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A Place of Greater Safety

768 pages, 2006

Takeaways
Description

In 1789, three young provincials come to Paris to make their way. Georges-Jacques Danton, an ambitious young lawyer is energetic, pragmatic, and debt-ridden, but erotically ugly. Maximilien Robespierre, also a lawyer is slight, diligent, and terrified of violence. 

His dearest friend is Camille Desmoulins, a conspirator and pamphleteer of genius who has an obsession with one woman and is engaged to marry another. In the swells of revolution, they each taste the addictive delights of power and the price that must be paid for it.

Understanding the French Revolution

A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel offers a deep exploration into the French Revolution. It's a great way to learn about this historical event in a more personal and engaging way. You'll see the revolution through the eyes of its key players, making history come alive.

Character Development

Hilary Mantel does an amazing job at developing characters in this book. You'll get to know the main characters - Danton, Robespierre, and Desmoulins - in a way that makes them feel real. It's a great study in how to create compelling, multi-dimensional characters.

Historical Fiction at its Best

If you're a fan of historical fiction, you need to check out A Place of Greater Safety. Mantel's attention to detail and ability to weave a compelling narrative around real historical events is truly impressive. It's a great example of how to write historical fiction that is both accurate and engaging.

Exploring Human Nature

One of the key themes in A Place of Greater Safety is the exploration of human nature. Through the actions and decisions of the main characters, Mantel invites us to look into the complexities of human behavior, especially in times of crisis. It's a thought-provoking read that will make you reflect on your own actions and decisions.

The Power of Ambition

In A Place of Greater Safety, Mantel shows us the power of ambition and its consequences. The main characters' desire for power and recognition drives the plot and leads to their downfall. It's a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Quotes 5

A Place of Greater Safety is a monumental feat, a gigantic historical novel that is both meticulously researched and beautifully written.

The GuardianThe Guardian - British daily newspaper

Mantel's novel is a brilliant achievement, a vast historical canvas that brings the French Revolution to life.

The New York TimesThe New York Times - American newspaper

Hilary Mantel's A Place of Greater Safety is a masterful portrayal of the complexities and turmoils of the French Revolution.

The IndependentThe Independent - UK online publisher

Mantel's A Place of Greater Safety is a tour de force, a gripping narrative that captures the essence of the French Revolution.

The TelegraphThe Telegraph - Indian daily newspaper

Hilary Mantel's A Place of Greater Safety is a riveting, immersive journey into the heart of the French Revolution.

The Washington PostThe Washington Post - American newspaper
The GuardianThe New York TimesThe IndependentThe TelegraphThe Washington Post

Recommendations

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Jackie Vullinghs, entrepreneur and technology and venture capitalist, Recommending BestBooks

Jackie Vullinghs

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