her. She was small-minded, petty, selfish and did not protect her daughter from child abuse. For someone who lived with spousal abuse until a much wanted daughter was born, she completely writes off her daughter for most of her adult life, because she fears what her hometown will think. The Mary Saint character on the other hand is well written and believable. I longed for her presence whenever Jean's life and choices were being examined. She is the true star of this novel.