The subject of terrorism and its feared results are at moments all too real, despite the fictional element of the attack around which the novel centres. As the terror of the scenes unfold, the gulf created in the aftermath of the explosion escapes into the hearts and minds of the readers. The sheer enormity of it all is all encompassing, as you become privy to a new kind of voice, that of the survivor who does not want to survive.

The ‘Shield of Hope’ which appears around London, serves as a protective layer around the city and its residents. It provides a physicality to those killed in the attack as huge ‘balloons’ are attached to buildings throughout the city displaying their faces. Ironically, this inspires little hope, as the cables simply disappear into the sky, with the faces fading in the sun.

This is a society in chaos, a society which has been spun out of control, whipping all those caught in its path into a whirlpool which gains its momentum from fear and mistrust. The narrator moves between people who are products of this failing society, all contributing to her further decline into madness. It seems inevitable that she will enter a black hole where the seasons change, yet she remains still, methodically stacking shelves, putting tinned fruit in order where she might have once ordered her thoughts.

In all honesty this is not a novel for everyone, yet Chris Cleave’s ability to provide a touchingly human voice speaking over such devastation, I think will push and pull readers through the novel, even when they think they’ve had enough. And lets face it, if a novel can have that effect, it’s worth a look.

Eleanor Beeton

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