I was anxious to read Home Safe: A Novel
by Elizabeth Berg, because I have enjoyed a few of her books in the past. The premise of this story is not a new one: when her husband dies unexpectedly, Helen Ames is stunned and finds it difficult to move on.Yes, Helen lose her husband, but this woman was incapable of doing anything for herself ; honestly, she was pathetic. Once a best selling author, she even loses her her ability to write. She also becomes dependent on her 27 year old daughter Tessa, to the point of annoyance.
I could not relate to the total helplessness Helen displayed even a year after her husband's death. Just when Helen learns from her accountant that her husband had withdrawn most of their retirement money just before his death, I looked forward to some suspense and perhaps a side story about "The Secret Life of Mr. Ames", but no such luck. Even when I found out what he did with the money, I was bored.
While some Berg fans may sing the praises of Home Safe, for me the story fell short of my expectations: unlikable characters and a predictable plot.
RATING - 2/5 - COMPLETED - 5/27/09
WHERE FROM: Library
Hmmm . . . I'm thinking it will fall short for me as well. :( I put it on my iPod a bit ago with, like you, hopes of suspense.
ReplyDeleteI love books written by Elizabeth Berg. My favorite is "Never Change." I didn't know about this one until I read your review, great review. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteIt definitely wasn't my favorite of hers...and she usually delivers. I was disappointed...
ReplyDeleteSorry it didn't work out. :-(
ReplyDeleteHope your next read is better.
It's a bummer when there's nothing really wrong with a book, but it really doesn't hold your attention either.
ReplyDeleteOh no! I'm sorry this one didn't do it for you. It has such a beautiful cover. I've only read one of her books (Talk Before Sleep) but I don't think I'll be reading any more.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth Berg is a name that I have heard over and over again. This book might not be my introduction based on your review, but what would you recommend? :)
ReplyDeleteI've never read any Berg, but I think the helplessness of the main character would irriate me too.
ReplyDeleteFrom what you've said and a few others, I've cancelled my hold at the library. Maybe I'll read it one day, maybe not. I find her older stuff so much better.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I listened to this one recently and overall thought it was just okay. When I found out what he did with the money I was totally disappointed. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't that! I think that's why I mentioned that I needed more friction or action because that was boring.
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