In this period novel, Shreve so adeptly transports us to the world of academia, staying true to the time and place through dialogue and descriptions.  The main character had me alternatively feeling sorry for him, disliking him, pitying him, rooting for him, and not knowing what to think about him.  Most of the time, however, I wanted desperately to find a way to free his wife of the yoke she had taken upon herself. What a talent to lead us through such an array of emotions! Interesting characters and plot - and, as usual, one doesn't want to put this book down.  I was so thankful for the satisfying ending.  This is one of Shreve's best and, for me, stands side-by-side with my all-time favorite, "Fortune's Rocks".