Review, Harrogate news
Breaking the surface of the edits on the sequel to THE LEVELS, which has the working title of THE RAZOR GATE for what it’s worth, to firstly reveal that I will be going to Harrogate in an unofficial capacity – that is, I’ll be in the bar, but I’m not registered for the festival. See you there. Secondly, Sandra at Spinetingler has posted a very whizzy review of THE LEVELS, bless ‘er.
Some types of novels feature such a strong location that the place itself becomes its own character. That is certainly the case here. I think one could easily place The Levels in a particular architecturally crumbling gothic literary lineage with books like Gormenghast by Mervyn Peake and the novels of Jack O’Connell. It doesn’t take much to feel as if the castle Gormenghast lies in the distant past of The Levels and Quinsigamond is the next town over.
As atmospheric and strange as The Levels is Cregan never loses his way. He exhibits just enough of a light touch to not make his presence felt as he immerses you in this filthy world.
Got a question or a comment about this? Write it on the Wall.




