Who Would Like This Book:
Step right into the gritty world of Elizabethan London, where playhouses are just emerging and the air is alive with intrigue. Bernard Cornwell weaves rich historical detail with a captivating plot about Shakespeare’s lesser-known brother, giving a unique backstage pass to the creation of iconic plays. Expect immersive atmosphere, lively theatre politics, and a heartfelt depiction of sibling rivalry and artistry. Lovers of historical fiction, fans of all things Shakespeare, and thespian enthusiasts will find themselves thoroughly entertained.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you’re hoping for Cornwell’s trademark battle-driven historical tales, this one’s a curveball. The story leans heavily on theatre, rehearsals, and the power of words rather than swords - so action junkies may feel shortchanged. Some will find the frequent use of Shakespearean text and focus on play production a bit much, bordering on literary study rather than fast-paced adventure. And, if you came to learn more about William Shakespeare himself, you might be disappointed by his relatively limited role.
About:
"Fools and Mortals" by Bernard Cornwell is set in 1695, focusing on the early days of theatre in London. The story follows Richard Shakespeare, the younger brother of William Shakespeare, who joins his brother's acting company. The plot revolves around the theatre company's struggles, the creation of new plays, and the tensions within the Shakespeare family. The writing style immerses readers in the turbulent world of Elizabethan era London, providing detailed historical research alongside a fictionalized narrative.
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From The Publisher:
New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell makes a dramatic departure with this enthralling, action-packed standalone novel that tells the story of the first production of A Midsummer Night's Dream-as related by William Shakespeare's estranged younger brother.
Lord, what fools these mortals be . . .
In the heart of Elizabethan England, Richard Shakespeare dreams of a glittering career in one of the London playhouses, a world dominated by his older brother, William. But he is a penniless actor, making ends meet through a combination of a beautiful face, petty theft and a silver tongue. As William's star rises, Richard's onetime gratitude is souring and he is sorely tempted to abandon family loyalty.
So when a priceless manuscript goes missing, suspicion falls upon Richard, forcing him onto a perilous path through a bawdy and frequently brutal London. Entangled in a high-stakes game of duplicity and betrayal which threatens not only his career and potential fortune, but also the lives of his fellow players, Richard has to call on all he has now learned from the brightest stages and the darkest alleyways of the city. To avoid the gallows, he must play the part of a lifetime . . . .
Showcasing the superb storytelling skill that has won Bernard Cornwell international renown, Fools and Mortals is a richly portrayed tour de force that brings to life a vivid world of intricate stagecraft, fierce competition, and consuming ambition.
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