Rating: 
Summary: Perhaps the most complex and rich book I've read
Review: An earlier reviewer used the word "scaffolding" to describe the background within which this book takes place. "Background" is probably the wrong word - this book weaves between past and present but the parallels between the two makes it seem as if the book exists in a time-period all its own. Never having been a fan of romance, I was unsure as to what to expect. Romance is definately the best way to describe the book but it is a case of several romances - character with character, present with history, yearning for lost life, a romance with tales and poems and stories. At first, I found myself skipping some of the poems, hoever, as the mystery unfolds, one needs to read the poems for clues; I needed to read the poems and to feel my way through interpretation in light of what happens between the two main literary characters. Such a rich, rich book, one with surely no equal.
Rating: 
Summary: Authentic, but... (other virtues please step FORWARD)
Review: This is a terribly slow read because it's extremelty BORING; however, it has an authentic feel to it both in terms of the portrait of scholarly problem-solving (two literary experts--who know all there is to know about One Enlgish Poet each--become detectives) and in its psychological portrayal of the love affairs that are developed simultaneously throughout the novel. The ending will leave you wondering whether you feel happy or sad; but in any case, you'll be glad you have read it.
Rating:
Summary: Beautifully written, intelligent, romantic and engaging
Review: This is a wonderful book, rich in texture and literary allusions, palpable, and beautifully written...from the dust of the libraries to the sweet salt air of the coast of France...you can taste every page of this book...the plot takes you on an exhilirating journey, and is revealed through the cross referencing of literary forms...journals, poems, and letters. The characters are wonderful. After I turned the last page, I felt at a loss that I had to say goodbye as I wondered if I would ever again find a book I will enjoy as much.There is also an excellent web-site for more info. on this book which includes further discussion of literary references. Conduct a search under the author's name...you'll find the site. Enjoy!
Rating: 
Summary: Long-winded, but worth the read
Review: If you can pound your way through the first half of this book, you will be rewarded by an engaging read. It's greatest flaw is the attempt to create a series of passionate relationships with really very impassionate, peripherally-constructed characters. It's greatest enjoyment is the creation of a cognative scaffolding by which an incredible tale may be inferred. Be prepared to inject your own emotions into this well-constructed template. Also be prepared to die of bordom during many of the slow passages. All-in-all, I'm glad I read this book, but it will not be appealing to those who have little time to "waste" meandering through alternately priggish Victorian & florid prose. Yes, this book is over-rated, but still worth the trouble of reading.
Rating:
Summary: A truely beautifully written book...
Review: Byatt's command of the English language, both in present and Victorian styles is very impressive. The stories, for there are two interwoven, are beautifully juxtaposed. Today and yester year are not so different after all! I loved it, have recommended it, and it is one of my all time favorite books. This book shall stay on my shelf for life and be read repeatedly.
Rating:
Summary: Masterpiece, poignant and enjoyable
Review: 'Possession' is a massive, complex, perfect achievement which proves spellbounding and poingant at the same time. The most literary nover I have ever enjoyed.
Rating: 
Summary: Wonderful
Review: I have to confess that it took me a long time to get through the first 100 pages ( I put it down and picked it up a couple of times.) But, once I got into the book, I found it to be absolutely wonderful. Highly recommended!
Rating:
Summary: Complex and perfect, a wonder in the literary world
Review: Interwoven lives of the past and present written by a master of the English language, poignant and ultimately touching, that stays with the reader for ever.
Rating:
Summary: Fantastic book
Review: Intricate, beautifully written tale of romance and mystery. After you wade past the first 100 pages, it's difficult to put down. An amazing work when you consider that the writer had to recreate the works of 2 fictional romantic poets (one male, one female), and then weave their story into the storyline set in present day. And the payoff at the end is certainly worth it -- it had me in tears!
Rating: 
Summary: all hype....an upstream swim
Review: one should not have to work so hard to bring the characters and story to that special place in our imaginations where it's all brought to life.....dull, faux-characters.......poetry for the sake of filling pages with words.......tiresome...
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