Burnt Ash, I heard a radio show about that book a while ago, it was a real shame they gave away the ending, but still it sounded like an excellent book.and really. I really wanted to read it but promptly forgot the title and name of the author.
Thank you so much for refreshing my memory, I shall seek out a copy!
Be sure to get the full version (there were some abridged editions, intended for children). Apart from the text, the book is a delight for Caldwell's pen and ink marginal illustrations on every page.
Burnt Ash