A Tale of Two Cities (1859)

While I found this book enjoyable, it didn't captivate me. I love classics, especially those that captivate me from the first word to the last because even if there's so much description I almost forget the plot, I still want to read on because I'm lost in the book. Sadly, as much as I wanted to love it, this one didn't. During parts of the novel, I had my attention held, but this novel lost it as soon as the descriptions started when the plot started getting slightly slower. ( )

great ( )

I was happy to find that there are multiple sources for free versions of this book. It's available on Kindle (there are many cheap versions for $1.99 or $2.99, but if you search you can find a free version), and there is a podcast from LoudLit.org available in the iTunes Store where the book is read in 31 episodes. I listened to the podcast while exercising or playing video games, then picked up the Kindle version when waiting at the doctor's office, and got through it quite quickly. I'd recommend anyone try it, as there's a reason this book has stood the test of time: you're bound to find something in it that you like. ( )

I struggled through the first few chapters. I love Dickens and thought I had finally found a dud. But as things progressed I was sucked in and the final few chapters are some of the most breathtaking and suspenseful I can remember reading. As ever with Dickens, there are some truly memorable characters; Sydney Carton & Madame Defarge stand out, but I also loved Mr Lorry, Jerry Cruncher and Miss Prosse. In many of his novels Dickens gives us a suffering, angelic female and we have one of the most long suffering and angelic of all in A Tale of Two Cities but these ladies are not his forte. Madame Defarge, by contrast, is a masterpiece. Made twisted and bitter by past wrongs she is terrifying in her quest for vengeance. And I think I fell in love with Sydney at the end; I will admit my eyes were slightly damp. I think I will need to read this book again in a few years.... ( )

I really liked this book and I am so glad I picked it up! Now I know what Will and Tessa are always geeking out about, haha. ( )