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Prophecy is a well-researched novel of historical fiction that centers around a real event and real people, but - spoiler alert! -don't be tempted to Google names and places until after you've read the novel. There is a large cast of characters and several plot lines so be prepared for some confusion, which can be distracting. I enjoyed this book, although not as much as the original in the series, Heresy, and feel it could have benefited from a more zealous editor; there were several examples of telling when showing would have been more effective. The author doesn't leave those who haven't read Heresy in the dark, but provides sufficient background so that Prophecy stands on its own. Historical fiction buffs, especially those who favor the Tudor period, will really enjoy the writing; the descriptions take you there!
Rated of 5
by Ann D. (CLEARFIELD, PA)
Greater Expectations
I wanted more from Prophecy especially since I hadn't read Parris' first book, Heresy.
Tudor England has been written about for hundreds of years, but the real life of Giordano Bruno was itself a mystery to me. I did a little research and found that there could have been more depth to the character of Bruno in this novel. That being said, Parris did a good job of providing a plot that held my interest, a cast of colorful characters and the hope that there is more to come.
Rated of 5
by Joanne H. (Waconia, MN)
Mixed response
I think that I should like this book more than I do. It meets all the criteria for a good historical mystery, and is well written, though not beautifully written, as one of the editorial reviews states. The plot is well crafted, The period detail is good. Despite all these good things, there is something missing, perhaps in the characterizations, that left me emotionally uninvolved, and thus, disappointed overall.
Rated of 5
by Rachel B. (Waynetown, IN)
Enjoyable Read
I have not read "Heresy", the first book featuring Bruno, but the author makes it easy to get into his character and the story without the feeling of being out of order. It was a fun read, and held my attention. I really enjoyed the historical references, especially the reminders of just how much of a role the stern rules of class etiquette played in Courtly life. There were no surprises when it came to solving the mystery, but I liked the quality of the story enough not to be disappointed.
Rated of 5
by Valerie B. (Westfield, IN)
Prophecy
Hunky Giordano Bruno is back in this compelling page-turner. This time, he has wormed his way into the French ambassador's home when he finds himself in the middle of a complex plot to overthrow Elizabeth I and replace her with Mary, Queen of Scots--the one true queen according to the English and French Catholic faction. Despite several "close-calls" Bruno deftly defies discovery of his true loyalties (a Protestant-leaning scientific humanist) and manages to keep his secrets from his hosts. In addition to the coup-planning, Bruno is also brought into the fold by Sir Francis Walsingham on a series of murders of Elizabeth's ladies-in-waiting meant to scare the Queen into believing her death has been foretold by the stars.
Prophecy's plot twists alone are enough to make this book immensely interesting. But, Parris' historical detail and accuracy brings in a whole new element to the story. You actually feel like you are part of Elizabeth's court and can sense it's sights, smells and sounds.
Don't miss this satisfying sequel as I, for one, await Bruno's next thrilling mission.
Rated of 5
by Sue P. (Richardson, TX)
Prophecy
Astrology, black magic, the occult - all play a part in this novel by the author of HERESY. Fans of Historical Fiction should put this book at the top of their lists. Parris writes knowledgeably about her subject and captures the English Medieval times just as we might envision it.
Rated of 5
by Lisa R. (Salem, OR)
Prophecy by S.J. Parris
This book is definitely for those who love history in their books! It took a little while for me to get into the story, but then I enjoyed it very much. I will be looking for a copy of the writer's other book, Heresy. The writing is very descriptive and detailed and it's easy to let yourself start thinking like Bruno, from who's point of view the story is told. I would recommend this to my friends that like to pair historical detail with their mysteries.
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of 5
by Linda S. (Tucker, GA)
