The cover certainly doesn't give much away with this book so really didn't know what to expect. However, I found the prose flows along so smoothly that I was immediately immersed in the story with its clear imagery and detailed descriptions. I especially love the fact that Jo's family runs a butcher's shop-slightly out of the ordinary for a novel. The contrasting characters are portrayed very well - one with strong family links and a sense of belonging, and the other who feels alone and struggling with both physical and mental health. I look forward to reading the rest of the book and seeing how the story and characters develop!