I read a LOT. I recently re-read the Novel. I loved this book. I do agree with other reviews that the murder was unecessary and seems to have been an afterthought. I do think the opposing views as to the purpose of a novel that the Novel book is essentially about perhaps could be reconciled toward the end. Sometimes, if not mostly, reading is about escapism and profundity is not needed. I think what is missed is the multipurposeness of the genre. Its not all or nothing.