Reviews

Fludd by Hilary Mantel

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krobart's review against another edition

3.0

See my review here:

https://whatmeread.wordpress.com/2017/07/11/day-1105-fludd/

I wasn't expecting Fludd to be funny so that caught me off guard, but in a good way. Hilary Mantel has such an amazing way with words and describing situations that is was a real pleasure to read this. And the alchemy of Fludd, in the business of transformations, is fascinating to see unfold in the little village.

christinebeswick's review

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3.0

I read this book because the blurb sounded interesting, and I loved Mantel's "Wolf Hall" and "Bring up the Bodies", and I'm looking forward to reading the last book in the Cromwell trilogy, "The Mirror and the Light". Also, I always hugely admire Hilary Mantel's writing style - here it is witty, offbeat and insightful regarding the fundamentals of Catholicism. In this story, Fludd is a mysterious man who turns up one rainy night in the guise of a curate, apparently there to assist the catholic priest of a rather grimy and unlovely village somewhere in the north of England. It turns out that Fludd, an "alchemist", helps people to change for the better, but only if they are willing to listen and understand. Mantel's view of human nature is clear, scathing and pitiless throughout the book; which means I give it 3 stars, because overall, it wasn't a book that I can say that I truly enjoyed.

ravenmount's review

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funny mysterious reflective slow-paced

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

5.0

colorfulleo92's review

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3.0

Hilary Mantel is an great writer that definitely know how to write a story but unfortunately this one didn't stuck with me. Was having difficulty being focused on the audiobook. Maybe not the right time

heatherinthenether's review against another edition

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mysterious slow-paced

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

3.0

This was an odd, twisting little story about a small town, religious leaders, moderate lies, love, and faith. Interesting and lyrical, but difficult to follow.

annie_explores's review against another edition

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2.0

Disappointing lack of character development made me feel like I could not fully appreciate the plot. Also, too much of plot was implied rather than narrated; for me, this created too much distance.

alanyoung's review against another edition

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5.0

I found it wonderfully quirky and humorous. There was delightful dialogue, evocative description and a population of fascinating characters.
Also I did not see where it was going at all.
Highly recommended fun and engaging read.