Cassie McCullough

That's her initial reaction, which is so interesting, considering that she has been seen as ugly by the father.

And then we get different perceptions of Vittoria throughout the rest of the book.

Yes.

And Victoria, I disagree that Victoria doesn't offer her any love.

I think she is truly offering love.

I think out of all the characters in the book, she offers more love and passion and genuine understanding and care for Giovanna and what she might be than anyone else.

I think she's astounding.

But she's also the most dangerous person you could possibly know.

She is actually, I mean, sometimes, you know, you said something about fairy tales.

I think sometimes you think she is wicked sometimes.

She is so wicked and so dangerous.

And the parents were right to conceal Vittoria from Giovanna.

Oh, just amazing.

The way she smokes and the way she dances and clutches at you.

Like she can't keep her hands off people.

Yes, yes.

And Susanna, I think you've brought up this point, the next point in the book, which I think is so shocking.

I've got to say, I gasped out loud on numerous occasions when I was reading this.

I was like, oh my God, you cannot say that.

Oh my God, no.