Helpful Score: 6
The book started off a bit slow, taking its time to really build up the story - then it became really intense right near the end but ended rather quickly. The very last chapter was satisfying (and left a bit of a lump in my throat), but it did feel a bit rushed right before then especially with the slow lead-up prior to that. But I liked the story and the history so it was definitely worth reading.
Helpful Score: 5
Loved it! Floats between present time and the 1200's. Crusades and the Holy Grail. Less "blood and guts" than the DaVinci Code, but I put it right up their in enjoyment level!
Helpful Score: 5
The best Historical Fiction I have read in 15 years, possibly ever.
Helpful Score: 3
This was very difficult for me to read. The writer includes liberal (and annoying) doses of French and Occitan words. There is a glossary at the back of the novel, so you find yourself constantly interrupting your reading (sometimes several times a page) to flick to the glossary. I got about 1/3 of the way through and stopped. Just couldn't take anymore. I say don't waste your time.
Helpful Score: 3
I read this book for our Book Club. I liked it; however, everyone else did not like it. The average rating was about a 2.5 out of 5. Most were excited about the subject matter and looked forward to reading it, based on the Professional Reviews. They were greatly disappointed. Women felt it dragged in the beginning and didn't take off until chapter 52 - about 3/5s of the way in. The end was filled with too many details and got confusing. Another note was the author gave way too many scenic details. Also those who did not have a French language background lost a lot in the French and Occitane phrases Mosse used throughout the book. We were left with many ?s, as well. There were many more facets people did not like. All of us - 9 - felt we would not read anymore books by Mosse.
