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.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Go to review page

adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

Fall on Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald

Go to review page

challenging dark emotional sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Halfbreed by Maria Campbell

Go to review page

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced

4.5

Maria Campbell certainly has a powerful presence in the page. What a writer! There were parts of this book that were challenging to read. How can one person ensure so much pain and suffering and still come out of it with a shred of dignity or compassion?

Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl

Go to review page

adventurous fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.25

A quick read. A bit above average due to the cool stuff with the swan at the end. I liked the unsolved mysteries and the nods to some of the author's other works.

More...

michael_taylor's reviews 268 reviews

michael_taylor's reviews
268 reviews