Helpful Score: 7
Certainly not for the fainthearted, this 800+ page novel on the history of London is true to the author's form. Rutherford so skillfully weaves detailed fiction and fact that YAs may have to head for the reference books to verify which is which. Basically, the story is London's evolution from a trading post to the seat of an Empire and the families who lived that history. Through the adventures and everyday lives of these characters, one can go to Shakespeare's Globe Theater, tend the plague patients with Dr. Richard Meredith, attend hangings at Newgate Prison, weep at the loss of life and limb due to "God's fire," visit the taverns with Chaucer and his pilgrims, and have other experiences in this exciting city. A special book for readers who have a burning interest in history and the stick-to-itiveness to finish and reflect on it. A perfect choice for the summer hiatus or winter holidays.
Helpful Score: 4
I READ THIS BEFORE A TRIP TO LONDON. IT'S A GOOD HISTORY OF THE CITY, VERY DETAILED AND WRITTEN WITH CHARACTERS THAT FLOW OVER CENTURIES. SLOW AT TIMES, BUT I LIKED THE HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ENOUGH TO KEEP READING AND I ENJOYED THE BOOK
Helpful Score: 3
The historical recount of London told through fictional characters. Throughout the ages, from pre-Roman to the 20th century, new characters related to past characters move throughout London as their stories are told. Great Book...a little long, but intriguing beginning to end.
Helpful Score: 2
I love this novel... I would rate it just below Pillars of the Earth in this type of genre. Although I have read almost all of his novels, this one and Sarum are the best (in my humble opinion!).
Helpful Score: 2
A lovely historical fiction novel about the early roots of Great Britain. A good, fascinating read!
