A review by kandicez
Black Mad Wheel by Josh Malerman
3.0
Like Bird Box was about something that could kill you when you looked at it, this is about something that can kill you when you hear it. Can being the operative word here, because the sound doesn't kill Philip. Instead it leaves him broken and in a coma for six months. Ellen has been helping to care for him in a military hospital as he heals. She's become increasingly wary of his treatment and just what drugs he is being give to help him heal.
Parts of this were fantastic. The portions that took place in the hospital, from Ellen's point of view, were my favorites. Because Ellen has no idea what's going on we get to see things unfold unencumbered by facts. One fact I wish I had from the beginning was the year this novel takes place. I don't want to spoil anything, but first I was very, very confused, and then very, very surprised. I don't know if I missed it, or it was purposely hidden, but that year is very important.
Other than the Ellen POV portions, the end was the best part. It didn't make sense and Malerman explained nothing, but the visuals were fantastic! It was heartbreaking and uplifting at turns. I won't be rereading this one as I did Bird Box, but I guess it will stay with me for a while.
I'll be on the lookout for red pianos and I will never forget the succession of notes first taught to children in music. Thanks, Josh!
Parts of this were fantastic. The portions that took place in the hospital, from Ellen's point of view, were my favorites. Because Ellen has no idea what's going on we get to see things unfold unencumbered by facts. One fact I wish I had from the beginning was the year this novel takes place. I don't want to spoil anything, but first I was very, very confused, and then very, very surprised. I don't know if I missed it, or it was purposely hidden, but that year is very important.
Other than the Ellen POV portions, the end was the best part. It didn't make sense and Malerman explained nothing, but the visuals were fantastic! It was heartbreaking and uplifting at turns. I won't be rereading this one as I did Bird Box, but I guess it will stay with me for a while.
I'll be on the lookout for red pianos and I will never forget the succession of notes first taught to children in music. Thanks, Josh!