Synopsis
Alistair Mead only remembers one thing from the year she went missing as a child: A series of books that don’t exist. After years of searching, she stumbles on a clue that proves the books were real but were somehow erased from existence.
Desperate for answers, Alistair is drawn into an ancient literary underworld whose members believe she might be the key to unraveling the books, and the altered history of the world.
Ben Kriminger hasn’t written in a year. Traumatized by the fanatical reaction to his novel, Ben is still trying to undo the bloody damage caused by his writing and the unhinged reader who couldn’t tell fiction from fact.
When book pages about a young woman named Alistair begin showing up on Ben’s doorstep, he finds that her story mirrors events in his own ill-fated novel. Still unsure if what he’s reading is fiction, Ben can’t help but act when the pages depict the same people who destroyed his life turning their twisted attention on Alistair.
As their parallel paths spiral toward an impossible revelation, Ben and Alistair learn that seeing this story through may damn the world to darkness before the final page is turned.
"The Book of Briars" by C.J. Bernstein is a masterful work of fantasy that will leave readers captivated from beginning to end. Set in a world of magic and mystery, the story follows the journey of protagonist Tamsin as she navigates a dangerous and ever-changing landscape in order to uncover the secrets of the Book of Briars.
From the outset, Bernstein's world-building is impressive. The setting is vividly described, with a rich and complex history that is gradually revealed over the course of the novel. The use of magic is also well-executed, with different types of magic and their associated rules and limitations explored in detail. It is clear that a great deal of thought and care has gone into the creation of this world, and the result is a truly immersive reading experience.
The characters are also a standout aspect of the novel. Tamsin is a compelling protagonist, with a strong will and a fierce determination to uncover the truth. Her relationships with the other characters are well-developed, with each one bringing a unique perspective and set of skills to the group. There are also several memorable villains, each with their own motivations and backstories that make them more than just two-dimensional antagonists.
The plot of the novel is equally impressive. It moves at a brisk pace, with new revelations and plot twists around every corner. Despite its complexity, the story is easy to follow, with each plot thread eventually tying together in a satisfying conclusion. There are moments of both heart-pounding action and quiet introspection, and the balance between the two is handled deftly.
Overall, The Book of Briars is a must-read for fans of fantasy. Its intricate world-building, well-drawn characters, and engaging plot make it a standout novel in the genre. It is clear that C.J. Bernstein is a writer with a deep love and respect for the traditions of fantasy, and this novel is a testament to that. Highly recommended.
Comments
Be the first to leave a comment!
Share your thoughts with the community