I've read everything I can get my hands on by Susanna Kearsley, and I love everything I've read. Her books are a little bit like coming home to me - warm and inviting, and oh-so-comfortable. having said that, this wasn't my favourite book. The parallel story lines take place in the present day and in 18th century France (mainly). Unusually for me, I actually preferred the present-day storyline, up until the end of the book, where I finally gained an affinity for the historical characters. I also had a harder time getting involved in the storyline, partially because my attention was divided between other books I was reading, but also because I found the Charitable Corporation swindle to be a little bit mind-boggling, making it hard to sympathize with the motivation of Mr. Thomson (and, by extension, those protecting him). Still enjoyable, and I particuarly loved the in-depth explanation of fact vs. fiction at the end of the book. I do appreciate thorough research!