American author Cathleen Schine is renowned for her perceptive and humorous observations about human nature. She emphasized the book's captivating qualities in her review of "What Was She Thinking?" by pointing out how the tone and narrative pace were expertly balanced. The story, which takes place in a British school, centers on two very different women: a young, aspirational colleague and an eccentric, retired teacher.

Schine commended the author's ability to infuse tension into an apparently unremarkable story about high school life. She observed that the book had an underlying power that captivated readers despite its gentle tone and lightness of touch. Similar to a calm stream that appears serene at first glance but has the capacity to carry you far downstream if you allow it, this pull is subtle yet powerful.

Schine's review highlights how powerful storytelling can be when it successfully combines simplicity and intrigue to give ordinary situations a sense of wonder and mystery. Her remarks demonstrate her admiration for the author's deft use of subtle narrative devices to keep readers interested without resorting to overtly dramatic or dramatic plot twists. A delightful but unexpected journey through the story's narrative results from this storytelling technique, which lets the reader's curiosity grow organically.