I’m giving this book 5 stars, even though I considered giving it 4.5, for the very reason that those points that I found slightly wanting were like that by design. The mystery of this novel is all encompassing it almost breaks the fourth wall. Sure, I might have liked more info on the bacchanal rituals, even more studying the classics bits, the aura of mystery that surrounds these aspects makes the characters even more elitist (in a good way?) and esoteric. Also the writing is inspired and the references are so satisfying.