In southern Greece in 2004, a close-knit group of archaeologists searches for the buried traces of a formidable ancient power. A student running from a failed marriage and family, Ben Mercer is a latecomer to their ranks, drawn to the charisma of the group’s members—to the double-edged friendship of Jason, the unsettling beauty of Natsuko and Eleschen, and the menace of Max and Eberhard. But Ben is far too eager to join the excavation project, and there is more to the group’s dangerous games and dynamic than he understands. And there are things that should always remain hidden.
My Thoughts:
Just from reading the synopsis I thought this sounded like an interesting book that I would enjoy. I'm sad to report that it wasn't the case. I now realize that I have no interest in Ancient Greece, Gods, or Ben (the main character). This book was too involved in the inner workings of an archaeological dig site, using terminology that went over my head. I found that I did not care about Ben, his life, or his misery. The authors lack of quotation marks for dialogue turned me off and the pacing was slow. That being said, this book may still be interesting to someone who has an affinity for Ancient Greece. I feel bad that I didn't really enjoy this book, so I thought I would leave you with more positive thoughts of this novel.
“Resonant with classical myth, this is a rich, rewarding story of the outsider—the existential loner searching for his place in the world.”
— Daily Mail (London)
“[Hill’s] prose contains many vivid traces of his poetry. . . . Exquisite and arresting images. . . . Hill’s eye for detail is superb and he never confuses relevance with truth. . . . This is a wonderful novel: elegant yet savage, restrained yet full-throttled, illuminated by the sort of brilliance that leaves you short of breath.”
— Daily Telegraph (London)
Thank you to TLC for asking me to be a part of this book tour
** I was not comp
ensated for my review.Cute kitty courtesy of Caribou's Mom.
Good review. I had the opportunity to review this one as well and I just wasnt sure if it was a fit for me. Your review tells me I made the right choice.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry this book didn't hit its mark with you, but for the right person, I'm sure it would be most interesting. However, like you, I prefer to stay away from ancient ruins of any variety... :)
ReplyDeleteGood honest review, teh blurb did sound good. But then I also do like ancient Greece
ReplyDeleteAncient Greece, archaeology, and Gods would have kept me from picking up the book... but I know plenty of other people that would love those elements in a novel.
ReplyDeleteI love this line: "I now realize that I have no interest in Ancient Greece, Gods, or Ben (the main character)." Great review, as always!
ReplyDeletethe synopsis would have stopped me from reading it period. lol. i'm not really into greek gods etc etc etc. bummer u didn't like it :):):):):):):):):):):):)
ReplyDeleteMost people seem to feel the same way on this one. I don't think I'll be picking it up.
ReplyDeleteI would have picked it up based on the synopsis too. Too bad it didn't work. Actually, for me, I enjoyed your "don't bpther" review a lot.
ReplyDeleteThe synopsis hooked me as well but I really don't think that it fits the book. I made it through the 1st 150 pages okay, but having more of a struggle with the rest.
ReplyDeleteAww, don't feel bad. You're just being honest. Sorry it didn't work out for you. Back to the tbr for you :)
ReplyDeleteliked your honest review. The cover was so great I was very interested.
ReplyDeleteNot every book connects to every reader and I for one, appreciate your honesty. Sometimes synopsis of books don't always fit the whole scope of the book. Sorry it was not a book that you enjoyed.
ReplyDeleteSorry the book was a disappointment. It's always a bit disappointing when you think there is something that will grab you and then it's a let down. Hope the next one is better!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear this one wasn't a good fit. It doesn't sound like it would be a good fit for me either!
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad when you don't like a book that you have to review! This one doesn't sound too bad though.
ReplyDeleteI knew this book wouldn't be for me back when I had read about it. Sorry it was a dud for you but that's the way it goes sometimes.
ReplyDeleteI do like reads on ancient Greece but it's still got to be an interesting story and well written. Sorry you didnt enjoy this one but your reasons sound fair ~ better luck next time :-)
ReplyDeleteSorry you didn't like the book, but thanks for making me laugh! This was the funnest negative review I've read in a long time! :D
ReplyDelete