mahamreads's Reviews (365)

This was such a fun book to read! I was a bit skeptical in the beginning because it started off slow but it picked up after chapter 3 to the point where I just could NOT put it down. Dan Rhodes has created such wonderfully funny yet heartwarming characters who I really enjoyed reading about (my favourites being Wilberforce and Ayanna). The writing is also absolutely top notch and it was just hilarious at times to the point where I was laughing out loud! I could go on and on but I fear I'll drop some spoilers but PLEASE!! READ!! THIS!! BOOK!!

This book read like a fever dream but I enjoyed every minute of it

there are certain writers that just have a penchant for a certain genre, and I think this is true for Maggie O'Farrell and historical fiction. the quality of writing in this book was absolutely phenomenal, as if the words and sentences just floated off the page and created images in my head. 
Lucrezia was an absolute treat to read about and may just be one of my favourite historical figures of all time. her quiet power was so inspiring and interesting to read about, especially during a time where women were treated like commodities.
I've seen people talking about how this book is very slow, and in my opinion there's nothing wrong with that. O'Farrell writes so skillfully and beautifully at such a wonderful pace that you can read this book in either one sitting or over the span of a few days. 
I really need Maggie O'Farrell to release another book soon because I cant wait!!!!

I really enjoyed this book! The premise was interesting, the characters were fleshed out, and it was just a really great reading experience

The main character was absolutely insufferable, the story was SO slow, and the way they found the killer was just not satisfying enough. 

Reading Shakespeare for fun and not for a literature class makes you realize just how funny he is