Margaret M - (having a challenging time
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2
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| 024125664X
| 9780241256640
| 024125664X
| 4.29
| 4,747,807
| Jan 28, 1813
| 2015
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it was amazing
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”Pride has often been his best friend” Perfection in a book!!! One of the best stories and most wonderfully written books of all time. My favourite Jan ”Pride has often been his best friend” Perfection in a book!!! One of the best stories and most wonderfully written books of all time. My favourite Jane Austen book because of this magnificent character sketch of pride and prejudice, it’s weighty themes and witty dialogue. Lively, spirited, humorous, and romantic. A carefully orchestrated story of love and deception, manners and impropriety, and of course pride and prejudice, all of which secures this book’s place in the Hall of Fame for classic literature and its continued popularity among many. Simply put a masterpiece. A comedy of manners and marriage!!!. The Plot With the opening line "Any man in possession of a large fortune must be in want of a wife”, there is no doubt of Jane Austen’s intent. This is matchmakers’ paradise where wealth, class, marriage, courtship, social standing and the arrogance of the elite are pitched against those who wish to marry into fortune. Except not all young ladies believe wealth is more important than love. The storyline is simple. New arrival Charles Bingley, a rich bachelor from the North of England, rents the Netherfield estate close to the family home of Mr & Mrs Bennett. Keen to have her daughters married to wealthy husbands, Mrs Bennett asks her husband to pay a visit that secures an invitation to the Netherfield ball where the eldest daughter Jane, captures the attention of Charles Bingley. The same cannot be said of Eliza Bennett who elicits one of the most condemning remarks, in the book, from Bingley's friend, the aristocrat Mr Darcy, who does not see her as his equal. At this stage of the book Darcy is described as “haughty, reserved, and fastidious, and his manners, though well bred, were not inviting”. Of himself, he declares… “The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and everyday confirms my belief of the inconsistencies of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or sense.” Not exactly wrong of the time and characters but this sets the tone and backdrop for more heated exchanges and clashes between wealth and principle. As the exchanges between the two couples intensifies, their respective relationships are tested by the arrival of other possible suitors and a chain of events that sees the Bennett’s good name all but destroyed, until Mr Darcy intervenes. Not out of goodness but as he declares to Lizzy, he only thought of her. Coming out of nowhere, Darcy makes a marriage proposal to Elizabeth which almost seemed like a sport if it were not for the harsh exchange between the two main characters, and is so iconic I can’t remember how long ago I first encountered this memorable exchange. “You are mistaken, Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner." Alas, the story does not end there, and all comes good in the end. Review and Comments The themes of marriage, wealth, class, education, male inheritance, and social expectations are no surprise for books written in this period. However, what was so refreshing and captivating about this book is the balance of good versus evil, the steadfast principles held by some in contrast to the immoral behaviours of others. We are treated with a range of fabulous characters and the standout from the book – well it’s the humour!!! with scenes like Mr Collins' absurd, awkward, and fumbling proposal to Elizabeth. However, one of my favourite book lines, was Mr Bennett’s riposte to his hypochondriac wife, “I have the highest respect for your nerves, they are my old friends.” A delightful, charming, easy to read classic with some explosive scenes and despicable characters that encapsulated so many themes. However, it is the two main characters that personfiied the predominant theme of the book - Pride and Prejudice. The unquestionable 'pride' of Darcy who initially failed to appreciate Elizabeth for the intelligent and high-spirited person she was and for failing to contemplate a rejection or her feelings with his insensitive and misjudged marriage proposal. It is almost comical that Darcy goes to length to point out Eliza's inferiority during his offer of marriage, and reminds her that his love for her is "against his will, against his reason, and even against his character". Wow!!! Not without faults, it was Lizzy who then embodied 'prejudice' for misjudging Darcy's and being blinded to his other virtues and goodness because of his class. Yet you can only adore Elizabeth for her freedom of thought, feminism and her ability to pervade her class and offer well voice’s opinions amidst so much snobbery and spite. The way in which the subplots, characters, themes and humour are so intricately woven into this wonderful story is what makes Pride and Prejudice one of my all time favourite books. A true masterpiece that had never aged, in my opinion. Other favourite quotes “Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.” “Laugh as much as you choose, but you will not laugh me out of my opinion.” “From the very beginning— from the first moment, I may almost say— of my acquaintance with you, your manners, impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others, were such as to form the groundwork of disapprobation on which succeeding events have built so immovable a dislike; and I had not known you a month before I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry. Ouch!!! If you haven’t watched the mini series or read the book I would encourage you to do both. It is no accident I chose to read ‘Pride and Prejudice’ as my first book of 2024 and to complete the experience I indulged in the BBC’s TV adaptation of the book for the 20+ time. Having watched different adaptations of the book, for me personally there is and can only be one Mr Darcy and it’s Colin Firth. In fact the whole cast is superb so I highly recommend this mini series over any others. I promise you will get an equally enjoyable but different experience with the book and this mini series. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jan 14, 2024
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Jan 21, 2024
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Jan 14, 2024
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Hardcover
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15
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| B0DT2L6VWS
| 4.04
| 178,176
| 1872
| Oct 2018
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it was amazing
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I would give this 10 stars if I could, and the message at the core of the book "Become who you are…” An epic tale that spotlights marriage, politic I would give this 10 stars if I could, and the message at the core of the book "Become who you are…” An epic tale that spotlights marriage, politics, religion, family, women, wealth, class, and reform, where choosing the right path is not just the poignant message but when tempered into words through deeply drawn characters, heavily weighted themes, and such elegant prose, this has become one of my favourite classic novels. Middlemarch is the most comprehensive, weighty, and expansive story for its range of themes and characters. However, the power of the story is the way in which it contrasts good versus evil, rich and poor, but most of all I loved the misguided illusions of self-importance that are pitted against the wisdom of the inquisitive, rational, and virtuous mind. So too is this a story where the morally virtuous are pitted against the moral delinquents in a rigid class system - an all too common ‘noble’ failure. In the end they all ‘become what they are’ !!!! But not all the impoverished are good and the scoundrels rich. George Eliot certainly mixes things up in this, the ultimate ‘Victorian’ character study. Absolutely brilliant. The Plot– This is such a multilayered story I’ve tried to capture the 3 main strands. Dorothea (Dodo), a wilful, intelligent, and independent 18-year-old girl marries, Edward Casaubon, an elderly nobleman, not for his wealth but for the opportunity it presents for her to expand her mind by helping the scholar in his work. Not long into the marriage, it becomes obvious he craves a companion, not a wife, and certainly not someone who would intrude on his intellectual work, often banishing her from his study. Although, the match is not encouraged by either Dodo or Will Ladislaw, (Casaubon’s cousin) after observing their interactions with each other, we as readers can only despair at the ‘perfect’ match that is never to be. Not just out of honour but when Casaubon dies, his ‘will’ states that his wife is to be denied his fortune should she marry Ladislaw. It seems he spotted what we did but not Dodo. Attempting Politics and other means of occupation, Ladislaw makes a few attempts at leaving Middlemarch and building his own fortune but to no avail. I love that these three characters personify the contrasts, in the story, the most particularly in virtue, commitment, reform, principles and kindness. The ambitious young doctor, Tertius Lydgate, is in a parallel but interconnected story, of love, reform, ambition, and the egotistical folly of keeping up appearances that drives him and his wife Rosamond, into debt. However, in this period of change, the most appealing part of their story is the resistance of the elite to maintain the status quo and frustrate progress and reform, while the industrious and ambitious people like the young Doctor are denied opportunity and wealth for daring to challenge. Even the right to vote. The third strand is that of Mary and Rosamond’s brother Fred, a scheming, gambling, and selfish young man who has long held expectations of an inheritance from his uncle, that never appears, forcing him to create wealth from other means, which in a nice way is the making of him. Review and Comments Oh why did it take me so long to read this?. Especially when I was gifted such a gorgeous Folio edition. It certainly wasn’t the 750 pages. No, I can tell you straight off it was the ‘uninspiring’ title of the book. It just didn’t draw me in. On reflection I am surprised that the word ‘vanity’ had not made its way into the title. Or indeed ‘reform’ that I noted was mentioned a lot throughout the story, in fact the title gives no indication of the drama, intrigue and superb storytelling that lies within the pages. Here’s what’s in store... Marriage and Love. It seemed at one stage Everyone was in love with the wrong person or someone out of reach. Yet there are three marriages (plus a lighter one). Apart from the obvious love interest between Dodo and Ladislaw, the one that I chuckled at was Mary, a working maiden, turning down the son of the wealthy aristocratic, Fred, until he proved himself worthy of her affections and hand in marriage!!! The Doctor and his wife, also added much to the marriage theme. Both were very flawed and cursed with vanity but also goodness. A couple who loved, miscommunicated, and forgave continuously as they matured individually and as a couple. As Eliot says of marriage “Some set out, like Crusaders of old, with a glorious equipment of hope and enthusiasm, and get broken by the way, wanting patience with each other and the world." However, no such failure was the case with a number of our main characters, in others well it is true that some husbands for the sake of peace, learned the value of their ‘wives’ opinion. Characterisation - It was Dorathea and her story that kept me hooked. Typical of women in those days, she bore her displeasure and loneliness in silence. Yet such was her character that she made her presence felt without effort and never forcibly. Her subtleness, strength of mind, her intelligence and goodness puts her up there with Jane Eyre as one of the my all-time favourite female book heroines. “Certainly the determining acts of her life were not ideally beautiful. They were the mixed result of young and novel impulse struggling amidst the conditions of an imperfect social state, in which great feelings will often take the aspect of error, and great faith the aspect of illusion. For there is no creature whose inward being is so strong that it is not greatly determined by what lies outside it." Although, I confess, I cannot imagine living in a time when women were to be seen and not heard. Branded for the apparent weak minds and sensitive nature. Only it was the men afraid of reform that portrayed them so. The range of characters like the themes is extensive. We have the Doctor, Politician, Judge, Landowers, the clergy, farmhand, judicial peace keepers, the scholars and scoundrels, painters, musicians, authors, and we even have the women who make a industry of ‘gossip’. And so, the characters traits are endless, but the main accomplishment in this novel unlike many other classic novels is the way in which Eliot portrays good and bad in all classes. Ambition and weakness to be found in all aspects of society as many are challenged in following the right path to ‘become who they are’!!!! Middlemarch is a book that is bold for the way it inspires feminism and reform. “A woman who did not want to live in a pretended admission of rules… women hemmed in by a social life which seemed nothing but a labyrinth of petty courses…. For the feeble minded” 'Middlemarch' is courageous in the way it challenges the accepted norms of society and religion but is also respectful. There is beauty in the storytelling, sincerity in the characters, and artistry in the way the themes have been woven into the story. An epic masterpiece in literature where selfishness is met with kindness, the elitist vanity is tempered by humble serenity from those around them, and where matters of the heart when followed with honesty, passion, and by all standards ‘proper’, make for the most satisfying ending, again not always typical of the authors during this period, as most people do “become what they are’!!!. A truly outstanding masterpiece. PS. The book has inspired me to pick up the BBC TV series. I am half way through and it is equally superb. Oh why did I wait !!! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 18, 2023
