History brought to life - Rated 
Once again, George Macdonald Frazer has shown us what a master of the historical novel he is.
The setting, in the 18th century Border country, is perfectly drawn and the sense of unease and ever-present danger, caused by the Border Rievers (savage warring bands, loosely based on families) who could and did strike at will is put over most powerfully. The plot line is simple but gripping and holds the reader to the very last page.
A beautifully drawn tale - Rated 
First of all, this is far removed from Fraser's Flashman books - though the eye for character and dialogue is just as acute. It is not a rollicking adventure story and the plot itself is quite slim. I don't mean it's shallow, but it's about what was, for the sixteenth century Borders, a fairly minor affair - a Reiver raid (or 'Road'). It's far more about the evocation of place and time, though it also has it's share of exciting bits (well done, as you'd expect from Fraser). The feel for place and time is created with exceptional skill: the language is archaic without being incomprehensible and Fraser knows his history (see The Steel Bonnets for that). As for the ending, yes it might not satisfy all - it's reminiscent of the ambiguity of Mr American more than anything else he's written, but it's still quite powerful.
So then, if you want a fast-paced swashbuckling, this probab;y isn't for you. If you want something that shows you how historical (or any) fiction should be done, you won't regret buying this.
Disappointed...sorry about that - Rated 
I don't like admitting that I was disappointed in this book.
I travel fairly regularly through the area, which I find beautiful and distinctive. Unlike the reviewers for The Steel Bonnets I recommend visiting at all times of the year, just ensure your clothing is appropriate and nature will provide any desired variety of weather patterns.
I love the books of George MacDonald Frazer but felt that this was an opportunity just missed. The story has depth and well drawn characters but seems curtailed too abruptly.
It waa probably my fault as I expected a blend of history and fiction, a beginning and an end. I found the blend and a beginning but would have preferred a more conclusive end as well, even 'though life doesn't work that way in reality.
Disappointed...sorry about that - Rated
I don't like admitting that I was disappointed in this book.
I travel fairly regularly through the area, which I find beautiful and distinctive. Unlike the reviewers for The Steel Bonnets I recommend visiting at all times of the year, just ensure your clothing is appropriate and nature will provide any desired variety of weather patterns.
I love the books of George MacDonald Frazer but felt that this was an opportunity just missed. The story has depth and well drawn characters but seems curtailed too abruptly.
It waa probably my fault as I expected a blend of history and fiction, a beginning and an end. I found the blend and a beginning but would have preferred a more conclusive end as well, even 'though life doesn't work that way in reality.
|
