I read a couple hundred pages during the weekend and am well past the midpoint. I have to say, sadly, that I am increasingly disappointed with the story -- it's rapidly running out of steam.

I'm tired now of the unrelenting references to the flora and fauna of this Brazilian countryside. You know, a book of this size would have been the perfect venue for some pencil sketches of these plants and animals, giving the reader some reference point.

Speaking of reference points, if you're going to put a map in the book, you should actually include the places you mention during the story.

Anyway, the story is getting somewhat repetitious -- I'm worn out from reading descriptions of the Hawk's damaged face and eye, for example.

I'm a little more than 200 pages in (a third) and I've noticed four typos already -- the kind that a spellchecker would miss, e.g., 'four' instead of 'for'. Harper could have done a better job, but I suppose publishers in general don't care much about that sort of thing anymore.

I set this aside for a little bit due to the press of daily life, but I'm away for the holiday weekend and have been drawn right back into the story.

I have to admit I get a little tired at how many things are explained by a metaphor to the girls' earlier life, but then I tell myself to keep quiet and just listen. Each one is faced with extraordinary challenges and is trying to make the best of them while, at the same time, not losing herself and yet allowing herself to be made into something new.

The very slow pace continues, but I find myself calming down to match it and that is a good thing.

Sorry to say I finally finished this book. Sorry because I wanted it to last forever, it's that good.

Opens slowly but lordy does it pack one hell of a whollop by the end. LOVED this novel of which I'd have been unaware had NancyS not turned me on to it here in the 'ville.

Many novels seek to revise or maybe reprise the role of women in history but this one is the best I've read. Wonderful book and just right for holiday gift-giving.

I confess, I'm deliberately slowing down my reading to make this novel last as long as possible. Which makes sense since it's a slow-starter -- at least, it was for me. I didn't fully engage until I was 120 pages or so enmeshed after which point rescue simply was not possible.

Getting more and more into this novel. The Luiza sections are so much more satisfying.

About a third of the way through this novel and enjoying it very much. Thanks for the rec, Nancy.

I'm thrilled that you're enjoying it, Daniel. Smooth and soothing escapism is indeed the vibe here.

NancyS, you should be in marketing. This is the second hardcover novel I've bought new in the past couple of months because of your enthusiastic recommendations!

This arrived at work yesterday morning, unexpectedly, from Amazon and I started it at lunchtime. I'm not sure where we're going with this, but I'm enjoying the ride so far. It's very soothing to get away from my current place and time and be immersed in the story of people decades ago and a continent away.

This book is going down very smoothly, just like the two iced 7&7s I enjoyed tonight. I hope I can stay awake just a bit longer to read some more!

This wonderful journey has unfortunately come to an end. I adored every minute of this book. Just a great story about Brazilian history, women, class, fashion, bandits, sisters, secrets, and sewing. It doesn't get much better than this.

It's now been four consecutive nights that I've stayed up til the wee hours reading this one. I'm sure it will make my 2008 best book list. Such a good, old-fashioned fascinating story. I can't wait til someone else here reads it and tells me I'm full of shit.

I picked this one up on a whim. I loved the cover, and I have a weakness for novels in which sewing and fabric are central. Anyway, this is a substantial book--600+ pages, and I am enjoying every minute of it. So far, it is late-1920s Brazil and two seamstress sisters are making their way. The writing is detailed and lovely and the story has been keeping me awake too late every night. An unexpected pleasure.