Given the topic of patchwork/dysfunctional families, I would never have thought that I would enjoy this novel so much - but I did. It is an absolutely truthful and honest account of the challenges and obstacles that newly created family ties bring and at that emotionally engaging. I could have screamed at Dale (to me the least likable character, even if I tried to sympathize and understand) and Nadine as well as the men who passively allowed things to happen, just because they are too comfortable in their old habits. It is not exactly beautifully written, but the narrative style matches the story very well and I also liked the jumps between the different strands of the plot. I deduct one star, because as such the topic is just not my favourite, but if you're into that kind of family narrative, it's definitely recommended.