Helpful Score: 5
This is a strange book. The Gargoyle is Andrew Davidson's first novel, and it shows in the pacing: some portions were emotionally riveting, but other sections were just boring. Also, the writing in particularly in the early chapters can be unnaturally dramatic. The Gargoyle tells the story of a drug-addicted porn star who suffers disfiguring burns as a result of a car accident. During his stay in the burn ward, he makes the acquaintance of Marianne Engel, a woman who claims that they were lovers in their past lives. Though considered mentally ill, Marianne is also a gifted sculptress who feels compelled to carve gargoyles from stone.
Most chapters focus on their relationship present and past, but there are a number of additional stories told by Marianne. At the time some of these stories seem irrelevent, but by the end the connections are clearer. Beware of the hardcover edition of this book - IMHO, the dust jacket tells too much of the story to come.
I cannot say that I enjoyed this book because the main character remains mostly despicable throughout, and there are lots of grisley burn treatment scenes. It is a unique book however, and Davidson is an author to watch.
Most chapters focus on their relationship present and past, but there are a number of additional stories told by Marianne. At the time some of these stories seem irrelevent, but by the end the connections are clearer. Beware of the hardcover edition of this book - IMHO, the dust jacket tells too much of the story to come.
I cannot say that I enjoyed this book because the main character remains mostly despicable throughout, and there are lots of grisley burn treatment scenes. It is a unique book however, and Davidson is an author to watch.
Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
