Sometimes I just need to lose myself in a good ‘ole family saga. Put that family smack dab in the middle of haute Victorian London and I’m hooked. I’ve read several works by Follett, so I knew I could expect dips, twists, and hairpin turns as I followed the fortunes of the Pilaster family. I also knew I could expect a birdseye view of the political culture of the times smattered with just enough sex and violence to keep things entertaining.
I was not disappointed. I love this kind of escapism. Follett seamlessly weaves history and fiction to create a multidimensional story. For me, this is just plain fun reading. Follett keeps me turning pages with an almost lightweight suspense. Oh, the book’s no kiddie ride, but neither is it a heady tome that one has to “think about”.
The book is lengthy enough to spend a little time with, and I think that definitely helps readers build a sort of camaraderie (dare I say relationship) with the characters. That being said, Follett does not plumb the depths I’d like to explore, particularly with the Pilaster matriarch and the coat-tail hanging Micky Miranda.
Overall, A Dangerous Fortune is an entertaining romp and I would recommend it for people who enjoy sagas.
Rocky Rates It: 4/5 Stars