A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follett Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of A Dangerous Fortune
Book Review: Follett has a Formula!
Summary: 3 Stars
I've read three of Follett's non-mystery novels, and all have similar formula's. In each, there is an almost unbelievably selfish, powerful, scheming mother who will stop at nothing to advance herself, her family, and especially her son. In "Pillars of the Earth" it was Regan. In "World Without End" it was Petranilla. In "Dangerous Fortune" it's Augusta. Each of these three is really the same woman. Each of the books also has a villain who is so completely evil and does such relentlessly evil deeds that he is almost a joke: William in Pillars, Ralph in WWE and Mickey in Dangerous Fortune. And, to make the formula complete, each book has a talented and put-upon hero who is not only kept from his rightful recognition throughout most of the book, he is also kept from his lady-love for not years but decades, and ends up marrying someone else during the agonizing separation (who is disposed of by the author in some fashion as to render the hero blameless).
That said, each of books is a damned good read for the simple reason that Follett knows how to tell a story. He knows how to keep you turning the page to see what happens next. His characters may be only two dimensional, but they have really fascinating adventures, and it's fun to hate the villain and know that in the end the good guy will triumph.
Book Review: Follett hits the bull's-eye on an age-old issue
Summary: 5 Stars
Money has always corrupted those who give mind to it. It's appalling how paper, nickel, copper and other materials have manipulated actions, decisions and, lamentably, families. Money is a god.
Ken Follett has spun a web of corruption, conspiracy, murder and lies. A Dangerous Fortune is the tale of the Pilasters - a family so immersed in their fortune that paternal love has no accommodations. The trust of sons and daughters, husbands and wives, uncles and best friends is betrayed - shoved to second place. Everything is placed on a thin line for one purpose only: money.
The characters are fleshed out to their fullest capacity. The dialogue is belivable. When Hugh Pilaster, in his prime as a banker, gathers the immediate family to announce a catastrophical situation, one can't help but feel in the middle of the scene. The spotlight is shining bright, and it's pointing directly at you.
The story leaves your mind searching for answers, answers that not even 500+ pages could answer. Life is full of questions and A Dangerous Fortune will leave you questioning your impulses and inclinations, your greed and generosity, your loyalty and your love.
Book Review: Follett never disappoints.
Summary: 5 Stars
As always, Ken Folletts books are full of well developed and interesting characters and a compelling story.Book Review: Follett on murder, politics & money in Victorian England
Summary: 4 Stars
A fast paced story of great intrigue in Victorian England. He captures the life of high society whose morals were meant to be somewhat prim & proper but were in fact almost the exact opposite.A great easy read, ideal for a vacation on the beach or a long plane ride - but don't expect a masterpiece.
Book Review: Fortunate enough to read it
Summary: 4 Stars
I agree that Follett tends to follow a similar pattern in all his books that's why I take a break between his novels, however it is a successful pattern that contains memorable characters, action and intrigue.After I was finished I wanted to return to find our more about the Pilasters.