This book provided one of the best discussions had by our reading group.

It has many interesting characters with whom we could discuss the history of the period and the social mores of the time.

The book is set in Sunderland, England, in the 1800's. The heroine is 15 year old Gustine, who both works a day job in a pottery and is prostitute at night. The author describes in graphic detail the lot of the poor and the attitudes of the well to do. The plot is complex with a doctor who steals corpses, the spread of cholera morbus in the area, and the fate of Gustine's infant son. Writing is excellent and the issues raised are many.

A difficult book to read, very dark and graphic. However, there is so much to think about and discuss. Our entire group had much to say.

I liked the book better as I got more into it but it was not my favorite book.