If You Like Books

Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

2013-06-13T21:38:00.001-04:00

Siege and Storm (Grisha Trilogy (Shadow and Bone))

If you like: light and dark * rebellion * facades

Siege and Storm is the second book in the Grisha Trilogy. (See my review of Shadow and Bone here.) Now that Alina has attempted to fight the Darkling and escape, her life has greatly changed. Though she has enjoyed her time with Mal, she quickly realizes that she cannot spend her life in hiding and leave the people of Ravka in danger from the Fold. In her absence, much has changed, and the Grisha are no longer in the position of power they were before. Alina must restore faith in their abilities and gain the trust of those in power in order to save herself, Mal, and their people.

Unlike so many other sequels, Siege and Storm does not lose any of the magical appeal of its predecessor. Instead, the story greatly benefits from the previously established parameters. Instead of revisiting the concepts of Grisha abilities, the story continues to move along in a smooth continuation of the narrative. Alina’s position in society has changed greatly. Previously, she was displayed as a trophy of the realm. Now she is hated by many for not destroying the Fold, presumed dead by others, and elevated to the status of Saint by those who worship her summoning ability. This places her in constant peril, and creates a unwavering sense of paranoia. Alina attempts to right her wrongs and restore normalcy to Ravka, all while fighting the all-consuming urge to use and grow her ability.

Attraction plays an integral role in Siege and Storm. Alina’s attraction to Mal was a significant driver in her decision to fight the Darkling and escape the Fold, leaving devastation in her wake. At the same time, her connection to the Darkling still leaves a lingering sense of attraction between the two summoners. A third suitor is power. As Alina embraces her amplified abilities, and feels the seduction of enhancing that ability even more, she begins to lose a bit of herself. Though she knows she needs strength to save Ravka, she also is painfully aware of the corruption that type of potency can lead to. This otherness that she feels, alone in a world of inferior abilities but for the Darkling, leaves her to wonder about her own destiny, and who she will become. This battle between her desires parallels that of the battle between the men who desire her, and both leave a lingering moral gray area. What is right for Alina may not be what is right for her nation. Doing is what is right could ultimately destroy her. In the end she will face a choice between saving others and saving herself.

If you would seek ultimate power, read Siege and Storm.

Bardugo, Leigh. Siege and Storm (The Grisha Trilogy). Henry Holt and Co, 2013. Kindle Edition.

The Shambling Guide to New York City by Mur Lafferty

2013-06-06T21:40:00.001-04:00

The Shambling Guide to New York City (The Shambling Guides)

If you like: travel guides * supernatural creatures * otherworldly baked goods

The Shambling Guide to New York City is the story of Zoë, a guidebook editor who has returned to New York City in search of a new job and a fresh start. Having applied at nearly every publisher she can think of, Zoë finds herself in an unusual bookstore, where she discovers a flyer for a mysterious publisher. After being assured she isn’t right for the job, Zoë manages to impress her way into the supernatural publishing company and become the first human on staff. As she begins to embrace this new dimensions of the world, she learns that she has been involved with it far longer than she realized.

Zoë is not just looking for a new job due to downsizing. She had previously been involved with her boss, not knowing that he was married. Zoë is unwilling to let this tarnish her career path, and vows to continue to pursue her passion while making smarter romantic choices in the future. Rather than hanging her head in shame, Zoë owns her past and moves on. This is demonstrative of her approach to life. She is tough without being brusque, and is not embarrassed to ask questions or speak her mind. Because of this, Zoë is uniquely suited to join Underground Publishing. Her need for a change of scenery makes working with creatures who could eat her seem palatable, and the multitude of strange situations are almost a pleasant distraction.

The Shambling Guide to New York City embodies the type of world that is easy to fall into. There is no painstaking world building, or cheesy exclamations. The narrative shares Zoë’s personality, and flows in a straightforward and honest manner. The constructs of the secret layers of society are seamless and intriguing. Though Zoë’s past and present meet up before the Guide is through, the story does not take the easy path that Zoë is the chosen one who has been secretly groomed for this world all her life. Lafferty creates the much more approachable protagonist: a no-nonsense woman who wants to make a living doing what she loves. In a genre that can seem repetitive and clichéd, readers will find plenty of fresh ideas and be relieved by the imbuing of tradition into modern society.

If you could swear one of your coworkers is a zombie, read The Shambling Guide to New York City.

Lafferty, Mur. The Shambling Guide to New York City. Orbit, 2013. Kindle Edition.

2312 by Kim Stanley Robinson

2013-05-30T21:04:00.001-04:00

2312

If you like: Turing tests * space * whistling

2312 is a story about a future where much has changed, while much has remained the same. Decisions in our present time have greatly influenced the state of Earth in the future, and so people have colonized space. Through a combination of terraforming and ingenuity, many seemingly uninhabitable locations are capable of sustaining life, and thriving in ways that Earth no longer can. Though beneficial to the survival of many species beyond just humans, there is much discourse about the equity of spacers and those on left behind Earth.

The adaptation and exploration of near space is made possible by many advances in technology. These changes allow for the specialization of places to live, as many fantastical habitats are created throughout the solar system. Though this is wonderful for the nourishment of new ideas and acceptances, it can also lead to even more divided factions. Bound by no specific history, people move to the places that suit them, creating an inherent confirmation bias. The use of AI and quantum computers is also prevalent in this future. This has benefits and consequences. Though it prevents many potential hazards, it also leaves the humans somewhat unable to run the systems on their own. It also puts increasingly smarter technology in a position to develop without oversight, and leaves many wondering about the impacts of sentient robots.

The most compelling aspects of 2312 take place in the unthinkable disasters that occur. With new worlds come new dangers, and new escapes. In spite of this, the basic human needs remain. The necessities of air, food, and water never go away (nor the need to experience Earth’s gravity). Beyond these foundations of the hierarchy of needs is the desire for companionship. The evolution of human interaction is fascinating. With seemingly infinite space and extended lifetimes, the preconceptions about families and relationships are challenged. It is possible to live somewhat autonomously. In times of peril, however, it is clear that companionship is preferable to isolation. Facing impending death while holding the hand of a close friend makes it much less painful. Surviving for weeks with little food, and dangerous conditions can be much less mentally debilitating with the solace of intimacy. With the future wide open, it is comforting to know that the things that make us human persist, even when traditional notions change.

If you would hitch a ride on an asteroid, read 2312.

Robinson, Kim Stanley. 2312. Orbit, 2012. Kindle Edition.

