Helpful Score: 9
Though it takes a little while to get into the rhythm of the story, since it deals with one character's background interspersed with the main character's present story, it readily draws you into a very gripping "what'll happen next" plot. The dreary background only heightens the tension and mystery.
Helpful Score: 7
This was a very well-written book, as are all Sarah Waters' novel. And there is always a twist that is relatively surprising. I enjoyed the read but I do get a little frustrated with the fact that things never seem to turn out well for most of Waters' lead characters. It adds to the victorian noire feel of the piece, but I still like a happy ending once in a while.
Helpful Score: 3
Sarah Waters is a wonderful writer! This is my least favorite of her first three novels that I've read, but that doesn't mean it's bad in any way. The twist at the end was good, but it did bum me out. I'm swapping this copy, but there is no way anyone could pry my copies of "Fingersmith" or "Tipping the Velvet" from my grubby hands, lol. I believe this was her 2nd novel, and as such I think more authors would wish for a "sophomore slump" like this one. Her language is beautiful, like always, and she has a great way of describing scenes and people. Wonderful gothic Victorian feel.
Helpful Score: 3
I found this book slow to get into but definitely educational about the prisons in Victorian England. It also depicted the spiritualist subculture of this time period. An intersting undertone of lust from different characters perspectives runs throughout the story with a great surprising twist in the end.
Helpful Score: 2
I was definitely surprised by the ending, and enjoyed the Victorian style writing, which while being appropriate for the time period, since it was written recently adds a touch of irony and perspective. Very cleverly done.
