When Ariel Manto uncovers a copy of The end of Mr. Y in a second-hand bookshop, she can't believe her eyes. She knows enough about its author, the eccentric Victorian scientist Thomas Lumas, to know that copies are exceedingly rare. And, some say, cursed. With Mr. Y under her arm Ariel finds herself swept into a thrilling adventure of love, sex, death and time-travel.
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I had seen this book around more than once and although it intrigued me I never felt the need to take the plunge. Last week while bargain hunting I came across it again in a second-hand book shop. Quite funny really when I consider that is how the whole basis of this novel begins. Anyway I decided to give it a go, not really knowing what to expect.
It has been a really great read. It seems like a straight forward story by the blurb but once you get inside the cover you soon find out that it is anything but that. I was really taken aback by the amount of science, philosophy and religion in the book. I have learnt so much about a wide range of scientific principles, religious beliefs and concepts that I had never previously given much thought. I won't lie at times it was a hard slog, I know very little about the areas of study mentioned above so certain parts of the book did go over my head but overall I understood and digested allot of information which did surprise me.
The story itself is weaves between a fiction and non-fiction book. It smoothly moves from being lead by the characters and the storyline to the discussions of scientific discoveries and philosophy. However, it is done in such a way that the elements of fiction still remain in focus and as the characters begin to discuss these the reader learns through their analysis of the subjects at hand. I found both elements of the book thrilling to read although it has taken me a week to read which for me is a long time. Although it was definitely worth it. Just make sure you're fully awake when you read it, a few times I attempted to read while tired and simply got myself in a muddle.
The main character Ariel was very easy to connect to, she had a vulnerability that I'm sure we can all recollect and understand from an experience at some point in our lives. I found it very refreshing that she wasn't portrayed to have it all or have all the answers, despite the fact that she was a very well educated young lady. Ariel makes mistakes throughout the book as we all do and I think that is something that most readers can identify with. Even as we grown older we all make mistakes, it is after all part of being human.
I highly recommend this book. It is intelligently written, very interesting and the pace is good. The author successfully writes of a world that is both believable and mind boggling at the same time. At times the scientific elements of the book do become a little overpowering however overall it has a nice balance. Due to some parts being of a sexual nature this is definitely a book only suitable for adults.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
I really enjoyed it and it is certainly worth a read.
