Long Live Evil by Sarah Rees Brennan - a book review

 

 

 

 Long Live Evil by Sarah Rees Brennan

 

 Long Live Evil by Sarah Rees Brennan is a book that doesn't take itself quite seriously, but that doesn't stop it from having a depth that I had not expected going in. The author's very real experience of surviving late stage cancer features heavily, with all the emotional baggage included, so when the protagonist Rae becomes one of the characters in her favourite book series (very much reminded me of Inkheart by Cornelia Funke), she struggles to take anything seriously beyond her own entertainment. This leads to some rather ridiculous dialogue where a lot depends on other characters being willing to let some really weird stuff slide, and some fourth wall breaks that I have not come across before. The whole book is very extra, as if getting ready for a stage performance (and it would be fun as a stage play, for sure!) with a little musical number included.

 

 The pacing is a bit on and off, but the characters were interesting enough and there is real development throughout. Motivations change in a heartbeat, but can be followed logically. I found the humour to be quite fun at times, but often I just wanted to shake some sense into everyone or groan instead. Very cheesy. References to lots of pop culture that have nothing to do in a fantasy setting, but definitely shake things up a bit. Trope subversion almost for the sake of it seems to be the aim, which has been achieved in many ways. It's certainly a very unique book that explores some darker sides of humanity with a twist of humour.

 I was pretty satisfied with the conclusion of the book so thought it would stand on its own, but it looks like the prequel All Hail Chaos is due to be released in September 2025. While Long Live Evil won't make it into my favourites list, I will probably read the sequel if it crosses my way.

Tyger by SF Said - a book review

 

Tyger by SF Said

 

 Tyger is a wonderful book for a younger audience, written by SF Said and beautifully illustrated by Dave McKean. It follows our young protagonist Adam through a London where Imperialism still reigns in the 21st century. Class oppression and slavery are seen everywhere, while foreigners are frowned upon by the upper classes. Adam, on an errand he runs for his family's business, stumbles into an empty building and finds a magical creature "call me Tyger".

 From there follows a story that is brave, heartwrenching, touching and altogether incredibly well written with wonderful illustrations throughout. Evil must be defeated, even if we are scared, even if it has already infected our family, and by paying attention to the small, beautiful things, amazing changes can happen. Heartwarming and encouraging for anyone who dares to believe in the good in people, I loved this book completely and I'm looking forward to re-reading it in the future.