The Historian
by Elizabeth Kostova
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Book Summary Information
Author: Elizabeth KostovaEdition: Hardcover
Format: Bargain Price
Published: 2005-06-14
ISBN: N/A
Number of pages: 656
Publisher: Little, Brown
Book Reviews of The Historian
Book Review: (Im)Patience Rewarded?
Summary: 4 Stars
Not really. Which is too bad, as Elizabeth Kostova's "The Historian" has the makings of a top-notch thriller hidden deep inside of it. Actually, it has the makings of two or three top-notch thrillers hidden inside of it, which is precisely the problem. There's no earthly reason why anyone's first novel should be anywhere near 700 pages long, particularly when it's a blatant bid at pop entertainment in the Anne Rice vein. Kostova is far too enamored of her own (albeit intelligent and talented) voice. She has stated that she did ten years of research on the book, and it shows. Unfortunately, she seems to have included every single factoid she uncovered during that entire period. This is where a strong editor could and should have come into the picture, but no editorial advice seems to have been offered here, either as to length or content. The book just goes on and on and on...and on, with some of the multiple storylines going nowhere and an ending that strives for dramatic closure, but ends up leaving the reader (at least this one) puzzled and deeply frustrated. After nearly 700 pages, "That's it?" is not the reaction I was hoping for. But there are some mesmerizing scenes and imagery here (in the right hands, it'll make a great movie), and Kostova has to be commended for her ambition. If you're looking for fast and furious, this book ain't it. If you're looking for intellectual and thoughtful, you might enjoy it. What made "The DaVinci Code" a blockbuster was the combination of fast, furious AND intellectual. And ultimately, for all its heavy breathing, that's not what "The Historian" offers.
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