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by Martin Schoeller
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Good Books rating 4.33
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  • ID: 1342
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-05
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
blackwells.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-15
exciting 4.50

The reviewer found 'Mr Standfast' by John Buchan to be an exhilarating adventure novel with vivid Scottish scenes and memorable characters. They enjoyed the fast-paced narrative and look forward to reading more books in the Richard Hannay series.

The reviewer stumbled upon 'Mr Standfast' by John Buchan after a recommendation from mystery writer Kerry Greenwood. They were immediately drawn into the thrilling adventures of Richard Hannay, a character who first appeared in 'The Thirty-Nine Steps'. The novel, set during WWI, follows Hannay as he undertakes a dangerous mission, falls in love, and faces numerous escapades. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the vivid Scottish scenes and the resourceful character of Mary Lamington. The fast-paced narrative and the classic standoff between good and evil made the book a captivating read. They appreciated the moving scenes between Hannay and his old friends and found the novel to be a delightful addition to the Richard Hannay series. The reviewer plans to read the remaining books in the series soon.

Quick quotes

    I've also read _Greenmantle_, the next Hannay adventure, & _Mr Standfast_ is the third.

    The Scots characters like Andrew Amos & Geordie Hamilton just leap off the page with their humour & impenetrable dialect.

    I enjoyed reading _Mr Standfast_ very much & I look forward to reading the last two Hannay novels, _The Three Hostages_ & _The Island of Sheep_, very soon.

all-about-photo.com · Unknown · 2025-10-15
excellent 4.50

The reviewer finds 'Mr. Standfast' to be one of their favorite Buchan books, praising its thrilling set pieces, great characters, and exploration of serious themes like courage and sacrifice. They highlight the book's connections to 'The Pilgrim's Progress' and its role in the story, both thematically and as a physical object.

The reviewer is a long-time fan of 'Mr. Standfast', considering it one of their favorite Buchan books. They appreciate the book's thrilling set pieces, great characters, and exploration of serious themes such as courage, fortitude, and sacrifice. The reviewer also delves into the book's connections to 'The Pilgrim's Progress', noting how it influences the story thematically and serves various practical roles for the characters. They find the book to be a great story even for those unfamiliar with Bunyan's work, but especially enjoyable for those who can spot the allusions. Overall, they consider it the best of Buchan's Richard Hannay adventures and one of his finest books.

Quick quotes

    It has everything: a mystery, some thrilling set pieces, great characters, numerous locations, a touch of romance and some chilling scenes on the battlefields of World War One France.

    As well as being a very entertaining book, 'Mr. Standfast' explores some serious themes — courage, fortitude, sacrifice.

    I think 'Mr. Standfast' is the best of Buchan’s Richard Hannay adventures and one of the finest books he wrote.

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-15
rewarding 4.00

The reviewer finds 'Mr Standfast' by John Buchan to be a compelling spy novel that reflects the context of World War I, blending thrilling narrative with propagandistic elements. They appreciate Buchan's exploration of pacifism, socialism, and the totalization of war, making it a rewarding read for scholars of the Great War.

John Buchan's 'Mr Standfast' is a spy novel that stands out not just for its fast-paced narrative and classic tropes but also for its deep engagement with the socio-political climate of 1917. The reviewer highlights Buchan's role as a propagandist, noting how the novel addresses war-weariness, pacifism, and the threat of socialism. The protagonist, Richard Hannay, embodies the archetypal hero on a dangerous quest, while the novel's modernist elements, such as the shape-shifting antagonist and the significant role of air power, add depth. The reviewer also praises Buchan's ability to combine contemporary issues with thrilling storytelling, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the Great War.

Quick quotes

    Buchan the thriller writer does not neglect his duty as a propagandist.

    The reviewer highlights Buchan's role as a propagandist, noting how the novel addresses war-weariness, pacifism, and the threat of socialism.

    Certainly, Buchan does not suffer in comparison to later spy novelists such as Eric Ambler or Graham Greene.

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