Author: Brandon Sanderson
Pages: 129
ISBN: 9781473224995
Publisher: Gollancz
Published: 10 October 2018
Genre: Novella | Science fiction | Mystery
Source: Review copy from publisher
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Anthony Davis and his partner Chaz are the only real people in a city of 20 million, sent there by court order to find out what happened in the real world 10 days ago so that hidden evidence can be brought to light and located in the real city today.
Within the re-created Snapshot of May 1st, Davis and Chaz are the ultimate authorities. Flashing their badges will get them past any obstruction and overrule any civil right of the dupes around them. But the crimes the detectives are sent to investigate seem like drudgery - until they stumble upon the grisly results of a mass killing that the precinct headquarters orders them not to investigate.
That's one order they have to refuse, so now the hunt is on. And though the city they walk through is only a Snapshot, that doesn't make the dangers any less real.
While Brandon Sanderson might be best known for his epic fantasy tomes, he also excels in shorter forms. Snapshot, is a prime example of just how much Sanderson manages to pack into a 125 page novella. Expect one thing, get something completely different.
Snapshot's premise is fascinating, the characterization and worldbuilding is just enough to keep you invested and push the narrative forward. Just when you think you are ahead of the game Sanderson subverts what you think is about to happen and twists it into a far more complex, multi-layered story which questions reality and messes with your mind. The startling ending is bittersweet and best experienced for yourself. Well worth it!
The Rating: 7/10 (Very Good)
Thanks to Charlene from Jonathan Ball Publishers for the review copy.
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