What do you think?
Rate this book
Restoration #1
Restoration
Robert Merivel, son of a glove maker and an aspiring physician, finds his fortunes transformed when he is given a position at the court of King Charles II. Merivel slips easily into a life of luxury and idleness, enthusiastically enjoying the women and wine of the vibrant Restoration age. But when he’s called on to serve the king in an unusual role, he transgresses the one law that he is forbidden to break and is brutally cast out from his newfound paradise. Thus begins Merivel’s journey to self-knowledge, which will take him down into the lowest depths of seventeenth-century society.
371 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1989
494 people are currently reading
5922 people want to read
About the author
Rose Tremain
77 books1,101 followersDame Rose Tremain is an acclaimed English novelist and short story writer, celebrated for her distinctive approach to historical fiction and her focus on characters who exist on the margins of society. Educated at the Sorbonne and the University of East Anglia, where she later taught creative writing and served as Chancellor, Tremain has produced a rich body of work spanning novels, short stories, plays, and memoir. Influenced by writers such as William Golding and Gabriel García Márquez, her narratives often blend psychological depth with lyrical prose.
Among her many honors, she has received the Whitbread Award for Music and Silence, the Orange Prize for The Road Home, and the National Jewish Book Award for The Gustav Sonata. She was shortlisted for the Booker Prize for Restoration and has been recognized multiple times by the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction. In 2020, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to literature. Tremain lives in Norfolk and continues to write, with her recent novel Absolutely and Forever shortlisted for the 2024 Walter Scott Prize.
Among her many honors, she has received the Whitbread Award for Music and Silence, the Orange Prize for The Road Home, and the National Jewish Book Award for The Gustav Sonata. She was shortlisted for the Booker Prize for Restoration and has been recognized multiple times by the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction. In 2020, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to literature. Tremain lives in Norfolk and continues to write, with her recent novel Absolutely and Forever shortlisted for the 2024 Walter Scott Prize.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 642 reviews
September 2, 2019
Steeped in the voices and eccentricities of the age of Charles the second, Restoration: A Novel of Seventeenth-Century England is wonderful. I felt like I had been transported back in time to all the disagreeable muck and smells and ribaldry of the 1660s. At first I thought this was going to be a comic, slice of life rendition of a young man's (Robert Merivel) rise as a sycophant of the king. There is humour in this, yes, but also much sadness.
In part one it depicts the newly-made physician Merivel's lucky break in being asked to treat the king's spaniel who is sick. Merivel knows the only way to get ahead in England of this time is to please the king. Inadvertently, through no help from the doctor, the dog does survive. Merivel becomes the king's veterinarian. While at court, Merivel indulges himself with food, drink and revelry and soon becomes a sort of court jester. Merivel exults in the king's fondness for his fool, and thinks he's been even more pampered when the king gives him a house, an income, and a bride, but soon the unraveling begins.
In part one it depicts the newly-made physician Merivel's lucky break in being asked to treat the king's spaniel who is sick. Merivel knows the only way to get ahead in England of this time is to please the king. Inadvertently, through no help from the doctor, the dog does survive. Merivel becomes the king's veterinarian. While at court, Merivel indulges himself with food, drink and revelry and soon becomes a sort of court jester. Merivel exults in the king's fondness for his fool, and thinks he's been even more pampered when the king gives him a house, an income, and a bride, but soon the unraveling begins.
Read
September 4, 2020I have the same problem and pleasures with this historical novel set during the reign of Charles II as I do with the author's Music and Silence.
At once pleasingly rich but with annoying inaccuracies like the Quaker studying at an English university (Anglicans only back then). These grated on me at one time. A less irritable reader however might be moved to accept that this is less a historical novel and more a fantastical novel, with a dreamlike atmosphere in places.
The hero lives in a world of illusion and delusion, at the apex of which is his love for Charles II. (I note how in German this novel is called The King's Fool which is appropriate). The hero is sent down through the world and has to remake himself. A process that involves seeing and experiencing the insanity of existence from a variety of points of view: departing a fantasy existence in a Norfolk manor house (as fake husband to one of Charles II's mistresses), working in a Quaker asylum for the insane and practising as a professional writer (ie not a novelist but somebody writing letters and petitions for the illiterate) and quack doctor in London during the plague and the Great Fire, perhaps this could be seen as a journey through the underworld.
There is a kind of beauty to the ending which closes the cycle of the narrator's wanderings. The whole thing a fantasia on impossible loves closing with one that maybe has the potential of being real. A restoration is not quite a circle.
At once pleasingly rich but with annoying inaccuracies like the Quaker studying at an English university (Anglicans only back then). These grated on me at one time. A less irritable reader however might be moved to accept that this is less a historical novel and more a fantastical novel, with a dreamlike atmosphere in places.
The hero lives in a world of illusion and delusion, at the apex of which is his love for Charles II. (I note how in German this novel is called The King's Fool which is appropriate). The hero is sent down through the world and has to remake himself. A process that involves seeing and experiencing the insanity of existence from a variety of points of view: departing a fantasy existence in a Norfolk manor house (as fake husband to one of Charles II's mistresses), working in a Quaker asylum for the insane and practising as a professional writer (ie not a novelist but somebody writing letters and petitions for the illiterate) and quack doctor in London during the plague and the Great Fire, perhaps this could be seen as a journey through the underworld.
There is a kind of beauty to the ending which closes the cycle of the narrator's wanderings. The whole thing a fantasia on impossible loves closing with one that maybe has the potential of being real. A restoration is not quite a circle.
January 3, 2023
A highly entertaining and brilliantly written study of one man's rise and fall in Stewart England.
