Book Reviews of Drowning Ruth

DROWNING RUTH is deceptively clever. What seems initially like the conventional, usually predictable murder yarn turns out actually being a meticulously crafted story of considerable artistic merit. The circumstances of the drowning of Ruth's mother serves as the catalyst that precipitates an intriguing flow of interrelated events in the lives of Amanda (the drowned woman's sister) and her niece Ruth. Christina Schwarz is a wonderfully talented writer who has woven a rather intricate tale of psychological suspense. There are many engrossing trwists and digressions (but quite necessary) in this very emotional marrative. The mystery is sustained throughout because the reader, as if carefully and thoughtfully fitting together all the jagged pieces of a puzzle, learns in successive chapters what actually occurred that particular wintry night so long ago in the past of both Amanda and Ruth. The writer does a marvelous job in pacing the delicate unravelling of the knitting. This is a thoroughly enjoyable thriller.
I recommend this book very highly.

Though slow in parts....The story was good and it kept me guessing.

The story was well told and it was a pleasurable read. However, I kept expecting something a little more suspenseful to happen. A few things did happen that, had the author chosen to, could have been more exciting. Excitement was just not what this author was going for apparently.

This books started out slightly slow for me - or I just didn't get it at first- but then! awesome. I really enjoyed it!

Kind of strange but good

great book.

Interesting book, good read for a rainy day.

good read

The ties that bind, the ties that break. Secrets kept and of their consequences.

A great read!!!!!!!!!

Great book! The author keeps your attention from beginning to end.

one of the many books in Oprah's book club , my book is in good shape .It's been in a smokefree home . Deep book

I Loved this book!! Horrifying family secrets and vivid characters make this book one that is a must read!

It grabbed my interest and kept it. Interesting, loving characters who harbor too many secrets to ever be entirely happy. The story is compelling and well-plotted. While the outcome was fairly predictable, it was still a good read.

Much better than I expected, really.

I read this book before Oprah chose it as one of her selections and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be looking for my by this author in the future!

Pretty good story with a real plot. Above average, still somewhat predictable, with a smidge too many coincidences...like a soap opera.

Very engaging,great plot and characters you'll love to hate. You don't feel like you're reading a book set almost 100 years ago.

Great read!