So far, this book is in my favorite genre (historical fiction), in my favorite city (New Orleans), and the writing drew me in from the beginning. The cover is dark and alluring. I'm intrigued, and delighted. So far I feel like I've arrived in New Orleans right there on the ship's deck beside Pippa and Celine. There is a dark and brooding air about the tale, but the writing is vivid and picturesque. Utterly delicious so far! I can't wait to read the rest.