December 6, 2013
A really enjoyable Restoration farce with a great deal of heart. Robert Merivel is a would be physician and son of a glove-maker to the king. He lives for pleasure and is something of a rake and does not take his medical studies too seriously. He comes to the attention of the king and for a while he is part of the court and plays the fool. The king decides to marry him to one of his mistresses. This involves going to live on an estate in the country and much partying and debauchery ensued.
Merivel eventually falls and loses everything. He ends up working in a Quaker madhouse as a physician in the Fens. He also moves back to London and experiences the plague of 1665 and the fire of 1666. Lots of gaps there to avoid spoilers.
It is very funny, beautifully written and most of all there is real character development; not just for Merivel, but also for the excellent supporting cast. Although there is a touch of Tom Jones about it; the descriptions of madness are moving and perceptive.
This could have been awful, but it is rather good and there are some very funny passages; watch out for the Indian Nightingale and Merivel's attempts at painting (inventing impressionism in the 1660s only to be ridiculed).
All in all a good historical comic novel.
Merivel eventually falls and loses everything. He ends up working in a Quaker madhouse as a physician in the Fens. He also moves back to London and experiences the plague of 1665 and the fire of 1666. Lots of gaps there to avoid spoilers.
It is very funny, beautifully written and most of all there is real character development; not just for Merivel, but also for the excellent supporting cast. Although there is a touch of Tom Jones about it; the descriptions of madness are moving and perceptive.
This could have been awful, but it is rather good and there are some very funny passages; watch out for the Indian Nightingale and Merivel's attempts at painting (inventing impressionism in the 1660s only to be ridiculed).
All in all a good historical comic novel.
September 2, 2020
Utterly charming, poignant and beautifully written
After the brilliance of 'The Gustav Sonata' (2016), 'Sacred Country' (1992) (which has rocketed into the list of my all time favourite books), 'The Darkness Of Wallis Simpson' (2005) which is a collection of her short stories, 'Restoration' (1989) was next up on my Rose Tremain-a-thon.
It's another winner - utterly charming. There are few writers more versatile than Rose Tremain. This enjoyable Restoration farce is - as always - brilliantly written.
Robert Merivel, son of a glove-maker, and a trainee physician who does not take his studies seriously, comes to the attention of the King Charles II. Merivel lives for pleasure and is something of a rake, and after curing the King's Spaniel, becomes a favoured courtier. The King decides to marry him to one of his mistresses which gives him a Norfolk estate. Alas Merivel transgresses the one law that he is forbidden to break and is brutally cast out from his newfound paradise. Thus begins Merivel’s journey to self-knowledge, which will take him down into the lowest depths of seventeenth-century society.
This is funny, credible, clever, perceptive and beautifully written - par for the course for Rose Tremain.
Can Rose Tremain repeat the trick with the sequel 'Merivel: A Man of His Time'? I cannot wait to find out and will be reading it straight away.
5/5
After the brilliance of 'The Gustav Sonata' (2016), 'Sacred Country' (1992) (which has rocketed into the list of my all time favourite books), 'The Darkness Of Wallis Simpson' (2005) which is a collection of her short stories, 'Restoration' (1989) was next up on my Rose Tremain-a-thon.
It's another winner - utterly charming. There are few writers more versatile than Rose Tremain. This enjoyable Restoration farce is - as always - brilliantly written.
Robert Merivel, son of a glove-maker, and a trainee physician who does not take his studies seriously, comes to the attention of the King Charles II. Merivel lives for pleasure and is something of a rake, and after curing the King's Spaniel, becomes a favoured courtier. The King decides to marry him to one of his mistresses which gives him a Norfolk estate. Alas Merivel transgresses the one law that he is forbidden to break and is brutally cast out from his newfound paradise. Thus begins Merivel’s journey to self-knowledge, which will take him down into the lowest depths of seventeenth-century society.
This is funny, credible, clever, perceptive and beautifully written - par for the course for Rose Tremain.
Can Rose Tremain repeat the trick with the sequel 'Merivel: A Man of His Time'? I cannot wait to find out and will be reading it straight away.
5/5
January 7, 2013
You may be familiar with the Restoration and Charles II. Or maybe not. Regardless, Rose Tremain gives this historical period double-meaning in her novel, “Restoration”.
“Restoration” is a novel which can’t be ignored as it is simply “alive” with sounds, emotions, and colors immediately jumping from Tremain’s pages the second the reader opens the book. Saying that “Restoration” has a heartbeat is putting it mildly. This lively novel is supplemented by the main character of Robert Merivel who has disgusting flaws and yet is so relatable, that he is an extremely likable character.
Tremain successfully turns a character which would be hated in any other novel into a lovable one. “Restoration” is not a typical novel but is more of a character study following Merivel. At times, the reader may think that there is no real plot and yet “Restoration” continues to be a page turner as it feels like one is actually living the story while reading it. Furthermore, Merivel’s character arc is perfect: not too fast, not too slow, and yet subtle enough to be realistic.
Tremain’s prose and literary language in “Restoration” is also top-notch. “Restoration” features all of the star qualities of classic literature along with historical accuracy and character dialogue which feels of the times. The reader will have to be reminded that Tremain was not actually alive during Charles II’s reign.
All of the characters in “Restoration” have such magnetic chemistry with each other that the story becomes riveting and yet the ratio of coverage each character portrays in relation to others is never overdone. “Restoration” also features unique storytelling where Merivel speaks almost directly to the reader. Although this can be perceived as “cheesy”; it works in “Restoration” (as everything seems to).
Tremain doesn’t focus too much attention on describing the setting of the scenes and yet each creates a vivid picture. Simply put: “Restoration” has a unique draw while being written exceptionally well. Also noteworthy are the multi-layered events. Instead of merely being a part of the plot-line; each occurrence in the story signifies a deeper lesson/meaning, adding substance to the novel and thought-provoking philosophical ideas. Additionally moving (and compelling) is Merivel being a protagonist and his own antagonist. There is nothing more relatable than being your own worst enemy.