The Beggar King by Oliver Pötzsch

2013-05-23T21:17:00.000-04:00

The Beggar King: A Hangman's Daughter Tale

If you like: hallucinogens * setups * murder

The Beggar King is the third Hangman’s Daughter Tale. (See my reviews here and here.) Kuisl has traveled out of Schongau to visit his ailing sister in Regensburg. From the very beginning of his trip he senses trouble. Before Kuisl passes through the city gates he is detained. Once he finally makes it to his sister’s residence, he discovers a tragedy for which he is immediately arrested. As an outsider, he is forced to endure the very torture he must practice as a hangman. He works to clear his name and escape certain death as the story unfolds.

Moving the story outside of Schongau enhances the third installment of the series. Separating Kuisl, Magdalena, and Simon from the city where they are well known forces much needed character development. Through the authorities of Schongau often reprimand the two young lovers, they are still known for their skills and trusted for their abilities. Though Kuisl does not always agree with the decisions made, he faithfully carries them out. It is also well known that he is a capable healer, and knowledgeable in many ways. The people of Regensburg know none of this. They view the youths as silly lovers in over their heads, and Kuisl is perceived as a monster. His imposing size and gruff demeanor suit him as the resident hangman, but as a visitor he seems almost maniacal. Additionally, Simon and Magdalena are not accustomed to discerning the reliability of strangers, and often let their passion for each other rush them to judgement. Spending time in the city helps them to understand these failings, and will deeply enhance their relationship in future installments.

It is clear from the outset that this will be a different story from its predecessors. Though Kuisl’s past continues to play an important role in his present, the history of the city plays a less important role. Instead of happening upon action, the Kuisl’s are an intentional part of the mystery in this story. Kuisl has always had the benefit of his accumulated references and resources in the past. His continued capabilities are even more impressive when he must work with nothing but the clothes on his back and the bond between people of a lower station. He is not the only character that is developed further. Though she has a minor role, Anna-Marie gets some much deserved backstory in this tale. Though they still behave as young fools, Simon and Magdalena are positioned to become a powerful and successful duo in their future. The continued character building immersed in a captivating story makes The Beggar King a delightful read, and will leave the reader looking forward to The Poisoned Pilgrim.

If you find the closest city is like a whole new world, read The Beggar King.

Pötzsch, Oliver. The Beggar King: A Hangman's Daughter Tale (US Edition). AmazonEncore, 2013. Kindle Edition.

Toward Yesterday by Paul Antony Jones

2013-05-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

Toward Yesterday

If you like: Flash Forward * cults * second chances

Toward Yesterday begins in 2042. Cars drive with AI and simplifying technology abounds, but the persistent human dilemmas continue. People are still depressed, there is still divorce, and religion and science continue to be at odds. Suddenly, everything changes. Everyone instantaneously finds themselves transported and confused. Soon they learn that they are in the exact location they were 25 years earlier. The disorientation and confusion lead to immediate chaos.

Though the overarching plot of Toward Yesterday is engaging, there are some missed opportunities in the narrative. Moving back in time 25 years resurrects those who had died during the period between the two points in time. It also means that anyone born after the reset date does not reappear. Much of the story is devoted to the main characters being reunited with lost loved ones, or coming back to life themselves. The flip side is largely ignored. What about all of the parents with children that no longer exist? Yes, some characters mention coworkers who did not make it back, but the devastating grief that young parents would have experienced en masse is not explored. At the same time, a multitude of people have returned from beyond the vale of death. Distinctly different experiences are fleetingly described by two characters, but it is otherwise ignored. The different experiences of each of the revivified had great potential impact on the religious segment of the story, but these connections are never explored.

Those at the center of Toward Yesterday are given a second chance at life. Though they retain all of their memories and knowledge from the previous timeline, their youth has been restored by 25 years. The knowledge gained through a full life combined with the vigor of youth will allow many to make smarter choices as they relive their golden years. At the same time, there are a multitude of childlike adults, who have experienced the freedoms of adulthood, and now must suffer through their adolescence a second time. The story truly excels when its characters are reunited with those loved ones who have died. The chance to say everything that was left unsaid, and gain the gift of more time together provides immeasurable pleasure. Any reader who has lost someone will instantly connect with the experiences of these reunions.

If you would give up everything to be reunited with those you love, read Toward Yesterday.

Jones, Paul. Toward Yesterday. 2011. Kindle Edition.

Infected by Scott Sigler

2013-05-09T19:41:00.001-04:00

Infected: A Novel

If you like: triangles * parasites * gory mutilation

In Infected, several individuals have unexpectedly turned violent towards those around them. These events rapidly escalate and end in homicide, along with, often incendiary, suicide. Strangely, before this occurs, the individuals mention triangles and become increasingly paranoid. As the CIA and CDC investigate, the quest to find a living case intensifies, since the bodies decompose at an alarming rate. Investigators race to discover those who are infected, and understand what is truly happening to them.

The parallel discoveries of the investigators and Perry Dawsey, the infected individual that the story follows, provide strong structure to the story. Initially the investigators think they are dealing with isolated psychiatric incidents. Dawsey believes he just has a strange rash. Soon, the medical experts hypothesize a much more complex and biological origin to the events. Dawsey begins to feel the parasitic nature of the triangles after a few days and knows something is seriously wrong. As the truth becomes apparent to each group (if you can call Dawsey and his triangles a group), the very nature of the infestation prevents them from working together. The reader experiences heightened stress as it becomes clear that the two would greatly benefit from working together, but will never get to that point. One can imagine a parallel series of events during which Dawsey seeks help earlier and the team works together to discover the origin of this crisis. Instead, the epidemic goes from bad to worse, and horrifying consequences result.

The complex and intimidating aspects of the triangles in Infected will leave the reader itchily uncomfortable that this could happen to them. The vivid description of these parasites will make any reader’s skin crawl. It is difficult not to feel the pressure of growing organisms under one’s skin. These effects are intensified by the investigative team repeatedly finding evidence of self-mutilation, and recoiling in horror as they try to imagine what could drive a person to this. The realistic portrayal of these parasites will leave the reader wanting to look the other way, without being able to stop reading. It is almost as if the reader too is infected, because the narrative development is so compelling. Rather than delve into complex otherworldly technology, Infected stays grounded, creating an antagonist that seems organically created, and perfectly suited to feed off of human life.

If you would cut off your own leg to stop the invasion, read Infected.

Sigler, Scott. Infected: A Novel. Crown Publishing Group, 2008. Kindle Edition.

Dodger by Terry Pratchett

2013-05-02T20:44:00.002-04:00

Dodger

If you like: scallywags * Queen Victoria’s England * covert actions

Dodger is the story of a young man who survives by toshing -- the practice of scouring the sewers for coins and other lost valuables. He earned his namesake by constantly dodging trouble and attention from the wrong people. One night, he happens upon men beating a young woman and intervenes. Saving Simplicity leads him to a series of life changing events that take all of his skills, and a bit of luck to succeed. Along the way he meets Charles Dickens, Henry Mayhew and many other notable figures.

