A delicate evocation of a vanished era Sunday Times A moving novel that coheres wonderully as it progresses Spectator A delicate, quietly affecting human drama Daily Mail Intriguing, tender and entertaining ... easily Preston's best Independent A rich vein of dry humour runs throughout Evening Standard You don't need to be in archaeology - this is a tale of rivalry, loss and thwarted love. It's so absorbing that I read right through lunchtime one day, and it's not often I miss a meal Nigella Lawson An enthralling story of love and loss, a real literary treasure. One of the most original novels of the year Robert Harris Very fine, engrossing, exquisitely original Ian McEwan Wonderful, evocative. From this simple tale of dirt, Preston has produced the finest gold. He keeps an iron grip on the reader's attention Observer Beatutifully written...there is a true and wonderful ending to the story Mail on Sunday Wistful and poignant. A masterpiece in Chekhovian understatement Times Literary Supplement Exciting, evocative and beautifully written. A treasure in itself Griff Rhys Jones

?