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Title: An iffy start, a mesmerizing finish
Review: The first part of the novel tests the reader's patience with its fairy tale depiction of Ethan Ford and his life with wife,Jorie. But stick with Alice Hoffman's prose. The seeming perfection is actually an effective setup for what happens after Ethan's pastfinally catches up with him. This is the first Alice Hoffman book that I've read, and I'm eager to read more of herwork after finishing "Blue Diary." Once the book began delving into who Ethan really was/is and how his heinous crimeresonated, I was unable to put it down. I wasn't particularly intrigued by some of the supporting characters, especiallyJorie's best friend Charlotte. But overall, "Blue Diary" is a satisfying read that raises interesting questions about thelimits of redemption and forgiveness.
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