I really think this book is beautifully written or could I say beautifully translated? Either way, it made me want to learn French so bad because I have always wanted to read French literature for it is so beautiful, and it would be awesome to discover a new culture. The story is a bit complicated at first, I felt it was so fragmented I couldn't relate any flashback to the characters. I'm not sure how Irena and Josef knew each other and the ending did not help. I think the ending would be better if it work on clearing things up rather than steaming up things up with sexual scenes. It's still a pleasant read, the words are so delicate and smooth. It's definitely a gateway book. It's my first French book, I can't wait to read it in French!