I probably would have given this novel 5 stars if not for the ridiculous over use of the "F" word. I never really understand why authors feel like they need to use profanity in their novels. In all honesty, it never really adds anything to the story and it certainly doesn't help to broaden the reader's vocabulary. 
 Even though I had issue with the language, this was still an outstanding book. The plot is quite clever. Even after finishing it a couple a days ago, I keep thinking back to certain parts of the novel and wondering how/why certain things took place. When a novel leaves me contemplating it days later, I know it was a really good read. Not only is plot original, but the writing is well done and you feel connected to the characters. Toward the end of the book as the reader and the protagonist is really learning why key events took place, I became teary eyed. Fantasy books don't tend to pull at my heartstrings, but there is so much empathy and compassion you feel with the characters of this novel. 
 There is so many twist and turns, it is hard to review or discuss the premise without giving anything away; however, the heart of this novel centers around a young woman who is adopted by a man, called Father, when she is around 9 years ago. There are 11 other children, in addition to herself who are adopted. The children and Father live in a library and each child is assigned a particular discipline. Caroline, the protagonist, is assigned language. Her whole life she learns every known and forgotten language. 
 The story takes place over a short period of time, but there are "interludes" (e.g., flashbacks) that give you more insight to what is driving Caroline and some of the other characters the story focuses on. 
 I would be interested in seeing other stories about some of the other characters. I don't know if Hawkins will do so, but it would definitely be nice.