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Nov 18, 2023
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Nov 18, 2023
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Hardcover
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29
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| B0FSKC8Q39
| 4.28
| 49,478
| Sep 03, 2020
| Sep 03, 2020
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it was amazing
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'999 / 911' - what's your emergency? Is the opening for this book. Me…. ‘999 / 911' My heart can't take this adrenaline rush and nerve wracking story. '999 / 911' - what's your emergency? Is the opening for this book. Me…. ‘999 / 911' My heart can't take this adrenaline rush and nerve wracking story. Ok, I'm hooked on Eddie Flynn, an addict for Steve Cavanagh’s writing, and I have adored this book 'Fifty Fifty'!!!. I'm having palpations. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jun 15, 2023
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Jun 15, 2023
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Jun 15, 2023
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ebook
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27
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| B0DT18HZ76
| 4.26
| 6,816,281
| Jul 11, 1960
| unknown
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it was amazing
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“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view—” “Sir?” “—until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view—” “Sir?” “—until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” With ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ comes a story of racial injustice. One man’s struggle to defend a black man accused of raping a white girl, while teaching his children the values and morals that are important in life. A coming-of-age story where the children are forced to witness the worst and ugly side of human nature as they try to make sense of the world amidst such racism, aggression, intolerance, and hatred. An epic story of good versus evil. A story of suppression but also hope. A book that educates, ridicule’s and even inspires. A book everyone should read in their lifetime. The Plot To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel told from the perspective of Jean Louise Finch (Scout), who lives with her father Atticus and brother, Jem, in the fictional sleepy town of Maycomb, Alabama. Combine this with the era of the Great Depression of the 1930s, then you really have the perfect setting for such an epic story. For all its simplicity and modest ways of living, the town folk harbour the worst of human traits that are exposed when Tom Robinson, a black man, is charged with raping a young white girl. Although innocent, Tom was guilty in the court of public opinion, even before the trial started, because when it came to colour “People generally see what they look for, and hear what they listen for”. In the book, single father of two, Atticus Finch takes on the case and with it stirs up the anger and resentment from the ‘mob’, who at one point are prepared to lynch him for defending a black man. When questioned by his daughter why he is representing Tom, Atticus’ response is so poignant and commendable. “they’re entitled to full respect for their opinions,” said Atticus, “but before I can live with other folks I’ve got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience.”…. if I didn’t represent Tom. “… I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this county in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again.” How true is that… However, there is an inevitability about this story from the start because although Atticus had used every argument and tool available to save Tom Robinson in the courts, in the “secret courts of men’s hearts Atticus had no case”. Tom was a dead man the minute Mayella Ewell opened her mouth and screamed, and an innocent life was lost. Yet there is an innocence, coming of age and sense of decency and hope in this story that I confess to not fully grasping in my teens. I was so overwhelmed by the racism, injustice, and corruption that I failed to embrace the true beauty of this masterpiece and all its messaging. Review and Comments Apart from some distressing and painful themes, of racial inequality and injustice, what makes this book so affecting and poignant is the story being told through the eyes of a young girl who is trying to make sense of the world she is living in. One of the innocent ones!!!. Which brings me to the book title that makes more sense to me now as the Mockingbird had come to signify ‘innocence’ of the young Scout, Jem, and the innocent man accused of a crime he did not commit. However, in a story of so much evil and injustice there is also hope, bravery, and kindness. Atticus represents morality, courage, and reason, and through his character and others like Calpurnia, Miss Maudie, and Boo Radley, we know all is not lost. The three children in the story learn the most humane and moral lessons from these righteous characters, who also happen to deliver the best lines and most affecting quotes for the reader. The mob, and the characters of Mayella Ewell, the girl who accused Tom of rape and her father represent evil, racism, ignorance, prejudice, and cruelty. Even the hypocrisy of the church going community is not lost to the reader. Yet for all their bigotry they do not allow Bob Ewell to become the hero in the story. He is cast aside as ‘white trash’ because there was just one thing worse in their eyes and that was a black man who had ‘some’ contact with a white girl. The fact that this was instigated by her didn’t matter. Knowing he did not rape her mattered not at all. The black man was guilty. A book that is so heart-breaking because events like this are / were real. Injustices like this happen in certain countries and in different sections of too many communities, and like the story the law although improving does not always deliver justice. Poignant, heart-breaking, and deeply moving but also a beautifully written story where intolerance, and prejudice is often overshadowed with kindness, hope and courage. Stunning. A highly recommended book. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Feb 16, 2023
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Feb 16, 2023
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Feb 16, 2023
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Hardcover
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8
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| 1789098920
| 9781789098921
| 1789098920
| 4.17
| 1,472,494
| Oct 06, 2020
| Oct 06, 2021
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it was amazing
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It is sad, of course, to forget. But it is a lonely thing, to be forgotten. To remember when no one else does. Far from being invisible, obscured, and f It is sad, of course, to forget. But it is a lonely thing, to be forgotten. To remember when no one else does. Far from being invisible, obscured, and forgettable, this is one of those special books that comes around once in a while that is so memorable, enduring and one to be savoured. A book with some poignant themes and messages that will evoke strong emotions in many readers and it certainly created a lasting impression. The mental images, the many meaningful quotes and messages that this book delivers so convincingly are now indelibly printed on my mind. A book that will get under your skin, have you question so much like the definition of free will and freedom, love and need as well as remembering, legacy, and the right to choose. A book that will get you in the feelers certainly at the end if not long before. It’s about ‘time’!!!! Do you know how to live three hundred years?” she says. And when he asks how, she smiles. “The same way you live one. A second at a time. A lyrical and captivating story about a girl who was destined to be forgotten when she dared bargain with her soul as she danced with the devil to a song that would last three hundred years. Tormenting, lingering, magical, irresistible, and sad but beautiful. A great combination, and I would have traded my time with many books had I known this story and writing was this good and unforgettable. Simply Stunning. The Plot For a book where memories don’t last long, this is one unforgettable, deep, warm, and intense story where one girl’s soul is exchanged for immortality or until she surrenders her soul to the devil. And the price she must pay? centuries of being loved only by Lucier but also taunted by him to surrender. But to live her life means centuries of living with a curse of being forgotten by everyone she meets. Reluctant to succumb to the devil, and surrender her soul, Addie decides to embrace life and travels to France and England in different timeframes. She lives through wars and centuries of change that witnesses rebirth and revolution but as people come and go, there are two constants. Lucifer needs her and no one will remember her. So with a poignant message ‘be careful what you wish for”. However, the unexpected happens and someone does remember Addie, a boy called Henry, who is to become her passion, her friend, and her reality. However, can they be together with the promises already made and souls forfeited for something they both thought was worth bargaining for? Who knows!!! But all they can do is live for the here and now…. And in the end she asks herself... Were the instants of joy worth the stretches of sorrow? Were the moments of beauty worth the years of pain? and the answer... Always!!! Review and Comments The storytelling is unique which keeps the reader dangling between fantasy and reality through evocative and relatable themes of love, loss, loneliness, hope, and despondency, but the writing is so enchanting it doesn’t feel melancholic, even when it’s sad. Even the slow burn at the start felt deliberate because we were meant to savour those moments, embrace this sense of longing, and lament over what was at stake, but also inevitable. Other readers have found this too slow at the beginning and whilst I still enjoyed I could see why they would have a problem. Pages 100 - 250 could have been condensed but when the writing is that delectable I didn’t mind - in fact I enjoyed. Second half of the book is faultless in my opinion. As an extraordinary odyssey that was to span three hundred years, the reader is treated with a snapshot of real historical events and eras mixed with the fantastical threads to the story which brought a depth and richness to the book. All the characters were likeable, even Lucifer, who was such a magnetic and alluring character. Addie herself was adorable and possessed all the determination, tenacity, and intelligence to make the reader admire her as a character and then all the love, hope and vulnerability that would make the reader love her as a person. However, it was the fateful, possessive and magical relationship between Lucifer and Addie that made this an all time favourite. Dine with me,” Luc says as winter gives way to spring. “Dance with me,” he says as a new year begins. “Be with me,” he says, at last, as one decade slips into the next”. Although Henry was an excellent book character. I was personally more invested in the relationship between Luc and Addie. The chemistry was palpable, teasing and flirtatious which had me enjoy the scenes when Luc put in an appearance enticing Addie to surrender to him. Was it her soul or love he wanted? Who knows !!! ”I am stronger than your god and older than your devil. I am the darkness between stars, and the roots beneath the earth. I am promise, and potential, and when it comes to playing games, I divine the rules, I set the pieces, and I choose when to play”. A truly expansive and magical story that is brilliantly crafted, perfectly executed, and richly imagined, but beware because the ending is very sad, although it should not have been written differently. This was in fact right for the story even though I found myself welling up inside. Mysterious? yes but discernible and visual also. Contemplative but also fateful and conclusive. A book that aroused deep emotions, particularly at the end, and with a writing style that turned ordinary themes into something extraordinary. The book was magical with a touch of reality which is why it has landed so well with many readers. A book I will not forget and one that is indelibly imprinted on my mind. After reading this book here are my three little words “…large enough to tip the world. ‘I remember you’.” Exquisite, tormenting, mysterious and intense. Be careful what you ask for next!!! ”The vexing thing about time,” he says, “is that it’s never enough. Perhaps a decade too short, perhaps a moment. But a life always ends too soon…… so you had better live a good life” ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Feb 08, 2023
