This is my second time reading this book and it was amazing all over again. Like all of Neville's novels, two stories are interweaved: one in the present (in this case, the 1970's) and one in the past (late 18th century). Two women, a computer expert and nun, attempt each in their respective time periods to unravel the mystery behind a powerful and much-coveted ancient chess set, the Montglane Service. This book is full of action and romance, suspense and memorable characters. The number of famous historical figures who show up does border on the absurd, but I was too busy having a good time to nitpick. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.Side note for those who've read the book: my sister was in love with Solarin, but my heart belongs to Nim. :) ( )

The Eight by Katherine Neville

The story seemed like one that Dan Brown and Sandra Brown might have collaborated to create. It is a study of mysticism and mysterious formulas, treasure, clues and a wealth of historic personages wrapped in emotional relationships. A mysterious, ancient chess set is the center piece of a frantic and fanatic hunt detailed in the 1790’s and the 1970s. Whosoever holds the chess set will rule the world, according to legend. The forces of good and evil have been striving to capture the board for a millennium.

Neville bounces back and forth from the 1790’s to the 1970’s without promoting a great deal of confusion. Her characterizations have depth, breadth and color. There are times where it appears she may have read a little too much Clive Cussler but the introduction of historic figures and preposterous chases is very entertaining. I’m not sure if there is an attempt to challenge the intellect but regardless, the book is a fun read.

I recommend the book and look forward to the sequel, "The Fire". ( )

I feel pretty blah about this book. I thought it was going to be great, had been wanting to read it for a while, but found myself distinctly underwhelmed. The writing seemed amateur-ish and wanting. Perhaps because it was a good idea, but was only her first novel? I am no expert, but I'll be interested to see if her second book is better than the first. ( )

I enjoyed The Eight...to a point. The plotting was splendid, but the writing was clunky; it was one of those books where I found myself wanting to rearrange the author's sentences, which is profoundly distracting. But the characters were decently drawn and the central conceit was fascinating. Chess and puzzles galore! ( )

A fantastic, complex book. I truly enjoyed how Neville travels back and forth between the eras, unveiling layers of intrigue and adventure. She creates a chess game of a novel that keeps you interested and on your toes. What a fantastic story. ( )