Rating: Summary: Not fun Review: The Still is the first fantasy book I've read in a long time. For me, the book went very slow. Not enough action.However, the thing that irked me the most was the main character Rodrigo. I hated him. I almost threw the book to the floor because he was so annoying. To worn those about the plot, it isn't about wars and battles and magic. This book is simply about some princeling trying to secure votes for his kingship. Very boring indeed. When the plot seems to go toward an interesting and action packed story the book ends. Maybe I'll find part II better if it ever comes out.
Rating: Summary: A Great Read Review: This book was great. I'd have to say that I did like the Seafort Saga better, but this was definately a good book. I was looking through the other reviews before I decieded to write this one, and was just shocked to see all of the bashing of the homosexual stuff in the book...Now, I'm not a fan AT ALL of Homosexuals myself, but I at least have the maturity to get over the fact that it is added into the book, and see that there really is a genuinly good story line behind it. The characters were very dynamic, the battle scenes spectacular, and the magic was very cool too. It might not be one of the best...but hopefully with more attempts at fantasy, Feintuch will get better and better.
Rating: Summary: Dreadful Review: In my opinion, if you like a snail-paced plot, characters that have no redeeming qualities or entertainment value, and a stunning lack of originality, then this is the book for you. I did not like the way the homosexual relationship was handled, but there is far more to dislike about this book than that.
Rating: Summary: One of the worst books I have ever read. Review: After reading the author's Hope series, I bought this book as soon as it made paperback. I had to force myself to finish it. I cannot remember any book with such an incredibly unappealing main characrter. Since I have read hundreds of science fiction and fantasy books over the years, this is really saying something about how worthless this book is. I would have given it zero stars if possible.
Rating: Summary: Well done story, but some gaps Review: Let me say for the record, first off that I enjoyed the book quite a bit. It was well-done, and kept my attention, though some part did make me uncomfortable. Now, for the controversial parts. I don't consider myself homophobic, but I really don't follow the logic here. Maybe I missed it, I don't pretend to be a scholar, but if the holder of the Still's power has to be a virgin to wield it, then how were the three sons of the Queen born. And also, penetration notwithstanding, an orgasm given by another is an orgasm, how can that determine virginhood. If I missed something that made this obvious, I apologize for wasting people's time. Again, a well-done story with a some curious logic about virginity and sexual practices.
Rating: Summary: Pass the cane, time for another 15 year old to flog ! Review: The HOPE Saga, starts with similar scenes. The author sure has a whipping fettish which adds nothing to the plot. In The Still, this hero too, grows up eventually to save and run the kingdom. I was disappointed that the yarn was thin and a little trite. I was spoiled, the Seaforth Sagas set a high standard. If you want a Fantasy setting and the fight for the true crown, The Still will do. The sexual involvement with the older male teen was a crutch for a weak plot, as in most books; Feintuch is capable of better work.
Rating: Summary: Finely-written coming-of-age story. Review: A marvellous coming-of-age story; the gradual painful transformation of a self-centred little guy into someone who cares about his people. Roddy has some redeeming qualities, probably picked up from his mother; the wiles of statecraft and an intuitive handling of intrigue. This seems at odds with the way he handles his personal relationships, but understandable, given his upbringing. The fight scenes are far better than most - transporting you into the thick of the melee and leaving you in no doubt about the horrors of war; something which figures large in Roddy's wish to recover the kingdom as peaceably as he can. The way Roddy handles the other Lords & Ladies and gathers them to his cause is one of the best I've read, and all of this done with a slight touch of humour that kept giving me a wry smile every so often. Other reviewers have commented on the homosexuality content, some reading more into the relationship than there is - where does it say there was any penetration? All he needs is a helping hand! If this was left out of the story, bang would go the pivotal point of Roddy's need and reliance on Rustin to save him from himself and from losing his virginity. Thoroughly recommended, it kept me up most of last night finishing it; there HAS to be a sequel.
Rating: Summary: Splendid! Review: If you are looking for a great fantasy novel but don't want to read five or more volumes to get the whole story, then The Still is your book. One of the more finely tuned fantasy plots to date, The Still gives you realism, intrigue and the growing pangs that we all face when young. Feintuch makes superb use of characterization while managing to weave them all into a fully realized story that stays within one volume. When you are done, you are done, although you will find yourself wishing it went on. Unlike many of today's fantasy authors, Feintuch keeps his magic within the realm of believability, and his world is one that might have existed once upon a time. Strongly recommended for the reader who loves all the good things of fantasy without the flowery fancy-that-could-never-happen stuff. Bravo!
Rating: Summary: DAVID FEINTUCH HAS ONCE AGAIN DONE HIMSELF PROUD Review: Although not as involving and emotional as the Seafort Saga, The Still is unique in its own right. Concentrating once again on a young, rather petulant boy growing up into a man worthy of being king, Feintuch deals with several issues in this book, not the least sexuality. One refreshing atribute of Feintuch's writing is the cleanliness (for want of a better word) so lacking in many other contemporary novels. His characters are larger than life and seem to draw on the readers sympathy, while his worlds - if you look in the atlas of when the world was medieval you'll find his name inspirations - are almost tangible. Not as emotional as the other books but at high points I found myself blubbering. I look forward eagerly - as I'm sure many others will too - to his next novel. Still my favourite author.
Rating: Summary: As expected a well written very entertaining story. Review: After avaricely reading the Nick Seaforth saga, I anxiously awaited Mr.Feintuch's next book. Happily I was not disappointed.Many books written in the medieval setting have a tendency to be long winded and rambling, often getting caught up in descriptions of dress and scenery,court intrigue,use of flowery language suited to the time,and long drwn-out and blood battle.These are all necessary parts of the genre but handled improperly can overwhelm a story. This is not the case with "The Still".With wonderfully developed characters and relationships,a fast moving pace,and an excellent story Mr.Feintuch has succeeded in writing a book that I found difficult to put down until I reach the end. And even then I wanted more of the rich and facinating world of Rodrigo and Rustin.I felt as if I was watching a member of my own family grow from impetuous and unworthy youth to a man of good heart, honesty, honor, and wisdom. A man to be proud of. I eagerly await the next...
|