I couldn't even stay awake long enough to read this book, however i did finish it because i needed it for an English paper. I think it was well writen tho but it could have been a little more exciting or have a few interesting twists to it at least.

For those who haven't read Roberston Davies, the Cornish Triology is a great place to start.

Davies takes you back to your University days and makes you think twice about the lives of your professors - not so dull afterall! His descriptions of academic life at U of T, the Rosedale rooming houses of old (before they were converted into multi-million dollar dwellings) and life in the Ottawa Valley are fascinating - particularly for an Ontario native.

Anyone with an interest in music, art history, religion or travel will find this trilogy a treat.

Davies' Cornish Trilogy is a reading event! The descriptions of academic lifes, loves and fantasies are wonderful, drawn with a loving hand and described with sprightly wit.

The notion of a gypsy violin chop shop existing in the basement of a suburban home in Canada is enchanting--you can almost feel the steam as the cases are opened, revealing aged (and not so aged) fiddles, in various states of rejuvenation.

Highly recommended. I have given several copies as gifts!