Paul Sussman

Advantages: a gripping political and historical thriller
Disadvantages: quite a large investment in time

...It was, I expect, inevitable that the Da Vinci Code would turn into a point of reference for a certain type of book, rightly or wrongly. In the same way that when a band becomes big, every other record label wants to have their version of that act, publishing houses are also looking for their version of Dan Browns hit novel. It could even be that the lasting legacy of that controversial book was not the questions it made us ask but the doors it opened for other, better, books to get the recognition they deserve and to get into the high street markets so much more easily. The blurb on the cover of Paul Sussmans hit book states "the intelligent readers answer to The Da Vinci Code" a statement that is more about a lazy, easy reference point than actual fact. One of the things that this book does have in common with the aforementioned book... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Gripping read, very relevant today, tension, action and adventure.
Disadvantages: None - thought it might be overlong but it wasn't.

...the sub plot, the vehicle for bringing these opposing, disparate people together with the inevitable consequences, and the surprising. They are on a quest for a treasure while those around it are on quests for vengeance and bloodshed. They cannot let go of their beliefs and their hatreds, but they cannot give into them either. It would be very easy for telling the tale to slip into favouring one view over the other, to portray one side as the victim and the other as the aggressor. However Sussman manages to avoid the trap; we see see anger, pain, aggressors and victims on both sides, as well as normal, peace-loving folk. I am sure there will be some who claim he portrayed something unfairly, but the great majority of readers will come away having learned something about both sides. Maybe not enough to change the views they held before... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: easy to read
Disadvantages: hard to put down made me late for work!!

...This is the second book written by Paul Burrell about his life as a butler for Diane the Princess of Wales. This book is easy to read and is written extremly well you feel like you know Diane and Paul by the end of it. The book puts an end to rumours and speculation and sets the record straight. This book is a must read for any Paul Burrell or lady Diane fan. You do not nesscarily have to read Pauls first book to read this one but it would help with the background information. There are lots of lovely photographs from Pauls private collection that let you see into another world and way of living. A truely magnificant book which I feel Diane Princess of Wales would be proud of.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful