I was really confused with the very mixed reviews for this book especially since it seems it was a case of loved it or strong dislike and not much in the middle. Having read several of her works I've loved some and did not think much of others. But.. the ones I did like I liked very much and I was desperate for a read so I took a chance. Well, I'm happy to report all the reviewers, even though they do not agree are correct. Parts of this book are great and parts are really not. It's way too long and redundant. One point that sold me on it was the length because I like a good long read. But the length covers a lot of redundancy, slows down the story and the action and does not add to it. It felt like slogging through it and I almost quit about three times. Having written that, the two main characters did keep me hanging on, though I was waiting for a chance to quit. The interaction between these two is endearing especially due to the history and length of their relationship. Also, they are two people who are best together and less than best apart and I found myself pulling for them. The dynamic of the political conspiracy and the old war crimes was very interesting. The families, especially the parents, were well drawn, both good and bad. The mystery was not your usual run of the mill. For the length of the book I'd have preferred to see less sex and more details on that interesting crime and/or its consequences. Though frankly, the resolution by the military is likely dead on, since it's fiction I'd like to have seen some "commupance" and certainly for the VP to do some quiet jail time. The fact I hold that opinion and give a care proves the author did a great job building this world and the two main characters.