[BWF] The Anubis Gates, by Tim Powers (3.5 stars)

[KateNZ]

Well that was weird.

Part wild time-travel adventure, part Revenge of the Bodysnatchers, part Egyptian mythology, part crime gang feud, part love letter to poetry, part alternate history that ends up not really being alternate history. Very clever but almost completely bemusing. Enjoyable? Both yes and no. But I suspect it’s one that will stay with me.

Team: Sassy Sisters. Spelling for A. Tagged x 396

[Jen K]

I'm so intrigued!

[Joy D]

I agree it's definitely a wild ride.

[KateNZ]

If you do the Compass challenge next year, Jen, it’s an option for Egypt. I’d love to know what you think of it!

I saw you liked it better than I did, Joy. I am still shaking my head about the thing… 🤣

[Joy D]

Well, I debated between 3 and 4 stars, but decided to round up, so we probably had similar feelings. It's not the type of subject matter I usually read, but I didn't find anything too offensive or objectionable. The thing was very weird. I definitely would not call it alternate history, lol.

[KateNZ]

I agree - nothing objectionable at all. Just deeply odd.

It’s like an extended version of a bizarre dream with a million things happening and a multitude of characters rushing around that are (or may be) linked somehow but you are just caught up in it and get swept along with the tide while your sleep-soaked brain is trying desperately to figure out the logic of what’s going on. Then waking up and going “whaaaaaa?”

I’m glad I finished it and I can see why it’s counted a classic. Though why it is labelled steampunk let alone by so many people I have no idea!

[Joy D]

I would not call it steampunk, but I'm no expert.