Helpful Score: 1
Extremely slow-moving, and not that suspenseful or interesting. I bailed out at chapter 9. Life is too short for books that make you wonder why on earth you are reading them.
I loved his Pillars of the Earth series, but I hate to say this but this is a 'guys' book all the way...politics, war, betrayal, spies, not a thing I usually read. Wonder why he did it since that loses about 50% of possible sales. And it didn't help that he made the American President a woman, that felt like he did it because he realized it was through and through a guys book and threw a hook in there for the women. I got through it, and it should be said he is still a good writer, but this book wasn't at all what I was looking for from him. I can't recommend it to someone else. Better at the historical fiction I say! And way too long for the story line. It could have been half the size.
This well written narrative gives a chilling look at what could happen when international events get out of control and diplomacy breaks down. Seemingly small unrelated events all contribute to a crescendo of unthinkable violence that seemingly takes place without the willingness of the participants. The book makes one reflect upon international diplomacy - how much is based on fact and how much is based upon the feeling and emotions of the leaders of the various powers holding the nuclear reins.
I have read all of Follett's books and this one was a very intense read. Pauline Green is president of the US and has the job of trying to control an escalating international crisis. There is a lot going on in this novel that is a reminder of what is going on in our world today. It's a book that once you start reading, you will need to read to the end in order to find out what happens. Follett has the ability to fray our nerves and keep us captured. Read it for yourself and see if you can escape his clutches.
