I am not a science-fiction fan, and probably not part of the target audience for the book. With the disclaimers out of the way, I can say that I really enjoyed the book. The premise is intriguing, and the writing is engaging. Rob's takes us on a journey that flips between wartime England and present day, with an added dose of fantasy (or maybe of an alternative reality). He does that with an attention to detail that only a gifted Designer like him could do.
The build up is somewhat slow, as life in a small town must be, but by the end the narrative has grabbed you by the arms, and won't let go until you are done reading.