My first impression of this book is that it would be a charming read at a time when I really need one. Rather than getting bogged down in a gritty mystery or gory thriller, I want something exactly like this book: quirky and compelling with a nice, gentle mystery and, I suspect, something ultimately uplifting. I already love the character of Madame Burova and the vivid setting within which her story is placed, and would love to read more about her and her background, as well as the other joint story line of the other female character. I think that this book is going to give a lot without over complicating things, and I thoroughly look forward to reading the rest.