I like a book that sticks to the ribs - this one didn't. This book was funny and clever, but at the same time it did tell a sad story. I just wish Patchett could have found a way to provide more of a background for Rose (the main character).

Lovely story about a young pregnant mother who sets out for St. Elizabeth's home for unwed mothers...but Rose is wed to a man she runs away from once she realizes that she is not in love with him. I initally liked Rose, but by the end of the story I did not because of the way she pushed everyone in her life that loved her away from her. Great read! I think this is Patchett's greatest novel, not Bel Canto as everyone else says.