Like a steaming cup of oolong in a porcelain mug, a chilled glass of Veuve Clicquot, or a perfectly mixed gin and tonic, this book cannot be rushed. Gulping it down all at once is a mistake. Instead, go slowly, taking quiet sips over a longer period. Let the incredible flavors of the time and era wash over your senses. Give yourself fully to enjoyment, to the slow unfolding of narrative. 
 The Count will approve.