I got this book out of the library and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author, Emily Houghton, writes beautifully. The characters are very memorable. They all will stay with me, well until I've read another book and then they will fade but that's just me. It rang very true as I have known someone like Alfie since we were both at school. The character of Alice is very well written and you feel you know her. I am not a fast reader however I read it very quickly as I just couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen. I think I will buy a copy for Mt cousin. Thank you to all concerned.