Wilbur Smith’s “The diamond
hunters” is not one of the greatest books that this well-known author has
written. By no means is “The diamond hunters” not a worthwhile book, but if one
is not a regular reader of Smith’s works and just want to experience what the
craze is all about, it might be better to start off with a different novel of
Smith.
Having read a few other books by this author, I cannot get myself other than to be critical of “The diamond hunters”. One has come to know Smith’s books as so-called page turners, as indeed many of his works are. In my mind, the same cannot be said of “The diamond hunters”, however true fans of Smith’s novels will probably be able to look past the criticisms that I will point out.
The biggest reason why “The diamond hunters” is such a disappointment to me is that while the book is 238 pages long, it is only at page 160 that the story really becomes gripping. Thus, for most of the book, I had to force myself to read thru it. However, the moment that the story did came to life, the book really became a joy, and this made up a bit for the boring parts. Typically, Smith creates loads of tension with the characters, which one expect should be good-willing to each other, but goes on to prove the opposite. Unlike some of his other novels, “The diamond hunters” is less action packed – another part of the general turn off. However, generally speaking, “The diamond hunters” is an enjoyable read.
In comparison with, for example “Men of men” and “The sound of thunder”, this “The diamond hunters” cannot compare. Much of it reminds one of a soap opera. You feel unsatisfied and a bit angry even. But, as already mentioned, at some point, the book almost come to life. One gets a glimpse of why this author is so popular in “The diamond hunters”, but if you have never read a work by this author, this one might discourage you to try another one since it is my humble opinion the “The diamond hunters” is not one of Smith’s best works. As for those who are seasoned with Smith’s novels, “The diamond hunters” will be another fun and entertaining read. “The diamond hunters” is a typical Smith story of betrayal amongst a differing group of characters who try to find meaning in their lives. The end, though very brutal and shocking in many ways, is a big disappointment, but with regards to this, the readers should be left to judge for themselves. In the end, the purpose of books like these is to entertain the people. “The diamond hunters” did exactly this for me; it just took a wee lot longer than I, and also my liking, anticipated.
Having read a few other books by this author, I cannot get myself other than to be critical of “The diamond hunters”. One has come to know Smith’s books as so-called page turners, as indeed many of his works are. In my mind, the same cannot be said of “The diamond hunters”, however true fans of Smith’s novels will probably be able to look past the criticisms that I will point out.
The biggest reason why “The diamond hunters” is such a disappointment to me is that while the book is 238 pages long, it is only at page 160 that the story really becomes gripping. Thus, for most of the book, I had to force myself to read thru it. However, the moment that the story did came to life, the book really became a joy, and this made up a bit for the boring parts. Typically, Smith creates loads of tension with the characters, which one expect should be good-willing to each other, but goes on to prove the opposite. Unlike some of his other novels, “The diamond hunters” is less action packed – another part of the general turn off. However, generally speaking, “The diamond hunters” is an enjoyable read.
In comparison with, for example “Men of men” and “The sound of thunder”, this “The diamond hunters” cannot compare. Much of it reminds one of a soap opera. You feel unsatisfied and a bit angry even. But, as already mentioned, at some point, the book almost come to life. One gets a glimpse of why this author is so popular in “The diamond hunters”, but if you have never read a work by this author, this one might discourage you to try another one since it is my humble opinion the “The diamond hunters” is not one of Smith’s best works. As for those who are seasoned with Smith’s novels, “The diamond hunters” will be another fun and entertaining read. “The diamond hunters” is a typical Smith story of betrayal amongst a differing group of characters who try to find meaning in their lives. The end, though very brutal and shocking in many ways, is a big disappointment, but with regards to this, the readers should be left to judge for themselves. In the end, the purpose of books like these is to entertain the people. “The diamond hunters” did exactly this for me; it just took a wee lot longer than I, and also my liking, anticipated.
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