Review -- American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld

American Wife
by Curtis Sittenfeld
Random House, 2009
592 pages
*I borrowed this book from the library.

Summary: American Wife tells the story of Alice Blackwell, a woman who would overcome a tragic event in high school to marry the rich and charismatic Charlie Blackwell. Charlie eventually becomes president of the United States and Alice struggles with the decisions he makes as well as her role as first lady.

Review: American Wife is a slow, steady read that takes the reader into the life of a woman who accidentally becomes first lady. Alice is an interesting character, with her tragic past and need to make amends by being the best person she can be. Unfortunately, she meets and falls in love with Charlie Blackwell, a man who refuses to grow up and wants to make his mark on the world at any cost. It is at this time that our heroine becomes somewhat of a doormat and you wish she would chuck the good manners and Charlie to the curb. Instead, she marries him. Gripping at times and interesting at others, American Wife is a great read. Rating: *** out of 5