I had high hopes for this book after enjoying "The Poisonwood Bible" and "The Bean Trees", but unfortunately this book seemed to encapsulate the weaknesses of both those books and none of their strengths.I found the majority of the characters annoying and unlikable, particularly the main character, just as I did in "The Bean Trees". The ending was too pat and simplistic, as in "The Bean Trees", and it needed some severe editing, as did "The Poisonwood Bible".I can't emphasize enough how much I disliked the main character of this book. That, combined with the unrealistic plot, made this book a struggle for me to get through. I was counting the pages, as I did in the last third or so of the vastly superior "The Poisonwood Bible."Maybe Kingsolver's writing skills (and decisions about major characters' personalities) will improve with more time. I know she has the potential, so I remain hopeful.