Review: I didn’t know whether I should laugh or cry
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 19, 2013
Often,  I didn’t know whether I should laugh or cry as I read this book and followed Ainslie’s odd, mixed-up life.  I have not read the prior two books but the author provided enough snippets of past events so I did not feel  short-changed, but I am curious to read the  previous books now so I can discover  the details of  the past events that so obviously have shaped Ainslie’s current attitude and problems.  I also think the earlier books likely will help explain the dysfunction that is present in her family.Ains, diagnosed with OCD and depression, is coping, and usually puts on a good front; she keeps the craziness inside, but her parents’ discord and bickering as they consider divorce is very difficult for Ains since she feels as if she is responsible for most of the unhappiness that is causing such tension in the family.Then her parents dump her on her eccentric, free-spirited aunt and uncle right before Christmas when they decide to fix their problems by taking a vacation cruise.  Fate has some surprises in store for Ainsley as she finds unexpected friendships and personal fulfilment in Palm Springs during her Christmas visit.  I enjoyed the story.  It left me hopeful that Ainsley will find a bigger purpose for her life.  She still has additional obstacles to overcome if she is ever to find peace within herself, but now the path she is to travel seems a little clearer.This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.Reviewed by Laurie-J