Brilliant work! This is as good a modern work of fiction as I have read in the last 50 years. If you prefer books tuned to the 21st century's attention span of 10 minutes that you can read while watching TV, commuting or while sunning on the beach - stay away from this book. If, on the other hand, you read to become engrossed in a well told story and matvel at the craftsmanship of a fine writer, buy it now!! This book is a joy to be savored.