This book was a big surprise to me. First of all, I thought the "Black Tulip" was a symbolic title; I was quite surprised that the story was actually about a flower. I was also surprised, particularly after the quite horrifying events related at the beginning of the book, that it was mostly a sweet story and an easy read. It was also quite a bit shorter than I expected based on the page count of the hardcover edition (perhaps that one is illustrated?). I have a feeling Krisette will go on a Dumas spree after reading this. I'll be interested to hear what she recommends most strongly. ;-)