As an avid reader, perhaps I am getting too picky. Drowning Ruth has a predictable storyline--I once watched a movie with the same 'horrifying' family secret. Schwarz's characters are shallow with a lack of insight and development. I was left wondering where a few of the characters went and why there was no depth to the ones that were left behind. Amanda has no redeeming qualities---her motive to 'do the right thing' was selfish, and ultimately cruel. How is the reader supposed to understand and sympathize with her--even a little? I recommend you read a superior book with 'Ruth' in the title: Jane Hamilton's The Book of Ruth'.