Healer by Carol Cassella

I almost don't know what to say about this book. It's early in the morning, and my thoughts don't want to settle down. I'll make a list (I'm in a list phase in my life right now).

1. Good writing - I wanted to keep reading, but at the same time I wasn't just driven to get to the book every minute of the day.

2. It is set in Washington state, which I loved. She had Seattle and Eastern Washington down pat.

3. The story was hard for me to read. Perhaps that's why I'm having a hard time settling down to write about it.

Enough list. I think of myself as enjoying most kinds of books. In particular I love historical novels and biography, and of course there is a special spot in my heart for a fun mystery at anytime. But I do like all sorts of books, and if the writing is excellent, then my world is complete.

When life is worrisome or anxious I want to read to escape my world. That's what I want from a movie too.  I don't have anything in particular going on right now, but I do have some things weighing on my heart (is life ever empty of those moments?). I need light reading, or at least escapist reading that doesn't add to my worries. This book wasn't exactly like that. It's about a couple who have been wealthy, and have now lost everything. The story is how they deal with this change in their life individually, as a couple, and as a family (they have spoiled 14 year old daughter). Their road is a little rocky. The plot is timely, in this world of financial ups and downs that we live in. People everywhere are dealing with this struggle in one way or another. I'm aware in my own life of people I love dealing with this. It's not easy, and I have to say it wasn't easy to read about either.

So. If you're in a place to read a story like this, I recommend the book. Good writing, good character development, good plot. If you want escape from the real world, wait awhile and read the book when you are in a better place.