This, to me, felt like a more intelligent Twilight. Not to say that Twilight wasn't intelligent, but this book incorporated a wide range of history, which I instantly fell in love with. Besides the obvious forbidden vampire romance, the book did have several similarities to the Twilight series (which I can't bring up without major plot spoilers) and I really hope that Deborah Harkness continues on her path to making it her own. 
 I did like the characters, but I rankled at the possessive man who likes his women obedient, and the strong woman who changes who she is for him. Her strength is what I like most about her, and I hope to find more of it in the next book. 
 I found the story riveting, even when nothing was happening. I enjoyed reading about wine, tea, rowing and yoga. Harkness made even the mundane, fascinating. 
 I did wish that the ending had been more abrupt. I realize this is an odd thing for me to say, but I had really been hoping for a great cliffhanger ending, leaving me desperate for more. Instead, all threads were neatly tucked in, leaving me feeling ambivalent about waiting for the sequel. 
 Overall, a great read, inventive and fun.