The second half of “Restoration” is much different from the first with Tremain focusing more on the story than of the deeper character study of the first half. Although this doesn’t significantly decrease the merit of “Restoration”; it does somewhat change the impact of the writing.
Although subjective, I found the descriptions of Merivel’s dreams/nightmares to be tedious and not necessary to the plot. Not only do these not add depth, but Tremain over utilizes the tactic.
Part two brings about a slackening of pace within the novel and a less inviting plot (although Merivel is still likable). However, the views and angles of historical events such as the Plague and the Great Fire of London are notably different than other historical fiction novels (in a good way). The conclusion is weaker than expected but “Restoration” does come full circle and Tremain answers open-ended questions.
“Restoration” is unique, well-written, and incorporates a compelling story with a terrific literary character. Tremain’s work is suggested for those readers interested in historical fiction or specifically of seventeenth-century England.
“Restoration” is a novel which can’t be ignored as it is simply “alive” with sounds, emotions, and colors immediately jumping from Tremain’s pages the second the reader opens the book. Saying that “Restoration” has a heartbeat is putting it mildly. This lively novel is supplemented by the main character of Robert Merivel who has disgusting flaws and yet is so relatable, that he is an extremely likable character.
Tremain successfully turns a character which would be hated in any other novel into a lovable one. “Restoration” is not a typical novel but is more of a character study following Merivel. At times, the reader may think that there is no real plot and yet “Restoration” continues to be a page turner as it feels like one is actually living the story while reading it. Furthermore, Merivel’s character arc is perfect: not too fast, not too slow, and yet subtle enough to be realistic.
Tremain’s prose and literary language in “Restoration” is also top-notch. “Restoration” features all of the star qualities of classic literature along with historical accuracy and character dialogue which feels of the times. The reader will have to be reminded that Tremain was not actually alive during Charles II’s reign.
All of the characters in “Restoration” have such magnetic chemistry with each other that the story becomes riveting and yet the ratio of coverage each character portrays in relation to others is never overdone. “Restoration” also features unique storytelling where Merivel speaks almost directly to the reader. Although this can be perceived as “cheesy”; it works in “Restoration” (as everything seems to).
Tremain doesn’t focus too much attention on describing the setting of the scenes and yet each creates a vivid picture. Simply put: “Restoration” has a unique draw while being written exceptionally well. Also noteworthy are the multi-layered events. Instead of merely being a part of the plot-line; each occurrence in the story signifies a deeper lesson/meaning, adding substance to the novel and thought-provoking philosophical ideas. Additionally moving (and compelling) is Merivel being a protagonist and his own antagonist. There is nothing more relatable than being your own worst enemy.
The second half of “Restoration” is much different from the first with Tremain focusing more on the story than of the deeper character study of the first half. Although this doesn’t significantly decrease the merit of “Restoration”; it does somewhat change the impact of the writing.
Although subjective, I found the descriptions of Merivel’s dreams/nightmares to be tedious and not necessary to the plot. Not only do these not add depth, but Tremain over utilizes the tactic.
Part two brings about a slackening of pace within the novel and a less inviting plot (although Merivel is still likable). However, the views and angles of historical events such as the Plague and the Great Fire of London are notably different than other historical fiction novels (in a good way). The conclusion is weaker than expected but “Restoration” does come full circle and Tremain answers open-ended questions.
“Restoration” is unique, well-written, and incorporates a compelling story with a terrific literary character. Tremain’s work is suggested for those readers interested in historical fiction or specifically of seventeenth-century England.
December 24, 2012
I found this book quite intriguing. The character of Robert Merivel is sympathetic and does a believable character arc, changing from a shallow person into a thoughtful physician.
Tremain does a great job with her historical research, creating a nuanced seventeenh century world. My favorite parts are Merivel’s medical challenges and discoveries. One of my pet peeves in historical fiction is that the hero/heroine is far more medically advanced than they should be, like for instance knowing all about penicillin (bread mold) way before its discovery. That doesn’t happen in this book. Tremain sticks with the time period and brings to life what it would be like to be a physician during this period. In fact, that's what I loved the most about this book and if Restoration had mostly been about Merivel’s growth as a doctor, I would have given it five stars.
Unfortunately it’s not. The middle of the book drags when Merivel is sent into exile and he spends his time decorating his house in putrid colors, making ridiculous fur coats and chasing a woman who loathes him.
My belief is Tremain was inspired by The Diary of Samuel Pepys. They are much alike in many ways. The problem with this though, is that while Pepys diary is a valuable historical document, it doesn’t really have a proper end, because Pepys just quit writing. There’s no real climax, no real plot or cohesive tale, and Restoration kind of has that feel to it as well. The real arc of the story is Merivel’s character change, but I’m not quite sure that’s a strong plot. I suppose Merivel goes full circle and comes away with an enlightened point of view, but it doesn’t have the true feeling of a full story.
Consequently, I’ve given it four stars.
Tremain does a great job with her historical research, creating a nuanced seventeenh century world. My favorite parts are Merivel’s medical challenges and discoveries. One of my pet peeves in historical fiction is that the hero/heroine is far more medically advanced than they should be, like for instance knowing all about penicillin (bread mold) way before its discovery. That doesn’t happen in this book. Tremain sticks with the time period and brings to life what it would be like to be a physician during this period. In fact, that's what I loved the most about this book and if Restoration had mostly been about Merivel’s growth as a doctor, I would have given it five stars.
Unfortunately it’s not. The middle of the book drags when Merivel is sent into exile and he spends his time decorating his house in putrid colors, making ridiculous fur coats and chasing a woman who loathes him.
