Phil Preston

First half quite interesting in terms of biography, second half was a master class in comedy construction :)

Some people say it is too ambitious - I think not - Bernadine takes on some massive issues and conquers them all. Breathtaking insights into a world that isn't always visible.

Exquisitely written ... however I have two gripes. Firstly, the back cover mentioned the spy angle and it didn't amount to anything except a cursory sentence; and secondly, there was no real tension in the story, and felt like a linear family saga that didn't make any substantial point. I did like Claude though!

Read it when much younger - made an impact for the alt universe these characters seem to live in

This story has many beautiful passages and pontifications on life and, overall, I found it to be a highly charged ball of energy that was hard to put down. I could imagine the writing style might be too intensely descriptive for some. Not for me, though, as there was expediency to go with it. Lauren has nailed some of the great truths of life through the 'girl' without appearing heavy handed or retro-fitting today's values to yesterday's world. It is loosely based on the Jamestown colony in Virginia 1609-1611 which is a sad tale that ended badly. If you haven't read it and feel unsure, do yourself a favour and give it a go because it may just be one of the best books you'll ever read.