Amazing writing and story, with such detailed characters and a dark and disturbing atmosphere.  This is a modern classic for a reason.  The quality of the writing has a richness and imagery of true classics.  So if you don't like classics such as Jane Eyre/Haunting of Hill House, I am not sure you would like this.  The descriptive imagery is exquisite but it does make this a slow-paced read.  The plot is a delivery device for the descriptions of memories.   The only reason this is not a 5 star for me is the weird commentary on children both vampire and mortal children its too creepy/Lolita factor for me