My belief is Tremain was inspired by The Diary of Samuel Pepys. They are much alike in many ways. The problem with this though, is that while Pepys diary is a valuable historical document, it doesn’t really have a proper end, because Pepys just quit writing. There’s no real climax, no real plot or cohesive tale, and Restoration kind of has that feel to it as well. The real arc of the story is Merivel’s character change, but I’m not quite sure that’s a strong plot. I suppose Merivel goes full circle and comes away with an enlightened point of view, but it doesn’t have the true feeling of a full story.
Consequently, I’ve given it four stars.
June 14, 2015
First paragraph:
The prose tends to be quite formal. Tremain has written this in such a way to help the reader feel with the times - the 17th Century. She is not as obscure as often Shakespeare was and her spelling is 100% better! This is Merrie Olde England with its bawdiness and drunkenness and perhaps a serving wench or two. At least one review says it is close to historically accurate, though with an occasional error. I am not at all familiar with the time period, so I could just go with what was on the page. (Another review considers this erotic, but don't you believe it.)
This is just my type of book being largely a character study. I don't know about you, but I am not quite the same person I was 10 years ago. As I learn, as life happens, I grow and change with that growth. So, too, does Robert Merivel grow and change over the course of this novel. I enjoyed the beginning with its humor as much as later that was serious.
I will definitely be reading more of Rose Tremain. The strong beginning, and superb ending have me sliding this into my list of 5-star reads, though the middle sections might just be a good quality 4 stars.
Look at me. Without my periwig, I am an affront to neatness. My hair (what is left of it) is the colour of sand and wiry as hogs' bristles; my ears are of uneven size; my forehead is splattered with freckles; my nose, which of course my wig can't conceal, however low I wear it, is unceremoniously flat, as if I had been hit at birth.And I knew I was going to like this.
The prose tends to be quite formal. Tremain has written this in such a way to help the reader feel with the times - the 17th Century. She is not as obscure as often Shakespeare was and her spelling is 100% better! This is Merrie Olde England with its bawdiness and drunkenness and perhaps a serving wench or two. At least one review says it is close to historically accurate, though with an occasional error. I am not at all familiar with the time period, so I could just go with what was on the page. (Another review considers this erotic, but don't you believe it.)
This is just my type of book being largely a character study. I don't know about you, but I am not quite the same person I was 10 years ago. As I learn, as life happens, I grow and change with that growth. So, too, does Robert Merivel grow and change over the course of this novel. I enjoyed the beginning with its humor as much as later that was serious.
I will definitely be reading more of Rose Tremain. The strong beginning, and superb ending have me sliding this into my list of 5-star reads, though the middle sections might just be a good quality 4 stars.
September 7, 2015
Tremain’s book is written in first-person, which doesn’t usually work for me, but I really enjoyed this. The book follows the misadventures of Robert Merivel, who is really immature and even a little thick at times, despite being a rather gifted physician. In his pursuit of pleasures, finery, and a courtier lifestyle at Whitehall, he loses sight (if indeed he ever had it) of the important things in life. Merivel is, at the beginning of the story (and indeed in several episodes throughout), a very weak fellow. Some reviewers stated that Merivel doesn’t change, and I would have to disagree – the reduced circumstances he lives through do impact him, although he perhaps isn’t able to see it for himself. He loves people he shouldn’t, and doesn’t love those he should – a problem that faces many people I think!
SCL rating: 4.5
SCL rating: 4.5
December 26, 2017
This is a story about Robert Merivel. At the beginning of the story he is an aspiring physician. The setting is Restoration England, this being when the English, Scottish and Irish monarchies were restored under the Stuart, King Charles II, in 1660. Merivel comes to be married to the king's mistress, but the hitch is that he may not bed her! He is certainly not to fall in love with her. That’s the deal made between the king and Merivel the fool. Merivel gets an attractive young wife, albeit just for show, and the freedom to take as many other mistresses that may please him to his bed. He and his “wife” are given the means to live in style and a splendid estate in Norfolk to decorate as they may so wish. Norfolk is distant from the king’s residence in London. For the king this is simply a way to have access to more than one woman, without them getting in each other's hair. The king has power and money, but he cannot control hearts. You think maybe I have given too much away? I haven’t.
Wanton, lascivious and a jovial fool, Merivel is a man of his times. Yet, he has appeal to a reader because he is funny and without pretensions, even if the humor is rather crude. I was utterly amazed at the author´s ability to pull this off! I never thought I could like such a character, but I did. Right from the start, his free-spirit is contagious, and then he grows on you. Soon he has you laughing, and then you begin to like the guy - more and more and more. Merivel changes, and it is Merivel that this book is about.
What we are given is a bit like a fable with a lesson to be learned. What does Merivel’s life say?
The setting being England in the 1660s, alongside the characters’ story, we see also the plague and the fire of London. We observe not only the antics of the king, but also the life of the poor and the insane. The tale draws you in. The atmosphere of the times is captured, in the guise of an engaging story.
The book is not chock-full of historical facts about the Restoration. If you are looking for that, look elsewhere.
Most is believable, except for the end and a few other details, for example a man .
The audiobook is narrated very well by Paul Daneman. He uses different intonations for different characters, and he does this well. Merivel's best friend is a Quaker. When this character talks you smile, well at least in the beginning. The voice used for the king has a good contrast. There are changes in the characters, and even this is reflected in how they speak. Not many narrators are able to do this so well. The narration I have given four stars.
Wanton, lascivious and a jovial fool, Merivel is a man of his times. Yet, he has appeal to a reader because he is funny and without pretensions, even if the humor is rather crude. I was utterly amazed at the author´s ability to pull this off! I never thought I could like such a character, but I did. Right from the start, his free-spirit is contagious, and then he grows on you. Soon he has you laughing, and then you begin to like the guy - more and more and more. Merivel changes, and it is Merivel that this book is about.
