I am somewhat torn regarding When Empires Fall. On the positive side, it was a fairly enjoyable, larger than life, completely unbelievable (in an escapist way), soap opera-ish family saga. I certainly didn't lose interest in the story as the pages turned, although I will admit to rolling my eyes more than once. A bit of escapist drama with over the top characters that were at least interesting.On the negative side, there was very little subtlety in the story telling. This was due to the author's attempt at an omniscient narrator. The head jumping point of view shifts meant the reader was never in any doubt as to what any character was feeling or thinking. This constant shifting of point of view may also have been the reason why some people have commented that they felt there were too many characters. It wasn't the number of characters so much as the point of view shifts. At times this led to momentary confusion as to who was speaking or thinking. I would have preferred to see the focus on a few key characters only, which would have allowed the author the way to build a stronger, more intense story.Having said that, I didn't dislike the story and will probably read the second book in the series to wrap things up. The author has loads of potential, and as the overwhelming majority of reviews show, her storytelling hit the mark with many readers (who aren't looking too critically at the structure of the story or believability of the characters). I haven't even finished yet and I had to come and rate this book. I was sucked into the story almost immediately and haven't put it down since. The characters are all so sexy and powerful (you know minus the 90 yr old) I can't get enough of them. Every time a new character comes along I was a little irritated that there was another one to follow but after 3 pages I was happy to have them added. I am very impressed by this free kindle deal.
What do You think about When Empires Fall (2014)?
Excellent book by Katie Jennings. A review will follow soon.
—andy
Simple and predictable. Not bad, but not much new here.
—rowan
Intriguing read! Can't wait to read the next one!
—roos
