But what are her real goals? Who is bringing death and destruction to those around her, and is someone seeking to take her life as well? Who is she, indeed? And who is the mysterious Man in the Mask, who appears at intervals and lures her into a trance of “dark joy” and desire?
The writing is dark, gritty, and sensual. The plot is shown to us from multiple perspectives, which serves to heighten the sense of mystery and strangeness. Key points are kept secret until the end, maintaining the reader’s suspense. The descriptive language is lush, immersing the senses in the moment.
However, the book could be much improved by greater attention to plot coherence and resolution. It is not always made clear which character is thinking or acting, or when the point of view changes, making it difficult to figure out precisely what is going on at any given point. The plot is murky and not very understandable, with little chance for the reader to piece together a coherent storyline (or storylines). Characters’ motivations are cloudy and their goals unclear, and they do not seem to act as rational individuals. Even the ending, while it reveals some secrets, leaves the reader feeling unsatisfied, with too many questions unanswered.
If you enjoy surreality and mystery, on the other hand, this book might just be your cup of hot, sweet Russian tea.
Reviewed by Catherine Langrehr for IndieReader