A review by melc
Once a Monster by Robert Dinsdale
adventurous
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. Dinsdale is a masterful storyteller and this is another example of how well he crafts his novels.
I loved the characterisation which managed to pay homage to other Victorian literature without being clichéd. Instead, I felt Dinsdale went deeper into what forms a Fagan, or the Stevenson discussion of the choice between good and evil.
I think the blending of Victorian London and Ancient Greece worked really well and created a rich, adventurous, compelling narrative.
What others have said about the pacing and length is true and this novel could have had a hundred pages shaved off. But as it was so well written it kept me interested to the end and as a whole I really enjoyed it.
This honest review is given with thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
I loved the characterisation which managed to pay homage to other Victorian literature without being clichéd. Instead, I felt Dinsdale went deeper into what forms a Fagan, or the Stevenson discussion of the choice between good and evil.
I think the blending of Victorian London and Ancient Greece worked really well and created a rich, adventurous, compelling narrative.
What others have said about the pacing and length is true and this novel could have had a hundred pages shaved off. But as it was so well written it kept me interested to the end and as a whole I really enjoyed it.
This honest review is given with thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.