Drowning Ruth: A Novel (Oprah's Book Club)

I looked forward to reading this book - the back jacket was enticing, other reviews were good, and I had enjoyed a series of Anita Shreve books and was looking for a 'new' author. It was interesting, held my interest, kept me curious, but started to disappoint about 1/3 of the way through -- some of the character development was weak, and the story line became forced. Not bad, and a good first effort. Don't pass it by if you're looking for an interesting tale from a new author. Skip it if you insist on an outstanding read.

I really enjoyed this book. There were times when I could definitely predict what was going to happen next but that didn't take from my enjoyment of the book at all. It was very interesting and enjoyable.

Very different and intriguing. A different kind of story with an unusual plot line. The author is a good writer, but emotionally I found it an overall depressing storyline, which does not detract from the quality of the writing!

Great story; fascinating, believable characters. Schwarz's use of frequent flashbacks give a fullness and completeness to her characters, and
her characters' personal struggles reflect a search for answers of life's enigmas with which the reader can identify. I highly recommend this novel for the brilliant writing and depth of insight into that age old question of "Why am I here?"

The characters seem to come to life and immediately the reader feels like part of the story. The secrets that are kept among family members sneak out little by little giving the reader just enough to keep the interest.

This was moderately good read. I enjoyed it for its ease of reading, but found that it was rather predictable. It had some loose ends with the metaphor of "drowning Ruth" and I felt the author was really stretching the plot to make something more of it. It was a solid attempt to write something of literary value, but ultimately it was just another story about a woman, who may or may not be mentally unbalanced, and her unconventional family life.

Schwarz's writing style is mesmerizing. Even if/when you don't at all agree with the characters' choices you still understand & feel for them & root for a happy outcome. The ending surprised me!

This is an awesome story. Althought he story jumped around a lot, I kept having to back and see who I was reading about, which is part of it's charm. It is a great story and the Amanda, Ruth and Mathilda will stay with you long after this book is over.

There are well drawn characterizations with surprising twists in the plot. The plot unfolds through the viewpoint of either of three women,: Amelia, Ruth, and Amanda. I was reminded of Faulkner's As I Lay Dying.

I felt that the author jumped from character to character & repeated things often. The ending was very predictable. If reading for my book club wasn't necessary I would have stopped after about 100 pages.