There was a lot here to enjoy, a very atmospheric, dark Britishness that you rarely see. also a very small cast of characters, indeed smaller than perhaps one might suppose from the outset, and a powerful light shining on memory and what it really means to be a person. I liked the monkeys and the mirrors, that was neat, and the scenery was harsh and unforgiving and hot, for all it was well written. I also enjoyed the extract of Smythe's other novel and want to read it soon.