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Feb 11, 2023
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Feb 09, 2023
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Hardcover
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1
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| B0DT1CNHLS
| 4.16
| 2,303,432
| Oct 19, 1847
| 2014
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it was amazing
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If there is such a thing as the perfect book. For me ‘Jane Eyre’ would define it. 5 ✨ brooding, uncompromising, passionate, but tormenting stars, for m If there is such a thing as the perfect book. For me ‘Jane Eyre’ would define it. 5 ✨ brooding, uncompromising, passionate, but tormenting stars, for my favourite book of all time. I love this book for the way it depicts the strength of the human spirit, the importance of being yourself, the rights of women, and the explicit yet beautiful way the story is told. Dramatic, uninhibited, and evocative. Jane Eyre is best known or described as a ‘gothic love story’ but for me it is so much more. It is an emotional life story that contrasts the extremities of love and hate, where the principled and incorruptible mind battles the unscrupulous and most brutal of beasts and rules. Jane Eyre is an unapologetic feminist story, like no other. It is an emotional story where one woman’s soul was forever tormented by the people she tried to love and cursed by those who did not deserve to own nor judge her. However, the standout is the rawness in which the author expresses Jane’s feelings of love, hurt, and anguish, and the many themes it embraces particularly for its time. A burning question is ‘why do I love this book so much?’ The storyline? the love story? the many themes it embraces? or is it Jane Eyre, the character I love the most? All will be revealed, but first the plot. The Plot The story begins with Jane, orphaned after the death of her parents and further isolated when her uncle dies leaving her in the hands of his heartless family. After an unpleasant and bloody exchange with her cousin, and then aunt, Jane is sent to Lowood. A charitable but educational institution. It is at this point in the book that we get an early insight into the character of the 10-year-old Jane, her principles and unwavering determination to speak up for what is right and just, when she admonishes her aunt “I am not deceitful: if I were, I should say I loved you; but I declare I do not love you: I dislike you the worst of anybody in the world except John Reed….. “How dare I, Mrs. Reed? How dare I? Because it is the truth. You think I have no feelings, and that I can do without one bit of love or kindness; but I cannot live so: and you have no pity…. you are bad, hard-hearted. You are deceitful!”. Jane’s early battle with life’s cruel reality was to continue with the death of a beautiful and kind pupil Helen, but her resolve saw her through 8 years at Lowood at which point and now educated, she applies to Thornfield Hall for the position of governess. The home that is to become hers after falling in love with its master, Edward Rochester. Yet lady fate was to have her day again when Jane discovers in the most humiliating wedding scene that Rochester’s wife still lives, but insane. After one of the most touching exchanges between these two very different lovers. The characters of Jane and Rochester are laid bare; their passions, principles, and virtues are exposed for us to savour and appraise. He a brooding and selfish man asks Jane to live on as his mistress, while Jane’s honour prevents her from embracing such an immoral life, which would be contrary to her principles. She wants more for herself, not driven by ambition but by virtue and the right to think and love freely. Fleeing Thornfield Hall, Jane finds solace in the sequestered Moor home, with St John and his sisters. St John, a devoutly religious man also seeks Jane’s affections and help as a missionary, but not love. Once again we hear the painful and agonising words from Jane, that can only but leave an imprint on the mind and the heart of the reader… “Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! — I have as much soul as you — and full as much heart” And yes, she does. Jane Eyre is one of the most fascinating characters in fictional history, and if you don’t love the book, you will at least love this character. Review and Comments This is my sixth time reading Jane Eyre (although twice at school) and every time I read it, I get something different from the story. However, this is the first time reviewing and the first time I have challenged myself to explaining why this story means so much to me, apart from it being the first classic book I ever fell in love with, which will always have its rightful place in my book history. No film adaption has done it justice and no words that I write can capture the beauty that lies within these pages. Of course, I can write words, so inspiring is this book, but cannot express how I truly feel with this book the way Charlotte Bronte can write with such rawness. I also need to restrict myself to covering the key themes and elements otherwise I would be writing a book about a book. So first up is the character development. ‘Jane Eyre’ sets the bar in character development and is one of the best I have ever read for this. There is nothing left to the imagination and the explicit way emotions and feelings are portrayed is remarkable, sentimental but also appropriate. The character traits of the two key male characters, Rochester and St John are evocative and ignite frustration and even slight anger in the reader. One man would turn his back on the laws of God and society for the love of the young Jane, whilst the other obsessive and devout has expectations of self-sacrifice for God, his own vanity and ambition. Whilst different, both men possess the same unwavering sense of entitlement, and lack humility and understanding when they offer Jane a life contrary to her beliefs, honour, and feelings. St John says to her “… you are formed for labour, not for love. A missionary’s wife you must—shall be. You shall be mine: I claim you—not for my pleasure, but for my Sovereign’s service.” While Rochester’s disregard of what Jane represents is equally as distasteful, he does draw sympathy from the reader because there are displays of kindness towards others and his love for Jane is unquestionable if not selfish. Religion and Class are constant themes through the novel. However when Jane meets St John, religion is central and crucial to the story and once again it is Jane’s response that was to ignite a wave of emotions in me “Laws and principles are not for the times when there is no temptation: they are for such moments as this, when body and soul rise in mutiny against their rigour” Feminism is one of the most important themes through the novel where the eponymous Jane tells her own story. If you consider the period in which this book was written; the content and storyline, the uninhibited expressions of love and anger as well as the uncensored view of feminism, then you can begin to appreciate just how incredibly provocative this book might have been for the times. On many occasions, Jane describes herself as someone’s ‘equal’ not to be caged in a social class nor defined by society’s expectation of the role of women. It is this freedom of expression, independence of mind, and moral commitment that consumed me so much in this story. “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” For its times, image how the male readers felt when reading this next quote. Fabulous…. It is in vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquillity: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it. Millions are condemned to a stiller doom than mine, and millions are in silent revolt against their lot. Nobody knows how many rebellions besides political rebellions ferment in the masses of life which people earth. Women are supposed to be very calm generally: but women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties, and a field for their efforts, as much as their brothers do; they suffer from too rigid a restraint, to absolute a stagnation, precisely as men would suffer; and it is narrow-minded in their more privileged fellow-creatures to say that they ought to confine themselves to making puddings and knitting stockings, to playing on the piano and embroidering bags. It is thoughtless to condemn them, or laugh at them, if they seek to do more or learn more than custom has pronounced necessary for their sex. At this point I reveal that the reason I love this book so much is because of Jane Eyre’s character. It is the most extraordinary story about an ordinary young woman, although a heroine in my eyes. A woman guided by honour, influenced, and dedicated but not cosseted by religion. An independent woman who is highly principled and determined yet loving and generous, and passionate but not vindicative. A young woman who wants to live, love, and think freely, and in that lies the beauty of this book. How groundbreaking, daring, and courageous from the incredibly gifted Charlotte Bronte. Second to that is the uninhibited depiction of the characters, their emotions, and the inner battles they must conquer in the face of temptation. All of this of course is brought to life with Bronte's perfectly chosen words, vivid descriptions and unbridled but elegant prose. There is such a rawness to the writing, although some would say overly dramatic but for me it is another beautiful and remarkable aspect to this book, because it works. Jane Eyre is a book that is bold for the way it inspires feminism, courageous in the way it challenges the accepted norms of society and religion but is also respectful. There is beauty in the storytelling, sincerity in these righteous but flawed characters, and artistry in the way the themes have been woven into the story – an epic masterpiece in literature. “I have for the first time found what I can truly love—I have found you. You are my sympathy—my better self— my good angel.” Says Rochester. And my GR friends, I too have found (in books) what I truly love, and it is this timeless classic that is likely to remain as my #1 book of all time, for all time. In the dawn of a new year in books, what better way to have started my new reading year than with Jane Eyre, the principled, loving feminist, and her story. _____________________________ I just finished 'Wide Sargasso Sea' by Jean Rhys, a prequel or retelling of sorts that I would highly recommend for readers and lovers of Jane Eyre. It is an accompaniment to Jane Eyre and provides some context to the events leading up to and the marriage of Bertha to Rochester, which Jane Eyre does not explore in any depth. Haunting, vividly depicted and a lens on Bertha that is somewhat different to the image created by Rochester. Fabulous. ...more |
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Jan 02, 2023
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Jan 30, 2023
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Jan 02, 2023
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| 1529105102