What we are given is a bit like a fable with a lesson to be learned. What does Merivel’s life say?
The setting being England in the 1660s, alongside the characters’ story, we see also the plague and the fire of London. We observe not only the antics of the king, but also the life of the poor and the insane. The tale draws you in. The atmosphere of the times is captured, in the guise of an engaging story.
The book is not chock-full of historical facts about the Restoration. If you are looking for that, look elsewhere.
Most is believable, except for the end and a few other details, for example a man .
The audiobook is narrated very well by Paul Daneman. He uses different intonations for different characters, and he does this well. Merivel's best friend is a Quaker. When this character talks you smile, well at least in the beginning. The voice used for the king has a good contrast. There are changes in the characters, and even this is reflected in how they speak. Not many narrators are able to do this so well. The narration I have given four stars.
September 14, 2022
I wonder how many more of those unexpected gems there are on my shelves.
This is mind you, not the book by Rose Tremain that has been gathering dust on my shelf since perhaps the discovery of paper … but another one, the one that audible had in its plus collection.
Listening to it has been an absolute delight. I loved everything about it, including eventually the acquired taste, anti-hero narrator Merivel.
When the story begins in the middle of 16-hundreds England, he is a young physician and a son to the royal glove-maker at the court of King Charles II. After a chance encounter and introduction to the king, he attracts HM’s attention, as a perfect person to assist him with a precarious problem. The gratification for helping the king is significant, even if the resulting situation isn’t exactly flattering. But self-centered Merivel perhaps doesn’t fully realise, and by the time he does, basking in the addictive light of the king's majesty and grace, is ultimately more important than any kind of personal pride. Then suddenly circumstances change, and fate decides to give Merivel a lesson - or a chance - to discover his own road, quite independent of the attention and appreciation of others. Merivel grows as a person and into my liking so by the time I finished I was addicted and lost in Rose Tremain’s magical prose, and strongly unwilling to let it go.
This is mind you, not the book by Rose Tremain that has been gathering dust on my shelf since perhaps the discovery of paper … but another one, the one that audible had in its plus collection.
Listening to it has been an absolute delight. I loved everything about it, including eventually the acquired taste, anti-hero narrator Merivel.
When the story begins in the middle of 16-hundreds England, he is a young physician and a son to the royal glove-maker at the court of King Charles II. After a chance encounter and introduction to the king, he attracts HM’s attention, as a perfect person to assist him with a precarious problem. The gratification for helping the king is significant, even if the resulting situation isn’t exactly flattering. But self-centered Merivel perhaps doesn’t fully realise, and by the time he does, basking in the addictive light of the king's majesty and grace, is ultimately more important than any kind of personal pride. Then suddenly circumstances change, and fate decides to give Merivel a lesson - or a chance - to discover his own road, quite independent of the attention and appreciation of others. Merivel grows as a person and into my liking so by the time I finished I was addicted and lost in Rose Tremain’s magical prose, and strongly unwilling to let it go.
June 29, 2020
This is such an enjoyable historical fiction book set in the 17th Century during the reign of King Charles II. The protagonist Merivel is likable and relatable, despite making some bad decisions, and I really enjoyed following the complex relationship between him and the King and the difficult situations Merivel finds himself in due to his affiliation with royalty.
The book covers a number of interesting themes such as marriage, friendship, definitions of "insanity" and moral duty.
I am very keen to read the sequel to this, Merivel: A Man of his Time which was published over 20 years after this book.
The book covers a number of interesting themes such as marriage, friendship, definitions of "insanity" and moral duty.
I am very keen to read the sequel to this, Merivel: A Man of his Time which was published over 20 years after this book.
September 19, 2009
The first half of this book read like an MTV music video version of the 17th century: gaudy clothes, binge drinking, general debauchery. I was disappointed by the superciliousness of Tremain's portrait of her protagonist, Merivel. He was too much of a caricature to be sympathetic or even amusing. But I'd passed the point of no return, it's a slim book, and I retained enough faith in Rose Tremain's tremendous abilities to carry on. I'm so glad I stuck to the task, as Part 2 redeemed the book, parallel to the redemption of the facetious and sniveling Merivel (with the photo of Robert Downey, Jr. conveniently emblazoned on the book's cover, Merivel's voice ran through my head with RDJr's languidly arrogant tones- I'm sure he was perfectly cast).
To reveal more would reveal too much of the plot, which isn't all that deep, but it's worth uncovering on one's own. It won't be for me one of Tremain's more memorable novels, but the latter half restored it to satisfying historical fiction.
To reveal more would reveal too much of the plot, which isn't all that deep, but it's worth uncovering on one's own. It won't be for me one of Tremain's more memorable novels, but the latter half restored it to satisfying historical fiction.
May 1, 2021
Be prepared to be entertained. This brilliantly written story is about a man in the king’s favor with relative insecurities. This painfully honest & humorous character’s often cringeworthy behavior made for a diverting (at times hilariously funny) journey.
The writer’s talent was on full display throughout. Do yourself a favor and give it a try but avoid reading too many reviews. When reading, my pleasure isn’t in what is portrayed but how. True to life - every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Does he redeem himself? It’s up to you to decide.
The writer’s talent was on full display throughout. Do yourself a favor and give it a try but avoid reading too many reviews. When reading, my pleasure isn’t in what is portrayed but how. True to life - every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Does he redeem himself? It’s up to you to decide.
April 24, 2008
This is one of my favourite books of all time. The main character, Merivel, is a person ahead of his time in nearly everything he attempts. When he decides to paint, it is in a Fauvist style - in the 1660's. He winds up in trouble and much misunderstood, and his inherent selfishness and immaturity don't help...until he figures out ways towards a personal Restoration. The first time I read this, I cried I was so moved by the way he transforms. A very hopeful read.
