Rating; 4/5 ⭐️
"Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke is a book that initially comes across as a puzzle. I had put this in my library earlier this year and tried to get into it a few times but I couldn't get past the first few pages. Still, I didn't look up the plot or any other details of the book because I wanted the mystery to remain. When I finally picked it up again and got past the first few pages, I was met with a setting and a story that were both intriguing and somewhat confusing.
The story drops us into an extraordinary setting – an immense, labyrinthine house filled with endless halls and statues. This house, with its tides and vast, echoing spaces, is more than just a backdrop; it's a central character in its own right. Piranesi, our protagonist, navigates this world with a sense of wonder and reverence. Initially, the narrative feels disorienting. Who is Piranesi? Why is he in this house? The answers aren't immediately clear, and the book doesn't rush to provide them. Instead, it invites curiosity, nudging you to explore its corridors alongside Piranesi.
As I kept reading, the story started to make more sense. The more I learned about Piranesi and his world, the more I wanted to keep going. The plot slowly started to unfold, revealing more about the mysterious house and the people in it.
What I initially found strange about the book eventually became its most interesting aspect. I will not spoil anything for you, go into this story blind. The unique setting and the slow revelation of the plot were engaging. The way Clarke gradually reveals the truth behind Piranesi's world is clever and keeps you hooked until the end.
In the end, "Piranesi" turned out to be a rewarding read. It's a book that takes some patience, but for those who stick with it, it offers an engaging story with a satisfying conclusion. I give it a solid 4 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoy a mix of mystery and fantasy in a unique setting.
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