This is one intriguing book. From page one, it grabs hold and doesn't let go until the very end, and even then it's not easily forgotten. It's atmospheric and the characters add to that atmosphere. I was very impressed with the characters; very fleshed out and interesting. Centered around Jane, the enigmatic figure we are introduced to in the first few pages as a figure on a road, narrowly avoided by a swerving truck, these characters bend as if directed by an unseen will. Jane seems to be the force behind that will. The minute she stepped foot in Graynier, things started to change. What I like best, I think, is Kernochan's no-holds-barred, in your face prose. Don't be expecting a light read here. This book is gritty and honest. And the subject of reincarnation, endlessly fascinating to me, is very much present. Jane Was Here is a book that should be on some best of lists. It certainly is one of the best books I've read in 2011.
