A review by mahmabaer
Eifelheim by Michael Flynn

slow-paced

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

3.5

The story is broken into two narratives -- one takes place in Middle Ages in rural Germany, in the town of Eifelheim, and the other takes place in modern day (I believe) US.  The story from the past is excellent, compelling and a fascinating read, one well worth the time and investment.  However, the story taking place in modern times involves one of the least pleasant characters I have ever read.   Sharon Nealy is self-centered, egotistical and arrogant, speaks down, and belittles her partner Tom, shows great disdain for his work and interests, and finds him an obvious nuisance, to the point that she treats him as a child.  I found her so distasteful and unpleasant that I almost skipped the chapters pertaining to the modern telling of the story.  In retrospect, the entire modern narrative was completely unnecessary, and the narrator was rather pointless, I'm still not sure why he was actually included in the book, despite how brief his interjections were.  It's too bad, because the actual story, the meat of the narrative taking place in an unassuming rural village in Germany, was wonderfully told, had fascinating characters and development, and lots of intriguing thoughts.  I was anxious to hear how it progressed, and yet, everytime the narrative changed to modern times, I rolled my eyes and audibly groaned. 

ETA:  I get the impression that the end was rushed as well.  It doesn't so much end as it does... stop.  

Skip the modern chapters and stick with the past.  It's a much better read.