Reading 1001 discussion

4. Discuss the plot:
• Is it engaging—do you find the story interesting?
• Is this a plot-driven book—a fast-paced page-turner?
• Does the plot unfold slowly with a focus on character?
• Were you surprised by complications, twists & turns?
• Did you find the plot predictable, even formulaic?

I had a really hard time with this book. Normally, you start books confused and then the mysteries are revealed. However, I spent most of my time reading this book confused. I abhorred the present day chapters. I could not relate / understand the characters. I felt like there was a lot left unsaid and I had to fill in a lot. I really enjoyed the Hannah chapters. However, this was not a page turner for me.

The plot revolved around the desire of modern day narrator Beigh to find the diamond known as the Emperor's Tear to do this she had to immerse herself in the life of Hannah and follow her down the years until Hannah encounters the diamond.

The plot was very interesting as we found out how Hannah had acquired the diamond. I would say this is a plot driven book with a large focus on the characters and does evolve slowly. I was surprised by the fact that through most of Hannah's marriage to Gabriel she spent a lot of time alone. I think the plot was very predictable. An intriguing story if you like history.

Yeah, I mostly agree with Anna's assessment. The diamond at the end was fairly interesting, but line Anna said, the present-day chapters were difficult.

I really don't care for dual-story books. I enjoyed Hannah's story much more than Beigh's. The plot seemed fairly predictable.

As I mentioned previously, the plot and story were initially interesting, but the execution was lacking. I agree with Sashinka about the comparison to Byatt, but do not share the same enjoyment.