I had a love/hate relationship with this book. There were some parts where it felt tedious and then many parts that I absolutely loved. I had to take a break from reading it...I think it was for a week or more. 
 Such characters! Mrs. Gibson gave me this hunted and trapped feeling. I was beginning to dread every scene with her in it, yet love the drama she brought. I can completely understand why Cynthia turned out the way she did. Oh man, she was a piece of work. 
 I was so disappointed that the story ended when it did. Nothing was resolved, the future was uncertain, and no feelings were discussed. I think I read somewhere that Mrs. Gaskell died before she could finish it. I was hoping for an ending similar to the one seen in the Masterpiece Classic movie. So disappointed. But still, the story was good. I loved Mr. Gibson and the Squire. They were both very endearing with their gruff exteriors.