Rich

This book receives quite a bit of vitriolic language about how it's the "worst book ever written" and other predictably trite rantings of those who have different expectations than the book satisfies. I began this book with an open mind and with an interest in the writing style of an author I hadn't read before. Although I freely admit the prose is a bit longwinded, it contains some eloquent passages among the numerous pithy and dry paragraphs (think Romantic Period of literature and nature writing). Descriptions run a bit long in some cases and the characters set off on lengthy soliloquies at the oddest of times, but the book simply isn't without merit. It's a fairly unique voice offered in the age of Manifest Destiny and bigoted attitudes towards Native Americans, the author commits quite a few of these himself, it must be admitted, but offers a generous view for its era.Twain probably does more damage to Cooper's legacy than any other American author with his quick-witted and poignant critique of Cooper's style. His typically viperous tongue slashes to the bone while at the same time coaxing a smile from the reader. I am a huge Twain fan but to compare these two authors is folly. I would imagine Cooper never expected to be a gritty American author like Twain but most likely envied those like Emerson or Thoreau. It can be debated whether he successfully accomplished this aim, but to cast this book unfairly into the bonfire as so much kindling is unfair. It is clearly not the best example of American writing of the era, but clearly it isn't the worst either. It's a modestly enjoyable book with moral lessons for the era, which I believe makes it a limited success.

Great wrap-up of a great trilogy (six part when you include the prior Assassin's trilogy). Though long, this book really picks up around page 200 or so and continues strong through the ending. I won't include any spoilers in this review, but the ending feels very satisfying after so many pages looking over Fitz's shoulder. Hobb has definitely defined herself as one of the seminal fantasy writers around and this trilogy really establishes a benchmark for adult, intelligent, emotional writing that other writers should definitely aspire to. Well written and definitely highly recommended.

Extremely accessible, appropriately amusing, and very informative. I am really enjoying the book and can say that Bill Bryson's understated wit is very engaging. It's quite a dense book with lot of information, very approachable examples, and a bit of humor sprinkled throughout. I was impressed with the overall format, content, and presentation and highly recommend the book to anyone with an interest in the world around them. Definitely one of the best Science books around.

I really didn't like this book. The main character is ridiculously cowardly, the plot is meandering, and there is no real moral or intellectual development in the end. Basically, I was left feeling unfulfilled and thinking how some of my favorite fantasy authors would have handled a plot so filled with potential for redemption, intrigue, moral quandries, and general suspense. About the only redeeming part of the book for me was that it was short.

A solid plot, well told in a single volume, which is getting more rare among fantasy books these days. The book has some moments that elicit a definite cringe-factor and a few adults-only scenes so it's not appropriate for kids. I found the characters to be a bit less engaging than his previous trilogy but this may have been partly expected given the morally gray nature of the storyline.Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to Abercrombie fans and for those looking for a slightly darker fantasy story. It deals with complex moral issues and will leave you pondering the full implications of vengeance and revenge.

A truly impressive classic. I am much more impressed with the writing than I thought I would be. The story holds up well even after more than a century! It's interesting to see the original Dracula prior to the image-defining performance of Béla Lugosi. I am eager to finish this one so I can move on to Frankenstein before Halloween!

A provocative and interesting exploration of some of the more complex social issues. I was surprised by how easy this book was to get into and how effortless the writing style was. I was particularly intrigued by the social questions raised by the book and specifically how statistics can speak to the various impacts. It's not surprising that it remained a best seller for so long.