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jenn756 's review for:
A Place of Greater Safety
by Hilary Mantel
Wow, I've finally finished it, it only took me a year, on and off! At first I found the sheer quantity of characters confusing - inevitable I suppose with a subject as big as the French revolution. I also was irritated by their interminable conversations, Danton et al seemed to do nothing but gossip. Then we had to wait what felt like forever before the revolution actually happened... Also I felt the endless talking detracted from feeling the heat and smoke of the revolution. I wanted more background, to be almost able to smell the tension in the streets.
And yet I still give it 5 stars... that's because the end was stunning, jaw dropping. I found myself having to slow down so I could savour every moment. By now Mantel had got into her stride and her command of words is incredible.
It's one of those books where you know what's going to happen before you start, and in fact I kept on top of the characters by reading Wikipedia frequently. I think Mantel captures very well the descent of Robespierre - from high-minded idealist to cold hearted killer, the man who disposed of his best friend to maintain his position. He is a fascinating enigma.
Also it struck me how the French revolution was a truly modern revolution.... many of the ideals espoused are more familiar to the 20th century than the 18th. A fascinating period of history and Mantel is a writer of genius, even though a slightly bonkers one.
And yet I still give it 5 stars... that's because the end was stunning, jaw dropping. I found myself having to slow down so I could savour every moment. By now Mantel had got into her stride and her command of words is incredible.
It's one of those books where you know what's going to happen before you start, and in fact I kept on top of the characters by reading Wikipedia frequently. I think Mantel captures very well the descent of Robespierre - from high-minded idealist to cold hearted killer, the man who disposed of his best friend to maintain his position. He is a fascinating enigma.
Also it struck me how the French revolution was a truly modern revolution.... many of the ideals espoused are more familiar to the 20th century than the 18th. A fascinating period of history and Mantel is a writer of genius, even though a slightly bonkers one.