I haven't posted in these threads for a few months, so here's what I've been reading, if that's OK.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss: This was a decent read, and interesting enough that I'd like to read the sequel. The prose is nowhere near the hype it's gotten, but it works, and the characterization is a bit underwhelming. I can see where the Mary Sue criticisms come from, and I don't so far see any hints of unreliable narration. Perhaps in the sequel.
Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut: A humorous and interesting novel, though not a great one. Vonnegut's take on science and religion, and people's capacity for harm, deceit, and empathy make it quite worthwhile.
Consider Phlebas by Iain M. Banks: This first foray into the
Culture novels has me intrigued. Good world building with some uneven characters, and botched tension.
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood: Atwood draws her main characters well, with prose that flows well and creates a real connection with the main character. The novel is funny, depressing, yet there is some hope. The epilogue is both unnecessary, and needed, as it colors the whole experience.
The Black Company by Glen Cook: Cook's prose is so interesting for its stilted and abrupt nature, and what's left in or out. There is a bit with civilians in a village after/during an attack, which you can pass over so quickly and miss some horrific stuff, and leaves you wondering if you read it right. Some of the characterization seems half-baked, but I’ll definitely get around to the sequels.
Atonement by Ian McEwan: A wonderful novel, with beautiful prose that doesn't let go. A surprising postmodern quality exists to the novel, which critiques itself and what people would like out of a story. Guilt, redemption, and growth are amazingly well rendered by McEwan. The film is pretty good too
.
Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay: A phenomenal fantasy novel, filled with great prose, well-developed characters, and an interesting plot in a well-realized world. The themes of memory and history and exile and loss resound so clearly. I suppose this novel drew me in so absolutely due to similar ideas that had affected me astoundingly earlier this year, while reading
The Yiddish Policeman's Union in which Jewish identity and exile had so enveloped the characters in that novel. There is depth to the protagonists, who wrestle with their actions which are a tool for something larger, a desired outcome, yet one that is paved with horrors and profound hurt. I'd like to point out one character, Dianora, whose characterization and development stood out exceptionally. Other characterizations suffered perhaps due to Kay's attention to her.
Finally, onto
Bleeding Edge by Thomas Pynchon. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this since it was announced.