It is 1952 and Jean De Belle has broken off her engagement to Charlie, due to his erratic temper and excessive drinking. She is excited though, she has been hired by a high school in a small town in Illinois. But it is not to be as Charlie catches up to her, and shoots her when she will not take back his ring. This is based on a true case, and though a crime is committed the focus is on how violence and rumors change those in the path of this violence.

The atmosphere feels right, the judgemental people who gossip and those who play up their part in this tragic event. Ten minutes of fame. Life does go on and some people discover strengths they didn't know they had. Some gossip and this gossip costs one woman her livlhood. It's about change and the long reach of violence. About small town mores and teenagers who are involved in a complicated mess. Everyone must find a new path, forced to reevaluate their lives after this event.

Well written, with an important message, but also slowly paced. Worth reading and many have rated this higher. ( )