Dodger’s exploits lead him to encounter an unlikely series of events and people. Pratchett allows Dodger’s stumbling through London to add a lighthearted air to a time that was full of suffering and despair. Not only does Charles Dickens himself witness Dodger’s heroics, he acts as a mentor, but not without taking a few inspirational notes along the way. Dodger also stops in to see a rather famous barber, and unwittingly intervenes just in time to save his own neck. Through Dickens’ many connections he rapidly climbs the social ladder through the city, and is constantly reinventing himself to fit in. In spite of this, his true nature always shines through. Though Dodger has been long sustained by items that just happen to fall into his hands, certainly not thievery, he is imbued with a unique moral code, and never stops taking care of those around him or speaking his mind. Dodger is a singular character who leaves a lasting impact on both those in the story and the reader.

The intrigue and mystery around Simplicity and how she and Dodger come to meet is fantastic tale of narrow escape, clandestine meetings, secret identities, and international politics. Simplicity is a woman who believed in love, and all too quickly discovered that it is not always the way it is portrayed in storybooks. Rather than accepting her fate, she fights for her life. Simplicity displays cunning by carefully revealing only what she must, and trusting very few. Though she should never trust someone like Dodger, she senses his true gallantry, and rightly places her fate in his hands. Though the two seem bound by fate, their strong friendship is what is most notable. Theirs is not just a relationship of attraction, but a mutual admiration of wit, cunning, and guile. Simplicity is not just a damsel in distress, and Dodger is no knight. One imagines the two living a life full of fun, excitement, and danger, as they blend in like chameleons wherever they go.

If you can’t help but pick a pocket or two, read Dodger.

Pratchett, Terry. Dodger. HarperCollins, 2012. Kindle Edition.

Fire by Kristin Cashore

2013-04-25T20:09:00.000-04:00

Fire (Seven Kingdoms Trilogy)

If you like: telepathy * fantasy * female protagonists

Fire is a companion book to Graceling. (See my review of Graceling here.) Though it is set in the same world, and there are some relative plot points, it is not necessary to read one in order to read the other. Fire is a young woman who is a monster, which means she is devastatingly beautiful, can read minds, and hold sway over those around her. In this kingdom, monsters come in all species; in each they are more beautiful than their companions, but also significantly more dangerous. All creatures lust after monsters, especially other monsters. This interplay makes Fire incredibly powerful, and constantly in danger.

The nature of the royal family in Fire is very different from many other books of this genre. So many times a family will do anything to maintain their power. Often the people of the kingdom are second to the lusts and desires of the royal family. In Fire the family runs their kingdom more like an efficient business. They each have a role that emphasises their individual strengths, and their strong bond prevents them from squabbling to displace each other in pursuit of power. A royal family that effectively rules and does not believe itself superior to its own people is truly rare. The nature of this easy interplay between the family allows Fire to stand out from its competition.

Kristin Cashore is an author who knows how to write a female lead. Fire is self-sufficient and powerful, but not without experiencing normal worries. Her nature makes her beautiful to everyone, which means that it is difficult to tell if those around her truly admire her, or are only compelled by her monster beauty. Fire is practical in this regard, and rarely lets others in. She has learned to trust herself and expect to need her mind-controlling abilities in order to protect herself. This makes the small coterie of people she allows close to her all the more special. Fire knows the dangerous potential of bearing monster children, and though that makes her envy other women, it is not so powerful that it taints the narrative. Cashore’s women are all confident, strong, and ring true to the reader. Anyone looking for strong female role models for a YA reader in their lives should look to this series.

If you would use all of your abilities to save your kingdom, read Fire.

Cashore, Kristin. Fire. Dial Books, 2009. Kindle Edition.

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

2013-04-18T20:33:00.001-04:00

Attachments: A Novel

If you like: snark * e-mail * Y2K

Attachments is your new favorite book. Set on the verge of Y2K, it is the story of a man who falls in love while working IT security and screening e-mail. Jennifer and Beth continue to e-mail each other in the conversational way that exists between good friends, even though they know it may get read by someone in IT. Occasionally, their messages are flagged by the system filter which gives Lincoln a glimpse into their lives. Aware of the hazardous nature of his actions, Lincoln cannot stop himself from reading their messages, or falling in love with Beth. Eventually their lives and interactions extend beyond the digital world, and they come face-to-face.

Beth and Jennifer are exactly the kind of women you want to be friends with. They are affectionately self-deprecating. They are also supportive and protective while giving each other the space to make their own choices and decisions. What draws both Lincoln and the reader to them is their sharp sense of humor. The women address everything, from mocking the flirt down the hall to relationship stress, with constant sarcasm and upfront honesty. Reading their exchanges makes it impossible to put Attachments down.

The stalkerish development of the relationship between Beth and Lincoln may be better suited to a Craigslist missed connection than an office romance, but that is part of what makes it so much fun to read. Both characters partake in extreme behaviors, that should be off-putting. The intense attraction between them makes their antics excusable, even though it should be setting off alarm signals for each of them. The tenuous steps they each take towards an in person meeting will appeal to introverts everywhere. Both characters will be very familiar and personal to many readers. Rowell gets everything right in the hodgepodge of events that lead these two to each other.

If you have ever fallen in love at first words, read Attachments.

Rowell, Rainbow. Attachments: A Novel. Penguin Group US, 2011. Kindle Edition.

So Much Pretty by Cara Hoffman

2013-04-11T20:00:00.003-04:00

So Much Pretty: A Novel

If you like: The Lovely Bones * individuality * Alice on Luther

So Much Pretty is the story of events that take place in a small town in upstate New York. They are focused around the disappearance, and later the murder, of a young woman. The story is centered around a family that moves to the town when their daughter is young, seeking to escape the big city life. Their alternative parenting mixed with the influences of isolation help their daughter, Alice, to develop a great intellect with boundless creativity and limited normative reference.

It is never a mystery that murder is at the core of So Much Pretty. From the outset the reader knows that tragic events will occur, and is left to put the pieces together throughout the narrative. This truly enhances the story structure. Knowing that something bad will happen encourages the reader to make assumptions about those events, and Hoffman is quick to turn those assumptions on their heads. The layering of detail in So Much Pretty creates a masterfully intricate course of events, that seems unstoppable once they are set in motion.

