End of Story

Parts of this book were fantastic; parts were too long and muddled. POV was not always clear and at times, there were just too many characters to keep track of. That said, it also read nothing like (in either over-all style or voice) Finn's first book, almost as though it was written by someone else. I enjoyed the first half more than the second; perhaps it was just writer fatigue because I did think the last 100 pages were a slog to get through, while the first 100 kept me enthralled. It won't be for everyone, that's for sure, but I am glad I read it and there are passages that will stick with me. Plot-wise, it took me quite a while to catch the clues - I would have liked more of Sebastian, less of Madelaine but that's just me. If you enjoy intricate plots and spooky old mansions and a wide cast of possibly shady characters, this one should be on your list,