Genre: Historical Fiction
This prequel to Ken Follett’s, ‘The Pillars of the Earth’ is brilliant, it sets the scene perfectly, but it is also a story in its own right.
Follett very cleverly explores the stories from three differing perspectives, a noblewomen, a priest/monk, and a builder. Each with their own complexities and narratives.
What was done extremely well, is the build between the relationship with each character - Raga, became a friend - Aldred, a trusted adviser/confidant - Edgar, an older brother and protector.
At the start each had their own journeys and stories and as the overall story developed each of them became entwined with each other - this was executed brilliantly, and done so subtly that it was not overtly obvious.
For me, personally, I love historical fiction that encompasses the lives of ordinary people - this for me provides a truer insight into how life was like during that particular period of history.
Some book reads would view the size and number of pages contained within this novel and immediately be put off picking it up. What I would say to these individuals, is don’t be, it’s such an enjoyable read that the size does not even phase me - you will enjoy it.
This leads me on nicely to why I gave this five stars, predominantly for all the reasons mentioned above, but primarily it’s for the pure enjoyment of this book. You honestly will not be disappointed.
I’ll extremely looking forward to reading more within the ‘Kingsbridge’ series. So watch out for more reviews coming soon.
This prequel to Ken Follett’s, ‘The Pillars of the Earth’ is brilliant, it sets the scene perfectly, but it is also a story in its own right.
Follett very cleverly explores the stories from three differing perspectives, a noblewomen, a priest/monk, and a builder. Each with their own complexities and narratives.
What was done extremely well, is the build between the relationship with each character - Raga, became a friend - Aldred, a trusted adviser/confidant - Edgar, an older brother and protector.
At the start each had their own journeys and stories and as the overall story developed each of them became entwined with each other - this was executed brilliantly, and done so subtly that it was not overtly obvious.
For me, personally, I love historical fiction that encompasses the lives of ordinary people - this for me provides a truer insight into how life was like during that particular period of history.
Some book reads would view the size and number of pages contained within this novel and immediately be put off picking it up. What I would say to these individuals, is don’t be, it’s such an enjoyable read that the size does not even phase me - you will enjoy it.
This leads me on nicely to why I gave this five stars, predominantly for all the reasons mentioned above, but primarily it’s for the pure enjoyment of this book. You honestly will not be disappointed.
I’ll extremely looking forward to reading more within the ‘Kingsbridge’ series. So watch out for more reviews coming soon.
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