Sadly not what I expected

Whilst the ideas behind the story are intriguing I found the characters were not fleshed out enough. There would have been ample opportunity to include more of the minor characters and develop them fully, for example the rat, who I personally loved and was disappointed at how infrequently it came up for such a major part of the plot.
I, like others, found “the game “ to be a little difficult to understand and feel that the author knows this, thus the epilogue with the explanation. While the concept was good, the details left much to be desired. Perhaps more details for such an important component of the novel would help those who struggled to comprehend what it was all about.
Loved parts of this but not sure if I will read the next one as I was constantly frustrated by the numerous time shifts and disliked the way minor characters switched to end up being the main focus of the book. I much preferred The Binding although it too changed focus from the main character at the end.
The really bright light in this? For me, the narrator, loved her.

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2 people found this helpful

Strip away the complex stuff and it’s a mild story

I read the The Binding some time ago and was so impressed with the storyline and concept, so expected something a little theatrical but I don’t think the two books are in the same arena at all. This tale is set around an ancient cold French castle that is a school for composers if I understand it correctly. The theatrical stuff is all about the art of composing in a political environment that’s not far from Hitler’s ideals. Look past this and the story is a little lacking with a weak love affair. Maybe I’m being too picky but it really wasn’t a book I would recommend to readers of mystery or romance. Narrators were excellent and the title was apt.

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great follow up to The Binding.

another world: similar, but with different rules, gradually unveiled in a narrative in which you feel the characters. i loved it.

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Unique story....very clever

I really had to concentrate on this book. We went back and forth between characters and also time. I see why some reviews were that people were confused. But stick with it!!!! Rich and intelligent and took me away. I gasped several times at the twists and emotion.
The Binding was a book I will always cherish....this way just as haunting and clever, maybe too clever for some.

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An intricate masterpiece

This book is quite unlike anything I have ever read . It draws a you in the more you dip into it .
The narrators add a richness , which keeps you on track . Not an easy read but one worth persevering with

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Disappointed

I just loved The Binding and was looking forward to this one. I found the story waffled on. It just didn't flow for me. Didn't finish and found I was going back over sections to get the gist of what was being told and really didn't get the point of it all, Betrayal yes but for me, there wasn't enough strength to the story to create impact.

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Still not sure what the grand jeux is

This book had me at the beginning and the end and lost me in the middle- I’m still not sure what the grand jeux is??!! The performances were great.

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Heartbreakingly wonderful

I wish I hadn't finished this book. I cannot wait until Collins writes another.
A few triggers in here, but so wonderfully written and such great development of tension.
A clever premise and satisfying end.
Highly recommend.

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ok

I struggled to follow this audiobook due to the timeline jumping. I wasn't entirely invested in finishing it but did so because of the great voice acting. I really enjoyed the Binding, but this book not so much.

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A triumph in storytelling

An utterly beautiful story, narrated in breathtaking perfection! A truly great experience that is well worth your time!

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