Helpful Score: 5
So many books are so heavily hyped that I get almost reluctant to read them, fearing disappointment. Steve Hamiltion had never disappointed yet, so gave this stand alone novel a chance. Reader reactions might vary to the constantly changing timeline as the narrator and lead character moves through the tale, telling his history by weaving different times and events together.
Quirky, fresh, and beautifully written, The Lock Artist is both powerful and adsorbing, succeeding on several levels. It's about what happens in a few years, yet it is almost a lifetime. A strange, and touching romance plays out in what initially seems a minor key, as Michael, survivor of the ultimate childhood trauma, goes silently through life, bonding with only a few a people, a friend who deserts him, and a girl Amelia. His great gift, besides art, is being able to open locks - all locks. Yet the one lock that he cannot open, is the self imposed one on his own voice. Justifiably an award winner.
The style takes some getting used to, though the author does warn that. I became so adsorbed, I forgot about it and just enjoyed a beautifully crafted, highly original book.
Quirky, fresh, and beautifully written, The Lock Artist is both powerful and adsorbing, succeeding on several levels. It's about what happens in a few years, yet it is almost a lifetime. A strange, and touching romance plays out in what initially seems a minor key, as Michael, survivor of the ultimate childhood trauma, goes silently through life, bonding with only a few a people, a friend who deserts him, and a girl Amelia. His great gift, besides art, is being able to open locks - all locks. Yet the one lock that he cannot open, is the self imposed one on his own voice. Justifiably an award winner.
The style takes some getting used to, though the author does warn that. I became so adsorbed, I forgot about it and just enjoyed a beautifully crafted, highly original book.
Helpful Score: 3
Great book! I don't usually like crime fiction that much; but this book is fantastic, couldn't put it down!
Helpful Score: 2
A fascinating revalation of the science of locks. The chapters switch alternately between dates, so you have to be alert.
Helpful Score: 1
Hamilton's books are well written. His writing makes you believe the characters are real and you begin to care about what happens to them. This is a can't put-it-down page turner that will have you staying up late just to finish the book.
Helpful Score: 1
Kept me interested til the end