| 9781529105100
| 1529105102
| 4.56
| 228,037
| Dec 06, 2019
| Oct 10, 2019
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it was amazing
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5 stunning, powerful, meaningful, and heart-warming stars for my first so called audio book, with a difference, and from a different narrator but a mo
5 stunning, powerful, meaningful, and heart-warming stars for my first so called audio book, with a difference, and from a different narrator but a most treasured one. Yes, my 8-year-old Goddaughter / niece narrated this magical little book whilst I sat back and savoured every word and delighted in the look of enjoyment on her face. I bought this for my little darling's birthday in July, and she tells me at the grand old age of 8, it is her “..favourite book in the world ever”. My brother then informs me that this precious little one brought the book to school so she could read to the class as part of the Christmas treat's they were allowed. Not to miss out on this moment I asked her to read to me too over the Christmas holidays, and this fabulous experience goes down as one of my most special moments in the “world - ever”. The story is so simple, beautiful, and adorned with such gorgeous phraseology and meaningful words that will blow your mind for its simplicity and beauty. The wonderful illustrations are a feast for the eyes and match the dialogue between these 4 adorable characters - perfectly. Best to list some of my favourite quotes that add so much to the meaning of life. I'm sure you will have a list too.... "What is the bravest thing you've ever said? asked the boy. 'Help,' said the horse. 'Asking for help isn't giving up,' said the horse. 'It's refusing to give up" "What do you think is the biggest waste of time?" "Comparing yourself to others", said the mole. “Is your glass half empty or half full?" asked the mole. "I think I'm grateful to have a glass," said the boy. What do you want to be when you grow up?" "Kind", said the boy. I turned to my little darling and asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up, and she said “... like you – kind”. I still have tears streaming down my face right now. My reason for sharing this personal and touching moment is this. I want to share a book with you that just blew me away, not just the personal experience. So please buy this book and if you have a child in your family circle, then read it with them or let them read it to you. Equally, you will not be disappointed if you decide to read on your own - whatever age you are. It is so beautiful and magical and is now one of my favourite books of all time – and it’s a children’s, adults and everyone book. However, I do agree with the views on the font. This will make it harder for younger children to read. The author wrote this book to lift the mood of the readers and share those parts of life that are important; love, friendship, self belief, tolerance and loyalty. Mackesy is so devoted to its cause and so generous in spirit he signs the book and leaves in places like bus stops and shops, hoping the person who picks it up will understand the importance of the story. He wants this simple but impactful story to bring a smile to the face of the people who find this little treasure - even for a while. How gorgeous is that!!! Treasure it. Share it. Love it. Enjoy and be kind !!!! Happy New Year ...more |
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Dec 27, 2022
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Dec 29, 2022
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Dec 29, 2022
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| B0DT1VG6VV
| 3.86
| 65,845
| 1886
| 1988
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it was amazing
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The Mayor of Casterbridge: The Life and Death of a Man of Character
and one of my all-time favourite books, with possibly one of the most fascina
The Mayor of Casterbridge: The Life and Death of a Man of Character
and one of my all-time favourite books, with possibly one of the most fascinating book characters. The Mayor of Casterbridge is the unsympathetic portrayal of a man unable to control his own temperament, doomed by his own insensitivity, cursed by his own pride, and tormented by his own past. A man who ruthlessly sells his wife and child in a drunken episode and then in the depths of despair and full of remorse promises to refrain from alcohol for 21 years. It is these past transgressions that shape everything in a book where cruelty is outshone by kindness, malice is met with forgiveness and good is often eclipsed by wrongdoing and evil. A story where opposites are in constant flux, and the flawed cast of characters never seem to end the perpetual cycle of suffering. Malignant, tormenting, and tragic but a masterpiece in storytelling, with superb character development, and an intriguing plot, where morality, fate and redemption play a huge part. The Plot During one of his drunken binges and encouraged by his wife to stop drinking away their livelihood, Henchard sells his wife to a sailor for 5 guineas. Remorseful, he stops drinking and goes in search of the wife he cruelly sold, but to no avail. Turning his attention then to wealth, Henchard becomes a successful corn trader and Mayor of the fictious town of Casterbridge. Almost two decades later, Susan returns with their 18-year-old daughter, when her husband dies and in need of financial support. Meeting Henchard again leads to an arrangement where he remarries Susan so his ‘stepdaughter’ can take his respectable name. To claim her as his own would mean reputational ruin and his past secrets exposed, and so he decides against this course of action, with far reaching consequences. Meanwhile Donald Farfrae arrives in Casterbridge with modern ideas for corn production. However, blighted by a series of bad business decisions, Henchard moves closer to financial ruin while the dashing Farrare weaves his way in the upper circles of Casterbridge’s elite, into the hearts of the women in Henchard’s life and then ultimately replaces Henchard as Mayor. In an unpredictable twist, another woman who Henchard had promised to marry moves to Casterbridge and befriends his daughter and vies for the attention of his archrival, Farfrae. However, where each of the characters have their own plans, destiny has another. Review and Comments All of Thomas Hardy’s books weave threads of fate, social culture, and nature into the fabric of the story so well they equal the role of the key protagonists who themselves are likeable and detestable characters. However, this book does it best in my opinion. To read the Mayor of Casterbridge is to immerse yourself in the period, the environment, and the surrounding nature, all of which play their part. To read this story is to empathise and to despise the attitudes of people, but all of it felt authentic and was so vividly depicted. Even that the fictitious town of Casterbridge is portrayed as “an old, hoary place o’ wickedness” is incredibly symbolic. Hardy’s ‘melancolic’ style also matches the various and shifting moods of the seasons with the everchanging nature of his characters and their lives. However, it is his play on fate that fascinates me with Hardy’s writing. I have often toyed with the idea that Hardy does not believe in fate, but instead uses it to question our own beliefs about who is ultimately responsible for our destiny? While factors such as social rigidity, Christian values and the role of women influenced the lives of the people in the story. I think Hardy was proclaiming that people should not be shackled to the notion of ‘destiny and fate’ but they themselves are responsible for their actions and the treatment of people around them and are the key architects of their own fortunes and misfortunes. In fact, Henchard’s cruel treatment of his wife, and throughout the story - his daughter and the deception and contempt shown towards Farfrae all came from a man who was egotistical, immoral, and selfish where his own stubbornness shaped his downfall rather than fate. Even when you think the immoral man had found redemption, he fails again by lying to his daughter with the worst sin of all. A character I loathed but also pitied for the hand he played in this heart breaking story of self destruction. In a very poignant moment, Henchard expresses his wish to be forgotten evident that he had finally come to terms with the wretched life he led and the man he was. This utter damnation of himself expressed in his final will and testament displayed the moral compass and conscience that the reader had wanted, but did not, see during his life. A true masterpiece in classic literature. I can’t think of any author who betters Hardy and Dickens in characterisation and in the character development throughout a story. It is Hardy’s somewhat gloomy outlook with quotes like “happiness was but the occasional episode in a general drama of pain.” that has built his reputation and has led readers to look elsewhere for lighter reads. However, I would encourage anyone to embrace this author as someone who is absolutely superb at developing his characters, the evolution of the stories and the lives of the protagonists is just brilliant and the writing style?. Well elegant, tormenting, evocative, and simply stunning. And the message? Destiny is not tied to some invisible force, but our lives are shaped mainly through our own actions, inactions, from flawed and great decisions and our ability to subdue our own temperament and embrace the people around us. For those things we can’t control - well maybe that’s ‘fate’. Written in the 19th Century with such relevance today. That is what I call timeless and puts 'class' into classic. Just wonderful. An easy 5 stars for a story that is tragic and tormenting, but with love, redemption, forgiveness, and tolerance the wonderful themes. ...more |
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Nov 23, 2022
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Nov 26, 2022
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Nov 26, 2022
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Hardcover
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3
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| 0241256585
| 9780241256589
| 0241256585
| 3.90
| 2,017,407
| Nov 24, 1847
| 2015
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it was amazing
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5 tormenting and passionate stars for a reading experience like no other, because never have I read a book that altered my emotions so many times in o
5 tormenting and passionate stars for a reading experience like no other, because never have I read a book that altered my emotions so many times in one book. My feelings moved in waves between compassion and despair, admiration and loathing, pity but always regret. Victims or tormentors – that’s for you to decide. For me, Wuthering Heights is an epic and timeless classic that has everything; obsession, greed, revenge, grief, emotional abuse, inequality, and even light horror. Everything except the thing most associated with this story. In my opinion, this is not a love story – it is the most beautiful love story that never happened, and in that lies the tragedy and the power of this book. It is a sobering waste of life and love, as the cruelty and selfishness of the characters shape their own story against the rigidity of an intolerant class system that pretty much predestined their fate anyway. Yet the unbreakable bond that existed between the two main characters sees them pursue each other – but always when it was too late, with the haunting realisation that this self-destruction is set to continue into the next generation as the sins of the parents threaten to live on through the children with the same cruelty and brutality they heaped on each other. A brutal yet passionate story. A story about love, desire, and obsession but with ugly consequences, made all the more intense for its Victorian England setting. In fact, Victorian realism at its best. Raw, rigid, unforgiving, and profoundly devastating. The plot Heathcliff becomes part of the family as Thrushcross Grange, when Mr Earnshaw takes the orphaned boy home to be part of the family. Accepted by Cathy, but bullied by Hindley, Heathcliff’s early start in life is sad and pitiful. Contrast that to the man who becomes obsessed with Cathy, and whose life is turned upside down when the teenage Cathy ultimately chooses wealth over love and marries Linton. Overhearing a conversation where Cathy admits that Heathcliff will never be a man of means, he flees the Grange and only returning when he has acquired a fortune. What he didn’t hear from the last part of the conversation was Cathy professing her unwavering love for Heathcliff with the iconic words ‘I