Gosh is a great writer, but this is definitely not his best effort. His most recent book, A Sea of Poppies, is simply outstanding, and should have won the Booker. His previous book, The Hungry Tide, was also very good. Skip this one, and try one of the recent titles.

People just couldn't get excited about this one. Three people started and didn't finish it. Others started it multiple times and had to force-finish it. Books should be more enjoyable!