Customer Reviews

The Mistress of Husaby: Kristin Lavransdatter, Vol. 2

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Please don't read this book without having read The Bridal Wreath first, you must have the foundation laid before you can appreciate Kristin and her family and her life. This book tugged at me so emotionally that to this day I still feel her feelings, I still get upset and her and Erlend. It is well written and not only does it explain life has it may have been at that time, it still has a ring of now, even though it was written in 1928. But above-all it captures and sends you to a world you will want to be a part of forever. DO NOT MISS THESE BOOKS!

I found an ancient copy of this book on my shelf that had been my father's. It actually fell apart by the time I finished reading it. The translation was very hard to read but it made me read everything thoroughly to understand what was going on. The prose made me feel as though I was acutally living during the 1300's. My emotions went all over the place and I could really identify with Kristen. Life at that time was so fragile and I found the characters amazingly positive and uplifting most of the time in spite of all the trials and tribulations that were experienced. Kristen's love for Erland was remarkable and seldom wavered in spite of the fact that he had glaring flaws that she could see. The tragedy is hard to match but I found I couldn't put the book down. Coming from a Nordic background helped me appreciate what my ancestors probably experienced in such a harsh world. I am looking forward to reading Sigrid Undset's other books.

Though the political details and language slowed me down at times, I found it fascinating to learn what life was like for a woman in Norway in the 1300's. The social, economic, and political aspects of the time are interestingly and thoroughly presented. I would suggest that not too many years go by between reading the books in the trilogy because you will have a greater appreciation for what is going on if you remember details from the previous books.

This second volume of the Kristin Lavransdatter trilogy beautifully captures the spirit of the times - there are many moving moments in this book - the tender scenes between Kristin and her father and the moving account of her father's death and, of course, the complex relationship existing between Kristin and her husband. This is marvelous stuff which takes you back to a faith filled time.

Not as good as the first volume. Beginning was horribly slow, but it picked up nicely in the last third or so. But you must read this one if you intend to do the whole trilogy, which is five star, all the way. Gripping and fascinating tale.