Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
26(26%)
4 stars
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3 stars
36(36%)
2 stars
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I truly did not have the slightest intention to leave the book unfinished. However, I have contemplated this matter more than once. To be honest, I did not have a liking for the end of the story. It depicted a spoiled girl who seemed to know absolutely nothing about the harsh and unforgiving world of business. Moreover, it was extremely hard to remember who was telling the story as it changed so frequently. This constant shifting of the narrator made it quite a challenge for me to follow the plot and fully engage with the story.

It left me with a sense of dissatisfaction and a feeling that the story could have been developed in a more coherent and engaging manner. I found myself constantly having to reorient myself and try to make sense of the various perspectives and voices that were being presented.

Despite these flaws, there were still some aspects of the book that I found interesting and值得 exploring further. Nevertheless, the overall experience was somewhat marred by the issues I have mentioned.
July 15,2025
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This is the sequel to "The Rich are Different" and it is every bit as gripping. Howatch is a master at using the alternating first person point of view.

Her Starbridge and St. Benet's trilogy novels, which are set in the Church of England, are truly remarkable.

These novels are among my very favorite novels of the 20th century.

The way she weaves the stories and develops the characters is simply outstanding.

The alternating perspectives add depth and complexity to the narrative, making it a truly engaging read.

Each character has their own unique voice and personality, which makes it easy for the reader to become invested in their lives.

The settings are vividly described, transporting the reader to the world of the Church of England.

Overall, Howatch's novels are a must-read for anyone who loves a good story.
July 15,2025
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Powerfully Crafted

This is a truly remarkable story that weaves together the themes of love, loss, and corruption against the backdrop of changing times. The author has masterfully developed the characters, making them so vivid and real that you can't help but become completely entwined in their individual struggles. As you progress through the narrative, you'll find yourself constantly questioning the motives of not only the characters within the story but also those around you in the real world. The story's ability to make you reflect on human nature and the complex web of relationships is truly a testament to its power. It's a captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, and leave you with a profound sense of思考 and感悟 long after you've turned the final page.

July 15,2025
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While I thoroughly enjoyed this novel,

as I have a penchant for these multi-generational wealthy family sagas.

However, it was rather challenging to develop a great deal of empathy for the major characters.

The story follows the lives of the ultra-rich starting post-WWII, a time when circumstances were quite different.

The two key women seemed to lead rather useless lives. Their marriages were tumultuous, and motherhood clearly wasn't their strong suit.

Most of the men, on the other hand, were extremely ambitious and cutthroat.

I suspect we are drawn to these types of books because we all envision what life would be like with boundless resources, power, and success.

But this novel serves as a vivid example that money does not necessarily bring happiness.

It makes one wonder if the pursuit of wealth and status is truly worth the sacrifices and the often unfulfilling lives that seem to accompany it.

Despite the flaws in the characters, the story still manages to hold one's attention, perhaps because it offers a glimpse into a world that is so different from our own.

Overall, it is a thought-provoking read that leaves one with much to contemplate about the true meaning of happiness and success.
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