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cristina_02's review against another edition
5.0
This was, by far, one of Gregory’s best works of historical fiction. The gripping story of a young woman trapped in poverty by her husband’s disappearance has been riveting. I have not known a book with more unpredictable plot twists. Her daughter Alys is an incredible asset to the story, and their shared toil in similar conditions makes such a tense read.
The struggles of the poor against the backdrop of Charles I’s trial and execution mirror the importance of political events in the lives of those often overlooked by history books- but in ways other than expected.
Overall, this was a delightfully nail-biting read that made me fall in love with the heroine and her resilience against her social and economic station, her abusive husband, and even those that she trusted the most.
The struggles of the poor against the backdrop of Charles I’s trial and execution mirror the importance of political events in the lives of those often overlooked by history books- but in ways other than expected.
Overall, this was a delightfully nail-biting read that made me fall in love with the heroine and her resilience against her social and economic station, her abusive husband, and even those that she trusted the most.
jessyhayward's review against another edition
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I liked this book, but the pacing was ridiculous. The first half was irritatingly slow to the point where I wanted to DNF, but I continued because I enjoyed Philippa Gregory’s eloquent and descriptive writing style. The second half was well-written, though somewhat rushed, and I enjoyed that quite a lot. I hated James’ character but sympathised greatly with both Alinor and Alys. My favourite part of this story, aside from the writing style, is the historical detail written into every page. It is meticulously researched and, as far as I can, extremely accurate to the time. This is what saved the pacing issues for me. I’m not sure how I feel having finished it; the first half is pretty terrible and the second half captivating. I’ll have to think about it and edit this review later. Regardless, I am glad I read it.
lxdymar's review against another edition
4.0
I was fully engrossed in this book all the way through. Was so scared Eleanor would have something awful happen. And I’m SO ANNOYED at Alice for being a selfish brat. And the ending?? I’m annoyed Alice basically risked everything to get married and then… throws it all away?? To prove she loves her mum?? Nah. Go away.
kerrireads379's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
jane_stani's review against another edition
4.0
A slow burn in terms of narrative but I enjoyed this, overall abd gave bought the sequel. Full of historical detail but not too heavy handed. Interesting characters. Interesting setting.
jessthemess55555's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
rmcquade's review against another edition
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
1.5
Could’ve been cut in half if the same points/arguments weren’t made over and over. Barely a witch hunt book as advertised
amyay0's review against another edition
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
Slow for the majority of the book to allow for a lot of world building/historical detail. Action at end felt rushed - but this is the first in a series so interested to see if pace picks up in sequel
nypeapod's review against another edition
3.0
A lot predictable - It is a long book and I could see the events that would occur long before they came to pass in the book.
uhmmm's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75