Member Review

The Book that wouldn't burn follows the lives of Evar and Livira as their lives are drawn together in the vast Library. A chance meeting exposes the mysterious nature of the world inside the library and the differing strands of time that the characters exist within.

This is clearly the first book in a series and considerable time is spent world building, which at times is all consuming. Various factions are at war amongst the Dust, with rival species vying for supremacy and revenge for past horrors. Plus internal hierarchies position the town by 'class' allotting roles by status. Liviria is the anomaly a 'duster' who is selected to become a librarian - the keeper and perhaps creator of knowledge.

Lawrence is clearly permitting himself some 'veiled' social commentary....how individuals are viewed; tribalism; the importance of trusted information and the abuse of power via technological advances....which at times feels a little forced.

This book demands attention and requires concentration, making it a challenging read for non-fantasy aficionados.