I checked this book out of my local library after seeing it on several people's reading lists and book group discussions online. It was a bit different from the other books I've been reading lately, and a welcome change.
In summary, it's about a group of 5 women who all live on the same street (Freesia Court) who get together under the guise of a book group. They do read books, but I think they get together more to socialize, talk and keep up with each other's lives. The book spans 4 decades - it starts back in the 60's, and follows them through the 70's, 80's and 90's. I love to see books that develop characters, and how their story and lives turn out. This was one such book. You get to follow these women's lives, their marriages, their children, their friendship, all against the backdrop of the times. It covers such diverse subject matter as drug use, spousal abuse, divorce, interracial relationships, out-of-wedlock babies, Vietnam, gay relationships and the outbreak of AIDS.
I really enjoyed this book, although it was different from what I've been reading lately. A nice change of pace, if you can tolerate the subject matter. I give it 7 out of 10 stars.