Prince of Thorns - Mark Lawrence

I randomly asked on twitter for a violent book to read. 

Someone just said "prince of thorns". I got the book, started reading it and it hooked me instantly. The book takes no prisoners, offers no apologies, it's brutal, it's violent, it's sheer fucking evil and somewhere in all these things, there is a sense of poetry that runs through the text, there is a hidden sense of pain and shame and sadness. 

The main character Jorg is full of contradictions, he puts on a tough act, but somewhere inside he is looking for closure, (maybe) through a lot of bloodshed and awesome violence.

And the surprises in the book keep on rolling. A thoroughly satisfying read. One of the best I've read this year. The other one would have to be Halfhead.

Off to read King of Thorns now.

Waiting for Emperor of Thorns.

Halfhead by Stuart B. Macbride

Okay, this book pulls no punches when it comes to violence. And it's done very tastefully. You're able to take in the horror without getting disgusted. It's what is not done that is more scary than what's on the pages. A masterful write. I'm definitely buying more from this author again. 

The book scared me, disgusted me, and made me go OH SHIT by the time I was near the end pages. One of the top most satisfying books I've read this year. Will definitely pick it up to read again. 

In a nutshell, halfheads are criminals who have their brains removed and they're made to do menial jobs in the society. Will Hunter is a decorated Network Officer, like the CIA. Sherman House is a place which has a history with Will because he had a traumatic experience there on a mission. Then, there is Dr. Westfield, a halfhead who comes back to life and has a bone to pick with Will. The book might have some loopholes if you rip it apart, but the writing is what pulls the story through. It doesn't slow down, doesn't let you breathe and just grabs you along for the ride. If you like violent books that go totally down and out on the characters, this is the one. Some might find the violence squeamish, but I totally enjoyed it. Enjoyed the hell out of it. Heck, I'll write the author a letter telling him how must I enjoyed this book. 

Buy it!