I suspect that I am inclined to like historical fiction (if that is the correct label), and so this book fit the bill. It is a 692 page version of a TV costume drama - a mystery of sorts set in post-Cromwellian England (Oxford, actually) in the 1660s and (except for three or four characters) relying for its cast on real individuals of the time. A young John Locke is present, albeit in a secondary role, as is Robert Boyle and others who are recognizable even to me. Others, a bit more obscure to someone who lacks a detailed knowledge of the period, play more significant roles. The plot itself attempts to provide one possible rendition of what was taking place behind the scenes as Charles II reclaimed the throne after Cromwell’s death - and it probably delights those who are curious about the intruiguing events of the time. For me, however, it was just an interesting and good read - an antidote (suggested by a colleague) for my dispappointment with the equally long (although substantially thinner) DaVinci Code (see my comments on that book). My enjoyment of the book was tempered by a lack of historical knowledge at the outset, especially about the significance of period for contemporary British history. I now know a good deal more of the issues and significance of the events of the time, but I regret not having all that in place before tackling this - it would have made the long trip through these pages more enjoyable. It will go into my list of enjoyable reads, but not among those I would call a ‘favorite’.