am Heathcliff’, and later ‘I cannot live without my life. I cannot love without my soul’, despite now being married to someone else. A haunting tale as the flawed decisions and their self-destructive nature dam the lives and outcomes of these soulmates. However, in an act of revenge Heathcliff marries Cathy’s sister-in-law, Isabella, and fathers the son who is then to meet Cathy’s daughter in the second half of the book. Hope or hopelessness? Review and Comments Not all stories have to be cheerful with happy endings – after all that’s life, but it is how we respond to those that defines us. This brings me straight to the characterisation in the book, which is absolutely superb. Whether you like or loathe these characters, there is no doubt they were brilliantly cast. In fact, as a character study not one of the characters can elicit a single ounce of admiration from its readers, with the exception of the young Cathy and Hareton. Yet they all make tremendous book characters. The writing style is perfect for the storyline and even the dull palette colours depicting the moors and weather reflects the mood of the book and sense of forlorn and hopelessness, as does Wuthering Heights itself. A place naked to the elements, with surroundings that are untamed and raw that mirror the characters central to the story. A Love story? – Although romantism has a powerful influence on the story, this is not a love story. Instead, it is a powerful story of love and unity of two souls, in life and in death. The iconic words will resonate with many, "I am Heathcliff", as Cathy explains .. "because he's more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same". Those words get me in the feelers every time. Powerful and heartbreaking. From the outset and throughout, I was invested in this story, the writing and particularly with the characters as you feel this connected sense of cruelty, self-destruction, and mourning for the countless memories and happiness for the life and love that could have been - but never was. Yet as a reader we are left with guarded optimism for the future of the young Cathy and Heathcliff, or are they too caught in this perpetual cycle of self-destruction, like their parents. The writing in these classics is not for everyone, and I confess to struggling with it at school. If you can embrace this writing style, then you will love it. In fact, I just finished a mainstream thriller and I turned to my husband and said 'now I really do need a fix from the classics'. If I had one niggle, I don’t like authors writing in local dialect that is too cryptic. For example “aut ne’ink” meaning “ought not think”. For me personally it disrupts the flow of the story, spoils the beautiful writing in these classics but brings little to it. Back to the book. A painful drama and an unapologetic portrayal of the flawed and imperfect human mind and heart. Dark, chilling and so vividly depicted. Beautifully written but not a beautiful story. A book where love, grief, and betrayal fuel cruelty and revenge. Heart-breaking, savage, and self-destructive. Nevertheless, a masterpiece, particularly in its characterisation and the character development. ...more |
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Nov 04, 2022
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Nov 09, 2022
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Nov 09, 2022
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| 1408883457
| 9781408883457
| B07DFFQ2WQ
| 4.17
| 274,026
| Feb 26, 2019
| Feb 26, 2019
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it was amazing
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5 juicy stars for a book that breathes heart and soul into Fantasy. “It was the stuff of legend, a tale destined to be enshrined in song”. and a song 5 juicy stars for a book that breathes heart and soul into Fantasy. “It was the stuff of legend, a tale destined to be enshrined in song”. and a song that needed to be sung. And so from the realm of the Orange Tree we travel east and west, to reveal how the lives of Ead, Tane, Niclays, Loth and Sabran become so dependent on each other as they face an evil buried for a thousand-years. A world on the brink of destruction. A world divided for many years. The Priory of the Orange Tree is a complex book that is adventurous, daring, and yet still magical. A book that creates a new universe, inspired by the cultural differences between East and West, and with striking similarities to countries and periods in our own history. A book that introduces new religions, and new demons, while using one of the most powerful monsters dating back to antiquity. The Dragon. A commitment at 800 pages, but a book that is imaginative, addictive and absorbing; action packed and energetic but also dramatic and expressive. The Plot. It is difficult to summarise an 800-page book and do justice to the plot, sub plots, and world building because this feels like a series crammed into one mammoth read, not just because of the 800+ pages, but also the scope of the book and the number of stories at play at any one time. Four narrators deliver this great tale covering the vast realms of Inys, Yscalin, Mentendon and Hróth. So, let’s start with Ead in the West who is an outsider at court and sent by the Priory of the Orange Tree to protect Sabran the Ninth who is the current ruler of the Queendom of Inys, the last in line of the House Berethnet. A Queen who must produce an heir to secure the dynasty, but a leader who faces an invisible enemy and the return of the nameless one who was sent to the abyss by one of Sabran’s ancestors. We travel East to Miduchi and to the famous dragon rider’s of Seiiki where we meet Tane, a fierce warrior who earns her place among men to pair with one of the dragons, that is to become her bond. Then we meet Niclays Roos, an exiled alchemist, and Lord Arteloth Beck, a trusted advisor to the queen who is sent on missions that presents all sorts of challenges as he is captured, mistrusted, and pardoned but it is his finesse and gift of words that keeps him alive and ready to return to his Queen in the west to face the final trial against the nameless one. With a very divided East and West who are refusing to forgive the past, one or all of the four must force the unlikely alliance of all kingdoms as the forces of evil are slowly arising from their thousand-year sleep, and the mythical creatures in the East and West start to lose their powers. Review and Comments. The Priory of the Orange Tree is a feminist story, with women in leads roles. Inys is ruled by a woman, her protector is a woman, the powerful warrior Tane is female, while all the wisdom is imparted by female ancestors. As such this creates the perfect backdrop for a same sex love story between Eads and Sabran, that is very touching, deep, and respectful of their personal duties. Whilst I love the feminist story, not so much at the expense of weak men, because that is not the world we live in, and it makes the story too one dimensional. Had we enjoyed the company of some strong men (not love stories) then I feel this would have appealed more to a wider audience and set this up there as one of the best Fantasy stories ever written. The second criticism is the lack of detail in some of the action scenes. Sounds bizarre in an 800-page book that I am asking for more detail? Why? Although packed with lots of action, the conflicts and encounters seemed to be over in a flash and we were missing the mental and emotional detail experienced by the characters who had to solve many riddles and work out the problems as they were faced some harrowing challenges. Now to the positives. And there are plenty. This is one of my favourite fantasy books ever, the characters felt real but flawed and the love stories felt honest, deep, and sincere. I would like to see same sex / opposite sex relationships incorporated into the stories written by other Fantasy authors, as well, which is more representative of the world we live in today. However, I loved that Shannon did bring a same sex relationship to this feminist story. The book was well structured and divided into parts that could easily be read as separate books without feeling the need to finish in one go. The writing style was perfect for the genre, and although some of the names like ‘the nameless one’ could have been more imaginative, this book overall was an explosion of imagination. The outstanding quality of this book, however, came from the world building. You could see the cultural differences between the East and West and the countries the author took inspiration from. Although most of the story took place in the West, the action in the other parts of this magical world was equally captivating and by no means played down. An exceptionally gifted author that brought sincerity to the characters many of whom were strong but flawed, combatants but compassionate; deadly but loyal. A series of plots that were so intricately woven you can only admire the author for being able to keep all this in her head when writing this epic fairy tale. Then finally the world building that I missed when I finished this book. It was simply brilliant. A multi cultured and multi-layered story that was captivating, immersive and unforgettable by an author who managed to breathe heart and soul into Fantasy. Dazzling and now we can sing that song!!!. ...more |
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Aug 26, 2022
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Sep 03, 2022
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Aug 26, 2022
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ebook
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| B002RI9RBG
| 4.05
| 58,520
| 1782
| Feb 22, 2007
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it was amazing
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Was I seduced? Unapologetically so!!! 5 seductive stars for a timeless French Classic that is so beautifully written, emotionally charged, morally corr Was I seduced? Unapologetically so!!! 5 seductive stars for a timeless French Classic that is so beautifully written, emotionally charged, morally corrupt, scandalous for its time, and wonderfully crafted. A must read. A masterpiece. For its cruel and sinister pursuit, of a beautiful young woman, in a deadly emotional game where the human heart is only a plaything, purity is something to be soiled, and the intentions of the key orchestrators ruthless, I give this an easy 5 stars. The Plot “I shall possess this woman; I shall steal her from the husband who profanes her: I will even dare ravish her from the God whom she adores. What delight, to be in turns the object and the victor of her remorse! Says it’s all!!! Vicomte de Valmont and The Marquise de Merteuil are French aristocrats who engage in a deadly game of seduction and manipulation. Their pawns all have one thing in common, innocent, naive, pure, and trusting. However, they begin to turn on each other as their seedy game spirals out of control and the consequences are more devastating than even they imagined. Review and Comments I loved the way the author captured the heart ache, rawness, and the vulnerability of the seduced with the sinister, calculated, and dispassionate behaviours of the seducer. Alongside that, the portrayal of the French aristocracy with all their indulgence was excellent. The backdrop of the French Revolution was perfect and helped create an atmosphere that was tormenting and menacing, as the reader eagerly waited for history to catch up with the key protagonists. The characters of Vicomte de Valmont and The Marquise de Merteuil were so well depicted. There was nothing left to your imagination when they plotted to take the virginity of the innocent in a game of lust and downright cruelty. They were so corrupt you adored them as characters. My least favourite thing about the novel, however, was the story structure where the chapters were a string of letters sent by multiple people. I found this a bit tiresome at times although it didn’t change my overall view of the book. It was such a memorable and unforgettable read. In the end justice is served but not before tragedy plays its part and the perpetrators become the victims. The writing was stunning with so many quotes to choose from. Among my favourites: “Your orders are charming; your manner of giving them still more delightful; you would make tyranny itself adored.” “I willingly allow that money does not guarantee happiness; but it must also be allowed that it makes happiness a great deal easier to achieve.” “Love, hatred, you have only to choose; they all sleep under the same roof; you can double your existence, caress with one hand and strike with the other.” “Will you, then, never grow weary of being unjust?”. Sinister, scandalous, and seductive. What more could you ask for? ...more |
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Jul 02, 2022
