When I read the blurb for this book, it intrigued me. But an imagined dinner with five people--dead or alive--could be the makings of a magical novel. Or a complete disaster. I got the chance to read a sneak peek and was completely hooked. If I could have read this in one sitting, I would have. I didn't want it to end, but I didn't want to stop reading. It's the perfect book for the hopeless romantic in me. And I know I will reread it someday. I loved the characters. I loved the many layers of the characters and how they were woven together. How each chapter uncovered a new layer that revealed something about the chapter before. Fresh and unique, it was heart-wrenching and wonderful. Now, I'll leave you with my (current) five. Edith Wharton, MLK, my great grandfather, Molly Ringwald, and Maggie Stiefvater!