"I have to admit the title and discription of this book was very alluring but it was merely a mask. I have had the book for two months and just cannot seem to get though it. "Psh. That's nothing. I've had mine for over a year, and still haven't finished it. For starters, the characters aren't especially likeable. And the author seems more intent on impressing us with his (obviously thorough) research than on telling a good story.I suspect this is a show book: One of those books folks buy because it looks good to have on one's bookshelf, but that doesn't necessarily get read.I was disappointed.