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Jul 08, 2022
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Jul 08, 2022
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Kindle Edition
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7
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| 1439177724
| 9781439177723
| 1439177724
| 4.30
| 198,054
| Jul 18, 2013
| May 27, 2014
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it was amazing
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An unforgettable and powerful 5 star action packed thriller. “People say love is weak, but they're wrong: love is strong. In nearly everyone it trumps An unforgettable and powerful 5 star action packed thriller. “People say love is weak, but they're wrong: love is strong. In nearly everyone it trumps all other things - patriotism and ambition, religion and upbringing..... That was the lesson I learned that day, and I'll be forever grateful I did. Some years later, deep in the ruins called 'Theatre of Death', it salvaged everything.” The novel is ‘I am Pilgrim’ and I am mesmerised by the sheer brilliance of this book. A true masterpiece in the world of geo-politics, intelligence services, and covert operations. A book that is written to fascinate, evoke emotions, capture our imagination, and enlighten. It certainly achieves that and more. I was totally immersed as this author provided a new lens into the secret world and invisible wars, that we might be better knowing less about. I am Pilgrim is a story of the faceless people whose heroic actions remain a secret in the interests of national security and the corrupt evil regimes they are fighting against.. Ring a bell !!!! The Plot Three people used as human guinea pigs, a woman’s body dissolved in acid to make identity impossible, a man’s eyes removed for retina scanning and a young boy radicalised after witnessing the beheading of his father are all devasting events but only the tip of the iceberg in a complex and sometimes brutal story. What is the connection? A homemade apocalypse. An airborne pathogen. How will it be administered? Inject enough people and let the airborne effects do the rest What is the virus? One molecule at a time someone had recreated smallpox. A weaponised military strain of the pathogen, as the US discover they are dealing with a ‘clearskin’- no history no form no record and a deadly virus immune to all vaccines. Review and Comments Like many of you I have read an endless number of books in this genre, but none better. If this is not your genre and you want to try one – then this is it. The timeliness could not be better and the journey eye opening as we learn the first casualty in war is ‘truth’. Yes, it is long, but not tedious. Yes, it is brutal at times but then the detail is necessary to highlight the atrocities we don’t often hear about in other societies. Yes, we have heard it before from many other authors, but not told as well as this. With epic qualities the book has so much detail and complexity, it reads more like a miniseries. I read over many days and savoured every word. I needed to, to absorb the rich detail, the twists, and red herrings. A game of brinkmanship, bluff, and double bluff, as the strategists take us from New York’s Ground zero to Afghanistan, from Saudi Arabia to Russia, to the UK and to Bodrum in Turkey. Some of my favourite quotes from the book “Like people say—if you want to make God laugh, tell him you’ve got plans.” “You can kill a thinker, but you can't kill the thought.” “Whilst it was evil that created Ground Zero. A lot of people died that day out of compassion. It was their desperate attempts to save others. Often total strangers, that ended up costing them their own lives” As a book this was something remarkable, as a plot this was ingenious and as a means of delivering poignant messages this was superb. Now an all-time favourite. I am Pilgrim and I am in love with this book. Final Message. In loving memory of all those innocent lives lost in war and through the evil actions of brutal regimes. ...more |
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Mar 18, 2022
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Mar 24, 2022
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Mar 23, 2022
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10
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| 1408884429
| 9781408884423
| 1408884429
| 4.42
| 793,298
| Feb 15, 2022
| Feb 15, 2022
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it was amazing
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My mind was blown away by it, my attention was absorbed by it, and my heart adored it. I have no hesitation in giving 5 sensational stars for another
My mind was blown away by it, my attention was absorbed by it, and my heart adored it. I have no hesitation in giving 5 sensational stars for another mind blowing and epic fantasy that is possibly my favourite SJM novel yet. **** NO SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW **** Once again SJM has created an ending that is jaw-droppingly brilliant and one that all her fans are going to adore. We are just left speculating as to how SJM will tie all 'this' together, until the next book. A sensational story in the world of dark fantasy, that is magical and haunting, with an exhilarating plot, powerful world building, a level of suspense that inspires a hungry turn of pages and a brilliant array of characters that I believe are her best cast yet. Ingenious. The Plot “I’m guessing you’re in Sky and Breath.” She went still. Had he struck true? “Why do you say that?” “You remind me of the wind.” He tried to explain. “Powerful and able to cool or freeze with half a thought, shaping the world itself though no one can see you. Only your impact on things.” Sofie, is about to die with one vital piece of “information hidden in her head, information that could very well be the final piece of this war against the Asteri. The blow that could end it all” and so Bryce, Hunt and Ruhn try to unearth the corruption and the devastating truth that cost Danika her life in the last book and now Sofie in this story. This is not a spoiler as it happens in the first chapter but sets up a storyline that will continue well into the book. As worlds collide and the Houses of Crescent City seek to take control, the treachery and danger takes us to the city ships of the queen’s court, the seven levels of hell and the orrery planet solar system as reluctant alliances are forged to prevent the Asteri taking control. However, with an order from the Asteri to lie low or endure a penalty of death, the crew must carve out a strategy where the stakes are high, the game is at a different level, and the people only too willing to betray the daughter of the King of the Autumn Court too numerous. Ignoring the request from her father to strengthen the alliance with the House of Avallen, by marrying Cormac, her cousin, Bryce is left isolated except for her lover and ‘mate’ Hunt and brother Ruhn. Review and comments What makes this my favourite Sarah Maas book yet!!! The Ending ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The sensational ending just blew me away. I was left speechless and very happy knowing we have a fantastic set up going into the next book. If you have read other SJM series you will adore it. Although it is worth pointing out that you do not need to have read A Court of Thorns and Roses first. Storyline and Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The plot / subplots are complex, gripping, and captivating and written at a pace that never slows. I loved that multiple sub plots were introduced rather than having everything centred around the two main characters which has become a common thread in SJM’s books. However, I feel there is room to make these side stories with other people even stronger and shorter because at 800 pages it feels too long, hence the 4.5 stars. Main Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hunt and Ruhn are adorable, and although I liked Bryce much better in book 2, The connection is still not great. I would like to see the female characters portrayed differently from ‘bad ass bitches’. Writing Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stunning writing and one I connect with although you need to pay attention given the number of subplots and wide ranging 'fantastical' names. However, for an immersive and absorbing read that captured me through the writing, then it can only be 5 stars. Imagination ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I am in awe of SJM’s imagination. Ingenious, creative and explosive with settings like the seven levels of hell, orrery of planets and intricate details like the seven star and its representation, the glowing star on Bryce’s chest and symbolic nature of the marks and tattoos. For ‘Love and other words’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ There is no shortage of passion between the main characters. What I loved about this part of the story was Bryce standing up for her right to choose her own ‘mate’ against her fathers wishes. Even better when she achieved this in such a clever way that blindsided everyone around her, including her father. Book length ⭐⭐ This was too long. The Court of Thorns and Roses was in average 500 pages and was just right. At a huge 800 pages this was too long and more importantly not all the content was needed although written well. Tormenting, imaginative, spellbinding, a fabulous game of brinkmanship, and totally immersive. A book I read over two days and up to ‘stupid o’clock’ in the morning to finish, because I hankered to know how it would all end, and what an ending it was - but no spoilers here!!!! And my advice is please do not read reviews that contain spoilers because the element of surprise will leave you speechless and very happy. I have to confess that this is my favourite book over two series, this and the Court of Thorns and Roses. Unbelievably good and highly recommended. __________________________________ I have not re-read but my written review has disappeared so had to create under a new date that seems to have worked. How strange!!! __________________________________ I have read so many fantasy books in the last few years that I needed to refresh myself on the characters, the plot and that ending from this second book in the Crescent City series I read almost 2 years ago. Why? because book 3 is out in January and I couldn't remember everything in the story. Happy to say, that I haven't changed my opinion of this book after the second read. It is fabulous and testament to its success is that I have chosen to reread rather than use my limited reading time on something new. I will have finished my course by then, and so I will be ready for the next one... ...more |
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| 1101010908
| 9781101010907
| B000SCHC0Q
| 4.45
| 1,719,756
| May 2007
| Nov 25, 2008
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it was amazing
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“Learn this now and learn it well, my daughter: Like a compass needle that points north, a man’s accusing finger always finds a woman. Always. You rem
