mentat_stem's review
4.0
I like the way Hughes writes a character that can effortlessly read the thoughts and emotions of those around him. At the core of this character is a drug addiction that’s tied to these abilities. The social tension of not being trusted for both of these reasons allows for a constant stream of minor conflicts, which give the story energy.
From there she writes a fairly standard police procedural, with flying cars and a global fear of networked technology. This particular story is set before Clean, the first novel in the series. It's resolved simply as the title suggests. I prefer the novels as there's more space to delve into the science fictional underpinnings of the world.
There are 2 bonus stories in this eBook.
"Carousel" is a delightfully creepy flash horror piece.
"Ink Black Sea" involves a Spanish schooner captain in a battle of wits with a sea creature. Efficiently realized historical setting. We're continuously reminded by all senses that a wooden sailing vessel is a fragile thing and likewise human life. The most powerful characters in this story are trapped in some way by their core nature. I love how a monster story manages to both take life yet end on a hopeful tone.
From there she writes a fairly standard police procedural, with flying cars and a global fear of networked technology. This particular story is set before Clean, the first novel in the series. It's resolved simply as the title suggests. I prefer the novels as there's more space to delve into the science fictional underpinnings of the world.
There are 2 bonus stories in this eBook.
"Carousel" is a delightfully creepy flash horror piece.
"Ink Black Sea" involves a Spanish schooner captain in a battle of wits with a sea creature. Efficiently realized historical setting. We're continuously reminded by all senses that a wooden sailing vessel is a fragile thing and likewise human life. The most powerful characters in this story are trapped in some way by their core nature. I love how a monster story manages to both take life yet end on a hopeful tone.
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