A masterpiece of breathtaking scope—a brilliantly conceived epic novel that traces the entire turbulent course of English history This ebook edition features a new introduction by the author in honor of the thirtieth anniversary of Sarum. This rich tapestry weaves a compelling saga of five families—the Wilsons, the Masons, the family of Porteus, the Shockleys, and the Godfreys—who reflect the … Shockleys, and the Godfreys—who reflect the changing character of Britain. As their fates and fortunes intertwine over the course of the centuries, their greater destinies offer a fascinating glimpse into the future. An absorbing historical chronicle, Sarum is a keen tale of struggle and adventure, a profound human drama, and a magnificent work of sheer storytelling.
Praise for Sarum
“Bursts with action, encyclopedic in historic detail . . . supremely well crafted and a delight to read.”—Chicago Tribune
“A fascinating journey . . . a clear yet sparkling window upon history with a superb narrative, so perfectly balanced between history and fiction that it clears away the mists of time from antiquity, giving the reader the impression that events over a span of ten centuries occurred only yesterday.”—Fort Worth Star-Telegram
“Strong . . . appealing . . . I haven’t read so satisfactory a saga in years . . . in fact, perhaps not ever before. . . . It gives you not only history but comfort.”—Chicago Sun-Times
“[Edward] Rutherfurd holds us all consistently intrigued. In Sarum he has created a splendid novel that will bring many hours of diversified reading pleasure.”—The Plain Dealer
“A richly imagined vision of history, written with genuine delight.”—San Francisco Chronicle
“Rutherfurd is at his best. . . . His storytelling skills are substantial. . . . One of the best books of the season.”—Kansas City Star
“Absorbing . . . a superior historical novel . . . This blockbuster saga should appeal to discriminating readers, since Rutherfurd has an excellent grasp of his subject and a compelling story to tell.”—Publishers Weekly
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This book was well written and a joy to read. Kept my attention and I looked forward to getting back to it each day.
If you think a history of England would be boring, think again! This historically accurate novel follows the history of England from prehistoric days to – I’m in the 18th century now – present day. The author cleverly follows 5 families from all walks of life down through the centuries, sometimes socially mobile, sometimes not. I have a much …
This is a really good background to some pivotal English history. From Roman times, through middle ages. Old Sarum is accessible outside Salisbury, UK. A 40min walk from the newer cathedral (you can also drive too). Great to visit after reading the book. This would be 5 stars, but did feel like a bit of a slog towards the end.
His books are magnicent!
I love history and found this very interesting .Just think , the Romans built. roads,had the ingenuity to design radiant heat for their marble floors!! The had water piped into their homes. They had built aquaducts.Amazing.
The one thing I missed or skipped was how on earth did that all just disappear when they left?
This book was fiction in …
in describing the history of the Salisbury area it also makes clear many things about the history of Britain.
This is a ten-thousand-year saga. It’s fascinating in its history and in the characters that originally migrated to. created, and lived in what became the English city of Salisbury. While the characters are fictional, the background against which they play is historical. It’s a big book and a great read.
I read this novel many years ago , and totally enjoyed it. When Bookbub offered a digital copy of the book I gladly added it to my Kindle to read again. It is, while fictional, a very interesting account of the founding of London. I would highly recommend it to all lovers of Historical Fiction.
An informative realistic historical page turner.
I found it very interesting and at the same time I learned a great deal of English history. I love reading this author’s books.
This is a history of Britain from prehistoric times. I had never read this type of novel and was very interested in beginning to read this one. I wasn’t disappointed! Although it’s a huge novel, it moves along well and is informative as well as entertaining. Fans of James Michener will love this one – vast panorama of time, history; …
If you love Michener and Ken Follett non-spy novels, you will LOVE this book!
The names were difficult which made it hard to follow the characters.
It was not what I expected but when I realized what an overview of history it was
(Set within a story) I kept reading. I’m glad I perservered.
Great historical fiction that details the wonder of Salisbury, England.
A historical masterpiece, where history of a nation meets fiction.