[Livia]

I read quite slowly and I find it impossible to skim or skip bits, so if I'm going to invest time in a book I have to be into it within a couple of pages; I refuse to work at it. I have been unable to get into any of Sebastian Faulks' books, and in general avoid buying prizewinners of any kind because authors who consider their work "literature" tend to expect you to lap up any old bullsh*t they want to throw you.