Sunday 24 April 2011

STEAMPUNK REVIEW: Infernal Devices and Morlock Night - KW Jeter

Release Date: 07/04/11

SYNOPSIS:

WHEN GEORGE'S FATHER DIED, HE LEFT GEORGE HIS WATCHMAKER SHOP - AND MORE. But George has little talent for watches and other infernal devices. When someone tries to steal an old device from the premises, George finds himself embroiled in a mystery of time travel, music and sexual intrigue. The classic steampunk tale from the master of the genre. With a new introduction by the author, and an afterword by Jeff Vandermeer.


REVIEW:

If you want a title for the Steampunk world then you really have to try KW Jeter. Not only thought of by some as the father of the genre but one who takes a hell of a lot to beat as the descriptive work of the scenes really can be imagined by the reader from the dark, dank alley’s to the magnificent cathedrals. Add to this a great lead character that readers can not only associate with but sympathise alongside which when backed by a masterful storytelling style that fits right into the other Victorian authors out there makes this a title that is not only hard to put down but nigh impossible.

Finally add to this a fairly unique authorly voice as well as mysterious coincidences and you really have a great title to sit back and enjoy the ride with. Magical.



Release Date: 07/04/11

SYNOPSIS:

What unfurls wonderfully within this second expedition with KW is a title that starts straight after Well’s Time Machine, and brings the Morlocks to Victorian England. Whilst I absolutely loved the very idea of this there were numerous problems that needed to be overcome but to be honest felt ignored rather than considered. However whilst the first tile was a real joy, this one took a step into the ridiculous when KW introduced Merlin and Arthur which left me not only a little flummoxed but also wondering what would happen next.

Sadly I was disappointed with this title as I felt that the author tried to cram too many idea’s into one singular title but whilst it did annoy you get some wonderful extra’s as well with the authors writing style alongside his weird and wonderful London. All in an OK Steampunk title but I’d suggest that you pick up and stick with Infernal Devices as its far superior on not only the writing but on the believability scale.


REVIEW:

If you want a title for the Steampunk world then you really have to try KW Jeter. Not only thought of by some as the father of the genre but one who takes a hell of a lot to beat as the descriptive work of the scenes really can be imagined by the reader from the dark, dank alley’s to the magnificent cathedrals. Add to this a great lead character that readers can not only associate with but sympathise alongside which when backed by a masterful storytelling style that fits right into the other Victorian authors out there makes this a title that is not only hard to put down but nigh impossible.

Finally add to this a fairly unique authorly voice as well as mysterious coincidences and you really have a great title to sit back and enjoy the ride with. Magical.

1 comment:

ediFanoB said...

Both books have been out of print for a long time. I'm glad that Angry Robots publish them again.

I think both books are must reads for fans of steampunk literature.

Even you have been disappointed by Morlock Nights I will read them both.

Looking forward to get my copies within the next two weeks.