September 18, 2019
This is the second book I’ve tried to read by this author and it’s the same archaic style of writing, which is drawn-out, the plot is going somewhere, but can’t get there. I don’t think she is a writer for me.
February 12, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this story!!! I didn't know what to expect. The story is about Merivel, a man living in the 1600s in London. He really has no ambition and has no aspiration but was studying to be a physician. He luckily found himself helping King Charles II with this beloved dog. King Charles said if he can cure his dog, Merivel can come to court and be his vet.
Luck was on Merivel's side, because he fell asleep, and lo and behold, the dog was able to turn the corner and recuperate from the other doctor's interference. King Charles thinks he worked miracles, meanwhile Merivel did ZERO and now is in court.
The king then has Merivel marry a woman. And this woman happens to be the King's mistress. So Merivel is forced to marry her but can not touch her. LOL. His life just goes downhill so fast!!!
It was funny, sad, and if you are part of a book club, this character (and so many others) can keep you talking and talking and talking. There really is a lot to this book, a lot of deep meaning behind Merivel's life that can teach quite a few lessons.
Luck was on Merivel's side, because he fell asleep, and lo and behold, the dog was able to turn the corner and recuperate from the other doctor's interference. King Charles thinks he worked miracles, meanwhile Merivel did ZERO and now is in court.
The king then has Merivel marry a woman. And this woman happens to be the King's mistress. So Merivel is forced to marry her but can not touch her. LOL. His life just goes downhill so fast!!!
It was funny, sad, and if you are part of a book club, this character (and so many others) can keep you talking and talking and talking. There really is a lot to this book, a lot of deep meaning behind Merivel's life that can teach quite a few lessons.
October 21, 2020
My reading of Rose Tremain’s work continues. After listening to Music and Silence I chose another one of her classic historical novels - the one she is most famous for - Restoration.
Most splendidly narrated by Rupert Degas, we are introduced to the young Robert Merivel and his rise and fall through glittering seventeenth-century society.
When a twist of fate delivers an ambitious young medical student to the court of King Charles II, he is suddenly thrust into a vibrant world of luxury and opulence. Blessed with a quick wit and sparkling charm, Robert Merivel rises quickly, soon finding favour with the King, and privileged with a position as 'paper groom' to the youngest of the King's mistresses. But by falling in love with her, Merivel transgresses the one rule that will cast him out from his new-found paradise...
”Tremain’s dazzling tale of intrigue and rivalry amidst the opulence of Stuart England remains the most immersive account of the era available. Robert Merivel, charming and witty yet reckless and impetuous, is a beautifully realised creation and his troubled path through the court of Charles II detailed with bittersweet irony and elegant humour.”
There will be more Rose Tremain to explore because by now her writing has completely captivated me.
m/f
Themes: London, John Pearce, the court of King Charles II, Celia Clemence, Bidnold in Norfolk, Elias Finn, Bedlam, Quakers, Katherine, the Great Plague, 1666 the Great Fire of London, Margaret.
5 Stars
Most splendidly narrated by Rupert Degas, we are introduced to the young Robert Merivel and his rise and fall through glittering seventeenth-century society.
When a twist of fate delivers an ambitious young medical student to the court of King Charles II, he is suddenly thrust into a vibrant world of luxury and opulence. Blessed with a quick wit and sparkling charm, Robert Merivel rises quickly, soon finding favour with the King, and privileged with a position as 'paper groom' to the youngest of the King's mistresses. But by falling in love with her, Merivel transgresses the one rule that will cast him out from his new-found paradise...
”Tremain’s dazzling tale of intrigue and rivalry amidst the opulence of Stuart England remains the most immersive account of the era available. Robert Merivel, charming and witty yet reckless and impetuous, is a beautifully realised creation and his troubled path through the court of Charles II detailed with bittersweet irony and elegant humour.”
There will be more Rose Tremain to explore because by now her writing has completely captivated me.
m/f
Themes: London, John Pearce, the court of King Charles II, Celia Clemence, Bidnold in Norfolk, Elias Finn, Bedlam, Quakers, Katherine, the Great Plague, 1666 the Great Fire of London, Margaret.
5 Stars
December 25, 2012
Truly delightful. This is the third Tremain I've read (The Road Home, Trespass) and each is completely different but the one constant is really good, felicitous writing -- the kind that makes you look forward to getting back to your book, and staying up too late to read a few more pages. In Restoration, Tremain takes on historical fiction -- the Great Fire of London, the plague, and the sensual court of Charles II-- with a wry tone, great attention to atmosphere and no sentimentality.
Another great plus is the hero, Merivel -- it's been a long time since I read a book with such an engaging main character. In the beginning, the book has aspects of farce and is laugh out loud funnny. As our hero's fortunes change, the book is by turns sad, contemplative, and even redemptive.
The narrative is episodic. I read afterwards that it was inspired in parts by the diaries of Samuel Pepys. I realized that I had to give in to a fairly loose structure, and that's OK. But I did think that the book barely missed a 5 because of one too many loose ends that are simply passed by rather than tied up. There is now a sequel, Merivel, that will be available in the US in May and I can't wait!
Another great plus is the hero, Merivel -- it's been a long time since I read a book with such an engaging main character. In the beginning, the book has aspects of farce and is laugh out loud funnny. As our hero's fortunes change, the book is by turns sad, contemplative, and even redemptive.
The narrative is episodic. I read afterwards that it was inspired in parts by the diaries of Samuel Pepys. I realized that I had to give in to a fairly loose structure, and that's OK. But I did think that the book barely missed a 5 because of one too many loose ends that are simply passed by rather than tied up. There is now a sequel, Merivel, that will be available in the US in May and I can't wait!
