Short of time travel, this book is the next best thing to experiencing life in 18th century India. Pulsing with the sights and sounds of place and period, a confident, polished work it is, suitable not just for the teenage market, but adults too. -- Martina Devlin * Irish Independent *
This book was deeply emotional and absolutely unique - I have never read anything quite like it. I loved this gripping story and I couldn't put this book down! -- Maia Harvey, 12 * First News *
Wonderfully mature. The language is precise and evocative, the philosophy deep but kind. A very literary piece of historical fiction which will entrance sophisticated readers of all ages. Beautifully written and for once we are treated to a strong female character who isn't the least bit anachronistic. -- Jill Murphy * www.thebookbag.co.uk *
A remarkable book...a writer to watch. -- Mary Hoffman * The Guardian *
The reader's perseverance is repaid many times over by this story of a talented young girl's struggles in an 18th century man's world, with echoes of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness as well as Jane Austen and the Brontes sisters. * Cork Evening Echo (Eire) *
The writing is beautiful ... this is a book to saviour and read slowly and deliciously. * Dublin Evening Herald *
Finn writes beautifully , her passages depicting nature and birds, and hopes and dreams, are particularly powerful. This is an extremely enjoyable and accomplished debut. * The Irish Times *
Would be loved by teenagers. [....]You could give it to an intelligent 10 or 11 year-old girl who would live in it. I would have loved it at the age of about 12, I would have lived in it; on the other hand I'm not 12 and I thought it was so immersing. So good. I would recommend it to every female from 10 upwards. -- Kate Saunders * Radio 2 - Aled Jones, Good Morning Sun *
A glorious romance that deserves to be enjoyed. * Books for Keeps *
An evocative, lovely, compelling read. * Newbury Weekly News *
