I have been a big fan of Sara Gruen since I read Water For Elephants several years ago. Her writing style sucked me in and I read her other books as soon as I could. When I saw that At The Water's Edge was coming out I requested it from Netgalley immediately. After reading a few reviews, I was prepared to be disappointed. To anyone wondering if they should give it a chance I'll say this: Give it a few chapters. 
 The first few chapters were a chore to get through, not because of bad writing or boredom, but because the three main characters were so selfish and thoughtless that I despaired of ever liking them. Things quickly picked up. Maddie wasn't who I thought she was and I began to understand her better. I liked Maddie a lot. She was brave, intelligent, and kind...as long as her husband wasn't around. 
 The characters are all very interesting and fleshed-out. 
 One thing Sarah Gruen does extremely well is atmosphere. Scotland and the war were so well-written that I could envision every scene very clearly. 
 This book had everything: romance, adventure, suspense...it was a wonderful historical novel with a touch of magic and wonder. I highly recommend it. 
 Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy to review.