Another great novel! I’ve read other works from this author and just like the others, it was a delight to read.
Thibault’s life is running smoothly: he has been accepted into Oxford University and he’s going on a road trip through Europe with his strange uncle Henry. Until life takes a turn that is starting with the introduction of Venus, Thibault’s American cousin with the mind of a poet and a unique character. Right after arriving to London, the young teenager gets more than he bargained for when he gets involved in a plot to bring down capitalism which includes the kidnapping and the blackmail of the CEO of a powerful mining company. Follow the journey of Thibault in his adventure through politics, tax evasion and love.
The style of writing is great and it really pulled me into the story and the characters. The story is seen through Thibault’s eyes and most of it is dialogue, which makes the novel both interactive and easy to follow.
The countries in the novel are also very interesting to read about. What I appreciated the most was the clear connection and reasoning between the story-line and the countries through which the characters travel to. Very well thought and organised. For me, I would have liked to see a bit more description of these wonderful places, but I know that wasn’t the point since the story is more focused on the characters and “the plan”.
Now to my favourite part: the characters. Thibault is a great main character and narrator: he’s a teenager in search of his path in life and in the process stumbles on love. He’s a sweet boy with a passion for art, not afraid to follow his dreams. At the same time he is a bit at loss when it comes to his feelings for Venus and his lack of literary knowledge is hilarious. Even after being pulled into an insane plan to bring down capitalism, Thibault always remains faithful to himself and his decisions. He is genuine and pure at heart even if he is a bit clueless at times. Venus is someone else entirely. As a poet and a writer, Venus is a know-it-all when it comes to literature, authors and their correspondent works. She is a great female lead: a very head-strong woman with an iron determination and fiery passion and I really enjoyed seeing how her relationship with Thibault develops throughout the story. I think they influence each other is the best way possible while realising that life isn’t all black and white and that the path of self-discovering of who they are and who they’re meant to be doesn’t come easy, but it’s worth it.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good adventure with a bit of comedy, fun and literature references!
I want to thank the author James Leader for sending me a copy of his novel!
Book Traveller 