An astonishing novel, beautiful to look at, thrilling to read. By turns, brooding, atmospheric, romantic and funny, with the unmistakeable whiff of Kafka. But what stands out for me, are the luminous illustrations by my favourite artist, one Mr. Chris Priestley. -- Chris Riddell

This is a beautifully written and illustrated love story with echoes of Kafka, set in an alternative Prague. There are stories within stories, unrequited love and dark humour but what makes this book sing are the seventy stunning illustrations by the author, himself. A perfect coming together of words - and pictures -- Chris Riddell * The Guardian *

The writing is ironic and witty, making Frank likeable and completely plausible. The narrative moves rapidly with many twists and short believable incidents; you are immediately caught by the character and the events. Depicted through brief vivid description and the wonderful illustrations, the city itself is the real heart of the book. -- Jaki Brien * School Librarian SLA Journal *

This is a dense, demanding read, and its 468 pages might well put off the more reluctant reader. But Priestley's beautiful monochrome illustrations are scattered liberally alongside the text and help the story along no end, as it builds to a phantasmagorical climax * Armadillo Magazine *