The Armour of Light by Ken Follett

*** Review ***

Ken Follett, the maestro of historical fiction, transports readers back to the captivating world of Kingsbridge with his latest epic, The Armour of Light. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in European history, the novel embarks on a journey from 1792 to 1824, delving into the challenges faced by a small group of Kingsbridge residents. With my anticipation building, I wondered if this new addition to the Kingsbridge series could live up to the high standards set by the earlier books. My worries were quelled as I immersed myself in Follett’s masterful storytelling, reaffirming my faith in his ability to craft gripping historical narratives.

The narrative unfolds in a time when revolution and tyranny are in the air. In 1792, a tyrannical government is hell-bent on transforming England into a formidable commercial empire, while across the Channel, Napoleon Bonaparte’s ascent to power stokes dissent, keeping France’s neighbors on high alert. Kingsbridge, the fictional town at the heart of this series, stands at the precipice of unprecedented industrial change. The lives of its cloth mill workers are marred by abject misery, as modernization and new machinery render jobs obsolete and shatter families.

One of the strengths of The Armour of Light is Follett’s ability to seamlessly weave historical events, politics, religion, and war into a captivating tale. The characters he brings to life are the backbone of the story, facing their own struggles and challenges that make them feel incredibly real. The character development is exceptional, and each individual’s journey is compelling and heartwarming. Sal, with her unwavering resilience and no-nonsense attitude, stands out as a beloved character. The depth of research and attention to detail throughout the book is astonishing.

The novel introduces themes of resilience, love, and the quest for justice. The characters grapple with religious strife, political intrigue, and espionage, all set against the backdrop of the war against Bonaparte. The story concludes just after the Battle of Waterloo, providing a comprehensive look at the era’s historical events.

For fans of the Kingsbridge series, the book brings back the familiar sensation of being enveloped in the town’s rich history and its vibrant inhabitants. While there are references to characters from earlier books in the series, they are skillfully incorporated, allowing new readers to fully appreciate the story without needing to delve into the entire series. It’s a testament to Follett’s ability to cater to both dedicated fans and newcomers.

The vast scope of the novel, spanning over three decades, is impressive. Follett’s ability to take readers through a broad expanse of European history is a testament to his storytelling prowess. As an American reader, I found this book particularly enlightening, as it shed light on a period in history that I may not have been familiar with beyond the basics of the French Revolution and the industrial revolution in England. It added depth and context to my understanding of the era, making for an enriching reading experience.

However, it’s not without its flaws. Some readers might find the use of modern language by historical characters to be a bit jarring, and the formulaic nature of the story in parts could leave some wanting more. While the characters are engaging, there are moments when they lack the depth and impact that one might hope for in a novel of this magnitude.

In comparison to the previous books in the series, The Armour of Light might not stand out as a favorite for some readers. It doesn’t possess the same extraordinary quality that made the earlier books so memorable. However, it remains highly entertaining, and Follett’s ability to breathe life into historical events and characters is still evident.

In conclusion, The Armour of Light is a gripping addition to the Kingsbridge series. Ken Follett’s storytelling prowess continues to shine as he guides readers through a tumultuous period in European history, making it accessible and engaging. While it may not reach the same heights as the earlier books in the series, it still offers a captivating journey through time, filled with memorable characters and historical depth. For anyone who has followed the Kingsbridge saga or is a fan of historical fiction, this novel is a must-read, offering a rich and immersive experience that only Ken Follett can provide.