Book #7 - 'The Rising' by Ian Tregillis

Started 23/01/16
Finished 19/02/16

It took me an embarrassingly long time to finish this so let me start by saying that's not a reflection of
the book, more a consequence of travel chaos and organising a new job.

Now that's sorted I've managed to finish this wonderful book. Tregillis hasn't let me down, which was a worry when you love a first book so much, he keeps the story energised and intriguing with characters you really care for.  Everything I've said in my micro review of 'The Mechanical' still stands, the point I wish to focus on for this book is his superb wielding of pacing. It's a masterclass never growing boring or needing to information dump to the point you don't really mind that the story hasn't progressed as much as I'd have liked from the end point of the first book to the finish of this one. Still a lot of mysteries and wonders to come I hope.

Book #6 - 'The Mechanial' by Ian Tregillis

Started - 23/01/16

Finished - 01/02/16

I could gush about this all day so let's start with a bit about anticipation. I wasn't anticipating this book. I've read Tregillis's Milkweed books and though I'd enjoyed them, and loved some of the characters, the story its self wore thin by the final novel and I was disappointed by the handling of the eidolons (but that's what a youth playing final fantasy does to you).

The Mechanical is an almost complete departure. All the characterisation and detail and atmosphere of the Milkweed novels but this time compounded by a rich expansive world. The only thing I can even think to complain about is the sat nav like narrative when people move around a city. I don't need so many god damn street names! It's a small thing to pick at. Its sequel 'The Rising' is going to be my next book on the list.