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A review by backpackingbookworm
The Road to Grantchester by James Runcie
3.0
I requested this book because I thought it would provide context about Sidney Chambers prior to reading/watching the Grantchester series. The book did certainly do this, however I feel it's intended audience is those that are already familiar with the Grantchester characters and sequels as this book provided a background and not much more. There wasn't much of a plot and I read it more like a memoir than a fictional story.
The book begins in 1938, right before Sidney heads off to war with fellow friends and comrades. He is then followed throughout the battles and harrowing conditions, watching too many soldiers die and waking up every day believing it will be his last. 7 years later he returns to London and struggles to slot himself back into society after everything he has been subjected to. When trying to figure out where he is meant to go next, something niggles at the back of his mind and grows steadily stronger every day - the call from God. Sidney can't see himself being worthy of any other career and embarks on a journey to priesthood.
I do find myself drawn to books set in the war and this was no exception. The visuals were strong and the camaraderie amongst the men kept me involved in the reading. However, in the post-war story, I found myself a little bored and didn't think there was much plot, apart from the scene with Freddie, Henry and Frank. I'm not particularly religious so wasn't overly interested in the parts dedicated to Sidney's calling. I do think I would have enjoyed the book more if I had more knowledge in the series and therefore do recommend to fans of Grantchester.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book begins in 1938, right before Sidney heads off to war with fellow friends and comrades. He is then followed throughout the battles and harrowing conditions, watching too many soldiers die and waking up every day believing it will be his last. 7 years later he returns to London and struggles to slot himself back into society after everything he has been subjected to. When trying to figure out where he is meant to go next, something niggles at the back of his mind and grows steadily stronger every day - the call from God. Sidney can't see himself being worthy of any other career and embarks on a journey to priesthood.
I do find myself drawn to books set in the war and this was no exception. The visuals were strong and the camaraderie amongst the men kept me involved in the reading. However, in the post-war story, I found myself a little bored and didn't think there was much plot, apart from the scene with Freddie, Henry and Frank. I'm not particularly religious so wasn't overly interested in the parts dedicated to Sidney's calling. I do think I would have enjoyed the book more if I had more knowledge in the series and therefore do recommend to fans of Grantchester.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.