Reviews

Augustus by John Williams

8797999's review

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5.0

A masterpiece.

The word is overused but it very apt for this work by John Williams, an author who until now has been on my rador but I have never got around to. I am glad to have finally enjoyed one of his works and got the enjoyment of experiencing something so good for the first time. I know that it will be a book I will return to several times.

Such beautiful writing and different to most books in the plot being carried via letters explaining the life of Gaius Octavian latterly named Augustus Caesar (Emperor Augustus). It was nice to see the different viewpoints of people surrounding the Emperor, albeit their words as fiction.

I have had Butchers Crossing on my bok shelf for a few years and been put off reading it for some reason but I think it has been raised up the pecking order and I can't wait to enjoy it. I do believe I may have discovered a new favourite author.

ashwin610's review

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emotional informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.75

linlin_'s review against another edition

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5.0

En veldig god bok å lese, helt annen stil enn stoner. Tror nok denne er bedre andre gang man leser da det er veldig mange navn å holde styr på.

modoc's review

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challenging emotional reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

jakegilbert's review against another edition

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4.5

Unbelievably good. That Williams can make a novel in this style (letters and records) so compelling and full of humanity is evidence of his mastery. Will read again one day. 

iolexx's review against another edition

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informative reflective slow-paced
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

3.0

ct_hevy's review against another edition

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5.0

Williams solidifies himself once again as the greatest American author, second only to Steinbeck.

cookiewookie's review against another edition

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reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

hijsmn's review

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adventurous informative

5.0

jwb1989's review

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5.0

Remarkable for its readability given the historical breadth and complexity. The contrast between the three Williams novels compels you to compare them once you have completed the set. While I probably enjoyed Stoner more, I admire Augustus the most.