Somehow I thought this novel was about something completely different, but it wasn’t a total loss. The novel has some problems (thin characters, some obvious plot devices, creatures and themes cobbled together from other fantasy and scifi novels) and some strengths (some imaginative and effectively creepy images and scenes). Not much of a period novel, either, aside from mentioning corsets and social graces; a lot of the main character’s opinions and leanings are strangely modern, and very anachronistic in her supposed time period. It was a quick read, though, and not much of an investment, so I can’t really complain. Would’ve been a great summer beach novel.

I am surprised it was a NY Times bestseller, though. It’s hardly a high-caliber work. I don’t get out much in contemporary fiction, though, so perhaps I ought not be surprised?