William Lowell Kane and Abel Rosnovski, one the son of a Boston millionaire, the other a penniless polish immigrant-born on the same day near the turn of the century on opposite sides of the world-are brought together by fate and the quest of a dream. Two men – ambitious, powerful, ruthless – are locked in a relentless struggle to build an empire, fueled by their all-consuming hatred. Over sixty … sixty years and three generations, through war, marriage, fortune, and disaster, Kane and Abel battle for the success and triumph that only one man can have…
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This came recommended to be by someone as I was looking for a “K” book to read in my quest to read books starting with every letter of the alphabet this year. Well worth it, and I was glad to know that it is part of a trilogy – I will look forward to reading the others!
If you like family sagas and rags-to-riches stories (as well as riches-to-more-riches), this mega-bestseller from 40 years ago is for you. I’ve long been a fan of British author Jeffrey Archer’s crime fiction. (He’s one of the few novelists who has spent time in prison, having been convicted of perjury). I’ve also enjoyed his short stories. This is NOT short. At 600 pages, it will keep you occupied during these stay-at-home times. William Lowell Kane is born rich and privileged in Boston. On the same day in 1906, Abel Rosnovski is born out-of-wedlock to a woman who dies in childbirth, father unknown. Yes, they are destined to meet many times over the next 60 years as business and personal rivals. Archer builds deeply-layered, deeply detailed characters and is likewise skilled at shifting the reader’s rooting interests. There are two MAJOR plot twists near the end. You’ll probably foresee them both 200 pages (and 15 years) early, but that won’t deprive you of satisfaction with the book.
This book is in the top three of my all-time favorite books! I couldn’t put it down until it was finished. Excellent!!
This is one of my all time favorite books. Great storyline, great characters, excitement, emotional at times, spans a few generations……….Can’t say enough, what a great book this is.
Clever, suspenseful, and an easy read.
I found myself thinking that the main characters were real. I had to remind myself that it is fiction. It is kind of like reading a soap opera which is right in line with my interests.
First book of Jeffrey Archer have since read all his books great author.
I love a bit of real history blended into a story. Such a great way to learn something about our world and feel what people have gone through. Two boys to men live very different lives, but intersect, and become enemies because of a simple misunderstanding. A really enjoyable read.
The plot and characters are very interesting. Some details of the main character, Abel, past experience not very truly correspond with Polish reality of the time described which is excusable, in a way. The relationship of Cain and Abel is a mix of hatred and secret affection, envy and desperation which makes the composition really fascinating.
Enjoyed it immensely. Felt sad for both men.
One of my favorite all time books. Jeffrey Archer can tell a story. The book is highly entertaining . You walk away with many thoughts of ones own life and the people you come across, and you wonder which one you are…Kane or Abel.
This is a book I can read over and over again!!
I read this so long ago that I do not remember much about it, except that I really enjoyed reading it and gladly suggested others read it also.
unrealistic and the characters were unbelievable
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and hated to see it end. Great storytelling and looking forward to more of his books!
This book is definately in my top five all time!
I’m a big fan of Jeffrey Archer and thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Good book.
Love to read stories about interesting characters. This is hard to put down.
Although I wished for a different ending I truly enjoyed the book. The characters were believable