November 23, 2008
A cynical view of Charles II era told by an anatomy student, after the civil war and Cromwell government.
November 27, 2018
The story is set in the England of 1665 and is told as a first person account by one Robert Merivel, who relates the events as they are happening, probably in the form of a personal journal. All the events take place over the course of approximately one year, and it's a year filled to the brim with events for Merivel in the England of the Restoration. Introduced by his father, a glovemaker to the King, Young Meviel, a student in medicine, meets Charles II for the first time and immediately falls under his spell, so that when King Charles asks Merivel to save one of his dying dogs (his beloved spaniels of course), Merivel jumps at the chance to be part of the inner circle of Whitehall Palace and successfully cures the dog, mainly by doing nothing. Merivel further captures the king's favour with his comical antics, and the king comes to affectionately call him his fool, which delights Merivel, as being in the king's favour and among his friends is a privilege he revels in. He is given a grand estate, and immediately sets about decorating his large house in an effusion of baroque colours, in the most vivid hues, then takes an interest in painting and music, and indeed he observes all around him with an artist's eye. One day the King tells Robert that he would like him to wed one of his mistresses, Celia Clemens. Merivel is a rather ugly man and uncouth in his manners, liking to amuse the court with his frequent farts, among other things, but the king likes his last name and likes to think of his mistress as the future Mrs Merivel. The one condition he sets it that the marriage must not be consummated, and so enamoured is Merivel with his monarch that he immediately accepts the arrangement. Merivel is a great lover of all the finer things in life; along with the decorative arts, fine cuisine and wines, he also enjoys the company of women and rarely denies himself anything, so of course it follows that he is bound to fall in love with Celia, even though the latter detests him to the core. The trap is set, and what rises must fall, and throughout this novel we follow Merivel's progress from King's physician to wannabe artist and musician, to his time spent in the New Bedlam hospital, in Norfolk, where he tries to cure the insane once he has fallen from grace, a place from which he manages to fall from grace even further. Merivel is a fascinating character and though he doesn't dwell much on why he is so obsessed with the king or any of his inner motivations, he doesn't lack in observational skills and describes his daily life and the happenings among these unusual circles of people in a very amusing manner, though the novel doesn't lack for depth.
I was very happy to discover that Tremain wrote a sequel in 2012, simply called [Merivel], and it won't be long before I pick it up. I listened to this book narrated to perfection by Paul Daneman, one of those narrators I liked so much that I immediately tried to find what other books I could get by him, but unfortunately, this is the only one on offer at present. There will be more Tremain in the near future for me, as she is one of these writers by whom I would love to read the complete works.
Most highly recommended!
—April 2014
I was very happy to discover that Tremain wrote a sequel in 2012, simply called [Merivel], and it won't be long before I pick it up. I listened to this book narrated to perfection by Paul Daneman, one of those narrators I liked so much that I immediately tried to find what other books I could get by him, but unfortunately, this is the only one on offer at present. There will be more Tremain in the near future for me, as she is one of these writers by whom I would love to read the complete works.
Most highly recommended!
—April 2014
December 25, 2009
I can never figure out just what it means or what I should expect when reading a book that is either a Pulitzer or Booker winner or nomination. I think it's going to mean that I will just love it because it is so fabulous, but somehow that doesn't seem to be the way it turns out for me and this book is no exception.
'Restoration' starts out well enough, with Robert Merivel falling into favor with King Charles II. Merivel is a wild, lascivious, gluttonous young man fully enjoying the excesses of the king's court, thinking very little of his purpose in life. Merivel is commanded to marry the king's mistress and rewarded with a modest country estate with the understanding that he will have little or nothing to do with his wife Celia Clemence. At first the situation is agreeable to Merivel but after a period of time he becomes dissatisfied and restless with his life. He struggles to find something to inspire him and give him a feeling of accomplishment.
This story is a parable of sorts but the ending is somewhat beyond belief and written with a dreamlike narration which is inconsistent with the rest of the novel. I enjoyed the hedonistic Merivel at King Charles' court and the details of the period including the London fire of 1666. Much of the story was interesting, and it was well written but at the same time it didn't move me as much as I had hoped it to. I wanted to love Merivel and we certainly started off on the right foot but it just didn't develop into much and his character didn't stay with me after I was done reading. I liked many of the interactions between the characters but overall wasn't satisfied by this novel. I thought it was tied up a little too neatly for my tastes which gave it a bit of a fluffy feel. If you are looking for something light during this period you might like this. It just didn't have enough emotional depth to satisfy me.
'Restoration' starts out well enough, with Robert Merivel falling into favor with King Charles II. Merivel is a wild, lascivious, gluttonous young man fully enjoying the excesses of the king's court, thinking very little of his purpose in life. Merivel is commanded to marry the king's mistress and rewarded with a modest country estate with the understanding that he will have little or nothing to do with his wife Celia Clemence. At first the situation is agreeable to Merivel but after a period of time he becomes dissatisfied and restless with his life. He struggles to find something to inspire him and give him a feeling of accomplishment.
This story is a parable of sorts but the ending is somewhat beyond belief and written with a dreamlike narration which is inconsistent with the rest of the novel. I enjoyed the hedonistic Merivel at King Charles' court and the details of the period including the London fire of 1666. Much of the story was interesting, and it was well written but at the same time it didn't move me as much as I had hoped it to. I wanted to love Merivel and we certainly started off on the right foot but it just didn't develop into much and his character didn't stay with me after I was done reading. I liked many of the interactions between the characters but overall wasn't satisfied by this novel. I thought it was tied up a little too neatly for my tastes which gave it a bit of a fluffy feel. If you are looking for something light during this period you might like this. It just didn't have enough emotional depth to satisfy me.
