Feel free to take this review lightly as I did not finish the book. Around the half way point I realized I had no interest in experiencing the ending. The characters were thin, undeveloped, shallow and disengaging. An implausible plot sprinkled with irrelevant historical facts made me want to pick up a Marseille guide book instead of seeking a conclusion. Being one who enjoys traveling to France and Peter Mayle's other offerings I was surprised at my lack of interest.