Yes, reading things in installments is definitely not the best way! I also like to read stories in one fell swoop - it's the only way I can remember all of the important plot details, never mind appreciate and get into the story properly.

BTW, anotherslashfan made me aware of this post by dtriad, where they list all of the translations they are aware of. As anotherslashfan said, the translations by dtriad and foxghost give something of the flavor of the original novel. Not sure if you're already aware of all of these...?

Ah, a happy ending. Le sigh. *sobs*