Morality is at the center of So Much Pretty. The Pipers raise their daughter to explore extensive philosophical viewpoints, and determine her own sense of morality based in that. This makes her somewhat of an outsider in her school, and does not help the family to be accepted as a part of the town, even after living there close to 20 years. The Pipers view themselves as an enlightened family, transcending what is normal. In some ways, the open nature of their parenting creates a strong willed and eager to learn child, but based on the resulting actions of the story, could be seen as questionable by the reader. The societal norms of Haeden also raise moral questions. People are praised and upheld as model citizens with little logical reasoning. Those who pollute are still praised, and those who care are viewed as radical liberals. The treatment of women is also questionable in the small town. Rather than judged on their own merits, they are subjugated to some relic of the past in which women’s sole purpose is to entertain the whims of men. Throughout the story, the men of the town rarely treat women as equals, and there are few women in key positions in the town. This combination is a dangerous mix of chauvinism and ignorance that makes it difficult for any one individual to see the bigger picture.

If you have never stopped playing pretend, read So Much Pretty.

Hoffman, Cara. So Much Pretty. Dreamscape Media, LLC. Audio edition.

Wormhole by Richard Phillips

2013-04-04T20:03:00.000-04:00

Wormhole (The Rho Agenda)

If you like: aliens * action movies * moral conflict

This review contains mild spoilers.

Wormhole is the third book of the Rho Agenda series. (See my other reviews here and here.) After meeting up with Jack and Janet at the end of book two, Heather, Jennifer, and Mark enter into an elaborate training program. It provides them with the tactical, technological, and covert expertise they will need in order to stop the opening of the wormhole created by Dr. Stephenson. As they are still teens, they eventually succumb to the desire to speak with their parents and reassure them they are okay, which puts their secret location in jeopardy. They must use their new skills to escape detention, infiltrate the group at CERN, and stop the final escalation of the alien technology.

Wormhole further develops the familial relationship between Jack, Janet, and the teens that was hinted at in the previous books. Not only do Jack and Janet act as trainers, but they also become surrogate parents. The strong feelings go both ways, and they feel intense pride and concern for their new students. Though they previously worked together, the lack of secrets in their new relationship pushes all of their development further. The training that Jack puts Heather, Jennifer, and Mark through answers many questions that were raised in book two: both about the intentions of the ships’ creators and the extent of the abilities. This effort to expand the abilities provided by the ship turns all three teens into full fledged action heroes. The painstaking work that goes into this skill development prevents that dramatic enhancements from seeming implausible (at least in the context of the story.)

Wormhole continues to question what the best outcome is for the people of Earth. Those influenced by each ship have opposing views about which alien race has the best intentions. Though Heather, Jennifer, and Mark learn that those behind their ship consider one planet or race inconsequential to the greater good, they also believe they are on the right side. Raul’s storyline also raises interesting questions about faith, ego, and desire. Though at times it seems to distract from the overall plot, his unyielding selfish desires illustrate just how much infinite power can corrupt a person’s judgement. The actions of the US government also raise many questions. It is without a doubt that their intentions are to save the world, but the continued insistence on ignoring the advice of more knowledgeable scientists and the lack of accurate information lead them to the wrong conclusion more often than not. It is easy to see why the succession of decisions is made, but it is still inexcusable. With the truth hidden, the errors that lead to the near extinction of life on Earth will no doubt be compounded in the future. It seems that that world would be better served if the truth came out, but the very nature of the gifts bestowed by the Rho Ship will always undermine any conversation about its dangerous agenda.

If you would go to any length to save the world, read Wormhole.

Phillips, Richard. Wormhole. 47 North, 2012. Kindle edition.

Immune by Richard Phillips

2013-03-28T21:11:00.001-04:00

Immune (The Rho Agenda)

If you like: conspiracies * the singularity * telepathy

Immune is the second book in the Rho Agenda series. (See my review of The Second Ship here.) Heather, Mark, and Jennifer have embraced their new skills, and put them to the test in the defense of their planet. Though they initially attempt to maintain their lives, the depths of their abilities push them beyond their home and out into the world. Each struggles to find a balance between complete immersion in their alien talents and passing for normal among the rest of society.

The stakes are much higher in Immune. The widespread use of the technologies provided by the Rho Ship affords Dr. Stephenson unlimited resources and power. At the same time, he cleverly maintains secrecy of his true role. His ultimate goal is not yet revealed, but his motives are clearly far from benevolent. His relationship with the ship has made him omnipotent, and he never restricts the abuse of that power. On the other hand, Heather and Mark are reluctant to fully explore their new strengths. Jennifer is much less cautious, but her secrecy prevents her from seeing the true extent of the potential to work with her friends rather than behind their backs. As the trio comes together to evade capture and imminent death, their synergistic interactions reveal just how much stronger they are when they interact harmoniously.

Immune continues to leave the intentions of both alien races ambiguous. Though it seems clear that those behind the Rho Ship do not have benevolent intentions, the data on board contradicts this idea. At the same time, the footage on the second ship indicates it was sent by protectors of the realm, but this could just as easily be propaganda of a race that seeks to be the first to dominate a new planet. How much does the technology reflect the good or bad intentions of its creator compared to that of its discoverer? Even the protagonists are not immune to the lure of unlimited power and skill, and at times succumb to manipulating events to their favor at the expense of others. This is by no means equal to that of Dr. Stephenson. The complete corruption of his mind by the power that consumes him prevents him from exercising any amount of empathy; he is in constant pursuit of the rational assertion of mastery over all others. Either set of technologies could be used for good or evil. It remains unclear whether the creators have imbued their ships with intention, or if the direction they are exercised in is left entirely up to the user.

If you would immerse yourself in a strange new technology, read Immune.

Phillips, Richard. Immune. AmazonEncore, 2010. Kindle Edition.

Frozen Heat by Richard Castle

2013-03-21T21:19:00.002-04:00

Frozen Heat

If you like: Castle * detectives * Nathan Fillion

Frozen Heat is the fourth in the series of companion books to ABC's Castle. Nikki Heat investigates her mother’s murder as a present day case provides a direct link to her past. Nothing is a coincidence, and danger lurks at every turn. In spite of the emotional toll this takes on Heat, her companions bring the brevity that any Castle fan is looking for.

In line with its predecessors, Frozen Heat presents a parallel story to the show. There are enough differences and nuances to keep fans of the show interested, and it is suitable to be read alone. The Heat series never takes itself too seriously, but is also willing to face the darker aspects of its characters. Reading Frozen Heat is almost a pop culture quiz at times -- bonus points go to the reader who catches the most Firefly references. Though this can seem unnecessary at times, it does not feel overly forced. The story keeps a fast pace, and includes plenty of twists, which will keep the reader engaged as the murder of Beckett’s mother is solved for the second time.

Previously, the Heat series provided “Caskett”-shippers with a chance to see the romance without the show having to break the ever present will-they-won’t-they tension. Now that the show has broken this barrier, it raises questions about just now necessary it is for the book series to overlap. Smartly, Frozen Heat delves deeper into their relationship, and provides the contemplation and discussion that fans will lust after. Though Castle and Beckett have always had an undeniable bond of friendship, the nature of the written word enables much further exploration than a TV show has the capacity to provide.

