I almost didn't read this book, even though I adore Robin McKinley, because it's a vampire book, which really isn't my thing at all. I have now read it three times, and I find new things to love each time, and new details that previously escaped my notice. The rambling writing style won't be everyone's cup of tea, but I enjoyed all of the tangents and wry humor. As always, McKinley's writing is full of nuance, though the contemporary tone differs from the fairytale-type stuff she's known for.