raconteur reviewed on 9/26/2010 + 168 more book reviews

I gave this book 4 stars. The entire book was superb ... except for the ending, which, at first, I did not even understand. I guess it was too subtly crafted for me! After I did finally understand it, I found it to be a huge let down. Throughout the book there is this HUGE build up to the mystery surrounding Polly's past with Tom Lynn. So, I expected a pretty spectacular unveiling and denouement. Unfortunately, it wasn't like that at all. I thought the ending was just ho hum, and a bit too ambivalent for my tastes.

However, the ending is only a few pages long in this 420 page book. So, the 410 pages were absolutely superb, both in plot line and narration. I'd give the book 5 stars if it wasn't for the ending. I'd also recommend it to others - after all, endings are such subjective things. What I don't like, might be perfect for others. Diana Wynne Jones is still superb in her writing style and plots - I do love her books.

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