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A review by halcyone
Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld
4.0
Having read the entire trilogy by this point, I can say that, to me, Behemoth had the most thrilling, action-packed adventure out of all three. It was great that the setting moved outside of Europe, which led us to the fascinating land of the Ottoman Empire. The city of Istanbul was a visual treat, with its half Darwinist, half Clanker inclinations.
I really enjoyed how Westerfeld twisted history in this case, particularly the fate of the Ottoman Empire. Such changes were perfect for keeping the story from being a straight historical retelling. All the political intrigue created a tense atmosphere. The looming German presence in the city definitely made for some close encounters for our favorite protagonists, which in turn provided us with excellent action sequences! There's never a dull moment in Behemoth.
Character-wise, we see more of their development both independently and via their relationships with others. Alek takes the lead this time, carving his own path. He continues to believe in a higher power guiding his destiny, you know, "This is my destiny, I must do this and that and the other, etc." Needless to say, not all goes according to plan, but that doesn't stop Alek from forging onward, a little tougher but still His Serene Highness, slightly naive and endearing.
Dr. Barlow and Count Volger - plotters. I won't say more, but they are fabulous. We don't see too much of them throughout the novel, but their scenes are quite fun. There's also the reveal of what kind of beastie was growing inside Dr. Barlow's eggs, and the result is quite surprising! Also bound to be one of your favorite beasties due to their nature and sheer cuteness.
We also get a slew of new characters: Eddie Malone, an annoying American reporter that serves the purpose of hinting at plot development, inconveniencing our heroes, and providing a glimpse to the rest of the world and its place in the Darwinist vs. Clanker battle; and a group of revolutionaries that will inevitably win your support.
Deryn too gets a chance to be a daring leader, and while her success doesn't come about easily, it's awesome to see her persevere despite obvious setbacks. Deryn's burgeoning feelings for Alek were both expected (because these days most books can't go without a romantic undertone) and surprisingly amusing. Made for some funny moments, especially with the introduction of a new character later on. (I have to say - and only those that have already read the book will understand - but I certainly didn't see that coming.) But despite her sometimes swooning over Alek unnecessarily, her character remains strong and confident. The story shows us that she is quite adaptable and intelligent and just, well, fierce. Deryn Sharp remains my favorite character.
By the time I finished Behemoth, I was completely in love with this series' world and characters. I wasted no time in getting my hands on Goliath.
I really enjoyed how Westerfeld twisted history in this case, particularly the fate of the Ottoman Empire. Such changes were perfect for keeping the story from being a straight historical retelling. All the political intrigue created a tense atmosphere. The looming German presence in the city definitely made for some close encounters for our favorite protagonists, which in turn provided us with excellent action sequences! There's never a dull moment in Behemoth.
Character-wise, we see more of their development both independently and via their relationships with others. Alek takes the lead this time, carving his own path. He continues to believe in a higher power guiding his destiny, you know, "This is my destiny, I must do this and that and the other, etc." Needless to say, not all goes according to plan, but that doesn't stop Alek from forging onward, a little tougher but still His Serene Highness, slightly naive and endearing.
Dr. Barlow and Count Volger - plotters. I won't say more, but they are fabulous. We don't see too much of them throughout the novel, but their scenes are quite fun. There's also the reveal of what kind of beastie was growing inside Dr. Barlow's eggs, and the result is quite surprising! Also bound to be one of your favorite beasties due to their nature and sheer cuteness.
We also get a slew of new characters: Eddie Malone, an annoying American reporter that serves the purpose of hinting at plot development, inconveniencing our heroes, and providing a glimpse to the rest of the world and its place in the Darwinist vs. Clanker battle; and a group of revolutionaries that will inevitably win your support.
Deryn too gets a chance to be a daring leader, and while her success doesn't come about easily, it's awesome to see her persevere despite obvious setbacks. Deryn's burgeoning feelings for Alek were both expected (because these days most books can't go without a romantic undertone) and surprisingly amusing. Made for some funny moments, especially with the introduction of a new character later on. (I have to say - and only those that have already read the book will understand - but I certainly didn't see that coming.) But despite her sometimes swooning over Alek unnecessarily, her character remains strong and confident. The story shows us that she is quite adaptable and intelligent and just, well, fierce. Deryn Sharp remains my favorite character.
By the time I finished Behemoth, I was completely in love with this series' world and characters. I wasted no time in getting my hands on Goliath.