This is the second installment of the All Souls Trilogy. I wish I knew someone who had read these books in my real life because I think it would make...moreThis is the second installment of the All Souls Trilogy. I wish I knew someone who had read these books in my real life because I think it would make a fascinating discussion.
This is a good "middle chapter" to Diana and Matthew's story. Again, in a story this long, there are places it dragged a bit. I found myself wanting to know how the whole thing ends rather than wanting to know how they will deal with this particular situation or scene in the book. But with a work (considering all 3 parts to be one work) of such a large scope, I guess it is to be understood.
I will try not to give any major spoilers. But if you don't want to know anything at all, stop here.
The story opens with Diana and Matthew in the 16th century. And they are they for almost the entire book.
Here you meet some very well know people from English history. And we meet people very important to the couple's personal history/histories.
I guess we learn some about the manuscript they are seeking. But as I look back now that I am done with the book, not as much as I had assumed we would know. Questions about Diana's powers are answered. And the relationship between witch and vampire is fleshed out.
There are a few peeks at what is occurring in the present while they are in the past. And these are clearly designed as appetizers--I want more details about this.
So many times the 2nd installment in a trilogy whether movie or book feels somehow unsatisfying. We know the characters because they were introduced in the first bit. But the major stuff can't get wrapped up in #2 so the juiciest stuff has to wait. So the second bit feels a bit like a throw away. I don't know that I would go that far with this one, but basically there are a couple things new added to keep our interest, but little wrapped up firmly so we can feel good about where things are. When there is really only 1 major story arc, stretching it out over three rather longish books is more frustrating that satisfying.
Don't get me wrong. I still like this book. It's still 4 stars. And maybe I am just prejudiced against the second installment of all trilogies. Give me something. Answer some questions. Give me one new thing that is still pretty big and let me see the end of that thing. I need a little satisfaction to make me want more. I don't want to just throw the whole baby out with the bath water. KWIM?
But if you are committed to this story, you'll like it. But come on Deborah Harkness, throw me a bone. Pretty please?
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