This is the case of rock solid research ruining an interesting story. Stephenson’s setting and characters are vivid within their world. But too much so. It’s as if every detail he’s uncovered needs to be included. Every historical fact needs to be stated. Seemingly minor characters are encountered haphazardly, only to coincidentally emerge as important historical figures: an adolescent Ben Franklin? A young Newton? It’s too much. I wanted a story that dropped me into that era. I ended up with a comical Who’s Who date book. I had to stop reading after about 50 pages.

I just read Quicksilver for the second time in three years. Tackling the Baroque Cycle twice in three years? Shows how much I enjoyed it the first time through!

This is the first in Stephenson's Baroque series that will bring you in to the world of 17th century adventure, science and intrigue. I could hardly put it down.