A compulsive read, if only to discover what depths each person will drop to. It is a fine observation of human characteristics. Also very telling is how easily the wave of public opinion changes direction so easily. In fact, people come out of this tale looking very clever and very stupid. We live in a time when everyone thinks they have a valid opinion on anything, regardless of knowledge or understanding.
I've seen the film version and this is inevitably better. Books rule! Read it for the tension, the drama, the incredible lengths we go to to get our own way, and the weaknesses we all possess.