I like romances -- and novels in general -- about the dark side of life. Unfortunately, this novel went overboard with the darkness. It included suicide, Alheimer's, alcoholism, and dark medical secrets of the past.That said, the parts set in the past were compelling. The author made wonderful use of flashbacks. If the present-day segments had been as good, and if the hero and heroine had been more likeable, I would have liked this book a lot more. (Hint: He takes way too long to recognize his true feelings.)By the way, don't read the Author's Note at the beginning before reading the book. It contains BIG-TIME SPOILERS.I gave this novel a D+ at All About Romance.