Surprising book full of unexpected twists and turns. Very satisfying and well worth the read ( )

I'm going to rate this book a four of five. I don't think that I'll ever read it again, but wow, the first time was great. (Wish I could give it 4.5—I think I'll go back and re-read certain sections again.)

I liked it partially because I'm from Cleveland and I enjoy stories set in historical Cleveland. Not sure how this book got on my Kindle, but that could be a reason. I think it's neat that when a character turns a corner or heads to the YWCA that you know where they are and that you've been there, too.

But! I primarily liked this book because of the characters and character development. The author spends a great deal of time and energy developing the four main characters (MP counts as two) as well as the various supporting characters.

Yes, the diary style (tone?) is not what you're used to, but bear with it—Hasley uses it for a purpose, and to great effect.

While not exactly a mystery, there are certainly twists and turns and there is mystery in it. As the story builds, we see further and further into this MP person and her character(s). Setting the story in the WWI teens was brilliant and, while I'm not a scholar of those times, Hasley got all the details I needed to enjoy the story right enough for me.

It's OK to have a longing for a different ending—to have a sense of loss—this is not a disney princess story.

Please don't give up on the story because of the style—persevere and you'll be rewarded by a good read. ( )