If homicide is your idea of a good time, read Frozen Heat.

Castle, Richard. Frozen Heat. Hyperion Kindle Edition.

Requiem by Lauren Oliver

2013-03-14T21:03:00.004-04:00

Requiem (Delirium)

If you like: the end * teenage relationship drama * uprisings

Requiem is the conclusion to the Delirium trilogy. (See my previous reviews of the series here and here.) After learning of life outside the city walls in the first book, and becoming part of the resistance in the second book, Lena spends much of Requiem directionless. Her group does not know what to do next, and she is unable to sort out her feelings for Julian and Alex. Eventually they stumble on the leaders of the resistance and find their place in the fight for love and freedom.

Without having any model of cure-free love and relationships, Lena has trouble navigating both. It is difficult to grasp that love doesn’t mean being happy all the time, and that communicating through difficulties is especially important. Inside the walls, teenagers sneak around and play at love, but they know that they will eventually be cured, and their feelings are only temporary. With no boundaries or guidelines, understanding the difference between infatuation and love is incredibly complex. Life in the Wilds is so tenuous that long-term relationships are more focused on missions and survival than love and interpersonal connections.

The world that Lena grew up in has been shattered from every angle. She has learned the cure is not the answer, but she has also learned that freedom can be difficult at times. The lies and deceit throughout mainstream society have also been revealed to her and the others in the Wilds. Rather than being able to make choices now that she is free from society, Lena continues to be trapped. She is stuck in between her feelings for both Alex and Julian. As the threats continue to escalate, she must continue to fight for the resistance, as well. In spite of all of their fighting, nothing really changes in this series. The resistance does continue to fight, and shed light on the hidden darkness of the deliria-free. They are still outnumbered, and lacking in resources. Each statement they make is stamped out by the power of the institutional forces they are up against. Each fence they climb is replaced by a wall. Each camp they make is hunted down and destroyed. They are fighting with fists and knives against tanks and bombs. When all progress is constantly erased, and characters have not evolved from the first installment, it leaves the reader to wonder what the ultimate message of the Delirium Trilogy is. Though Lena urges others to fight for freedom and love, there is never a benefit to this fight, and she is no happier having found love than she was before.

If you like to see things through to the bitter end, read Requiem.

Oliver, Lauren. Requiem (Delirium). HarperCollins, 2013. Kindle Edition.

The Second Ship by Richard Phillips

2013-03-07T21:07:00.001-05:00

The Second Ship (The Rho Agenda)

If you like: aliens * cover-ups * high school

In The Second Ship, it is revealed that an alien ship has crash landed and is being harvested for technological advancements. Unknown to the government, there is a second ship that a group of three teens accidentally discovers. This ship appears to have been made by a different creator, and contains dire warnings about the purpose of the original ship. As the teens interact with the ship, they develop enhanced cognitive and physical skills, and work to warn the government about the dangers of the group involved with the original ship. The conspiracies on each side reach to the highest levels of government, and the the powers of each ship have a far reach in the minds of those who encounter them.

Aware of the potential consequences of sudden alien powers, the teens in The Second Ship are careful about the use of their new skills. Unlike so many other stories, they do not have any incidents where their abilities unexpectedly harm others. They are careful in the development and fine tuning of their skills. There are no outlandish experiments with what they can do. Instead their story is one of fascinating scientific explorations. They react with equal parts caution and wonder to the changes they are undergoing. Though their ready acceptance of the ship and everything it encompasses seems a bit naive at times, it does not overly distract from the story. They do remain grounded in their family lives, and have enough respect for their community to not allow their egos to be detrimental.

The implications of the two ships are far reaching. Not only are we not alone, but they are not alone either. The visitors are both protective and destructive. These extraterrestrial travelers have very terrestrial concepts of good and evil. The motivations of those behind the original ship remain largely a mystery. There is no obvious gain to destroying other worlds, but that does not make them less nefarious. The creators of the second ship are much more intriguing. How have they been impacted by this destruction? Their motivation is also largely an enigma. Whether or not they seek to aid Earth because they are a benevolent people, or because defeating the others serves them personally remains to be seen. Trusting either force entirely seems foolish. Considering these ships and what they mean leaves the reader with far more questions than answers, but does not lessen the enjoyment in any way.

If you would walk through a door without knowing what waits on the other side, read The Second Ship.

Phillips, Richard (2012-10-02). The Second Ship. AmazonEncore, 2012. Kindle Edition.

Stray by Evan Fuller

2013-02-28T20:46:00.001-05:00

Stray (The Rittenhouse Saga)

If you like: indie authors * magic * secrets

Stray is the sequel to Evan Fuller’s Mutt. (See my review of Mutt here.) A few months after the conclusion of Mutt, we find that Emery is continuing his support of many children from outside the walls of Rittenhouse. His desire to help as many has he can, mixed with the secret nature of his work, is beginning to take its toll. In spite of this, he takes on more than ever in order to right societal wrongs and help anyone he can.

Emery is a fascinating character. He is driven to help others, and selfless to a fault. This humanity is dual-sided. His intense generosity also makes him difficult to deal with. He can be gruff and isolates himself in a ruse of protecting those he loves. This gives him a robust depth. What makes him most lovable is just how human he is. He is not skilled enough to lead the type of elaborate double-life that leaves no one the wiser. He begins looking into the underground economy of Rittenhouse, but sticks out like a sore thumb. The qualities that make him a generous man also make him a terrible liar, and he is completely incapable of the types of cunning required for this type of deception. This detail strongly enhances both his character and the story.

This dystopian world is increasingly complex. Not only are there entire unknown economies in Rittenhouse, but the world outside is much more involved than anyone could have imagined. The multifaceted deceits going on in all aspects of society make it impossible to understand how it continues to function. The corruption at all levels of government is part of the establishment. The multitude of transgressions practiced by all individuals is surprising. When the social codes are as strict as they are in Rittenhouse some infractions are expected, but there is hardly a person who follows the rules. As the truth begins to emerge this society is ripe for revolution. When those outside the walls become empowered to work with the internal sympathizers, there will be no stopping them. Until that time, each interaction leaves the reader on bated breath hoping that this will not be the time Emery is caught. Not everyone can be saved; not every danger is external. For all of Emery’s goodwill, there are those inside his walls that may be his undoing. The big picture is lost on many members of this society, and until they see it it will shackle them in place.

If you could have sworn you heard someone in the basement, read Stray.

Fuller, Evan. Stray. 2013. Smashwords edition. (Reviewed copy courteously provided by Evan Fuller -- Thanks!)

