This is a clever book built of a lot of concentric circles, stories upon stories layered and commingling. Rakel is a complex but consistent character, equal parts prodigy and victim of youthful naïvete. The interplay of innocence and self-possession reminded me of "My Dark Vanessa" more so than the teacher-student relationship in its conceit. I found both books devastating and engaging. The main characters are two phenoms beset by circumstance, fighting to keep their heads above water when partners have kicked out their legs. It's not a tragedy or a woe-is-me tale, but it is undeniably frustrating. I found this book slightly less engaging than my comparison but this is still a very solid book.