I don't know if the author did a good enough job doing character development on this book. I rather enjoyed Dan, and her mother, but the main character wasn't that likeable to me. Emma was a child, and after her behavior not quite that great a friend. But then, Pheobe wasn't a great friend at all...she broke the cardinal rule of friendship. Her loss is felt, that is for sure. The story picks up after Mrs. Bell comes onto the scene, and she is my absolutely favorite character of all. Her story is what kept me enthralled with the book. I would have loved to see more detail in her story, but it was sad and realistic all the same. In summary, I would say i liked reading the book, but was never "in love" with it; though it ends well and as expected, and is what makes a good story.
