Gavin really enjoyed the atmosphere in Powers' first and only novel. It really puts across the flavour of eastern Europe and understands the "fucked-uped-ness" of it. Powers set up an interesting situation in the village which, in pre-war times, was once full of Jews who had now disappeared - but he didn't really make the most of it.
Strong on atmosphere, weaker on plot. A good book which could have been great. Recommend-ish.
Gavin 6/12/98