I got it yesterday and tonday it is finished..wow what a read!

I have never read any Colleen McCollough, but after this book I will be looking for more!

Where do I start..?? This books has everything, firstly it has a rich tapestry of characters, and I fell in love with all of them. It has mysticism, it has murder, it has romance, and it has heartbreak..but so completely unconventionally, nothing like a hollywood script.

Like everyone esle it seems I couldn't put it down easily (though having a toddler it is impossible to get through it in a sitting!) I would think about the book when not reading it, my hopes for the evolution of the characters.

The gradual coming togther of the occupents of "The House" was believeable, and so was the time frame, it actually cemented the books realism having it place in Sydney in the early 1960's..the diay format also enforced this..the attitudes of people, the limited choices for women, the bigotry the child welfare systme, when I complain about our current system, I will now remember how far we have come as a country in a mere 45 years!

Harriet goes through such a incrediable awakening in the book, she is the most likeable, real heroine I have read in ages..the lead up of events to the twist at the end is SO worth the read, unlike some other books.

The ending was well timed and left me satsified, but I felt a little mournful at leaving the characters I had got to know so well..

I would have never picked it up, I am so glad I've read it..

Particularly loved the extended breastfeeding of Flo! Made me chuckle and think of Felix and myself..

A definiate 5 !