Testimony by Anita Shreve

Quite interesting book about ONE single incident at a private high school where the lives of people are changed dramatically. Really shows how one single event, done in a moment of passion, stupidity and recklessness, can change your life forever. I was really moved by the book, although I don't think it was great literature. I needed a "good, fast read" and this fit the bill. But I will admit that the characters, especially Noelle and the mom of Silas, Anne, really touched my heart.

Sashenka by Simon Montefiore

This book had issues, but I loved it anyway, because of my interest in everything Russian. I was sucked into the story immediately, even though some of it was like a Russian soap opera. The plot twists and turns pulled me in, however improbable, and the way the story comes together in the end is a bit like a formula book.
But nevertheless, I loved reading this book. I loved having fictional characters intermingled with historical figures (like in "Forever," another book I had issues with but loved reading anyway!) The portrayal of Stalin was interesting, but I would have liked more in Part I in St. Petersburg at the onset of the revolution. Rasputin plays a role, but I am so fascinated with that part of the history that I would have liked more. I have to find another book now, on this era. I spent half of a day finishing the book - something that hasn't happened to me in a long time....wanting to do nothing but finish and find out the outcome.