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saluki's review against another edition
4.0
There is plenty of drama in this Cornish saga with some laughs, often from idle and potty mouthed servant Jud, but plenty of tragedy too. The ending is heartbreaking and I will be reading further to see how this affects Demelza and Ross because even though Demelza has gone through a lot more character growth during these two years, has become a valued member in the community, I wonder can she truly pick herself up after such devastation?
The historical detail of Cornish life in the 18th Century, plus breathtaking scenic descriptions that I can almost smell the salt in the air or feel the suffocating atmosphere of a tin or copper mine collapse, make this a favourite historical novel for me. Graham even touches on smuggling and wrecks and it would be interesting if he explores that more in subsequent books especially since it's the wealthy who profited, not the poor as shown by lack of foodstuffs being transported except for teas and spices to enhance gentry mealtimes.
Wonderful evocative and emotional writing with a diverse, but knowable, range of characters populating this small part of Cornwall. I need to read the next two books before watching Season Two of the BBC adaptation.
espargobookdragon's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
lizzye33's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
brandiburns's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
rchisholm's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
kaylamolander's review against another edition
3.0
Solid easy read. Getting more depth to characters and world. Will read #3.
lindasdarby's review against another edition
3.0
I really enjoyed Ross Poldark but I can't say the same for Demelza. I knew what was going to happen because I had watched the tv series but I don't think that is what dampened my enjoyment of the book. There were parts that seriously lagged for me and if I'm being honest the mining and smelting company just aren't that interesting to me as a reader. Debating reading more of the books. I'm concerned the series is going to become too much of a soap opera.
alyskarstark's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Listened to the audiobook, read by Clare Corbett.