Rubbish
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This book got one star as it is the lowest rating possible - the truth is it doesn't deserve any.
I think it must rate as the worst novel I have ever read - the plot is stupid, the characters idiotic and some of the premises are just ridiculous.
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A gripping tale
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I haven't read any Ben Elton books before and gather that this one is a departure from his usual witty and satirical style. I enjoyed it as a well-crafted story set against the horrors of the First World War. It got a bit "Indiana Jones" at times with the hero's incredible exploits on the battle field, but the core story kept one gripped to the end and wanting find out "who dunnit".
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Please ignore the pompous idiots below
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This novel, is exactly that, a novel. Nobody should buy this book because of the belief it will give you a definitive and accurate look at world war one. Because it's not only about WW1 it is about excitement, adventure, and most of all sales. Does one go out to buy a reference book for the sheer pleasure of indulging in hundreds of small facts that leave you satisfied and glad that you just read it cover to cover? No. The First Casualty on the other hand does just that.
Now admittedly Elton has taken a much different approach to this than all his previous efforts. It carries a much more serious tone and definitely attempts to tone down the sheer hilarity contained in some other of his other pieces, so it may not be for the die-hard Elton fans wafting around in cyber space. BUT it is still a fantastic read and self important gits that find themselves needing to make it clear that they find themselves superior to others by pointing out the innacuracies of the historical content merely for the fact that they haven't had a girlfriend for ten years nor will have one for another should not put you off buying this book.
Ben Elton is a literary genius and it will keep you entertained for as long as you turn the pages.
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First Casualty
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Historical inaccuracies and cliches should not stop you from reading this book, if there are any I didn't notice them and nevertheless the story seemed entirely believable. The book has interesting and entertaining characters, a good fast paced plot and highlights the horrendous conditions soldiers faced in WW1. If you like the style of wrting Elton uses in his other books then you will like this one.
Highly recommended.
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Not a history of WWI - and never promised to be!
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This book is absolutely fabulous!
Please, ignore the other reviews given here which are frankly ridiculous. This is a NOVEL based in the First World War, not a history of it. The sad people which talk about 'historical clichés' should go and buy a non-fiction book if they want to read about facts and figures. If you like reading Ben Elton books because of the talent of the writing, then this book will not let you down.
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