“Learn this now and learn it well, my daughter: Like a compass needle that points north, a man’s accusing finger always finds a woman. Always. You remember that, Mariam.” Five heart-breaking and tearful stars for a story that will stay with me for a long time, 5 glorious stars for a book that dares highlight atrocities committed against women in Afghanistan, and 5 flawless stars for a book that is pretty dam perfect in everyway possible. Inspired by real and common events these fictional stories need to be told to draw attention to the treatment of women (and men). High praise for an author who brought this story to the world along with his own personal reflection. Mesmerising, absorbing, but shocking. The Plot Mariam, the unwanted child of Jalil, lives with her Grandmother until her death and is then sent to live with her natural father and his many wives and children. Rejected and spurned from this new family, at fifteen, she is betrothed to marry a man many years her senior, Rasheed a business associate of her father. As she parts ways there are some chilling exchanges between father and daughter. “I thought about you all the time. I used to pray that you’d live to be a hundred years old. I didn’t know. I didn’t know that you were ashamed of me.”, but his reply “It ends here for you and me. Say your good-byes.” Having miscarried multiple time Madiam finds herself in the company of Laila, her husband’s second wife, a women he has chosen to provide him with the family he craves. Yet there are no protestations of love for either women and as a bully, an abuser and violent man he hides behind his status in society to inflict unimaginable mental and physical cruelty on his wives. In a society that offers them no protection and importantly no voice, they decide to take matters into their own hands, and either escape from Rasheed or kill him, and as such they make a decision that neither women will regret but one that will have devastating consequences. “One could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs, Or the thousand splendid suns that hide behind her walls.”, because to live with their husband was to not live at all. Review and Comments A Thousand Splendid Suns was a brilliant but heart-breaking story, the writing was stunning, and the plot treat was inspired by true events was fantastic. The characterisation although fictional was believable and authentic. However, it was the inspiration and knowledge that the mistreatment of women is commonplace is what made this such a tearful read. Women in many societies accept and even embrace the only environment they know. Some, are even happy in it, and it is not for us to judge any society to say what is right. Except this, if women do want a voice, the freedom to work and be educated, then society should consider to not do so is suppressive, suffocating and sometimes brutal. And so, applause for Khaled Hosseini who has given them a voice through his story and an in insight into a life that is all too real for many women. A letter of regret that Miraim never got to read speaks of her father’s regret “May God grant you a long and prosperous life, my daughter. May God give you many healthy and beautiful children. May you find the happiness, peace, and acceptance that I did not give you. Be well. I leave you in the loving hands of God. Your undeserving father, Jalil” A sensational and stunning book with epic qualities, a powerful and heart-breaking story, and a reflection from the author “. to see women, we must look at the humanity beneath the veils” and for me, also in the hearts of those women who are dispossessed of their greatest needs. ...more |
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Jan 29, 2022
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| 159463193X
| 9781594631931
| 159463193X
| 4.36
| 3,463,510
| May 29, 2003
| May 2004
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it was amazing
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“I opened my mouth, almost said something. Almost. The rest of my life might have turned out differently if I had. But I didn’t. I just watched. Paral
“I opened my mouth, almost said something. Almost. The rest of my life might have turned out differently if I had. But I didn’t. I just watched. Paralysed” Five stars for a stunning book where remorse, guilt, injustice, prejudice, and forgiveness play a significant part in the heart-breaking stories of Amir, son of Baba, and Hassan, son of Rahim Aga, a loyal friend and servant to the Amir’s father, set against the backdrop of some of Afghanistan’s most turbulent years. 'The Kite Runner' is an unforgettable story about two young boys whose lives are shaped by the regrettable decisions taken, inaction and cowardice that strains their relationship and ultimately tears them apart. It is also a story that signifies the power of voice and the devastating consequences of not using it when the time and cause requires it. Yet is also a tender story that demonstrates forgiveness, the power of love, and the importance of confronting the lies and injustices around us. A truly sensational story that is told with sentiment, honesty and with a powerful message. The Plot Amir and Hassan are friends, Amir “..was a Pashtun and Hassan was a Hazara, Amir was Sunni and he was Shi’a, and nothing was ever going to change that” However, the two boys shared a love of kite flying and won competitions and Hassan the title of best ‘Kite Runner’. Yet the two boys could not deny their racial differences as Hassan was forced to sit on the side lines while Amir played with other Sunni friends. Behind closed doors and away from probing eyes they were devoted friends until an evil act of depravity charts the boys on different courses. As Amir struggles to forgive himself for inaction and cowardice, he recalls “.. I had one last chance to make a decision. One. In the end, I ran. I ran because I was a coward” The story continues along two different paths until Amir, despite his successes in America, is forced to confront the ugly past with a twist that he could predict as the secrets hidden from him are revealed. Review and Comments A heart felt and touching story that shines a light on the injustices, suffering, and racial disparities felt across the world, without being judgemental. A story that needed to be told and a book that should be read. However, it was the forgiveness in the book that pulled on my heart strings just as much. I love books that deliver strong messages but don’t lecture or patronise or seek to influence the reader politically or socially. It is up to the reader to take from these stories what they will and shape their own opinions. Yet they do help us understand different perspectives, the hardship of people displaced and suffering that comes with unrest and for that reason I adored ‘The Kite Runner’. The writing style is superb, and I particularly loved the words and teachings of the wise men, and there is no shortage of them in this narrative. One of my standout quotes from this beautiful book is “…there is only one sin, only one. And that is theft. Every other sin is a variation of theft. Do you understand that?” …. “When you kill a man, you steal a life,” Baba said. “You steal his wife’s right to a husband, rob his children of a father. When you tell a lie, you steal someone’s right to the truth. When you cheat, you steal the right to fairness. Do you see?” Sad, powerful, and poignant, yet beautiful and tender in parts as the power of voice reminds us of when we should use it. I would give this book 6 stars if I could. Sensational. ...more |
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Jan 23, 2022
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Jan 24, 2022
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14
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| 0062060619
| 9780062060617
| 0062060619
| 4.30
| 1,947,657
| Sep 20, 2011
| Mar 06, 2012
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it was amazing
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A fate prophesised by the gods, but a song that still needed to be sung, and music that future generations would continue to play !!! ‘The Song of Ach A fate prophesised by the gods, but a song that still needed to be sung, and music that future generations would continue to play !!! ‘The Song of Achilles’ is a beautifully orchestrated retelling of one of Greek Mythology’s best known and best loved stories of the Siege at Troy and life of the legendary demi-god Achilles. A lyrical masterpiece that portrays the human side of the man, the lover, and the warrior who is destined to fulfil a prophecy that sees him fall after the death of Hector, sustaining the iconic Achilles heel injury. A story that is epic, timeless, and sad but told with great sentiment, heart, and soul. A book that does not try to recount the historical events of the past and the myths but rather embellishes them to play the song of Achilles. The Plot (skip if you know the plot) “In the darkness, two shadows, reaching through the hopeless, heavy dusk. Their hands meet, and light spills in a flood like a hundred golden urns pouring out of the sun.” Achilles meets Patroclus at school at the age of twelve, and soon the unlikely pairing of these two boys becomes a deep friendship. Wanting to separate the two boys and to begin Achilles life’s teachings, Achilles’ mother Thetis, sends him off to the centaur Chiron for three years to learn literature, nature, sacrifice, and the art of battle. However, not to be torn away from his friend, Patroclus follows Achilles into the caves and remains with him for three years as the love between the two blossoms. Following the legendary story of Helen of Troy, Achilles is asked to join Agamemnon’s forces to defend his brothers honour after Paris steels the beautiful Helen from her home. And now Achilles must fight for the honour of the most beautiful woman in the world, against the mightiest city of the east. A journey to Aulis and then Troy that will seal the fate of these two men. “The never-ending ache of love and sorrow. Perhaps in some other life I could have refused, could have torn my hair and screamed, and made him face his choice alone. But not in this one. He would sail to Troy and I would follow, even into death. Yes, I whispered. Yes” Review and Comments The Song of Achilles is first a love story and a tragedy but then the best love stories make the best tragedies and ‘The Song of Achilles’ meets all those expectations. Whilst there is no shortage of books that take their inspiration from centuries old stories of Greek Mythology, few will be ambitious enough to venture on a retelling of one of Greek Mythology’s best loved stories and Achilles life story from boyhood, and the boy who became a man and an infamous warrior. In doing so Miller tells of a love story that is sentimental but not overflowing in its protestations of love, a relationship that is touching but not overly emotional and a tale of two men human, flawed, imperfect but who each bring depth of character in their roles and strong in their principles but protective of each other. What I liked less was the slow burn nature of a book in the first half when the period and story already offered so much for the author to embellish. Nevertheless, this is a small point in a book that was truly stunning in its story telling, a brilliant work of fiction interwoven with the myths, legends and the greatest stories told in Greek mythology. A book that has modernised the legendary work of Homer but stayed true to the core of the Iliad and Achilles homosexuality. A human portrayal of a demi-god who loves, fights, and conquers. Yet it is his stubbornness and unyielding pride that is ultimately his downfall, but then again it was always written in the song – and if “..Music be the food of love. Play on” (William Shakespeare). 4/5 stars ...more |
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| 1635575575
| 9781635575576
| 1635575575
| 4.64
| 3,121,440
| May 03, 2016
| Jun 02, 2020
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it was amazing
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“We were the beginning and middle and end”. And 5 perfect stars for an amazing, magical, and tormenting tale set in an empire cloaked with treachery,
“We were the beginning and middle and end”. And 5 perfect stars for an amazing, magical, and tormenting tale set in an empire cloaked with treachery, danger and suspicion. The Court of Mist and Fury is even better than the first book of a series, written by Sarah Maas, that has just blown me away with the explosion of imagination, the exhilarating plot, the dizzying array of characters, the fantastical language, and the unforgettable sizzling romance. I went into this sequel with expectations of a book that continued on from the story and the romance that started between Tamlin and Feyre in book one. Feyre has been saved by the seven High Lords who each gave her a special talent that transformed her from human to High Fae after she is killed in the final battle that saves Tamlin. How wrong was I?, the story was like a train that decided to go on a completely different route. Unexpected but brilliant. Feyre has had enough of Tamlin’s controlling ways – can you believe it, only 20 pages ago she was prepared to lay down her life for him. However, now tethered to Rhys after an agreement made during the final battle, she is forced to spend one week a month with him, until Feyre decides not to return to Prythian and Tamlin at all. The plot thickens, and the book adds new dimensions and new characters as Sarah Maas’ world building continues. We are now in the Dark Court with Rhys for most of the story as he begins teaching his beautiful new student how to use her mind and body to fight whilst their affection and relationship grows and strengthens with each new trial. Some of these missions take Feyre, Rhys, and the inner circle of the Night Court to various empires, as they seek to outsmart the other Court rulers. We follow some excellent ventures and pieces of the plot that will ultimately heal Feyre’s fractured soul and help protect the Night Court people during a period of Political instability as each Lord vies for power but not ready yet to show their hand. Book two ends perfectly but leaves us demanding and wanting more SM books in the series, as the High Lord’s are manoeuvring to take control and destroy the other kingdoms as mistrust and betrayals threaten all relationships and long-standing treaties. Once again, the ending comes with another incredible twist leaving us blindsided, and no one is complaining. “The power did not belong to the High Lords. Not any longer. It belonged to me… once I discovered and mastered what others has given me. I could weave them together – into something new, something of every court and none of them” A magical dark tale that is enchanting, spellbinding, and imaginative with a sizzling romance that is tormenting, genuine, and highly charged. The best book series I have ever read. What more can I say truly awesome. This is a buddy read with Margaret Mary and we are both loving this spectacular series. ___________________________________ RTC and a reminder as to how I felt just after finishing the book I suppose!!!! Perfect, Amazing, Magical. Even better than the first book of a series that has just blown me away already for the imagination, the plot, the dizzying array of characters, the power struggles and the fantastical writing. I fell in love with Tamlin in the first book and I have fallen head over heels for Rhys in the second book. My poor heart cannot cope. I don't talk like this. This is not me talking – this is the book ...more |
