7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Gem of a Book!!!, 10 Sep 2007
What a gem of a book! And how sad that it's probably two years until next time!
Everybody who have seen Robin Pilcher as having not only inherited his mother's (Rosamunde Pilcher) talent but also her writing style, are in for a BIG surprise with this book. "Starburst" is quite different from the author's other three novels, and positively so. This book is a genuine Robin Pilcher novel, written in a unique style of his own. The only thing remaining from his mother being the name.
"Starburst" takes place in Edinburgh during the annual international festival. We are following some very different people/destinies during those three weeks in August, first separately and then when they accidently intertwine.
Robin Pilcher's knowledge of the various aspects of the festival and the professional secrets behind the many kinds of art being performed, as well as his insight into the human mind, whether it's world famous violinist Angélique, retired cameraman Leonard, comedienne cum housewife Rene or young car thief T.K. struggling to go straight, is impressive. These people are made so alive they literally walk out of the book.
I've got to especially mention "the two roses", Rene from "'hartlepool", Yorkshire and Matti from Lancashire. I'm convinced their show at the "Underbelly" is real, and would somebody please get me a ticket for next year?
"Starburst" is warm, funny and beautifully written. Often I just stopped and repeated sentences, enjoying the masterful use of the English language. Rene's hilarious remarks in cockney, Angélique's stilted English with charming bits of French thrown in, Leonard's polite gentleman English and T.K.s badly twisting of his mother tongue.
The description of the city of Edinburgh during the festival, from classical concerts in famous concert halls to simple street performances, is vivid. I have never been to Edinburgh - until now!
The book is not without drama. It's not only a colourful tale of partakers and events. Destinies are determined, lives changed forever.
With "Starburst" Robin Pilcher has taken a huge step forward in his authorship. A professional reviewer has written "Why has this guy not started to write earlier?" Agreed. But how glad I am that he finally did!
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5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A book to read and read again!, 29 Aug 2007
This review is from: Starburst (Paperback)
After waiting for what seemed like years, I devoured this latest book in one day. I tried to make it last longer, but the characters and the setting called to me like home baked chocolate chip cookies. Mr. Pilcher has improved on perfection and I will find it hard to wait for his next book-but I shall! Ronelle Nicholson
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0 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
Rubbish, 19 Jan 2010
This review is from: Starburst (Paperback)
Terrible book - all that mangled English. I have seen dialects written 100% better by other authors - he really shouldn't have bothered. And the plot/story - boring in the extreme. Must try harder Mr Pilcher.
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