I'm not going to lie: This book may have spoken to me because the events in the character's life very much reflect a lot of the things going on in my own...But then again, it is quite possible that the themes throughout are universal and speak to everyone no matter what point in their lives!

My opinion leans toward the latter: That anybody, at any stage in their life may appreciate the messages of hope, disappointment, uncertainty, frailty of life, friendship, comfort, discomfort...

Elizabeth Berg has an extremely fluid yet substantial way of writing that made this book a very quick and satisfying read. I appreciate the preciseness of her words and the very real descriptions of the thoughts, emotions, and people in the life of a woman who has lost some direction.

For those of you who are looking for someone to empathize with, tragic life events (and the emotions that come with them) to mirror your own, solace and hope in a story of friendship and hope, Berg will give you a graceful, yet real and honest, text you can absorb in a weekend. This will be a compact, compassionate, and evocative book that I highly recommend! ( )

Ahhh. This book was so full. So full of recognizing the importance of connecting with people. With knowing and being aware of basic daily pleasures. Of holding onto what is important. Letting go what is not. And taking risks. A beautiful tribute to grief. ( )

After Bette is widowed, she moves to a small Midwestern town to start a new life. ( )

It was okay, but unbelievable. Good writing style. ( )

What a beautifully written story! **NOT to be read right after losing a spouse, or loved one!
I love everything about this book. Berg has the power to make you feel everything Betta was feeling, and it was so beautiful and delicately painful, I had to drop my book at one point, and go hug my husband!! I now miss the main characters, and wish I could go back and see them again.. and maybe stay for dinner... So many profound passages! It really makes you think about things, and want to experience life like Betta is. I wish life would fall into place so easily, like this!! ( )