As historical novels go this was not what I expected. It is a bit too long, and it drags in places. I found myself skipping large passages because they were not really relevant. Perhaps it is 200 pages overwritten. But it is a good story, well researched for authenticity and well plotted with interesting characters and the historical time frame is extremely interesting.I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys thick books, big plots and history as authentically researched as possible.