varingblaarStarter Villain by John Scalzi
Spoiler warning: If you haven't read Starter Villain, I suggest you do so before going any further. If this spoils it for you, it's not my fault.You have been warned.
There's a romance to the idea that the world is going about its daily life, blissfully unaware of an entire society living in parallel. That feeling of "if only they knew" is satisfying. Being one of the chosen few in the know, creates a sense of privilege and belonging. Thus the popularity of shows like Supernatural or Buffy.
In this novel it happens in waves:
- Cats can talk. Well some cats. Also they're smart, have their own computers, sometimes own property and have been manipulating you for years.
- There's an entire network of supervillains operating basically in plain sight, your uncle was one of them (but like, the cool rebellious one) and now you've taken his place. No further questions.
- Not only do supervillains exist, but governments hire them for protection. Like the Mafia if the Mafia was a Bond villain.
- Literal volcano base, and secret society meetings with normal business people attending, not realising (mostly) what's going on. Attendance mandatory.
- Dolphins, on the whole, are assholes.
Each time one of these revelations happens, there's another level of "but what if it's real" happening in my head, and that's very compelling. If Charlie is in on it, what if it's real and I'm just not in on it... Also, is the cat watching me?...
There's a problem with this though. Once the premise settles in, and the feeling of the awesome new concept wears off, there needs to be substance. I feel that's where this novel falls a little flat. The story is fine. There are stakes and they do indeed raise and then resolves. Part of the resolution is due to character flaws that seem like a weakness but turn out to be a strength. Character development go brrr. But it feels like the story could've sort of happened with anyone, it just happened to be Charlie. It's fun that we get to experience it through the eyes of a sarcastic know-it-all, which is something...
Maybe I'm too critical. Thing is, it's hilarious. Scalzi is very sharp. The dialogue is witty and moves quickly. Characters are always ready with that perfect retort that you wish you'd thought of.
If you live in or near Chicago I'm guessing this would be good to read. Specific streets are mentioned, which I guess would amplify the feeling of "among us" if you're familiar with Chicago... I'm not so it doesn't, but worth mentioning.
The Verdict
It's a very entertaining read, and doesn't overstay its welcome (it's under 250 pages) but it's probably not grown-breaking. Good introduction to John Scalzi if you're new. Not a waste of time, but not going to change your outlook on life... except maybe look at your cats differently...
