My Favorite Novel

This is a spectacular recording of my favorite novel. Cass Neary is the Ghost of Punk (figuratively speaking), barely haunting the world in a post-9/11 NYC. When she's offered a gig to interview one of her dark photography heroes, Cass gets caught up in a thriller of damaged hearts and desolate islands of the Maine coast.

Elizabeth Hand's writing is needle-sharp, and her eclectic cast of characters--Cass most of all--comes to life with the voice of Carol Monda.

If you find the darkness beautiful and the music you hear in your head has a heart-racing drumbeat, give this book a chance. It's the first of a series, and it's unforgettable. I've listened to this recording a few times now, and it gets better every run through.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

22 persone l'hanno trovata utile

Binge- listened

What drives an artist to create? Like the work of her characters, Hand creates memorable images that straddle the analog and digital worlds.

12 persone l'hanno trovata utile

Extremely unlikable protagonist, bleak atmosphere

I love mysteries of multiple styles, even many bleak Scandinavian novels, but I need to feel some positive connection with a few characters, especially the protagonist, to enjoy the story. Often protagonists are damaged, have flaws, and make horrible choices that make me want to shake them and yell, "What are you thinking!" But as long as I understand their demons and feel an underlying decency and concern for others in their character I can engage with the story.

In my opinion, Cass is not such a character. She's a drunk, a drug abuser, a liar and a thief. She is self-destructive, morose, misanthropic, and nihilistic for no real reason other than perhaps, it being cool and artistic. She purposely does pointless things just to hurt others, at one point saying, "Some people make their own bad luck, others, I help along." She has no respect for life and only sees beauty in death and suffering. By the end, I disliked her so much that her final decent act was not enough to make me care about or connect with her.

By the way, Aphrodite was even worse, a truly depisable person, and ultimately, her character seemed rather pointless and did not contribute much to the story. And while I can deal with bleak imagery, every location, smell, photograph, etc. was described as filthy, greasy, cluttered, crusted, moldy, bloody, decomposing and putrid. Not one thing was pleasant or even neutral.

So why did I finish the audiobook? I kept wanting to find out the "secrets" that were advertised in the publisher's summary, and hear the solution of the mystery. While gross and disturbing, I didn't find the secrets or the mystery to be all that surprising or interesting.

Anything good? The narrator is a wonderful fit for the story and generally does a very good job. The writer is very descriptive and provides clear imagery, albeit unpleasantly, and I can see why some with different tastes are fans of her work. Bottom line: If you are interested in photography, like your stories very dark, and are not bothered by unlikable characters with little to no redeeming qualities, you may enjoy the book. If none of those apply to you, I recommend that you skip this one.

7 persone l'hanno trovata utile

Unpleasant shero

I would not want to spend time with a habitual drunkard, liar and thief even if they are a great artist. Which the verdict is still out on this first-person narrator because I haven't finished the book but I'm done with her.

4 persone l'hanno trovata utile

Dragging on like a tooth being pulled slowly

35 minutes left, and we finally get more information.

I heard mostly chatter. I understand people love this book. Tis not for me.

3 persone l'hanno trovata utile

unique story with cool voice.

I will carry Cassandroid with me for awhile. I really need not say more, 15 words is too many.

2 persone l'hanno trovata utile

Too dark

Hard to like a heroine who is, for no reason other than to show how damaged she is, a liar and a thief.

2 persone l'hanno trovata utile

A terrific read

Imaginative and dark, Generation Loss features a tough, self-destructive character. It's brilliantly written, atmospheric, and memorable. A terrific read

1 persona l'ha trovata utile

WOW!

So glad I found this. I can relate to the main character with her darkness and pain. I couldn't stop listening and am looking forward to getting into the other instalments.

I am a hooked fan now. It's just great and gritty and non apologetic!

On to the next...

1 persona l'ha trovata utile

#abrknpoet reviews Generation Loss

Elizabeth Hand's "Generation Loss" takes readers on a haunting journey through the seedy underbelly of an artist's mind, set against the backdrop of a small island off the coast of Maine. This atmospheric mystery captivates from the very first page, immersing readers in a twisted tale that blends art, obsession, and the chilling consequences of one's actions.

The protagonist, Cass Neary, is a middle-aged photographer whose once-promising career has plummeted into obscurity. Battling with substance abuse and a self-destructive nature, Cass finds herself drawn to an isolated island called Paswegas, inhabited by a reclusive photographer, Aphrodite Kamestos. The mysterious allure of Aphrodite's work and the chance to revive her own fading career lures Cass deeper into a dangerous obsession.

Hand's writing style is evocative and vivid, painting a picture of Paswegas that feels both desolate and mesmerizing. The island becomes a character in itself, with its crumbling buildings, eerie landscapes, and secretive inhabitants. Through Cass's eyes, readers experience the raw emotions, regrets, and dreams of a woman haunted by her past and searching for redemption.

The strength of "Generation Loss" lies in Hand's ability to craft flawed and complex characters. Cass is not a likable protagonist, but she is undeniably compelling. Her flaws, addictions, and damaged psyche make her a deeply human character, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles and root for her to find some semblance of peace.

As the plot unfolds, Hand skillfully weaves together elements of psychological suspense and noir fiction. The pacing is deliberate, building tension steadily throughout the narrative. Every revelation and twist feels earned, keeping readers on edge and craving more. Hand expertly balances the exploration of Cass's troubled psyche with a gripping mystery that gradually unravels, culminating in a satisfying and unexpected conclusion.

While the novel's strength lies in its atmosphere and character development, some readers may find the plot slightly slow-paced at times. However, those who appreciate deep psychological exploration and atmospheric writing will find themselves enthralled by Hand's storytelling prowess.

"Generation Loss" is a mesmerizing and atmospheric thriller that delves into the dark recesses of the human mind. Elizabeth Hand's evocative prose and flawed yet captivating characters create a compelling reading experience. If you enjoy mysteries that delve into the complexities of the human condition while keeping you on the edge of your seat, this book is a must-read.

@stuartbrknjohns Twitter/Goodreads Top Reviewer