Book Reviews

I've read a few books recently, and I thought I would share my opinions about them here.

1. Bloodtide, by Melvin Burgess
Set in London after a catastrophic few years, this dystopian novel has a very promising start. It follows the story of a 14 year old girl and her twin brother, and chronicles around a decade in their lives. The story begins with a treaty between the two rival gangs that rule London, to unite and join forces against the half-men, constructs of a forgotten time in humanity and about whom little is known. The premise is a good one, but the very few of the characters invoke empathy. The novel is violent, graphic and disturbing, but it lacks an anchoring character to make sense of it and drag it out of gratuity. Book 2 is especially disappointing, as too seldom the suspense is terminated prematurely, leaving you unsurprised at the apex. The people and animals in the novel have little redeeming value, despite reacting realistically to the situation, and perhaps that it why it is ultimately unsatisfying; the reader expects the protagonists to rise above their situation, to master it, instead of being an eternal victim trapped by circumstance. Basically an alright book, but not really for those who are sensitive to violence, or awkward sexy stuff (I don't mean that all sex is awkward, I mean the sex that happens in the book is).

2. Mouse Guard: Fall 1152, by David Petersen
This is a graphic novel, set in a fantasy world where mice have underground, medieval civilisations. Three of the elite "Mouse Guard" are sent on a routine mission, and discover a conspiracy with far reaching consequences. The story is simple to follow and gripping, and the characters are distinct and personable (and adorable). The art is fantastic, and drives the story, as it can go pages without dialogue. The settings are varied and rich, and while it is detailed, it is not overly busy or distracting. My one complaint is that the action scenes are sometimes a little difficult to follow. Overall very entertaining, I would recommend it to anybody.

3. The Outlander, by Gil Adamson
Now THIS is a story about a protagonist who rises above. Set in Western Canada at the turn of the century, this book follows the flight of Mary Boulton, a young woman widowed by her own hand, and chronicles her adventures. The book starts out slow and was initially a little confusing, but it soon picks up and becomes difficult to put down. Adamson's writing style is uniquely fascinating, laced with subtleties that give the narrative a rich and complex feel, while keeping the story flowing. The pace and language of the novel changes drastically throughout, keeping the reader bound to Mary Boulton's surroundings and circumstances, and convey emotion and tension very well. One of the best books I've read this year.


I own all these books, so if you would like to borrow one let me know in the comments and I'll bring them home with me for Christmas.