Reviews with content warning for Sexual content - Fall of Giants

This is utterly epic in scale, and it could have been incredibly difficult to follow all the different strands of story that weaved through the grand backdrop of the First World War. But it's a testament to the strength of the characters Follett created that I was never bored. The book begins in 1911 and ends in 1924, following a number of families in different circumstances. From Russian workers to British and German aristocrats, Welsh miners and American diplomats, the history of The Great War is unfolded through their stories and it is absolutely fascinating.

So much of the political nuance (which has been carefully researched) I had no idea about, and it was really interesting to read something that encompassed so many facets of society that had an effect on the outcome of the war. There have been so many stories centred on trench warfare (and those chapters are brilliantly written here), but I knew so little about the political battles to end (and in some cases prolong) the war, the rise of the suffragettes in London and the Bolshevik revolution in Russia.

When separated from the huge story, the characters themselves were also really engaging. Grigori Peshkov is so idealistic and noble after a tragic childhood, while his irresponsible brother Lev fritters away his opportunities. Maud Fitzherbert and Ethel Williams are a lady and a maid respectively, and form an unlikely and wonderful alliance while fighting for women's rights. There are characters to love, and some I loved to hate. There are love stories between classes and warring nationalities, and there is still so much more of the 20th century to encounter. I can't wait to read the second installment.

Content Warnings

motivationsloch's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful tense slow-paced

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

4.0

Content Warnings

machenn's review against another edition

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emotional informative reflective sad slow-paced

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

5.0

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