To ask is William Boyd a good writer?

[KikiShack]

I really like his books. Lent one to a friend. She gave up after 50 pages as she 'is a real book snob and only likes well written books'. I'd say WB counts as good proper writing - am I wrong?!

She's a lovely woman, good friend and didn't mean anything by it- English not first language so meant she genuinely didn't think it was written well rather than trying to put me down so that's not the issue.

Just wondering if others agree with me or her?

That's a good username.

If I made a list of favourite characters, Hope would be on it. I liked her very much right through the book.

I'm another fan. I think he combines good quality writing with being a real storyteller.

Any Human Heart - such an incredible book.

Wtaf. I like William Boyd (really enjoyed Restless, Ordinary Thunderstorms, Ice Cream War). Love a whole range of things

I've heard people slag off Jane Austen for being too populist and character driven...(I would massively disagree, but their loss....).

Your friend is entitled to like or dislike books and writers and to discuss their merits or otherwise with you but that comment is just rude. I don't even understand it....if English is her second language and she means literally not well written enough to be understandable then clearly thats not the case....he's won awards and his writing is clear and understandable and has obviously got past his literary agent and publisher so at least makes sense! Anything else is just a value judgement on an author's writing and work....she's entitled to hers but it doesn't make her right.

Oh and yes mudandmayhem to the Jilly Cooper nod