A review by valsplace
Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer

adventurous dark mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is another one of those "girl, get help" books; but this time instead of doing literally anything else she decides to travel to what most certainly will be her death to follow in her husband's footsteps. A husband she doesn't even like, might I add, because he is too lovable, sociable, and good to be around, which makes him the antithesis to her.

The way Area X is built by the author is fascinating, and I enjoy how we go back and forth between character study and plot driven narratives. There are some lines that are a bit hinkey because, for some reason, he decides it's best to fall into Shakespearian linguistic patterns for one clunky line every once in a while.

The mystery is palpable, and the set pieces, as well as the creatures, are designed/described in a very engaging and entertaining way that makes you want to keep going.

Highly recommend and will be reading at least the next book in the series.