Cat

I give this book four stars out of five. To be clear, it's because of the ending.
I still think it takes too long to get to the close.

I don't really know how to rate this book, as the first part (the diary of a good neighbour) is very well written and portrays diverse realities coming together with intensity and style, while the second part (if the old could...) must be the dullest thing I have ever read. The portrayal of niece Kate is infuriatingly stupid, and the impossible love story with Richard is recounted with a naivetè that is all bore and no ingenuity whatsoever.
I'm truly sorry to write this, but Doris, dearest: if the old could... suck less?

Too long for what it meant to tell. It almost feels like it narrates events over a span of 20 years, while the storyline really unfolds over 5 (and yes, I know there are flashbacks, I'm not talking about that).
Doesn't delve too deep - at least not as deep as I would have liked it to - on a lot of topics, e. g. the codependent relationship between Greta and Einar/Lili. Or why Carlisle suddenly decides to devote a great deal of time and energy to help Lili in her battle.
I appreciated the ending.