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Archangel by: Robert Harris

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Rating: - hard work

I read this book having recieved many recommendations from people. I found that the first few chapters were very hard work, and I thougth that perhaps the author had thought of the ending when he started writing the book, but had not thought of the beginning, and so had to write something to fill it in - well at least that's what it felt like. I was slightly disappointed with it as perhaps I was expecting too much from it having had so many good reviews, but if you want something different, then perhaps this is the book for you.

Rating: - An astounding requisite for any historian!

This novel examines the mentality of the Communist leaders by creating a enthralling plot which results in the reader being physically unable to put the book down. On a personal level, I am studying Russian History in the Sixth Form and it has vastly supplemented my work and given me an huge insight into the belief that the Russians strongly upheld. The vivid characters all portray certain traits that are visible in one's self; transforming each, whether they be major or minor, into a manifestation of society. The fast pace that is retained throughout the novel keeps the reader and the principal character on edge until the very last word has been read. I believe this book to be one of the most gripping tales I have ever read and have learnt an ocean of information about the Russian mind-set and culture due to reading this book - BUY IT!

Rating: - utterly compelling

like one of yor other reviewers, I just couldn't put this book down! I started it yesterday afternoon, when the footie was on, the kids and hubby had to make do with a sandwich tea as I wouldn't put it down to cook, and I eventually crashed into bed this morning at 4am

Rating: - Disappointing after Fatherland and Enigma

A book of two halves - the first has an old- fashioned feel to it- and the second almost sets out to shock us (a la the appalling Hannibal). Not nearly so much suspense as his earlier books, perhaps we care less for his unsympathetic characters and are unconvinced by the plot.

Rating: - A truly monemental achievement.

I've been reading thrillers for more than thirty years and not since 'The Spy Who Came in From the Cold' have I come across an adventure story as good as this. Archangel doesn't just catch the moment but transcends into art. If you think that's just hyberbole - read the book yourself. I've travelled a lot recently in Russia and Harris captures the mood there perfectly and by focusing so clearly on Stalin he raises one of the most difficult and important questions of the century - how do we judge evil? I disagree utterly with the reviewers who say the book somehow loses pace as it goes on - I think the reverse. The denoument at the end is as shattering as the famous reveal at the end of 'The Spy who Came in From the Cold'. More than that its prescient. No one who reads this book will ever watch on the TV screens the news from Russia in quite the same way again. Proof that the thriller is art - read it for yourself and see.

Review Pages: 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Next »