A Far Better Rest [Paperback]

A Far Better Rest is a wonderful retelling of A Tale of Two Cities from Sydney Carton's point of view. It tells the story of Carton's entire life, filling in the gaps in A Tale of Two Cities, where Carton disappears for several years. But not only does Susanne Alleyn do a great job at filling in Carton's "missing years", but she also writes an excellent novel of the French Revolution that stands completely on its own. Yes, it does help if you've read A Tale of Two Cities first, but it is not absolutely necessary. I have not read it for several years, and it's amazing how much I had forgotten. (For example, I had forgotten that Sydney Carton had gone to school in France.) Alleyn's description of the events of the Revolution is far more accurate than Dickens', as she explains in the afterword. Also, I love the way Alleyn introduces historical figures into her narrative; it was a clever touch, to have Carton and Darnay go to school with Robespierre and Desmoulins, for example. And Alleyn's original characters, especially Eleonore, are great additions to the story. I have read many historical novels about the French Revolution; this is one of the best.

One of the most chilling portrayals of the French Revolution is Dicken's extra-ordinary and unusual love story, A Tale of Two Cities. In a Far Better Rest, author and rare book dealer Susanne Alleyn retells Dicken's heartrending classic. In Alleyn's version, the story centers around late-protagonist Sydney Carton and sheds light on the shadows of his existence. Susanne Alleyn's first novel presents her as an accomplished writer with a knack for detail. She skillfully conjures not only the historical settings of 18th century London and Paris, but aptly overlays the culture, language and politics as well. However, although Alleyn's style captures the essence of the period and keeps most of the story's skeleton intact, Alleyn strives to contribute sub-plots of her own. Unfortunately, the newly-devised events, backstory and supporting characters seem to be unnecessary baubles and pockets on the cloaks of our beloved Dickens' creations. A Far Better Rest imagines anti-hero Sydney Carton as a player in politics and journalism. In comparison to my recollection of the original tale, these achievements go across the grain of the effective characterization of Carton. For was it not his reluctance to take life by its horns that portrayed him as such a pitiful character and led to the thrilling climax when he makes the ultimate sacrifice at the end? Dickens may very well have given as much thought to the background of his characters as does Alleyn, however, it may be supposed that he left these details out because they were not completely essential to the movement of plot in the story he wished to tell. As his characters were extremely well-crafted and effective, their motivations can be found in their demeanor and actions, and would not necessarily have to be substantiated with a history of events. Of course, any author who re-tells a beloved classic must realize that he/she has to contend with those who revere the original version. Due to the merits of Susanne Alleyn's talent, I would definitely pick up anything penned by this author in the future, however, in the case of A Tale Of Two Cities, I do believe that Dickens said it best and that no one need mince his words.

Lynne Remick, Reviewer

Absolutely wonderful reading. Susanne Alleyn's style brings you accurately into the world of the French revolution even deeper than Dickens' Two Cities.. The story is fresh and alive.

Her story is one into which you can sink you teeth. Its beefy and deep. Even for those who are not necessarily into historic novels or romance A Far Better Rest offers excellent reading. Outstanding work by a first time novelists!

ONE WARNING: Be sure you are comfortable, with your favorite beverage and munchies near by. Once you pick it up and start reading you won't want to put it down!

Five stars or two thumbs up on thumbs-up on this one. You'll love it!