I love historical novels, particularly those including real known historical people, so I am disappointed I didn't enjoy this one. I set Cradle aside after 150 pages as it had become an unenjoyable chore to read.
I found the writing turgid and the style dry. I didn't get caught up in the story as the 'time and place' didn't feel real with no pictures in my mind. Characters popped up and disappeared with no feeling of their lives continuing between 'scenes'. I had to pause to remember which name belonged to which.
I didn't really care about the characters enough because I couldn't see their motivations - the main figures had their political beliefs outlined by the writer but, without understanding their feelings, this became just another facet of the memory game.
I hate to be uncomplimentary about a story from an author who has obviously put in so much work on research and writing. I will not post this review anywhere except ReadersFirst.
I found the writing turgid and the style dry. I didn't get caught up in the story as the 'time and place' didn't feel real with no pictures in my mind. Characters popped up and disappeared with no feeling of their lives continuing between 'scenes'. I had to pause to remember which name belonged to which.
I didn't really care about the characters enough because I couldn't see their motivations - the main figures had their political beliefs outlined by the writer but, without understanding their feelings, this became just another facet of the memory game.
I hate to be uncomplimentary about a story from an author who has obviously put in so much work on research and writing. I will not post this review anywhere except ReadersFirst.