Customer Reviews: Read 128 more reviews...
 Okay historical fiction but not memorable September 23, 2008
Mum of the animals (UK)
The strength of the book is the detailed description of the development of a cathedral and its impact on the prosperity of a town through a page-turning narrative and fictional characters. It is a fairly easy read on a difficult subject. It covers the civil war during the 12th century (Stephen and Maud) The downside is it is not a very memorable read. When my book club recommended it, I did not even remember I had aready done so! I certainly would not say don't read it - especially if you are doing GCSE architecture or medieval history. It does bring the period to life more than a textbook would and that can spur you on to learn more. However, it is not a great piece of historical fiction.
 Badly Written Rubbish! September 23, 2008
Jamie MacGarry (London)
1 out of 3 found this review helpful
Really, really, poorly written book. Possibly the most boring I have ever read. Doesn't any one read this before it's published? Why didn't someone read it before and say, "Hold on, Ken, I've just read the first few chapters and I'm losing the will to live. Don't make me suffer any more."
Just because it's in print, it doesn't make it any good. This, is the Emperor's new trousers. And so many, so, so many have been fooled.
 Entertaining read September 12, 2008
The Crusader (UK)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, there are a couple of aspects that for me rather spoil it. Firstly, was there any need for the sex scenes to be quite so graphic? and secondly, the writing style is a bit basic. I also have to agree with those reviewers who have given the book only one star - characterisation was poor and one-dimensional, there was some annoying repetition, and although I'm no expert on the period, there did seem to be some glaring historical inaccuracies. That said, this is a novel and not a textbook, and should be read with that in mind. I guess I would describe this book as an ideal, easy holiday read.
Over long and a bit of a let down September 5, 2008
French reader (London)
1 out of 3 found this review helpful
I was disappointed by this book. I totally agree with H. Morris's review. Everything is predictable, the story is very much like a soap opera (with the goodies and the baddies) and it drags on and on. Not gripping like I imagined it would be. I had to stop half way through as I felt I was wasting my time.
 a prior story, a builder's vision, a manificient cathedral August 23, 2008
SKYW4LKER (Singapore)
1 out of 2 found this review helpful
The best book I have ever read so far. All human should read this book. KF is a remarkable writer of a story - all great characters and all good plots eventually making it believing.
Main characters are the Prior of Kingsbridge who re-create Kingsbridge with the help of its builder Tom and his son Jack. Aliena (Jack's wife) a strong individual fought every way to help brother Richard that was lost to an evil William. Other characters were Waleran, the Bishop, Alfred, Tom eldest son, Ellen, Tom's 2nd wife, and Jonathan, Tom's youngest son.
This book written in a way thats shows all angle of life with ambition and purpose rule by King and manage by prior and bishops. There are areas of loyalty, revenge, courage, resistance, hate, perseverance, and brutality.
1000 pages nothing less tells alot and is worth it. 5 Star best work from KF I am going for the sequel.
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