I started this novel but just couldn't do it and gave up part way through. I understand that this series is hugely popular, and in fact, the book was lent to me by a coworker who is a fan. I have to admit, the novel was highly readable and I found the pages turning quickly. It became an issue of quality for me. As I was reading it, I just kept thinking 'This is just a big old cheesy soap opera'.It was hard to read because my eyes were always rolling. Take this sequence from the end of Chapter 2:He gazed back at her. "You are absolutely enchanting," he said in a low voice; then he kissed her again.This time she pushed him away. "My lord, what are you doing?" she said in a shocked whisper."I don't know.""But what can you be thinking of?""I'm not thinking at all."She stared up at his chiseled face. The green eyes studied her intently, as if trying to read her mind. She realized she adored him. Suddenly she was flooded with excitement and desire."I can't help myself," he said.She sighed happily. "Kiss me again then," she said.I read a few more chapters after this, but it was just sooo baaad. I guess a lot of people like this sort of thing but it just doesn't appeal to me. I found the writing pedestrian, the dialogue clunky, and the story too melodramatic for my tastes. Historical fiction is probably my favorite genre. I never knew much about WW1, so this book was extremely informative. it's follows the intertwining lives of several families from several different countries as the old world dies and a new world is born at the beginning of the century. I loved it and learned a lot. there were many points in the book where I cheered out loud or groaned in sympathy.
Do You like book A Queda Dos Gigantes (2010)?
Amazing book, outstanding historical fiction. The entire series is outstanding.
—Stellar
Very good. I'm surprised how much I liked it.
—jenmess
