This book is well written, although not without its flaws. Dan Simmons occasionally has a tendency to be a little too pleased with himself when it comes to historical research, which results in a some additional unnecessary exposition that feels like it is there just to prove that Simmons knows the information that is being shared.

In the opening of the book, the narrator (a fictionalized Wilkie Collins) asks a question that reads like the most ridiculous example of some sort of sensationalist thesis paper. Honestly, I almost set the book down then, and probably would have if I hadn't had so many previous good experiences with Simmons' books. Also, the end was quite a disappointment. It isn't that it comes out of nowhere, as the premise is set up clearly in the preceding narrative, just that it feels cheap. It's as if Simmons had developed this fantastic story, but couldn't think of any other way of making it gel with recorded history. Others may disagree with me, but I found it to be quite a let down.

The shame of all this is that the story is fantastic. I was deeply engrossed throughout the course of the novel, and the characters were well drawn and fascinating. This is a great tale that begins and ends badly, and as such, cripples the piece as a whole. I want to love this book: the characters, atmosphere and attention to detail are compelling. However, I have a hard time recommending it to my friends for the flaws above.

If you are looking to try out a piece of historical fiction from Dan Simmons, try The Crook Factory, which I whole-heartedly loved.