While The Glass Lake soared to best seller lists shortiy after its release and remained there for several weeks, both critical and reader reactions were mixed.

Many felt that this was not Binchy's best novel. The story was faulted as repetitious, meandering, unbelievable, and hastily brought to a conclusion that left several loose ends. Yet most of the fault-finders were quick to admit that it was difficult for them to put the book down. Consider the concerns Binchy raises in this novel and her talents and weaknesses as a storyteller as you discuss the following: 1. Binchy constructs several romantic pairings in The Glass Lake that may or may not be permanent. How will the following couples celebrate their next Valentine's Day?