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A review by jacksonfj8
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
4.25
This is a book in which its biggest strengths also end up being its biggest flaws.
First, the world building is incredibly rich and full of details that make it feel alive. It is also refreshing to read a fantasy story not primarily based upon European myth. But the level of detail can make the story confusing, as I often found myself lost remembering if so and so is the king of such and such place, or whatever. This is somewhat alleviated by the reference at the beginning.
Second, the grimness of the writing makes it rather compelling in a macabre kinda way. This is an unpleasant story and you really feel it. But this unpleasantness is too much sometimes. The story is almost comically violent and sexual. These moments reinforce the oppressiveness of the world and narrative, but their frequency reduces their effectiveness. At certain points of the story, it feels like every other page contains an over-the-top description of some gory or lewd (or both) act.
Third, the writing is highly detailed and evocative. This makes the story almost poetic at times, as the words dance off the page. However, at the same time, the writing can also be meandering and leaves me wondering what actually is significant.
Overall, this is a great story with many flaws. It is not for everybody, as the intense world building, visceral darkness of the narrative, and the somewhat complicated prose makes it a challenging read. It is well worth a read if it fits your wheelhouse.
First, the world building is incredibly rich and full of details that make it feel alive. It is also refreshing to read a fantasy story not primarily based upon European myth. But the level of detail can make the story confusing, as I often found myself lost remembering if so and so is the king of such and such place, or whatever. This is somewhat alleviated by the reference at the beginning.
Second, the grimness of the writing makes it rather compelling in a macabre kinda way. This is an unpleasant story and you really feel it. But this unpleasantness is too much sometimes. The story is almost comically violent and sexual. These moments reinforce the oppressiveness of the world and narrative, but their frequency reduces their effectiveness. At certain points of the story, it feels like every other page contains an over-the-top description of some gory or lewd (or both) act.
Third, the writing is highly detailed and evocative. This makes the story almost poetic at times, as the words dance off the page. However, at the same time, the writing can also be meandering and leaves me wondering what actually is significant.
Overall, this is a great story with many flaws. It is not for everybody, as the intense world building, visceral darkness of the narrative, and the somewhat complicated prose makes it a challenging read. It is well worth a read if it fits your wheelhouse.