a big diappointment from this great author - Rated 
I have read Robin Pilcher's other books and found them wonderful reads. This is another matter; too many characters at the beginning left me feeling rather bewildered, and a lot of the time I could'nt quite see the point of the whole plot. It all seemed so predictable and superficial. I found myself sliding over the sentences and paragraphs, unable to really concentrate on the print in front of me. Please Mr.Pilcher revert back to your previous style - you can do it so much better than trying out a new line. This book was a GREAT disappointment to me.
A Gem of a Book!!! - Rated 
What a gem of a book! And how sad that it's probably two years until next time!
Everybody who have seen Robin Pilcher as having not only inherited his mother's (Rosamunde Pilcher) talent but also her writing style, are in for a BIG surprise with this book. "Starburst" is quite different from the author's other three novels, and positively so. This book is a genuine Robin Pilcher novel, written in a unique style of his own. The only thing remaining from his mother being the name.
"Starburst" takes place in Edinburgh during the annual international festival. We are following some very different people/destinies during those three weeks in August, first separately and then when they accidently intertwine.
Robin Pilcher's knowledge of the various aspects of the festival and the professional secrets behind the many kinds of art being performed, as well as his insight into the human mind, whether it's world famous violinist Angélique, retired cameraman Leonard, comedienne cum housewife Rene or young car thief T.K. struggling to go straight, is impressive. These people are made so alive they literally walk out of the book.
I've got to especially mention "the two roses", Rene from "'hartlepool", Yorkshire and Matti from Lancashire. I'm convinced their show at the "Underbelly" is real, and would somebody please get me a ticket for next year?
"Starburst" is warm, funny and beautifully written. Often I just stopped and repeated sentences, enjoying the masterful use of the English language. Rene's hilarious remarks in cockney, Angélique's stilted English with charming bits of French thrown in, Leonard's polite gentleman English and T.K.s badly twisting of his mother tongue.
The description of the city of Edinburgh during the festival, from classical concerts in famous concert halls to simple street performances, is vivid. I have never been to Edinburgh - until now!
The book is not without drama. It's not only a colourful tale of partakers and events. Destinies are determined, lives changed forever.
With "Starburst" Robin Pilcher has taken a huge step forward in his authorship. A professional reviewer has written "Why has this guy not started to write earlier?" Agreed. But how glad I am that he finally did!
A book to read and read again! - Rated
After waiting for what seemed like years, I devoured this latest book in one day. I tried to make it last longer, but the characters and the setting called to me like home baked chocolate chip cookies. Mr. Pilcher has improved on perfection and I will find it hard to wait for his next book-but I shall! Ronelle Nicholson
|
