Whether you believe in psychic powers or not, this is a fairly entertaining mystery with a love story thrown in. In fact, I wish there were more scenes of the psychic readings and fewer of the romance, but that's just me.

Even though the setting is Australia, this story could happen anywhere. The two main characters, a young girl and an old woman, are well-done and although adversaries at first, become necessary for each other's survival. Both are going through trying times, and somehow stumble into a mutually beneficial arrangement. The plot is slow but there is always some suspense to keep one reading. Not a great read, but a satisfying one.

Even though this is billed as a murder mystery, it is more about mentally disturbed people and their bad influence on each other. The mystery takes 100 pages to occur. The author spends too much time in setting a dismal scene at a decrepit girls' school. I did not enjoy it even though I usually like atmospheric mysteries, perhaps because none of the characters are the least bit appealing or even likeable.

This novel, based on the real person who brought the Pierpont Morgan library to prominence in the early 1900s, focuses on her racial identity. Not only did Bella DaCosta Greene deal with gender bias, she secretly lived through racial bias since she was passing as white. This book is an interesting counterpoint to The Vanishing Half, since the time and financial status are so different. The style of writing in this book reflects the restricted customs and repressed emotions, however, which makes it a slower and perhaps less exciting read. Those who enjoy glimpses into the lifestyles of the very rich and also insights into rare book collecting will still enjoy it.

How far would you go to talk to a person you lost to sudden tragedy? Evidently some would go far. This book references the actual phone booth (non-functioning) where survivors go to communicate with the departed. The varied stories of the grievers provide an interesting backdrop to two particular characters who meet and edge forward into recovering joy in their lives. The book is not depressing, but sometimes whimsical, and ultimately hopeful. Many details of daily life in Japan add interest, and the final dramatic events draw the numerous characters together, but be aware that the pace is slow. Overall a worthwhile read.