Hello everyone. I hope you are having a good day.
Long time, no talk. Sorry, life keeps getting in the way, both good and bad. We are here, guess sometimes that is the best we can hope for. The world has gotten extra crazy, hasn't it? I wrote a whole bunch of stuff here, but fear I was boring you so deleted it. I was rambling and getting close to discussing politics. Two things, Canada...Americans love you. Best neighbor ever. Any American that doesn't believe it needs to open a history book. For the other countries, around the world, we are scared too. I hope books can be an escape for all of us.
I recently read The Women in White by Sarah Pekkanen. This story is about four women who, many years ago, participated in parapsychology experiments for a college researcher. This scientist is diligent at pursuing the results he needs, no matter the cost. Told from the subject's point of view in the 1960's and from present day, the story shifts effortlessly between the two. In the present day, we follow Riley, who desperately needs a job and somewhere to live. She is hired as a live-in helper for Betty, an elderly woman who is stuck in the 1960's. There is no internet, no television, no changes to Betty's home. Feeling as if going back in time as she moves in, Riley is shocked and charmed, coming to care intensely for Betty. Riley learns about Betty being a member of the four women in the college study and that the other women who participated have gone missing. As they explore the facts, the two timelines come together.
Having read several books by Sarah Pekkanen, this is one of my favorites. It is interesting, has a pleasant pace, and is well researched. The short chapters urge you to read just one more...then perhaps another. After a satisfying ending to The Women in White, I am ready for more from this author.
Many thanks to the always generous St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the review copy.
