The Best of Men by Claire Letemendia

The Best of Men follows Laurence Beaumont as he returns to England in 1642 after six years of fighting in the European Wars. Having served as an infantryman, a spy, and even a cardsharp in a Dutch brothel, Laurence has witnessed the brutalities of war and lost his faith in God. His journey back home is fraught with the memories of the horrors he has seen and the people he has encountered. The novel delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of a man who has seen too much and is struggling to find his place in a world that seems just as cruel as the battlefields he left behind. /n/n As Laurence navigates the complexities of post-war England, he must confront his own demons and the changing landscape of a nation on the brink of upheaval. The Best of Men is a powerful exploration of faith, humanity, and the enduring impact of war on the individual soul. The book's rich historical detail and compelling narrative make it a standout in the genre of historical fiction.

Reviews

Abbey's · 2017-11-27

brilliant 4.50

The story is described as completely gripping and unputdownable, with a plot that keeps readers engrossed. The reviewer highlights the themes of conspiracy, passion, and treason set during the English Civil War.

The reviewer describes the book as a completely gripping story that is hard to put down. They highlight the themes of conspiracy, passion, and treason, which are set against the backdrop of the English Civil War. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the plot and the way it keeps readers engaged throughout. The historical setting adds a layer of richness to the narrative, making it a compelling read. The reviewer finds the book to be a standout in its genre, with a well-crafted plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Quick quotes

A completely gripping, unputdownable story of conspiracy, passion and treason set during the English Civil War.

A wonderful story that is brilliantly written, with characters you can really care about and a plot that keeps you engrossed to the end.

Historical Novel Society · 2009-09-28

disappointed 2.50

The reviewer wanted to enjoy this book but found the plot unraveling a coded plot to kill the king intriguing. They were drawn in by the historical setting and the mystery.

The reviewer was initially excited about this book, especially with the promise of a coded plot to kill the king set in 1642. They appreciate the historical setting and the mystery that unfolds. However, they felt that the pacing was a bit slow, and the characters could have been more developed. The reviewer found the premise captivating but wished for a more engaging narrative to fully enjoy the story.

Quick quotes

I really wanted to enjoy this book.

The cover informed me that in 1642 one man had to unravel a coded plot to kill the king.

The size didn't put me off, and the cover informed me that in 1642 one man had to unravel a coded plot to kill the king.

Lynrow's WordPress Blog · Lynrow · 2009-09-28

excellent 4.50

The pages are packed with vivid detail, dialogue, and action, making it a wonderful story. The reviewer praises the well-told narrative and the engaging characters.

Lynrow found the book to be a wonderful story, brimming with vivid detail, engaging dialogue, and plenty of action. They appreciated the way the narrative was crafted, making it a compelling read. The characters were well-developed and relatable, adding depth to the story. Lynrow particularly enjoyed the historical context and the way the plot kept them engrossed from start to finish. It's clear that Lynrow had a very positive experience with this book, finding it to be a first novel that stands out.

Quick quotes

The pages are packed with vivid detail, dialogue and action.

It all adds up to a wonderful story, and it is very well told.

A first novel ten times better than many others.

Appears in Lists

English Civil War Books