If I had tried to find a more polar opposite book from the last one I read, I don't believe I could have accomplished the feat. I try to read across all genres, so as not to succumb to a specific reading stereotype. That being said, The Library At Mount Char is one of the most unique books I have ever read.
I must confess that I am stumped as to how to rate or review this book. My gut instinct is to say that I did not enjoy this book, but I don't want to underestimate the book. I believe that perhaps I just did not understand the depth of this book.
The Library At Mount Char, written by Scott Hawkins, is a mix of genres. I would describe it as a fantasy, horror and adventure fiction all mashed up into a bloody stew. Hawkins has written a novel with many characters in a world where a god-like entity rules with sadistic control and pleasure. The heroine, Carolyn, slowly manipulates the characters to survive the world in which she is thrust.
Personally, through the first three quarters of the book I was confused and could not find a plot. If I was assigned the chore of creating a plot diagram I would fail because the storyline jumped between so many characters and settings that I did not see any continuity. However, the last fourth of the book seemed to pull some of the elements together to create a reasonable ending of good conquering evil, yada, yada, yada.
What I wonder is if there is much hidden symbolism that will surface as more learned readers attack this novel. I just have a feeling that others will read The Library At Mount Char, and see past the violence and gore as if it is a confusing poem to be unraveled. I certainly plan to continue looking for other reviews to see what I missed in my lack of understanding. Perhaps it just is not my fancy as I generally enjoy a lighter form of entertainment. I would encourage the adventurous reader to give it a try. This book certainly is a change from the mundane.
FTC disclaimer: I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review
About Me
- Laura Miller
- I am a recently retired high school educator who is learning to spend time doing what I want to do. This is a new challenge in its own sense. It's like walking into a buffet and knowing you can eat all you want and not get full or gain any weight and for once you have absolutely no idea what you want. But I look forward to the journey of figuring it out.
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