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Title: Does this author even like his characters?
Review: Reputedly, Bennett wrote this books after seeing an old woman in a restaurant and wondering what her life must be like. But, it appears he didn't trust that her life would be interesting enough, so he introduces a sister who lives a far more wayward life. As a result, he produces two different books welded together precariously by this sisterly relationship.The two sisters' stories are interesting enough (although he should have stuck with the stay-at-home sister, she's more interesting and believable). What wrecks the books is Bennett's condescending, smug attitude towards his characters. One feels that he would cross the street if these ladies ever deigned to cross his path. His snide comments about their actions and habits quickly grow tiresome. One can only hope that he ended his life alone in a garret tyrannized by the hired help. His characters deserved better.
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