Review of 'Black Man'

Black Man by Richard Morgan

Carl Marsalis has been broken out of jail then recruited to assist COLIN (the Colony Initiative) in tracing down a rogue “13” – a ruthless genetic mutant created for the military – who has unexpectedly returned from Mars (surprisingly surviving the brutal trip) and is on a killing spree. Marsalis is perfectly suited to tracing this killer down as he is 13 himself – A “twist”. He is not afraid to make use of his expertise to put an end to the slaughter. Along the way he will find love, overwhelming prejudice and a few rather uncomfortable memories of his past. Death awaits at every turn…

Another action thriller from Richard Morgan who once again enthrals with his magnificently imagined world and equally enthralling story. The pace of the novel is quick despite the 600+ pages and makes an easy (if sometimes confusing) read. The complexity can be a bit too much but it is definitely worth sticking with including a satisfying climax (with a few surprise twists).

If you are a fan of other works by Morgan you will find this book to be familiar territory in terms of style (if not story) but even if you are not a fan, this is a very good, modern SF tale. Have a read if you can.

Rating: “Really good but I have some issues”

Review Date: 2009-03-11


Genre: Science Fiction

Publisher: Gollancz

Publication Date: 2007


Other reviewed books by Richard Morgan: