The first third of this book is truly great. The juxtaposition of the immense universe and the couple falling in love is wonderful. I loved Lady Constantine’s interest in astronomy. If I wrote a fan fiction variation, I’d have her pursue astronomy even in the absence of her astronomer. The remainder of the story is good but not great.

There seem to be some unexplained loose ends. Who is the insider who reveals the secret lovers to the great uncle. Who sends Viviette the picture imagining her husband’s death. If I were broke, I’d rent the great house and live in a more modest house.

I enjoy here as in other Hardy novels the poetic descriptions of nature and the Bruegelest descriptions of the town folk.