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

2013-02-21T20:40:00.000-05:00

Graceling

If you like: gifted people * hand-to-hand combat * independence

In Graceling, some people are graced with magnified skill sets. These skills develop when they are children, and are often far more complex than they seem. Some have the ability to run quickly or hunt well, while others have augmented mental capacities. These individuals are treated very differently based on the communities they live in, but many are expected to serve their rulers without question. Katsa is one of the graced, and has spent her life working as an assassin for her uncle, the king. She works to circumvent his requests and do beneficial work for the people she meets.

The hidden complexities of the graces are captivating. Though many are not described in detail, those that are contain unknown layers of depth. These wells of strength are often hidden by their possessor, to their own advantage, and also their own safety. Katsa must constantly fight to maintain control, and she fears that her emotions will get the better of her and lead to the death of those who stand in her way. As she learns to embrace her talents, she realizes that she is much more than a killer. Po is the same. Though he is perceived to have physical skill, Katsa is quick to realize that he posses skill far beyond that of combat. King Leck’s grace is so powerful he conceals its existence to further utilize its power. If all of the graced hold such secrets, the potential for what they could create and achieve is limitless.

Katsa’s story is similar to that of many other YA heroines, a girl struggling to find her place in a world she doesn’t agree with meets a handsome stranger who helps her to discover her true potential, and yet is it strikingly differently. Unlike so many others, Katsa never subjugates herself for her love. Her strength is entirely self-possessed. She may learn from Po how to strengthen her own abilities, but above all else she is her own woman. So many other stories require that the heroine give up her dreams or leave her family behind in order to embrace her lover. Katsa is vehemently against this idea, and finds a way to blend happiness with achieving her own goals. Readers who don’t seek a happy marriage, or scorned lover will enjoy the fresh take in Graceling. Though some may not appreciate Katsa’s opposition to marriage and commitment, many others will understand her longing to be her own woman, and desire to make solitary choices. This divergence from commonplace storylines is just one of the facets that makes Graceling a must read.

If you follow your heart, read Graceling.

Cashore, Kristin. Graceling. Harcourt, 2008. Kindle Edition.

The Twelve by Justin Cronin

2013-02-14T21:15:00.001-05:00

The Twelve (Book Two of The Passage Trilogy): A Novel

If you like: Deathly Hallows, Part 1 * vampires * unity

The Twelve is the sequel to Justin Cronin’s The Passage. (See my review here.) It is primarily set five years after The Passage ended, but also moves around in the timeline since the beginning of the viral outbreak. Though they now possess the knowledge of how to defeat the Twelve, none of the characters have made any headway in hunting them down. Other curious events have transpired, raising more questions about the nature of the virals and their ultimate goals.

The irresistible lure of power plays a strong role in The Twelve. As the nature of the virus is explored, individuals inevitably thirst for the longevity and strength it provides. A previously unknown sector of the population has embraced this virus and made themselves into a new sort of half-breed. They posses some of the characteristics of the virals, but are subordinate to them. They act as willing slaves to the end goals of the original vampires. Just having a taste of what the virals posses is enough motivation for these people to treat the rest of humanity as fodder, and have no regard for the survival of their own species. Their greed, and the things they do to obtain their power, are utterly despicable, and leave the reader rooting for them to receive their just deserts.

The interconnected destinies of the protagonists continue to evolve further in The Twelve. Each time the groups reunites, their senses of predestiny is further cemented. Since they are all working towards the same goal, some amount of commonality is to be expected. Yet, their unique paths lead them towards each other in often unexpected ways. Though this could seem too convenient, in Cronin’s hand it is as though a multitude of pieces in a complex puzzle are finally snapped into place. It is difficult to discuss the further evolution of the characters without spoiling some of the journey, but be confident in knowing that the growth and evolution the group experienced in The Passage is continued and improved in The Twelve. The cerebral dimension of the virus adds additional depth to the connection. As Amy evolves, she creates her own version of the collective consciousness shared by the virals. The subtle comfort and direction she provides aide all of the protagonists in readying themselves to fight for humanity.

If you are concerned by a sudden lack of danger, read The Twelve.

Cronin, Justin. The Twelve. Random House, Inc., 2012. Kindle Edition.

The Passage by Justin Cronin

2013-02-07T21:50:00.001-05:00

The Passage: A Novel

If you like: vampires * dystopias * an innocent/magical child

In The Passage, a race of glow-in-the-dark, superhuman, vampire-like creatures is created in the pursuit of science. When seeking the secrets of self-healing and long life, a group of scientists happen upon dangerous creatures in the jungle. Those who survive lead their team in the creation of a virus they hope will mimic the creatures. They underestimate the monsters they have created, and are deservingly destroyed when the monsters escape. Decades later, secluded groups of survivors struggle to make it through each day in a world overwhelmed by vampires.

Luckily for the other humans, in one final trial before the vampires escaped, a young girl, Amy, was infected with the virus, but not turned. She is intrinsically linked with the twelve who came before her, but also separate. For years she wandered alone, without clear direction or purpose. Her connection protects her, but also unnerves other people that she meets. Eventually she finds her way to a group of survivors who begin to grasp her significance, and fight alongside her to retake the planet. Amy’s relationship with her coterie is slow to develop. It is easy to see that she is special, but difficult to understand just what she is capable of. As Amy slowly remembers what it is like to be with people, she reveals extensive capacity to protect those around her and predict danger. The slow development of her character is a driving force that provides strong momentum for the story.

Family and community are essential elements of The Passage. Each of the people experimented on were selected because they had no family, or anyone else to look for them. This isolation in life was manipulated when they changed, leading to demented fascinations and obsessions. As they create new followers, they imbibe them with the loneliness that surrounded their lives. Years of isolation have also led to inevitable conflict in the small communities. Some succumb to the temptations of the vampires call, others become devoted to tradition and ritual, with no capacity for change. In a dangerous world, these breakdowns are critical, and could lead to the dissolution of humankind. In any community, there are those outsiders who see the peril they are facing and stand up for what is right. This can mean abandoning one group , but it also means creating a new one. Those who fight to survive and protect those they love create a new bond, and can leverage that to survive the unthinkable. In the end, it is not the people you have grown up with that matter, but those who share your passion and vigor for life that are your true community. Together you will have the ability to overcome any obstacle in your way.

If you sleep with the lights on, read The Passage.

Cronin, Justin. The Passage. Random House, Inc., 2012. Kindle Edition.

