Book Review Summary: The Brothers of Gwynedd (Brothers of Gwynedd #1-4)

Introduction

The Brothers of Gwynedd is a historical fiction series written by Edith Pargeter, also known as Ellis Peters. The four-book quartet follows the story of Llewelyn ap Griffith, the last prince of independent Wales, and his brothers, who hinder his efforts to create a united Wales. The series spans several decades and covers the political landscape of Wales during this time. In this article, we will explore the author's background, analyze readers' views, and provide reasons for recommending and not recommending this book.

About Edith Pargeter

Edith Pargeter, also known as Ellis Peters, was a prolific British novelist known for her mystery and historical fiction works. Born in September 1913 in Horsehay, Shropshire, England, Pargeter grew up in a family that fostered her love for history and the countryside. Before World War II, she worked as a chemist's assistant and started writing seriously for publication. During the war, she served in the Women's Royal Navy Service in Liverpool and received the British Empire Medal for her devotion to duty. After the war, she continued to write and achieved great success with her mystery novels, particularly her series featuring Brother Cadfael.

Analysis of Views

1. Historical content: Readers appreciate the historical accuracy and depth of information provided by Pargeter in The Brothers of Gwynedd. The series offers a comprehensive look at the political landscape of Wales during the time period, providing readers with a rich understanding of the historical context.
2. Complex characters: Pargeter's ability to create complex and sympathetic characters is widely praised. Readers find David, Llewelyn's brother, particularly compelling, as he grapples with loyalty and personal ambitions. The portrayal of Llewelyn himself is also commended for its depth and nuance.
3. Writing style: While some readers find Pargeter's writing style to be dense and challenging, others appreciate her use of long sentences and descriptive language. The writing is considered prose-like and evocative, immersing readers in the historical setting.
4. Depth of storytelling: The series is praised for its depth of storytelling and character development. Readers appreciate the exploration of themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for independence. The narrative is richly detailed, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the historical events and personal relationships involved.
5. Comparison to other authors: Some readers compare Pargeter's work to that of Sharon Kay Penman, another well-known historical fiction author. While both authors cover similar ground in their Welsh Trilogy, some readers find that Penman's characterization skills are superior. However, others argue that Pargeter succeeds in making David a more complex and sympathetic character than Penman does with Simon de Montfort.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Historical accuracy: The Brothers of Gwynedd is highly recommended for readers who appreciate historical accuracy and depth of information. The series provides a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape of Wales during the time period, making it an excellent resource for those interested in medieval history.
2. Complex characters: Readers recommend The Brothers of Gwynedd for its well-developed characters. Pargeter's ability to create complex and sympathetic characters adds depth to the story and makes it a compelling read. The portrayal of David in particular is praised for its complexity and humanity.
3. Rich storytelling: The series is recommended for those who enjoy rich storytelling and character development. The exploration of themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for independence adds depth to the narrative, making it a rewarding reading experience.
4. Writing style: Some readers appreciate Pargeter's use of long sentences and descriptive language, finding it evocative and prose-like. While some may find it challenging at first, others find it to be a strength that immerses them in the historical setting.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Dense writing style: Some readers find Pargeter's writing style dense and challenging to follow. The long sentences and descriptive language may be overwhelming for some readers who prefer more concise writing styles. However, others appreciate this aspect of the writing and find it to be a strength.
2. Slow pacing: A few readers mention that the series can be slow-paced at times, with some sections feeling repetitive or drawn out. This can make it difficult for readers who prefer faster-paced narratives or those who struggle to keep track of multiple characters and locations.

Conclusion

The Brothers of Gwynedd by Edith Pargeter (Ellis Peters) is a highly regarded historical fiction series that explores the story of Llewelyn ap Griffith and his brothers in medieval Wales. While some readers appreciate its historical accuracy and complex characters, others find it dense and challenging to follow due to its writing style and slow pacing. Overall, The Brothers of Gwynedd is recommended for those who enjoy rich storytelling and historical accuracy, but may not be suitable for readers seeking fast-paced narratives or those who struggle with dense writing styles.