[Mithfânion]

Anyone here who's read her Historical fiction series of the flamboyant Lymond, set in the 16th century?

P.s. I know it's not Fantasy but the chances of finding someone who's read it are highest in this forum, so please leave it be :)

[Alle]

Yes, I have read both her Lymond series (my favorite books ever!) and her Niccolo series, which is also excellent. I have every book she wrote, including her JJ mysteries and her short story. I never tire of dicussing the books either, so be warned! *g*

Was there anything in particular you wanted to know/discuss?

Alle

[Mithfânion]

Well, what put me off sofar is people saying that although they are interesting books, they are incredibly dense. I've read a bit of Game of Kings and Lymond just keeps quoting. I understand he's a fascinating character but her style, well, dense seems to be the perfect descpription. I wonder if she lightens up a bit in later books.

But as I love fencing I should at least love those parts right?

I also get the impression Lymond is good in just about everything he does. Which of the six books did you like the most?

[Kingslayer]

Was she the same author who wrote King Hereafter?If so, can anybody tell me if it's worthwhile read?Looks interesting.

[Alle]

Yes, DD wrote King Hereafter, which I own but was saving to read. By all accounts its very good, and I have no qualms in saying go for it. Her style does take some getting used to, but she is just excellent.

Back to Lymond. The 6 books really need to be read in order. Although Game of Kings and book 2, Queen's Play, could be called 'stand alones', its imperative to read books 3-6 in order, so it makes sense to read them all in order. As for favorites...GoK is a favorite, Pawn in Frankincese (book 4) is gutwrenching and thrilling and I cry everytime I read the bloody thing, and Checkmate (book 6) is a rollercoaster ride as well. They are all good.

DD's prose is didfficult to get used to in Lymond, especially in GoK with all the quotes. Unless you know Latin and French. However, I know little of either language and was able to get the gist with careful reading. After about 1/2 through I was aclclimated and raced through. The quotes seem more heavily used in GaK then in the rest of the series, although Lymond always quotes. Maybe I was just used to the flow of it all that it didn't seem as quote heavy? I am not sure, but I do own the DD companion that gives translation to lots of the quotes. If you read Lymond and then go on to Niccole, you'll see a huge reduction in quoting, as that is a trait of the Lymond character.

the biggest complaint I have heard regarding the series is Lymond's excellence at everything he does. Although this is true (is is a very talented person!) he also has some huge flaws that offset them. I coul see where this seeming perfection would put reader's off, but if someone is enjoying GoK and their only annoyance is Lymond's ability to do so many things so well, keep reading. He is far, far from perfect, and is a facinating character.

Alle ( who is delighted to have had a chance to talk Lymond and DD!)

[Mithfânion]

I love larger-than-life characters so that wouldn't be a problem.

I'll buy Game of Kings and see if I can adjust.

[Alle]

Let me know how you like it! There is in GoK a very good fight, detailed fight scene towards the end. Oh, as for 'lightening up', DD has a terrific sense of humor. There were plenty of times where I was literally laughing out loud while reading.

Hope you enjoy!