I too have found Great House a struggle. It seemed to dart about, with a lot of different people dwelling on events in the past with no note of optimism. Yes the use of language is good, but the book did nothing for me. Anyway I have just picked up Annabel, which also looks a difficult topic, so I will see how I get on with that.
I must admit that I've struggled with 'Great House' too. 'Annabel', 'Grace Williams' and 'The Tiger's Wife' all have such engaging narrative voices, but I found it hard to engage with any of the multiple narrators in 'Great House'. I start to get stroppy when I feel that a writer is playing clever games at my expense.
ReplyDeletePenny
Annabel is easily my favourite so far. In fact, even though I haven't yet read them all, it's the one I am going to say I want to win. I thought the writing was beautiful and even though the subject matter was difficult and at times un-nerving, the book had me hooked and kept me engaged all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be recommending it to others wholeheartedly!
ReplyDeleteI'm only about 70 pages into the book and am struggling. It seems to be screaming 'look how post-modern and clever I am'... doesn't impress.
ReplyDeleteOthers on the shortlist at least have passion.