This book is probably the only book that could make me sad and laugh and the same time. This book is only another reason, apart from Finikkin of the Rock, that proves why Marchetta is probably one of the best authors in this industry. There is something impeccable about the way she writes, how her style is deliberately off-handed to conceal something so much deeper and thoughtful. She is not only an amazing writer, but also an amazing story-teller. 
 The story introduces us to Taylor, a young girl troubled by a past she can't remember but is affecting the way she values her self worth. She believes that the answers lie in finding her mother - again after hr first attempt was foiled by a uber-hot guy whom she met at the train station that day. 
 The characters - how I love them! In the best way describable, they were all so broken, so hurting. They all broke my heart and patched it up again. 
 The story was unclear for me in some aspects, there were some issues I raised eyebrows at - is this house rivalry thing feasible in the present day? - but with Marchetta and her mastery in writing, the story does more than hold its own. This book was not necessarily an easy read, and my head is still reeling from what it has just gone through, but I know that this book has changed me in ways I still have to figure out. Another masterpiece by Marchetta. 
 Afterthoughts: 
 I hear that a movie on this book will be produced soon. I don't think I can watch it. I'm afraid that it fails to portray the inner turmoil and depth of this story. Then again, I'm afraid it might be good. I can't bear to watch all this pain and anguish play out on the silver screen - and go through all this sorrow again.