Ashen Winter by Mike Mullin

2013-01-31T21:39:00.001-05:00

Ashen Winter (Ashfall)

If you like: survival * cannibalism * family

Ashen Winter is the sequel to Ashfall. (See my review here.) Alex and Darla leave the safety of his uncle’s farm and attempt to find Alex’s parents. As time passes, the world becomes increasingly dangerous. Food is even more scarce, and those that have survived have resorted to extreme measures. Places that were safe a few weeks ago are now the targets of bandits. The employees of Black Lake continue to be a threat as they hunt for “refugees” in order to get a bigger government payday.

Ashen Winter continues to question what it means to be an adult. In such a perilous world, one would assume that anyone that is willing to go their own way should be able to, but the heads of the new social groups often see things differently. How much harm can misguided nostalgia cause? All too often, Alex is rebuked for being a child. In the new normal, a sixteen-year-old should be trusted with adult responsibilities. Instead, he has to waste time and energy fighting with the adults to have his voice heard. In order to move forward with any success, people must realize that all the children have had to grow up far too quickly, and their new maturity should be utilized instead of marginalized.

In Ashen Winter, the sliding scale of humanity continues to expand. In the early days after the eruption, people questioned whether or not to trust one another. As the weeks have passed, there is no longer a question: strangers cannot be trusted. Alex refuses to embrace this idea. He continues to look for the best in people and attempts to help everyone he meets. This works to his advantage and against it. He is willing to share far more than most, which encourages those he meets to help and support him more than they would have. At the same time, it puts him in constant increased danger. Rather than fending for himself, he still takes the safety of others into account. This is what humanity needs to survive, but the realities of day-to-day life are likely to put it into extinction. As those around him realize he has a lot to offer, Alex’s attitudes may inspire other survivors to come together. Already he has changed both Worthington and Warren with his unabashed hope for the future and for survival. Once his attitude catches on it will enable these communities to be stronger, and help the kindhearted people survive against all those who have traded in their morals for a sliver of survival. This will be tested with increasing frequency as scarcity endures, and more and more people run out of options. Though kindness and humanity are the only way that people will be able to overcome these problems, a strong sense of self-preservation will make them harder to embrace.

If you think age is irrelevant to adulthood, read Ashen Winter.

Mullin, Mike. Ashen Winter. Tanglewood, 2012. Kindle edition.

Amped by Daniel H. Wilson

2013-01-24T21:20:00.001-05:00

Amped

If you like: H+ The Digital Series * The Bourne Identity * technology

In Amped, humans have been supplementing themselves with technology. It began as a way to overcome maladies, both physical and mental. The implants could cure epilepsy, ADHD, or missing limbs. Before long, people installed elective implants to experience more of the world than they could naturally. Over time, the unimplanted began to fear those with the superior abilities. The regular people gained enough momentum that they stripped the amps of all their rights. Add in a little bit of conspiracy and you have a riveting story about what it means to evolve, and what makes a person human.

The treatment of the amps is appalling, yet it is entirely in line with human history. The long seated fear of difference continuously leads to the marginalization of the minority subset. Though each of us believes that we wouldn’t consider someone non-human for having a medical implant, it is also easy to understand the fear of the unknown. Wilson portrays this fine line deftly, and never makes the brutality of violence seem misplaced. Though modern technology is ubiquitous, it is nothing compared with the aptitudes the amps enable. People are so inherently afraid of change, especially of this magnitude, that the natural response is hate. At heart, every person with an amp or without, just wants to live a full life. Adding a piece of technology doesn’t strip away humanity, unless outsiders force it to.

The exclusion practiced by the regular people in Amped is analogous to the way most fervent issues are treated. Each side focuses so closely on what makes the other side different -- and wrong -- that they are unable to see how much they are the same. Rather than embracing the potential of combining different viewpoints to see a greater panorama of the world, niche groups believe they have the best view, and nothing else could compare. The limits this places on societies growth are astounding, no matter which issue is at hand. How many issues could be resolved if each side stepped back and thought about the human beings on the other side? Amped gladly illustrates this important lesson. It never backs away from the fear, fueled by hatred and rage, that is all too often misplaced by the uninformed. Before you judge another group remember that at heart you have more similarities than dissimilarities with them. Above all remember that you will never see the full picture until you have seen the view from the other side.

If you consent to the technology in your mind, read Amped.

Wilson, Daniel H. Amped. Doubleday, 2012. Kindle Edition.

The Long Earth by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter

2013-01-17T20:24:00.000-05:00

The Long Earth

If you like: sentient machines * parallel worlds * exploring

In The Long Earth, the secret of transitioning between parallel worlds is revealed. Plans are published to make a stepper box, a potato powered device that will move its creator from one world to the next, and people immediately begin exploring the unknown earths. Though the majority of people don’t step until they create their stepper box, there are individuals that are natural steppers, with generations of stepping ancestors. There are also those that cannot step, even with a box; they are left behind while the rest of society spreads through the endless new earths. Myriads of different evolutionary possibilities are explored, as well as the consequences of different environmental developments. If it can be imagined, it most likely exists on one of the earths.

Anything is possible when there are innumerable trajectories. Each earth represents a different evolutionary path, with similar divergences clustering together. The dramatic impacts of minor differences are easily realized when stepping between consecutive realities. The physical differences in the planets are dramatic, and the life forms that exist within them are equally astounding. With this collection of infinite wonder, there isn’t room in just one book to fully explore it -- even the characters remark at how limited their exploration abilities are. There are enough fleeting references to the local flora and fauna to serve as a jumping off point for readers with active imaginations. While there are so many differences, there are also many fundamental similarities. This helps every earth to feel like home, even if it is over two million steps away.

The new-found ability to walk away from the problems of Datum Earth reveals humanity at its worst. Most assume that humans will begin to ruin the nearby worlds, and continue to do so exponentially. As soon as stepping is revealed, people start to ravage nearby worlds for resources. There is no concern for this destruction, or the trash that is left behind. Each action changes the future of that earth, but no one is concerned with preservation. Steppers even leave family members behind without a second thought. Many children who are unable to step are abandoned while their families move on to pioneer the far earths. This only encourages the rage and insecurity of the non-steppers, which proceeds to showcase intolerance and prejudice at their worst. This does not mean that all people are bad. Some people, like Joshua the main character, seek to understand the creatures that have evolved, and to help where they can. The consequences of population density are also explored in The Long Earth. Most assume that in worlds with no rules and no government chaos will ensue. Instead, as people spread out there is less crime and less conflict. People are much happier in small, sustainable communities than in traditional Datum Earth living situations. Seeking like-minded individuals to live with can have both positive and negative consequences, but is nearly inescapable when a new world is only a step away.

If you would step into the unknown without looking back, read The Long Earth.

Pratchett, Terry and Stephen Baxter. The Long Earth. Doubleday, 2012. Kindle edition.

