What is the last book you read, and your rating?
- Redlegs
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Re: What is the last book you read, and your rating?
It was a fairly typical Dickens tale in many respects, combining a detailed knowledge of various facets of London life in the mid 19th century, a range of fascinating characters from diverse social backgrounds, and an intriguing plot with several elements of mystery and suspense.
On the down side, I found the story a bit long and convoluted, and there were times I found the vast array of characters and their inter-relationships confusing. There were a few flat spots where the story seemed to drag, and some of the 'good' characters were unconvincing.
Dickens has written a relatively political novel with Bleak House, taking sharp satirical aim at the legal profession and the pomposity and inertia of the High Court. He reveals the devastating impact that the 'system' can have on the lives of ordinary folk, and how the legal profession simply eats away fortunes with its rampant fees and self-serving processes.
The story is told in two interwoven parts; one in the third person, describing events and actions of various characters, and the other in the first person, "Esther's Narrative", narrated by a key female character, Esther Summerson, which makes for an effective and interesting structure to relate a long and complex tale.
Not his best, but still an enjoyable, if lengthy, read. 4 stars out of 5
The Great Gatsby, F Scott Fitzgerald
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Angels and Demons what more can I say.
- Fran
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A world is born again that never dies.
- My Home by Clive James
- ktom
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- ozydel
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- Asen Stoyanchev
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I started to watch the TV series but it is a far cry from the book.
The story is very interesting as it has a complicated mystery and the characters are memorable.
I would rate it 4 out of 4.
- horntrey13-
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- Sorchadorcha
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- Redlegs
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@Fran, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and good to hear from you again. I have missed your posts lately.
The Great Gatsby, F Scott Fitzgerald
- Ann McPherrin
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Last night, I finished a book called "The Chaperone" by Laura Moriarty...it was about a woman who helped a teenaged Louise Brooks get to dance tryouts in NY in the twenties.
Asen, I hadn't read the Alienist in years, but I couldn't keep up with the series so I think I agree. Some books owe at least as much to voice as to action.
- petiteprimera
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