Wow. What a book. This took me a bit longer to read as I was also reading the end notes that provided the variations and background from all the different versions Hardy produced. In the back of my mind, I was prepared to have an enjoyable and emotional ride with Tess and her love affairs, and to be given the somewhat let-down ending where everything is neatly sorted out and tied with a ribbon to provide closure to the reader. I was surprised to finish this book and feel forlorn; not having that ending I typically have a certain amount of contempt for was in itself a surprise. I am grateful for that. It would have detracted from Hardy's work and Tess' struggle. It's almost as if I'm left with a fraction of the feeling Angel experienced. What a gift it is to read a book that makes me feel something significant. 100% recommend this.