2025- October - Act of Oblivion by Robert Harris

Declared the best book of the year (so far)  The marks averaged at 9. 

Very well written, and good signposts throughout.

We had discussions about the takeover of New Amsterdam to be New York, and how the cities mentioned look now. 

For me, it was a good read. The second half was slow  and drawn out with all the writing  and reminiscing that Ned was doing, but wow, what an ending.  Very well researched, though I suppose he put words in peoples mouths, as  he would have to do.  I would love to go to New Haven and see if the structure is still the same. The Highlight of the book was the ending. 

From FW: I, too, really enjoyed the book. 

I do wonder if other episodes in English history had been written in this form whether I'd be a history (ish ) whizz by now, as I found it absolutely fascinating. The characters were real, if more than zealous, and so well painted. I haven't read any other books by Robert Harris and now feel they need to be on my Christmas list 😁

I'm going to give it an 8 as I don't think I'll have time to read it again with the pile I have waiting for me. If I were thirty years younger it would have been a 9 ( but I wouldn't have had the time to read it!!)

From TC: I really enjoyed Act of Oblivion and rate it 10/10.  I thought it might be a bit boring and heavy but found it well written, good pace and I could engage with the characters. 14/10/2025

It wouldn't suit being made for television. I suppose it is hard to get actors to be hung, drawn, and quartered.