All the Houses by Karen Olsson was an appealing choice because it takes place in DC. Olsson herself grew up in DC and peppers the story with details that only a native would know. Helen’s father was peripherally involved in the Iran-Contra hearings, and much of the book is a recollection of that time. I enjoyed the premise and the old DC trivia, but this book was too long and I wanted to give up multiple times. The only thing that drove me forward was the hope that Helen would get out of her slump and do something interesting. Overall, though, I wouldn’t recommend this story. Come on, 2016, I’m looking for some great reads this year!!