Take a photo of a barcode or cover
hoveros 's review for:
Shadow & Claw
by Gene Wolfe
Four and a half stars for Shadow of the Torturer and 3 for Claw of the Conciliator. The world-building and ideas in these books are genius but the execution, in my opinion, decreases as the story continues. The book is at its peak when Wolfe is forcing you to remember that this isn’t about the Middle Ages but a future so far ahead in time that technology and knowledge have regressed. The more surreal scenes, the infinite gardens, living museums and odd rituals are incredible and terrifying. The actual plot and characters are average at best, terribly stereotypical and contrived at worst. Still, an enjoyable and thought provoking read.