Helpful Score: 3
I read this novel after watching the excellent film (a kind of reverse Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont) and was so impressed I afterwards read every other book by Brian Morton (This is the best). I am currently writing a novel, and learned more about effective fiction writing reading this book than I did from any fiction how-to book. It is a marvelous read - and Morton is a master of language. I read at least 50 quality novels a year and this one is definitely in my top 5%.
Helpful Score: 3
I found this book to be a very quick read. The character development was amazing, but I could not really identify with any single character. The book did not end at all like I expected it to - it is almost like the last chapter is missing - only to be filled in by your imagination.
I recommend this book...
I recommend this book...
An elegant and curious book. Unique in the character study and plot.
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, Salon Magazine Favorite of the Year, and a NYT Notable Book -- all well earned. The character development is subtle and wonderful. One critic said the reader "slips into intimacy" with them.