Hard to condense what it's about. My reading of it was that it was a study in the deceptions which people create about themselves and their place in the world - sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously.

Set in a brilliantly described theatrical millieu, Eaves can be screamingly funny about the vanities and vagaries of luvviedom. He can also be poignant and touching about human frailty. And he has a forensic eye for relationships and why they succeed or fail.

He certainly knows how to write a good story. This one is multi-faceted and keeps you guessing until the very end.

If I have a criticism it is that in weaving together a number of narratives he has set himself a real challenge in pulling them all together in a completely satisfying way.

That said, the authors affection for late Shakespearean plays (and those who try to bring them to life on stage) is abundant and the writing is at once economic, elegant and lively. Above all it is very satisfying to read. Can't wait for the next one.