So I have had quite an adventure with this novel. When I first picked it up, I has no idea that this was by the same person who wrote Cloud Atlas (which I haven’t read or watched but I’ve heard amazing things about it so I probably should do both). I began reading it sometime in early 2015 but school and work and other commitments got in the way and I couldn’t continue. I picked it up again about a month ago and surprisingly, I was able to take off exactly where I left off. Unlike other novels, I wasn’t able to read this in the span of a few days; I’ve finished it after having had it for almost a month. I think it’s high time I wrote this review!
It’s 1984 and teenager Holly Sykes is having the worst day ever. She has just lost her best friend and boyfriend in one day and has had a terrible fight with her mother. The only course of action she has left is to run away from home – which is exactly what she does. This impulsive act is just the beginning of an adventure of a lifetime. From a job in a Swiss resort to becoming an acclaimed authoress, Holly encounters a whole host of people who make a lasting impression in her life and end up dragging her into the middle of a war between soul-stealers called Anchorites and a group of vigilantes who are the world’s only line of defense.
This was a beautifully written novel. it was rich in detail and had me hooked from the start. The author is remarkable in his ability to shift from one character to another and make each one distinct. There were times when I became quite lost and times when my interest wasn’t piqued. In fact, the story consisted of many vague connections all the way until about the last quarter of the novel, where the final battle was waged. Although it was confusing and could sometimes be dry, I really enjoyed this novel. It was scintillating and crazy and wholly original. If you like any of Mitchell’s work, then I’m sure you’re familiar with his style and will enjoy this novel. If you are a first-timer like me, you will still love it – as long as you are prepared to stick with it!
Happy reading ~