I also read the reviews and was hesitant, but as a busy, single mom I cook in the crock pot a lot and mine wasn't heating up enough, so I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm so glad I did. It is NOT cheap looking at all. It looks great, I, like someone else, leave it on my counter. It cooks very well, love the warm setting and timer. Handles do get hot. Use pot holders. Bought Deb's cookbook too and it's great.