A review by noitaskcus
Song of Kali by Dan Simmons

adventurous dark emotional reflective

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I think many would find some of the book's descriptions and plot mechanics dated. The story and especially the main character is reminiscent of Lovecraft with a very reactionary and impotent main character dealing with an almost incomprehensible evil.  Much of the horror and atmosphere comes from the descriptions of Calcutta and its inhabitants., which doesn't read as well. Setting that aside, I liked the atmosphere and pacing. Some parts were genuinely really intriguing (the story told in the cafe).  The side characters were more compelling as well.  Overall, I enjoyed the story, but I think I wanted for it to lean in harder on the horror aspects and the cult dynamics. As it is, it reads more as a fever dream of a man losing his grip on a wild situation, which some might prefer!