Firstly, what a stunning cover, and secondly, I must admit that I am not really one for reading fantasy novels. Yet, Bennett’s Foundryside seems quite appealing—however, it is also the first in a trilogy of works, and book series are something I am iffy about.
Foundryside is set in a post-industrial world, where four merchant houses are utilises their wealth and power to build smaller cities within a larger, continuously decaying one. It’s quite a neat setting, sounding almost like an alternative outcome to a steampunk society.
The story follows Sancia Grado, a skilled thief who is trying to (unknowingly) steal a powerful artificial from a warehouse located on the Tevanne’s docks. In addition to this, some other party is after the artifact and, subsequently, out to kill Sancia, who ultimately ends up allying with some questionable people throughout the story.
Although it is interesting and I like its setting—it reminds me of the first games in Looking Glass Studios’ Thief series—I think it is simply not for me. Regarding fiction, most fantasy novels tend not to touch on industrialism all that much, but it’s the fact that it is a fantasy novel that bores me. I have never been one for stories where much of it can be hand-waved away because of so-called ‘magic forces’ and whatnot.
Couple that with a story where people can transform, and I just don’t think Foundryside is for a reader like me, but it may be perfect for a reader like you.
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