Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

[m_oonmoon]

I wanted to start this year right by rereading the first two books of the Wolf Hall trilogy so I can finally read the last book. I've been looking forward to it but I wanted to get the full experience by freshening up my memories of the first two books. Wolf Hall is every bit as good as I remember it. Maybe even more so because now I have a better grasp of the characters, which was the main challenge when I first read it.

As with every great books, there's an accompanying sadness at the idea that you may never find a book quite as good. Mantel ignited an interest in historical fiction in me but I fear that no one can do it quite like her. Admittedly, this is a baseless presumption because I haven't read much (or any?) historical fiction. I intend to read every book that Mantel has put out just to fill the void that the Wolf Hall trilogy will surely leave in its wake once I'm finished with it.

I don't know much about England's history but I believe Cromwell is widely regarded as a villainous character. It amazes me how Mantel was able to look beyond that to create a Cromwell that has a softness you would normally not associate with such a harsh historical figure. Mantel's Cromwell is loyal not just to his master but to those who are under his wing. It made me want to believe that everything he did was justified.

Mantel's writing has so much wit and style. It will perhaps require some getting used to but I love it. I'm going to jump straight in to the second book. I probably won't be able to finish it fast because I get back to work tomorrow but I'm excited, nonetheless.