Review: Dark, Gritty Sci Fi Set in a Failing World
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 11, 2014
“Beluga Fay” is a dark and gritty sci-fi novel about a world quickly spiraling out of control—if you like fast-paced fiction that feels apocalyptic, you will find this story to be a gripping read.The novel begins on a dock with two ragged, dirty men who will stoop to almost anything to get enough to eat—neither one is quite sane. These men set the feel of the book—dangerous, desperate, dark—in a world where an epidemic called the Sweating Sickness is rampant and where famine is always around the corner. Enter Titus Pym, who escapes from a freighter into the city and begins his quest to find freedom over the Wall. Charismatic but mysterious, with a troubled past, Titus finds himself leading a small group in scavenging and survival—and between internal power struggles and threats from the government and a ruthless gang, he is in almost constant danger.What I liked best about this novel is that excels in creating atmosphere—the author’s descriptions vividly bring to life the decaying city and the aura of fear and corruption that surrounds it. (The twists of realism are also effective; electricity is spotty, so things we might prize highly now—like a computer—have no use in a world where people are starving.) The world the author weaves creates a heightened sense of tension even in scenes that don’t involve action, and Titus himself adds a sense of mystery. As a reader, you don’t know much about Titus at first, and he isn’t eager to reveal his past—that makes him intriguing and propels you through the plot, as does his relationship with Glenna, the beautiful daughter of a politician who has her own agenda. Titus’ eventual power struggle with Lander, a cruel man who nonetheless manages to gather followers, heightens the suspense even further.I would recommend “Beluga Fay” to readers who like apocalyptic science fiction with high stakes; as the first in a trilogy this novel is engaging, and if the author maintains the pace and continues to develop the world he’s built it will make for an exciting series.