The Book With All The Gifts!

"The Girl With All The Gifts" by M.R. Carey. I took it down from the shelf in the bookshop and read the first line. From that moment I knew I had to read this book!

Fast forward to about a week or two later, when I had saved up enough money, I bought the book. I started it again that night. Before I knew it, I was halfway through the book and it was nearly midnight. I could hardly sleep, thinking about it. I read it for several more nights, then I finished it on my day off from that morning to that evening.

What struck me first, was the simplicity of the setting at the beginning. It is very effective and keeps everything contained in the one area until everything is established. It is a mysterious place, as it is to Melanie, the protagonist and it is through her eyes that I observed the gruff military-type Sergeant Parks and the kind and creative Miss Justineau. Immediately, I could relate to Melanie, as I knew only as much as she knew about her situation.

The plot is as compelling as the characters; bringing me along at a steady pace with twists and turns that left me breathless. I love the ideas introduced in the story; something refreshingly-different. Humour and action prevail as well as some effective, emotional punches now and again.

Author M.R. Carey has done a fantastic job and I look forward to reading more of his work!

5/5 Stars.