I found this one to be a terrific read as a (classic British) farce; it's only late in the book did it become apparent that the neighbors' concern wasn't so "misplaced" as it'd seemed. Deus-ex-machina(ish) ending wrapped things up a bit *too* neatly, but Gardam is a real pro at combining the characters, setting, and plot structure into a book I really didn't want to end.

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The first Jane Gardam that I have ever read. Quirky and wonderful!
She grows on you. Now go and read Old Filth, fabulous!!

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I found this one to be a terrific read as a (classic British) farce; it's only late in the book did it become apparent that the neighbors' concern wasn't so "misplaced" as it'd seemed. Deus-ex-machina(ish) ending wrapped things up a bit *too* neatly, but Gardam is a real pro at combining the characters, setting, and plot structure into a book I really didn't want to end.

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This book got awards, great reviews, etc. But I truly cannot understand why. Rambling and just plain boring. I gave up. When you are only on page 60 after two days, well, I'm done.

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