Peters's formula for writing both the Vicky Bliss and Amelia Peabody books is transparent after so many novels, so the twists and turns did not take me by surprise as much as they did when I first started reading both series. The book is fun and we get to find out what will happen between Vicky and John, which is, of course, the most important reason to read the book if you're a fan of this series.
The beginning is a little slow, but once Jane comes to Thornfield, I didn't want to put the book down. Jane is her own strong person and I enjoyed reading her story and Mr. Rochester's, although at times it was frustrating as what is so obvious to the reader is not necessarily so to Jane or Rochester.
I first read this book in 7th grade and stayed up most of the night to finish it in one day–I could not put it down. The trilogy is timeless, dealing with subjects that all ages can relate to. Both Lyra and Will are great characters to follow as they have to face very real, deep issues and what it means to grow up and find your truth in a sea of different ideologies. The world Pullman created is amazing and I revisit it every few years.