" This was a hard slog. Having read the previous five books of the Palliser Novels, the final book was often repeating themes and storylines from the earlier books. Further, the development of the character of Plantagenet Palliser (the Duke) was painstaking, as he is very stubborn and unable to admit he is wrong, until it is proved to him - and then he will admit it, but feels wounded. Eventually, the story of the children becomes individual to them, and it was interesting enough to finish. On its own, I think this book would be great, but following the series, I couldn't sustain much interest. "
— Julianna, 2/11/2014