I didn't think this book would ever get going. I literally had to force myself to read it. Especially in the beginning. B-o-r-i-n-g! And then after reading the part about Africa, I kept telling myself over and over again that I will NEVER visit that country. The book finally started to pick up some speed in Africa and then I began to enjoy it.........until the ending. I just sat there with my mouth hanging open. I don't think I care to read another of Anita Shreves books.