Orpheus Rising [Paperback]

I must admit, I went for this book because of the cover and the subtitle: "love, rockets and a bloody great fish." However, this book blew me away and it's been a while since I read a book that has had a profound and lasting effect upon myself.

This book is very Life On Mars-esque, as you're never really sure whether or not the lead character is crazy, or not. However, rather than being a cheap Life On Mars imitation, this book is well written and proves an excellent read. The last few chapters are particularly tear-jerking, but don't believe this book is dark and depressing, as it's far from it with plenty of comedic moments and sharp one-liners.

I recommend this book to anybody who has read the Time Traveller's Wife and is trying to find something similar in style to that book. Orpheus Rising is a brilliant tale. I'm definately going to buy some more of Bateman's works.

This is completely ludicrous, because I'm only half way through, but I felt like I had to review it already! I'm completely gripped - this book is an absolute cracker! It has a remarkable blend of plot, dialogue and superbly drawn characters. As the storyline unfolds the weaving plot never feels too heavy or contrived. A massively entertaining read that's thoroughly recommended.

I've been a fan of Mr Batemans works for several years after stumbling across Turbulent Priests and loving it! I sought to find all Colin's works and have pretty much enjoyed them all. (Who am I kidding, his self loathing, critical cynicism is infectious!)
So, I eventually get to Orpheus Rising and I have to say from the outset I was hooked!

I must explain that I am not a prolific reader of novels. I read slowly and infrequently, a habit I wish I could break. For the entirety of Orpheus that changed. I read in great lengths. I became thoroughly engrossed in a story fascinatingly constructed and always demanding you to read the next paragraph, page, chapter!

I loved the bi-chaptorial structure of the story telling, (past happenings and near past happenings), after I got used to it. And as always Batemans characters are drawn so wonderfully that they appear to live and breath - Well, some of them!(wink!)

I read another review of this somewhere stating Bateman had finally matured as a writer in this book, creating a novel which reflects what he was always capable of. To be honest I'd disagree with this, All his books I've read so far are fab, I'd just say this was another fantastic string to a fantastic bow.

Read it and enjoy it for what it is, a work of fiction from a consistant writter!