A relatively short book, Nine Princes in Amber proves why Zelazny is a master of the craft. The book started with a scene I've definitely read before A relatively short book, Nine Princes in Amber proves why Zelazny is a master of the craft. The book started with a scene I've definitely read before in some other book--only in that book, the doctor holding the patient against their will was a female, and I half-wondered if I'd actually read this book before and just didn't remember. But as the story went on, setting up a world, Amber, and its reverse, Rebma, I realized that I'd definitely never been there before. This book doesn't have the traditional book ending--while it came to an ending, it is obviously not the end that most people would look for. It even was semi-predictable...I figured out how Corwin would "escape" long before he ever got caught...but still, I really enjoyed the book and want to read more. The narrator was pretty good, too, if a bit overdramatic at times. Now I just need more time so that I can read the others in the Amber series, to see how the hero eventually gets his due......more
As recommended by SFBRP podcast #160. So many people have recommended this one, but Luke's recommendation, combined with learning that Grover GardnerAs recommended by SFBRP podcast #160. So many people have recommended this one, but Luke's recommendation, combined with learning that Grover Gardner narrated it, sealed the deal.
I think this is really more of a 3.5-4 star book for me..I wish GR would let you do half-stars. I loved the characters in this book and found myself sympathizing with most of them--even the ones who were on the "dark" side. Every single character felt real, something that most authors can't do, much less with so many characters.
The story itself dragged on in a couple places (especially towards the end) but was overall really engaging. I kept thinking to myself as I read it that what was happening could actually happen, even the somewhat fantastical elements. I think towards the end it got wrapped up a little too neatly, that not enough was left to "chance" for the future of the world King set up, but all in all I liked it.
I don't know if any of the flaws I found were due to it being the extended "director's cut" version of the story written 10 years after the original. I will say that this was the best Stephen King book I've read. If the Dark Tower books turn into a world like this, I can see their appeal (but I'm sorry, the first couple are downright terrible and I don't have the patience to go through those). Grover Gardner's narration was fantastic...if anybody has an interest in this book, I'd definitely recommend this audio version....more
A book comprised of 3 novellas, I think if it had only been the first two, I would have given the book 3 or 3.5 stars. But the third novella (theoretiA book comprised of 3 novellas, I think if it had only been the first two, I would have given the book 3 or 3.5 stars. But the third novella (theoretically the most science fiction-y) killed it for me. I liked the idea of the church storing history and the idea of re-discovering science. But it wasn't always pulling me in--I had to be in the mood to read. And the third story didn't work for me, I was never interested in reading, and didn't enjoy it when I did. I'm glad that I read the book but I don't think I'll be recommending it to others....more
terpkristin
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