alliemco 's review for:

The Shadow of the Torturer by Gene Wolfe

3.0

challenging dark mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: No

Loveable characters: No

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

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If there's one thing to say about The Shadow of the Torturer, it's that it's unique and seriously challenges the reader. Even though it's just over 200 pages, it demands a lot of thought.

Reading this book is like stumbling into the dreams of someone barely keeping their sanity. The plot is non-linear and postmodern, so it doesn't hold your hand or explain what's going on, which can be both frustrating and fascinating. The upside is that you're immediately inside Severian's head, sharing his understanding of the world around him.

The reason I gave it three stars is that, as a standalone book, it's not satisfying. It only really works as part of a larger novel or series. The story isn't clear, the characters don't go anywhere, it's confusing to follow, and the structure is problematic. The climax comes early, characters are introduced and then shoved aside, and it ends with three cliffhangers. I have to admit, I was able to fully follow the book because I was simultaneously reading and listening to a book analysis.

That said, the more I think about this book, the more I like it. However, how much I ultimately enjoy it will depend on how the series develops and if things start to make sense. I could see myself finishing the series and looking back on this book as a piece of genius, or as an impenetrable mess. Or possibly getting frustrated and not finishing the whole thing. At this point, all outcomes seem equally likely.