The setting, the men and manliness and the development of the main character, are the elements which invoke the Zauberberg by Thomas Mann. The mysticism, foreboding, science and philosophy are the elements I came to associate with works by Olga Tokarczuk. It is astonishing how the hints given try to lead the reader to conclusions, only to reveal a twist later on. Even to a reader comming prepared and even when you think you have revealed a ruse, another trap will get you. This makes the read very interesting. Overall, it was a great read. It was the first book by the author I ever read and it made me instantly want to read more by her.