WardenRed reviewed The Builders by Daniel Polansky
None
4 stars
The reason I have survived is very simple—it is because I am a survivor.
This book is essentially a collection of Western tropes made memorable by having antropomorphic animals as characters. Even though I enjoyed it a lot while I read it, I think if the characters were human, I would have a lot more trouble remembering it in a year or several. It's just so tropey, it's hard to draw a line between it and all the old-timey westerns I've ever read and watched. As it is, it won't be difficult to recall it as the one with the French stoat and the rest of the mouse-led gang. :D
Honestly though, I had great fun. This story has it all: characters who are built out of tropes, but they're really well built; a tight plot that isn't always predictable; a compelling setting with all the genre staples; the …
The reason I have survived is very simple—it is because I am a survivor.
This book is essentially a collection of Western tropes made memorable by having antropomorphic animals as characters. Even though I enjoyed it a lot while I read it, I think if the characters were human, I would have a lot more trouble remembering it in a year or several. It's just so tropey, it's hard to draw a line between it and all the old-timey westerns I've ever read and watched. As it is, it won't be difficult to recall it as the one with the French stoat and the rest of the mouse-led gang. :D
Honestly though, I had great fun. This story has it all: characters who are built out of tropes, but they're really well built; a tight plot that isn't always predictable; a compelling setting with all the genre staples; the thick, thick vibes; the 'getting the gang back together' trope at its fines; the quest for revenge. There's never a dull moment, the dark, moody drama is set off with witty one-liners, and the action is superbly paced. Sincerely recommended to anyone looking for a small helping of quality pulp action.
