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A review by luhos
Martyr!: A Novel by Kaveh Akbar
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was good for me, but did not live up to the greatness that I anticipated after seeing so many exceptional reviews from those I follow. It was beautifully written and had a few stand-out passages. However, the sections of the book that provided familial background felt a bit cumbersome and sometimes felt like a chore to read through, as I was excited to return to the central protagonist's story. Also, without trying to give too much away, the revelation made in the latter quarter of the book felt a bit too contrived, for me.
Perhaps ironically, for a book called Martyr!, I found that the attempt to address martyrdom was one of the least successful aspects of the book, and almost felt secondary to some of the other themes present. What I enjoyed more and found to be more successful was how, through Cyrus, the book dealt with themes of family, capitalism, art, language, morality, and addiction.
Ultimately the things I didn't like about this boil down very much to personal preference and I still think it was a well-written book that addresses many important themes, and with a unique and fluid structure.
Perhaps ironically, for a book called Martyr!, I found that the attempt to address martyrdom was one of the least successful aspects of the book, and almost felt secondary to some of the other themes present. What I enjoyed more and found to be more successful was how, through Cyrus, the book dealt with themes of family, capitalism, art, language, morality, and addiction.
Ultimately the things I didn't like about this boil down very much to personal preference and I still think it was a well-written book that addresses many important themes, and with a unique and fluid structure.