This is the first book I received as an advance copy from the HarperCollins "First Look" program; a novel about a week-long period in the life of actor Sarah Bernhardt. I enjoyed this book, and found myself turning pages even when I should have gotten up to do other things. I enjoyed the author's use of words - rich descriptions which caused the book to affect me at a visceral level at times. I did find myself feeling a bit deflated at the end, but I think this is to be expected because of the subject - it's a look at Bernhardt's life as she was contemplating the end of her youth and perhaps her career. Having grown up in Venice, CA, the setting was particularly of interest to me, as were the historical things added to the novelization. It makes me want to learn more about Bernhardt in her younger years. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Bernhardt, or who enjoys this sort of "historical" fiction.

ETA: Will be on its way to Sunflowergrrrl, as soon as I have her address.

Thanks so much for sending, herebedragons! I actually requested this one from FirstLook a few months back -- they sent three other books to review that month, but this wasn't one of them so I'm quite looking forward to getting the chance to read it after all!