I actually saw the movie before I read the book, and I was a little disappointed when I finally got around to reading it. Ludo is such a phenomenal character in the film, that his lack of development in the book was disappointing. The book focuses a lot more on the residents of the Claremont, and less on the mutual relationship between Mrs. Palfrey and Ludo. I liked the book, and I think it had a lot to say, but I highly recommend the movie.