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4.06 AVERAGE
4.06 AVERAGE
I’ve tried to read this several times. The first two times I just couldn’t get into it. I could acknowledge that it was a creative and original book, it just wasn’t the right time for me to read it. This is one of those books that I needed to be in the right mindframe to truly appreciate the genius/creativity behind it. It took me about a year, but once I got there it was worth it. Upon each reading attempt, I would stop about halfway through. But once I got over that hump, it was worth it.
My biggest worry was that as Senlin ascended the different levels, he would meet new and more characters. My worry was that I would never get the chance to get emotionally connected to any of the secondary characters. This concern was unwarranted. Some secondary characters do reappear later in the story.
I think my favorite level is the Parlor. Each level has its hidden insidiousnesses, but the Parlor was the most interesting and possibly the worst.
Bancroft really knows how to craft and interweave different aspects of his story. His manipulations are so subtle and seamless that you don’t realize you are being led towards a conclusion or revelation until it happens. He drops hints throughout the story that seem meaningless and just like Bancroft is setting the stage/describing the setting really well. It’s not until later in the book that you realize those tiny details were hinting at something so much bigger.
Character development - Senlin really does change. It’s not instantaneous, but a slow-moving and subtle change that you only notice once you take a step back and really look at where he started and where he ended up.
Spoiler
It was around the time of the Baths that I just got a little bored. There was a lethargic feel to that level, which upon reflection, was likely intentional. Because Senlin didn’t feel any urgency to continue his journey, I also didn’t feel any urgency to continue reading.My biggest worry was that as Senlin ascended the different levels, he would meet new and more characters. My worry was that I would never get the chance to get emotionally connected to any of the secondary characters. This concern was unwarranted. Some secondary characters do reappear later in the story.
I think my favorite level is the Parlor. Each level has its hidden insidiousnesses, but the Parlor was the most interesting and possibly the worst.
Spoiler
What I find so fascinating is that everyone is an actor, the actors are are mostly volunteers, and many people keep coming back for more of this weird-ass torture. And then there are the people who are actors in the play and don’t even know it.Bancroft really knows how to craft and interweave different aspects of his story. His manipulations are so subtle and seamless that you don’t realize you are being led towards a conclusion or revelation until it happens. He drops hints throughout the story that seem meaningless and just like Bancroft is setting the stage/describing the setting really well. It’s not until later in the book that you realize those tiny details were hinting at something so much bigger.
Character development - Senlin really does change. It’s not instantaneous, but a slow-moving and subtle change that you only notice once you take a step back and really look at where he started and where he ended up.
I haven't enjoyed a fantasy novel this much in a great many years. if all steampunk was this good I'd be wearing a clockwork top hat.
This was not what I expected. Not in a bad way though. I knew it was a fantasy about a tower and that was about it. I wasn't expecting Senlin. His character was so refreshing. He's not a well-built bad ass, he's just a regular guy. Quite nerdy in fact. I too am a nerd, so I loved him. I am excited to continue the series.
I kept hoping this would get better, but I found it really dull and often silly. The main character is really uninteresting.
11/10. Amazing writing style. Overlooked because of indie publisher. Deserves more success.
Such a hilarious protagonist, I loved the consciousness around it. “You’ve got no friends.” (Roughly?) “That’s what all my friends say.” Real lessons
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is what would happen if Frances Harding wrote adult fantasy, I think. It’s weird and strange and layered with meaning and so incredibly inventive. Looking forward to the next volume.
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes