This is a truly challenging book to rate.

There are several minor characters who really should have made more appearances. Their absence left a bit of a void in the overall narrative. However, aside from that and a somewhat sluggish start, this book has a great deal of substance.

The dilemma that the book presents comes alive in a vivid and engaging way. The real emotions and the intense suffering of the central cast are captured with remarkable brilliance. It's as if you can feel their pain and turmoil right along with them.

And the humor in the book is just perfect. It comes in those deliciously black doses that add a unique flavor to the story.

I found myself thoroughly enjoying this book as I read it on planes, in a hotel room, and even while sitting in a parking lot in my car at night. I simply couldn't put it down. It held my attention from start to finish.

Based on all of these factors, I am more than happy to give this book 4 1/2 dark stars. It's a remarkable piece of work that definitely deserves recognition.

Iris Murdoch is truly the antidote to the didactic and pretentious contemporary pseudo-philosophical fiction that seems to be so prevalent these days.

Her works offer a refreshing perspective and a depth of understanding that is often lacking in much of the modern literary output.

This particular piece of hers is one of my absolute favorites. It has a charm and a beauty that is simply captivating.

Not only is it a great work of literature, but it also has the power to touch the heart and the soul.

In fact, it is one of my all-time favorites in life. It has accompanied me through many different stages and has always provided me with inspiration and comfort.

Iris Murdoch's writing is a gift, and I am truly grateful to have discovered her works.

A very beautiful book! Although it is a novel of about 400 pages, I see it as a play - several heroes, as I like, nothing distracts from the essence of things, concentrated conflicts, people meet each other and above all themselves.

I made quite a few parallels with "The Summer Before the Dark" by Doris Lessing. Obviously, both famous feminist writers were excited by the same things.

Meaningful literature! I love it!

This book truly stands out. The author has masterfully crafted a story that engages the reader from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and their interactions add depth and complexity to the plot. The conflicts they face are not only external but also internal, making them relatable and human. The comparison with Doris Lessing's work is quite fitting, as both explore similar themes and ideas. It's refreshing to come across a book that combines great storytelling with a deeper message. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves literature that makes them think and feel.