Wolf Hall

WOLF HALL
by Hilary Mantel

 Awards: Booker 2009, National Book Critics Circle 2009

Nomination: Orange Prize Finalist 2010
Date Read: March 16, 2009

Only on the second attempt was I successful at completing this mighty tome. The first, I became so frustrated with it and quit just about halfway in. The second attempt, I fell in love. Deciding to start anew with a fresh eye and renewed determination, I adored this story and was in awe of the detail, complexity and sheer determination that went into creating this masterpiece.

I find Thomas Cromwell to be shrewd, witty and thoroughly self-serving, while still embracing his obligation to those reliant on his favor. I thoroughly enjoyed the banter and found many of the passages outright funny. Mantel has masterfully created an entire world that I felt was not only realistic but relevant.

While I agree with many readers that the liberal use of he/she could be quite confusing, once I understood this was entirely from Thomas’ perspective, it became much easier to follow the dialog. I also found the Cast of Characters to be difficult to use (e.g. I couldn’t find the Duke of Richmond, which turns out to be the title for Henry’s illegitimate son).

I can understand why Mantel won numerous awards for this achievement and I am still in awe of her abilities. Having immersed myself so completely in this world, I am heading straight to the sequel, Bring Up the Bodies, while the characters are still fresh in my mind.

 Looking Forward: Beyond Black, Bring Up The Bodies, The Mirror & The Light

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