IMHO

As a first stab at writing, I've critiqued other people's work. Brave, I know.

Neverwhere by Neil Gaimen

I find it difficult to write about this book without gushing frenetically. I love this novel even though in all honesty “American Gods” is probably a more concise, thoughtful story. But sometimes a book with just sticks with you and this is one such narrative.

Gaimen has an ability to make the commonplace seem extraordinary and yet more guarded for its triteness. It’s a fantasy novel that isn’t fantastical (Ok, the climax is a bit Holy Plot Coupon Batman!). Nevertheless, turning your world 30 degrees and to a 1:18 gradient makes for some interesting contrasts and comparisons.

The plot zips along with murders and chases and fights. The good guys are conflicted and confused and the assassins are creepy without being cartoonish. There’s betrayal and suspicion and redemption. Lessons are learned, sanity is questioned, and the true path is found. And for all that sounds pedestrian and dull: it’s outstanding. The imagery is vivid and breathtaking; the Night’s Bridge is truly scary, the Floating Market is effervescent, The Earl’s Court is all pomp and circumstance.

The journey the characters take is atypical and compelling but the true joy of the book is the characterisations. You believe in these people and their motivations. The minutia of their lives is transfixing because you feel for them. And secretly wish you were them.