I think this author's skill finally caught up with her grasp in this book! She's always had a great grasp of characterization/relationship nuance, and finally I'm no longer slogging through going "I LOVE THE CHAR BUT THE STORY KEEPS DRAGGING".
Also, I was surprisingly affected when Robin dies, it was really well done. Also, love how Brisbane and Julia still need to sort out HOW their relationship will proceed, post-marriage. Kind of didn't love Jane dying in childbirth but I'm willing to see how Portia sorts out.