Think adding the "stuff" regarding experiences in the WW II was superfluous, not one of my favorites by Gresham. Book dragged on with a fragmented plot. Would not recommend .

A masterful plot construct of “What” followed by “Why” flavored with just a sprinkle of very dark WWII history. At first, I did wonder “Where is this going?” As usual, it led to a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. Grisham’s characters are so wonderfully created and so believable that empathy is instant. No superheroes. No blatant improbability. Just a very complex journey of the vagaries of life set in the rural south during the ‘40s.

If you wish to spend at least 1/3 of the book getting a histoty lesson on Gen McAuthor and Japan's takeover of the Philippenes then you may enjoy the book. I skipped over the large majority of this section. The book also drug on and on in other parts. I wanted to enjoy a thriller like the authors earlier books, not a sad, tedious and boring book like this one. this will be my last book by this author.

I've read all of his books and this is by far the worst - save your money!!Jim

This was a bad read. Too much information on mostly known history. Agree, not enough character development on some people. Way too much detail before "secret" was FINALLY revealed in last 10 pages!!