A review by dr_aimz
Beyond Black by Hilary Mantel

challenging dark funny mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This is my second time reading this novel, first time on audiobook. I remember ‘enjoying’ Beyond Black when I read it on holiday probably nearly a ten years ago, although I was somewhat perplexed by what was going on. This time around,  I’m mourning Hilary Mantel’s unexpected passing (as the mediums would say…) and, strangely, this called out to me as my first revisit to her work. Well, I can highly recommend the audiobook narrated by Anna Bentinck: what a performance! She brings life to a vivid cast of characters, Alison in particular. Whereas I remember her as quite passive, Bentinck embues her with humour, darkness, and pain: I actually barked out laughing quite a few times at Alison’s asides and seemingly disengaged replies to Colette. I found this second time with Beyond Black much more enjoyable, although it only makes me miss Mantel even more!
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