I've read it, and given the fact that it's written from the point of view of an aristo, it's not half bad. It does imply that Robespierre was more important than I think it's fair to say he was, and yes, it does present Coffinhal in a largely positive light, but to be fair I think both of these might have to do with the protagonist's view point. (Considering especially that she is in love with Coffinhal.)
I don't believe any mention is made of Hanriot in the novel, but then, contrary to what the title might suggest, the bulk of it takes place before the Revolution, and many events during the Revolution get only cursory coverage. Again, to give the author the benefit of the doubt--something I like to do, considering she's one of the few novelists who does not attempt to demonize the Revolution in general and the Robespierristes in particular--this probably has more to do with the fact that the novel is about the life of its protagonist, who happens to live through the Revolution, rather than about the Revolution itself.
All in all, it is an interesting book, as you put it, but if you don't like Coffinhal you probably won't like it. (Also, reading about the "plight" of an aristocrat, however provincial and impoverished can grate on the nerves after a while...)
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2008-10-20 06:39 am (UTC)I don't believe any mention is made of Hanriot in the novel, but then, contrary to what the title might suggest, the bulk of it takes place before the Revolution, and many events during the Revolution get only cursory coverage. Again, to give the author the benefit of the doubt--something I like to do, considering she's one of the few novelists who does not attempt to demonize the Revolution in general and the Robespierristes in particular--this probably has more to do with the fact that the novel is about the life of its protagonist, who happens to live through the Revolution, rather than about the Revolution itself.
All in all, it is an interesting book, as you put it, but if you don't like Coffinhal you probably won't like it. (Also, reading about the "plight" of an aristocrat, however provincial and impoverished can grate on the nerves after a while...)