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Jan 10, 2022
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Jan 16, 2022
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| 4.32
| 658,388
| Sep 06, 2016
| Mar 26, 2019
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it was amazing
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A glorious 5 stars for this literary feast and applause for a favourite life quote “...what matters in life is not whether we receive a round of appla
A glorious 5 stars for this literary feast and applause for a favourite life quote “...what matters in life is not whether we receive a round of applause; what matters is whether we have the courage to venture forth despite the uncertainty of acclaim.” A Gentleman in Moscow is a story of a gentleman’s life that is changed beyond recognition, as he is sentenced to house arrest but nevertheless a life saved courtesy of a revolutionary poem. And a story set in Russia after the Bolshevik revolution and creation of a new Russia. And here dear readers we have “A Gentleman in Moscow”. An epic story that is told with sentiment but is not emotional, extravagant in its personal reflection but delicate in its expression and one that is beautifully crafted but casual in its delivery. A story that is stripped back from exaggeration, elaborate themes and complex characters and is so simple in its story it leaves you questioning why you love it so much, and the answer is, in my case, I just do!!!! The Plot (ignore the plot if you have read the book already) The year is 1922, five years after the Bolshevik Revolution and the execution of Tsar Nicholas when Count Alexander Rostov appears before the People’s Commissariat and a panel of judges who sentence him to house arrest in the Metropol Hotel, where he is to live out the rest of his days. To ignore the punishment means certain death. At the hearing it is revealed that only for a poem that the Count wrote years ago that is sympathetic to the Bolshevik cause, he would be executed. The book then moves into a spellbinding story of life in the hotel and the many people the Count meets, loves, and loses. There are too many characters to mention in the review the most significant are Mishka, a gifted poet and supporter of the Bolshevik Party, Nina who explores the hotel with a passkey that she later donates to the Count upon her departure from the hotel. Also the actress Anna Urbanova who invites the Count to her room and after dinner and so an unlikely relationship begins after she learns to forgive the Count for a kind gesture, that in her mind was too presumptuous. As for the hotel it is a place where he knew the staff like family, the hotel services by experience and the decorative and intricate styles of the suites by heart and from it he invented a little paradise reminiscent of the “lion the witch and the wardrobe” where he carved out his own little paradise, behind the wardrobe, and put his beloved desk there, he recalls “‘A king fortifies himself with a castle, … a gentleman with a desk.’” Finally, we meet Nina’s daughter, Sofia introducing us to the most delicate and tender part of the story. Nina arrives unexpectedly in the hotel lobby asking the Count to watch over her daughter whilst she tries to get her life in order after the arrest of Sofia’s father leaving them homeless. Then over the next few days and weeks despite the Counts’ awkwardness and incompetence in the role of fatherhood, they strike up the most endearing father daughter relationship that plays out to the end of this beautifully crafted story, as Nina fails to return. My Review and Comments What I took from the story was the inevitability of change, as the Count accepts his new life as mere consequence while he watches the changes in Russia from his window and the Political changes to the country revealed to him by the many intriguing characters, events, and a world, that he is powerless not just to change but live in fully. The book was outstanding in its expressive narrative, the scenes and emotions were vividly depicted and written with such elegant prose that you have to conclude that not a word could be written differently. The book was beautifully crafted to incorporate the perfect blend of historical context with wonderful characterisation and dialogue. Simple, tender, delicate, humorous, entertaining, optimistic, and extraordinary. Treasures like this don’t come around every day, an enthralling and captivating masterpiece of Historical Fiction. And in the Counts words, we remember that “..life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds. At any given moment, it is the manifestation of a thousand transitions. Our faculties wax and wane, our experiences accumulate, and our opinions evolve”. And in my opinion ‘A Gentleman in Moscow’ is a masterpiece and one of my favourite books of all time, and that opinion I am unlikely to ever change. ...more |
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Jan 04, 2022
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| B0DLT3N34W
| 4.12
| 1,094,429
| 1967
| Jun 24, 2003
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it was amazing
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A fantastic story where reality meets fiction in seven generations of the Buendias family set in the Americas during a time of discovery and Spanish c
A fantastic story where reality meets fiction in seven generations of the Buendias family set in the Americas during a time of discovery and Spanish colonisation, the fight between liberalism and conservatism and the era of industrialisation. These amongst other dominant themes of love, survival, death, and solitude make for an epic novel. The fictional story begins in Macondo, a village of twenty adobe houses, built on the bank of a river of clear water, a utopia that knows little of death and hardship. The fate of Macondo feels both doomed and predetermined from the outset as a small society tries to survive the external influences of a wider America. Through 100 years Mocondo changes and so does the members of the Buendias family with two great characters as head of the family Jose Arcadio and Ursula - well the matriarch. The custodian of the family's honour, for over 100 years, through civil war, political turbulence, and industrialisation. Eventually Macondo becomes exposed to the outside world and the government of newly independent Colombia. Marquez tells this complex story of a multi generation family, who leave and return, love and despise, rise and fall, and whose characters evolve and grow throughout the book as the author unspools a knotty texture of 100 years of family. The plot development is superb but too many to summarise as the book weaves sub plots and themes continuously through this marathon of a story. The book also brings the real and surreal, with a hint of magic as Marquez draws the reader into the ordinary and extraordinary events and peoples lives in a way that keeps you captivated and immersed to the end. So, what’s not to love about “One Hundred Years of Solitude” - The book sometimes feels long, and not an easy read which is made even more challenging because all the characters seem to go by the same few names. I sat with the family tree, abbreviated the names or provided alternatives to keep on top of seven generations. The ending of the book should be at the front and events don't happen in sequence. Apart from that, I loved Marquez's literary classic and would highly recommend. It may have polarised opinion for a variety of reasons but for me, “One Hundred Years of Solitude” is a superb piece of literature and worthy to find itself in the 20th Century classic Hall of Fame and in the list of books everyone should read in their lifetime. Some of my favourite quotes from the book “The secret of a good old age is simply an honourable pact with solitude.” “Then he made one last effort to search in his heart for the place where his affection had rotted away, and he could not find it.” “There is always something left to love.” ...more |
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Nov 23, 2021
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Nov 23, 2021
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Mass Market Paperback
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| 0143034901
| 4.31
| 713,383
| Jan 01, 2001
| 2005
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it was amazing
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Exquisite is a word I have reserved for that extra special gem and the “…enchanted sense of promise” that comes with stories like “The Shadow of the W
Exquisite is a word I have reserved for that extra special gem and the “…enchanted sense of promise” that comes with stories like “The Shadow of the Wind”. I savoured the pages, and was mesmerised and captivated with this book that will remain in my mind for a long time. With its beautiful writing, and gorgeous storytelling, it is a story of love, of hate, of tragedy and the dreams that live and disappear in the shadow of the wind. The Plot An antique book dealer takes his son Daniel to the secret and mysterious cemetery of Forgotten books, a labyrinth of obscure and forgotten book titles that have since gone out of print but have soul that live on in the people that read them. “… you only see in them what you already have inside you.... Every book, every volume you see here, has a soul. The soul of the person who wrote it and of those who read it and lived and dreamed with it.” In choosing a book called the Shadow of the Wind by Julian Carax, Daniel embarks on a dangerous path of discovery, when he makes a chilling encounter with who he believes is Laín Coubert the name of a character in the book he has just read; and it is the name of the Devil himself. Faced by this strange and dark person from the shadows, Daniel refuses to give up or sell the book and so a ten-year journey begins and a literary hunt for the Carax’s story and those he loved and lost. The story takes us to Barcelona, into towering mansions and eerie back-streets, and to Paris where Carax wrote most of his novels whilst longing for his lost love, and then back to Spain for the climatic ending. Review and Comments The Shadow of the Wind is an impressively accomplished and stunning novel that captures your imagination and carries you through a story or passion and hatred, of heart and soul, of beauty and of longing with an abundance of anticipation, adventure and thrill as Daniel seeks to discover the life and story behind the author Carax. The standout quality of the book has to be the authors writing style and his extraordinary command over language. There is a dreamlike quality to the writing, that was so enchanting and beautiful, I felt totally captivated and almost bewitched by the story and trapped inside the world the author created for us. However, the attributes of the book don’t stop there, the characters are superb, so well developed and compelling, that they come alive in the storytelling and with well-crafted dialogue. The plot is superb, however, if there was one negative to add, the flow of the book and structure of the book was not perfect in my opinion because it wasn’t always clear who was narrating the story. Yet any negative is certainly overshadowed by the book’s brilliance, the soul and enchanting but heart-breaking story linking two generations. I love the quote, “books are like mirrors, you only see in them what you already have inside you” I could not recommend highly enough. I would give 6 stars if I could. ...more |
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Nov 22, 2021
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Nov 22, 2021
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