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A review by michael_taylor
A Place Called Freedom by Ken Follett
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.5
I like Ken Follet as an author, but this was a big whiff. What normally attracts me to him is the simplistic, straight forward approach to storytelling. In this book, his usual style works to his detriment.
Every character is just a 2D vessel to get us from one plot point to the next. Mack is the low born, stern willed, strong liberty lover. Lizzie is the go against the grain, free spirited girl born into upper class.
Jay is the entitled, handsome and deceptive son. Can you guess what happens next?!?!
It all just felt so mechanical and going through the motions. The problem is the book isn't concerned with what's going on in the world around it. Slavery, union rights, political intrigue. All an afterthought when put next to making sure the two protagonists find each other.
On the positive side of things, it reads very quickly. It's easy to grasp and fairly weightless. Other than that I would say you'd be better served with any of his other books.
Every character is just a 2D vessel to get us from one plot point to the next. Mack is the low born, stern willed, strong liberty lover. Lizzie is the go against the grain, free spirited girl born into upper class.
Jay is the entitled, handsome and deceptive son. Can you guess what happens next?!?!
It all just felt so mechanical and going through the motions. The problem is the book isn't concerned with what's going on in the world around it. Slavery, union rights, political intrigue. All an afterthought when put next to making sure the two protagonists find each other.
On the positive side of things, it reads very quickly. It's easy to grasp and fairly weightless. Other than that I would say you'd be better served with any of his other books.