True Colors by Kristin Hannah

 This story begins in the 80s and the author purposefully gives us lots of fashion and cultural references to be sure we get it. They lessen as the story unfolds into later decades. It was kind of fun to remember some of the trends, like the big poufy bangs...but at other tines I felt she was hitting me over the head.

And the characters...These three daughters and their relationship at times felt true and at other times felt contrived, as did all of the characters. There were some stunningly accurate portrayals of inner thinking and love, and how we can deceive ourselves about whom and how we love.  

The first few chapters made me mad, and I thought, why do I read this sappy escapist tripe, and at other times, I thought wow, I've felt that way. I liked the horse settings and stories. I liked how accurately the prejudice against Native Americans was portrayed in this small Washington town. I was also pretty sure that Dallas, the dark Native, would eventually be exonerated, but it took a long time and a lot of pages. 

The story got better and more interesting as Winona started to see herself and her foibles more accurately; she was the know-it-all sister who was unlucky in love but lucky in her legal career. Eventually she comes to some good conclusions and some right actions. So she was the most interesting to me... I actually considered quitting the Monterey Book Club while I was reading this. I thought, if THIS is what they think is a good reading, then I'm out of here. But on the other hand, there were some redeeming ideas...I still may exit if the next few are like this...There are so many good books, why would we choose such mediocrity?

I just reread my reviews of the other two Kristin Hannah books I've read, and I liked them better. I can see how she has developed as a writer; this True Colors was written earlier. She's good at captivating the reader and with some surprises along the way. I think her research and depth have improved over time.