A review by mimikyutie
The Haar by David Sodergren

dark emotional funny sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Gripping from minute one! One of those books that's a joy to read the whole way through.

Sodergren has a deft touch with characters of all kinds, though the villains are a bit silly in comparison to such well-sketched and heartfelt old Irish folks. Real-world evil billionaires suck just as much, yes, but they don't (usually) monologue about how poor old people are "nothing" and that they'll only just barely remember the people they fucked over whenever they take a shit. Evil people are dangerous and evil because they think they're observing a good cause. However, I don't think that I- or anyone else who's reading this book-really cares all that much about inserting depth and humanity to billionaires, a class of people who exist solely to exploit human lives.

A great book to read after reading Someone You Can Build A Nest In, a fantasy take on a similar premise: love between a human and a shape-shifting abomination who must eat flesh to survive. It's a shockingly kind book despite the gore, violence, and body horror. Sodergren's heart is on his sleeve here, and if his writing is anything to go by, it's a pure, loving, and wise heart.
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