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Three stars are for the book with exception of the entire final section. It seemed tacked on, unnecessary, introduced new characters and issues too late in the novel. Of course, the story needed to have an ending, but I would prefer a summarizing epilogue rather than the drawn-out last section.

From the first page (until final section) I was entertained by the characters, dialog, and surprising yet authentic plot twists. Although entertained, I kept wondering what the story is really about: a young woman's career ambitions after serving in WWII, relationships among the characters sexual and otherwise, or an intrigue based on England's treatment of homosexuals after the war. After finishing the book, I still wonder if the author had a clear idea what this book is about. Perhaps that explains why it is too long. More editing was needed. The author appears to love dialog between his characters. Often, there are pages of dialog and dinner-table conversations that don't add to any of the possible plots. I will say there is a line of dialog that is vitally important at the end.

I admire the author's writing style, character portrayals and descriptions, striking metaphors, and expansive language at his fingertips. Freya is an unforgettable character, funny, headstrong, and vulnerable. Her friend Nancy's sensitive, non-judgmental personality is a counterpoint to Freya's. The male author's ability to write so well about women's experiences is amazing.