If the editor is correct and this book is meant to show the shortcomings of the independent man who is an island, then I see the genius behind her work.

However, to be a great work of literature, a book must also be a compelling read. The Professor is not.

The character of Crimsworth (deliberately) keeps that reader at bay. It is hard to like him or care what happens to him. And I thought some parts, such as the introduction of Vanderkelkov, seemed sloppy.

The last 20 pages really seemed to drag on. And the copious amount of French phrases was annoying. Yes, they were translated in the back of the book, but flipping back and forth repeatedly was a major bother.