The Earth Will Shake : Book Review

"The Earth Will Shake" by Robert Anton Wilson is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to 17th century Italy. The book delves into themes of religion, power, and the nature of reality through the eyes of the protagonist, Sigismundo Celine.

Set against the backdrop of the Inquisition, the story follows Sigismundo, a young nobleman who finds himself embroiled in a web of political intrigue and religious conspiracies. As he becomes further entangled with the secretive Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Sigismundo uncovers hidden truths and discovers alternate layers of reality that challenge his understanding of the world.

Wilson's writing style is enthralling, effortlessly blending historical accuracy with elements of magical realism. The narrative is intricately detailed, vividly painting a picture of 17th century Italy's sights, sounds, and smells. By seamlessly incorporating real-life historical figures and events, the author creates an immersive reading experience that captivates from start to finish.

A central theme in the novel is the power of knowledge and the relentless pursuit of truth. Sigismundo embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery, questioning the religious doctrines and societal norms that govern his world. Wilson expertly weaves philosophical and esoteric concepts into the narrative, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and consider alternate perspectives.

"The Earth Will Shake" defies categorization, blending historical fiction, occultism, and philosophical contemplation. Its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and profound themes make it a must-read for those who crave thought-provoking literature. Wilson's masterful storytelling forces readers to confront their own assumptions and expands their intellectual horizons. If you're ready to embark on a journey that will challenge your beliefs and leave you pondering the nature of reality, "The Earth Will Shake" is the perfect novel for you.

What are readers saying?

Robert Anton Wilson's novel, The Earth Will Shake, has generated a variety of opinions from its readers. While some individuals praise the book for its unique fusion of historical fiction and conspiracy theory, others find it challenging to follow and confusing.

Numerous reviewers admire the book's depth and complexity, as it takes place in 17th century England after the English Civil War. They appreciate Wilson's meticulous research and his ability to seamlessly incorporate historical events and figures into the narrative. Some readers also enjoy the underlying conspiracy theories that add an additional layer of intrigue to the story.

Conversely, several reviewers find The Earth Will Shake convoluted and hard to comprehend. They note that the book jumps between different time periods and adopts various narrative styles, leading to confusion and disrupting the story's flow. Additionally, the inclusion of esoteric and occult elements is criticized by some, as they believe it overwhelms the plot and makes it more difficult to engage with.

Opinions regarding the characters in The Earth Will Shake are also divided. Some readers find them well-developed and multi-dimensional, displaying complex motivations and emotions. They appreciate how Wilson manages to make the characters relatable and human despite the historical setting. However, others find the large cast of characters overwhelming, making it challenging to keep track of everyone.

The novel's pacing is another aspect that garners mixed responses from readers. Some appreciate the gradual pace, as it allows for a more immersive experience in the historical context and intricate web of conspiracies. Conversely, others feel that certain parts of the book drag on and believe that it could have been more tightly edited.

TheEarthWillShake HistoricalNovel EpicSaga