October 14, 2018
Oh wow, this book really spoke to me. The flawed narrator, Merivel, was so very human, fallible and engaging. We follow him through the ups and downs of his life and of the real historical events of the early 1660s. There was such a consistency to the narrative voice, and such a lovely tone to this book, that I did not want it to end. Tremain did a brilliant job. Merivel is an amazing achievement.
July 29, 2018
Tremain is a writer to envy. In Robert Merivel, she has realized one of the most wonderful characters I've ever read. The book, set in the first years of the Restoration, chronicles the adventures of a bawdy physician with a taste for the farcical who develops a passionate love for King Charles II. Throughout the story, it is this complicated, sometimes fractious love for this one 'Great Man' that propels Merivel forward on his path. However, King Charles, though portrayed with intelligence and flair, can't hold a candle to our protagonist, whose self-awareness, self-deprecation and wildness of spirit reminded me of an English version of Count Oblomov. Of course, his trials and tribulations can also put one in mind of Tom Jones, but I think Merivel is a far more interesting character. He is both deeply profound and immensely shallow, a man of his age yet also cast out of time, a buffoon (worthy of Shakeaspeare's best Fools), a rebel, a pitiful creature, but still a wonderful, fully realized human being. You are thoroughly won over by his antics and you take his side even when he's wrong. He makes all the pieces of the narrative work and he elevates them with his wit and observations. And in the end, the novel feels lovingly ironic because Merivel would certainly think he's unworthy of having a whole book written about him. But he'd be delighted to read it, anyway.
March 6, 2014
Re-visit via filmRobert Downey Jr. ... Robert Merivel
Sam Neill ... King Charles II
David Thewlis ... John Pearce
Polly Walker ... Celia Clemence
Meg Ryan ... Katharine
Ian McKellen ... Will Gates
Hugh Grant ... Elias Finn
Ian McDiarmid ... Ambrose
Didn't like the way they changed the site from Norfolk to Suffolk however the film was enjoyable with an outstanding performance by Meg Ryan.
==============================
Opening line: I am, I discover, a very untidy man.
My cover:
It seems I like Rose Tremain:
4* Trespass
3* Short Stories
¤* Restoration
the rise/fall/rise life of Robert Merival
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2015
I liked the beginning best. It was funny and engaging. The obvious feature of the character is his insatiable love of women. As the book is in first person, he is constantly talking about it. Some is a little disturbing and some is very funny.
One of his favorite paramours calls her parts The Thing and that gets a fair amount of repetition in various ways.
Strangely, none of it put me off, I found it a well told and amusing story.
The book is split into 3 volumes and the second and third ones, while still telling a good story, didn't catch my imagination as much as they only tell his story of surviving without the King and what he does.
It's not nearly as entertaining as the first part as he's not as irreverent while he's learning to live in the 'real' world.
One of his favorite paramours calls her parts The Thing and that gets a fair amount of repetition in various ways.
Strangely, none of it put me off, I found it a well told and amusing story.
The book is split into 3 volumes and the second and third ones, while still telling a good story, didn't catch my imagination as much as they only tell his story of surviving without the King and what he does.
It's not nearly as entertaining as the first part as he's not as irreverent while he's learning to live in the 'real' world.
January 7, 2021
I don’t write reviews.
I saw the film version in the 90’s a few times and was impressed. It felt dirty and raw as things would have been in this period. Many period dramas seem too dressed-up, too clean. Merivel is a gross character, but he is human. You can know him. Tremain did a superlative job at sculpting a masculine character. That sounds strange... I suppose it seemed like it was a male character written by a man. Whatever. I loved him and loved the story.
I saw the film version in the 90’s a few times and was impressed. It felt dirty and raw as things would have been in this period. Many period dramas seem too dressed-up, too clean. Merivel is a gross character, but he is human. You can know him. Tremain did a superlative job at sculpting a masculine character. That sounds strange... I suppose it seemed like it was a male character written by a man. Whatever. I loved him and loved the story.
October 8, 2014
The idea that this story is based on is an allegory for Thatcher's Britain; the greed, self serving ambition and vanity are brilliantly displayed in this novel and Merival serves as a wonderful, flawed character within which to explore these ideas.
This is an excellent story and I highly recommend it.
This is an excellent story and I highly recommend it.
March 12, 2018
Amusing and entertaining, reminding me of some of Charles Dickens' books. Very different from the other books by Rose Tremain I have read.
June 10, 2023
This historical fiction was a great romp at first and then the main character's life dove into more serious territory as he can't resist breaking a promise made to The King. Twists and turns ensue.
I have no idea of the historical accuracy in this book and I haven't found Rose Tremain's books to be reliably researched in the past so I read most of it with a grain of salt. There is nothing wrong with her characterisation which is lively to the point of being Dickensian. Set in England (mainly London (both The King's Court and Cheapside), A Country house in Norfolk and a Quaker Bedlam in Whittlesea, Cambridgeshire) during The Restoration of King Charles II. The Plague and The Great Fire of London are features.
One that I've had on my shelves for a long time but probably not one that I loved enough to keep, so I'll probably give it to a friend or send it off into a little library.
I have no idea of the historical accuracy in this book and I haven't found Rose Tremain's books to be reliably researched in the past so I read most of it with a grain of salt. There is nothing wrong with her characterisation which is lively to the point of being Dickensian. Set in England (mainly London (both The King's Court and Cheapside), A Country house in Norfolk and a Quaker Bedlam in Whittlesea, Cambridgeshire) during The Restoration of King Charles II. The Plague and The Great Fire of London are features.
One that I've had on my shelves for a long time but probably not one that I loved enough to keep, so I'll probably give it to a friend or send it off into a little library.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 642 reviews