13 Bullets by David Wellington

2013-01-10T21:36:00.004-05:00

13 Bullets (Laura Caxton)

If you like: vampires * cops * psychics

In 13 Bullets, Laura Caxton is thrust out of her world as a state trooper and into the world of vampire hunter when she discovers a vampire half-dead during a routine traffic checkpoint. When half-deads follow her home, she becomes veteran vampire hunter and US Marshall Jameson Arkeley’s first choice for a partner during his investigation. As they come closer to finding the group of vampires it is revealed that the vampires intend much more than death for the investigators.

The structure of vampire society is varied from the more common portrayals. As in other lore, there are elders that are much more powerful than fresh vampires. Though they are stronger, they require significantly more blood to sustain their power, or else show their true age. Below the elders rank the more traditional vampires, and below them the half-deads, a breed of vampire slaves that share the curse but not the same level of vampiric abilities. Since the vampires are only powerful when sustained on increasing amounts of blood, they are less intimidating. Additionally, these vampires must regenerate while they sleep -- entering a state of decomposition during which they are completely vulnerable. Though they do not leave themselves completely defenseless, having such a large window of weakness significantly reduces their threat.

13 Bullets raises many questions about what vampires are really preying on. Though they need to drink blood, they thrive on manipulation. They lure in people who feel isolated and abandoned with a new kind of family and unimaginable power. Why does immortality appeal to those who do not enjoy their life? They seek the type of influence that they do not have the willpower to achieve on their own. Additionally, the constant call of the vampires can break down their hesitation, and, given enough time, turn all of their arguments upside down. The vampires prey on the perceptions of depressed and lonely individuals. Their hypnotism leads the individuals to believe they want to chose the undead life. These vampires don’t just harvest blood, but also a person’s very will to live.

If there is something calling you to come into the dark, read 13 Bullets.

Wellington, David. 13 Bullets. Three Rivers Press, 2007. Kindle edition.

Ashfall by Mike Mullin

2013-01-03T21:04:00.001-05:00

Ashfall

If you like: survival * friendship * super volcanoes

Ashfall is the story of Alex -- a teen spending the weekend alone while his family visits relatives when a super volcano erupts. The world instantly descends into chaos. He quickly decides to leave his ruined house and try to reach his family at his uncle’s in the next state. Along the way he is meets Darla, another teen who has incredible mechanical savvy. The two journey together and discover that people are the worst danger.

Unlike many post-apocalyptic stories, based in more fantastical scenarios, a super volcano eruption at Yellowstone is entirely possible, if not inevitable. With disaster striking suddenly and powerfully, there is little that can be done to prepare. When large swaths of the country become isolated and desolate, there is little room for humanity. The juxtaposition between those who help Alex and those who intend harm provides a strong delineation in human character. Some know that in the long run, the more survivors the better. Others believe that with limited resources their own survival outweighs what anyone else can bring to the table. Unfortunately, the reprehensible actions of so many characters in Ashfall are all too believable, but it is also easy to understand how things could turn that way quickly when survival is the law of the land.

Ashfall continues to emphasize the idea that everything can change in an instant. When Alex says goodbye to his parents the thought that it could be the last time he sees them couldn’t be further from his mind. When looters come banging on his neighbor’s door, Alex’s relative safety is instantly destroyed. The kind instincts that had saved his life also jeopardized it. Darla and her mother represent both views. Darla is skeptical of all outsiders, knowing that it is especially important to protect the resources on their farm. Darla’s mother reaches out to Alex and welcomes him into their home. Her empathy saves his life, but could just have easily been disastrous if Alex intended harm. When they reach the FEMA camp, their world is instantly turned upside down again. Everything they have learned and acquired is instantly invalidated. The psychological stress of surviving from one moment to the next in an ever-changing world is nearly worse than the physical harms of the poisonous ash. At what point is survival no longer worth it? Many would rather choose a quick death than to slowly starve. Many lack the know-how to save themselves and survive on their own. When the governmental safety-net feels more like a noose, the world may never be the same. At times Ashfall can be difficult to read due to its realism. Things don’t just work out for Alex. Unlike many protagonists, he doesn’t have a series of fortuitous events. He is not entirely lost, but he lives in a world without hope. As the world devolves further and further, the promise of safety seems like a lie.

If you think you are prepared for anything, read Ashfall.

Mullin, Mike. Ashfall. Perseus Books Group, 2010. Kindle Edition.

Pseudopod Tapes Vol. 1 by Alasdair Stuart

2012-12-27T20:09:00.001-05:00

The Pseudopod Tapes Vol 1: Not the end of the world, just the end of the year.

If you like: Pseudopod * essays * horror

The Pseudopod Tapes are a collection of essays by Alasdair Stuart expanding his end caps from each of the 2012 episodes of Pseudopod. The collection offers reflections on horror, genre, television, movies, work, loss, and life. In their original forms, the end caps provide a poignant summation to each episode, but in the expanded form they are stand-alone pieces with a much broader scope.

The essays of the Pseudopod Tapes implore each reader to connect with all aspects of horror. What is it that terrifies us, but also intrigues us to come back for more? All the things that go bump in the night are an invitation to explore deep within ourselves. Horror is as diverse as its readership, linked by the knowledge that there are untold dangers out there waiting, but holding your breath and closing your eyes might keep them at bay for one more night. Stuart acknowledges that the zombies scratching at your door might be real or imagined, but if you don’t escape them they will eat you alive. The goosebumps and raised-hairs on the back of your neck might just be an evolutionary quirk, or they might be the very thing that keeps you safe from the monsters under the bed.

Introspection is a key component of the Pseudopod Tapes. Many parts of the collection reveal just how much one’s internal fears can be the most debilitating. Stepping out into the world and sharing your honest truth is the most terrifying of all, but Stuart does so in each essay. Life is rarely easy, and will bring you down if you let it. Putting our creations out into the world to live on their own makes each of us Dr. Frankenstein, praying that we haven’t created a monster. Staying home, doing nothing is safe; it’s easy. Doing something is the most daunting. Throughout this collection the reader will find encouragement to catch hold of that fear, accept it, and use it to do something great. Take that class, write that first sentence, take that first picture. Don’t measure your success by any ruler other than your own. In the end, it doesn’t so much matter how grand your acclaim is, but that you experiment. You will never find your tribe if you don’t open your eyes to look for them. The Pseudopod Tapes are a great place to start looking. Stuart’s unabashed truths may make you look over your shoulder to see if you are being watched -- because how else could he know so well what you are thinking-- but they will also inspire you to use what scares you to find out who you are.

If you are peeking through your fingers because you are too scared to watch, but too scared not to watch, read Pseudopod Tapes Vol. 1.

Stuart, Alasdair. Pseudopod Tapes Vol. 1. Fox Spirit, 2012. A review copy was kindly provided by Alasdair.