I got this book as an advanced read copy from a big box book chain ages ago, so forgive me if I've missed some of the smaller details. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I've noticed some of the other reviewers giving this book one and two stars because it's "fluff". Why on Earth does a book have to be dense and dreary to be good? What ever happened to the story telling aspect of books? Isn't that the point of a good book, that you learn something (either about the world, or yourself), enjoy what you're doing, and get transported to another place entirely? This is how I choose what I like and don't like, and this book I like.
Ms. Groff writes in short chapters that leave you wanting more. You start out with Willie Upton and her story, but then get into an entire historical narrative soon after. You find yourself drawn into the story line, and you can't wait to find out "whodunnit". It's a great story. The argument over whether this is fluff or heavy intellectual prose aside, it is a completely enjoyable read and a good story to boot.