antithesis90

Still amazing, years later, Jun 21 2004

This is my all-time favorite book; I re-read it every year. Besides being responsible for me changing my major at university and falling absolutely in love with medieval history, this book is thoroughly entertaining to those who may not have a history passion or even passing knowledge of the time period. Penman is detailed enough to help along readers with little to no knowledge of medieval British history, but enthusiasts will delight in her detail and character development. If you have even a remote interest in history, Richard III, or murder, intrigue and deceit, read this book!!

Didn't really cut it, May 4 2004

This is the only LaVyrle Spencer book that I was ever unable to finish! I tried several times to become engaged in the story (a nun falling in love with a father, etc., seems like it would be engaging enough!!), but always found myself putting the book down and forgetting about it. I think a Spencer fan should attempt this book, as others seem to like it, but should probably already enjoy the author before they try it. The only reason I did not give it 1 Star is because I respect the author and her attempt too much for that.

Interesting premise, but falls a bit short, May 4 2004

The concept of a husband long suspected lost at sea returning to find his wife married to his best friend is certainly an interesting concept, but ultimately, I feel, this story falls short of its potential. I did not feel sympathy for Laura and felt that her character was weak and did not inspire empathy or compassion. Rye, while I felt sorry and empathized with his situation, was rather annoyed by his lack of respect for the Laura-Dan situation. In the end, I liked Dan best of all and felt that he conducted himself the best given the situation, and actively felt sorry for the man. Not really how you want to end a novel, feeling sorry for a man other than the hero!