Review: Book Review by Christine
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 11, 2014
5.0 of 5 StarsFor original review see The Prism Book Alliance Blog onlineMeatworks takes place in Buffalo, NY, in a near-future that is not so different from our own.  Except robots are in charge of handling every day functions for people, like how they drive, answer the phone, listen to music – and of documenting their every move. Desmond isn’t happy with robotics and their constant intrusion, which is problematic. His right hand is robotic. In order to maintain his low level of existence within the confines of his grubby apartment and the nearest bottle of vodka, he must keep the social services checks coming in. That means showing up at the mandatory amputee support group, where he meets brash young Corey. Instant attraction evolves into a stumbling, bumbling kind of relationship that Desmond seems determined to sabotage. A sort-of ex-boyfriend and possible robophobia are only minor issues compared to the larger picture of himself that Desmond must face in order to find a modicum of happiness in a world moving ahead without him.Jordan Castillo Price’s talent for writing main characters that are flawed, unusual, and engaging continually impresses me. Desmond is not your typical dashing romantic hero. He is a hot mess who excels at creating more hot messes in his life. His first person narrative is acerbic and intriguing, punctuated with dark humor and cynicism. He is a graceless, wallowing jerk and a self-proclaimed a**hole, and I loved him – as a wonderfully crafted character. I rooted for him as he rebelled against bot-ism (no housebot, carbot, or coffeebot) and cringed as nearly every social situation into which he staggered ended up in shambles. Then, my heart ached as revelations surfaced, the puzzle pieces of Desmond’s past appearing and snapping together to create a much clearer picture of what drove him, frightened him, and broke him. As I turned each page, I found myself laughing, tearing up, and clinging to the belief that somehow Desmond would be able to make peace with himself in order to make peace with the world around him.I admire Ms. Price’s skill at creating dystopian science fiction that is entertaining as well as thought provoking. What could easily be a maudlin and depressing subject is instead made captivating through writing that is edgy, honest, and compelling.  Desmond’s sardonic voice ranges from comical to agonizing as he struggles to adapt to the changes that occur around him and within his relationships. Layered with intriguing little mysteries to be solved and quirky, unique characters (How did Desmond lose his hand, and what is up with this Ken Roman guy?), Meatworks grabbed me from the beginning and compelled me to discover the answer to the biggest questions of all: Who is Desmond Poole and how will he not just survive but also thrive in a world in which he feels excluded and a misfit?Meatworks was an exceptional read. I appreciated the subtle use of the science fiction of robotics to create a gritty, fascinating character study. The dialogue is sharp and genuine, and main and secondary characters are vividly drawn and authentic. I was particularly impressed with Corey, whose impulsiveness and vulnerability I found endearing, his intimacy and conflicts with Desmond raw and powerful. This is not a sweet, gentle romance. It is a coarse, rocky, booze-laden journey filled with sea monkeys and punk/alternative tunes, and I enjoyed every odd, unpredictable minute of it.  So much so that it is waiting on my re-read pile, waiting for me to jump back on the deviation train for another ride.