THE DISSONANCE

by Shaun Hamill

Pantheon Books
(www.pantheonbooks.com)
2024, 477 pages, $29

ISBN 978-0-593-31725-9

Click Here to Purchase

THE DISSONANCE at times drew me to the “go-down-like-ice-cream” narrative flow with its elegant style and ambiance, about teenagers who’ve honed in on a power that is ageless. I thought this could turn into a Stephen King-like “The Body” horror story. But, the trouble is, there is a WAR AND PEACE-like lineup of characters that I just can’t sympathize with, couldn’t lock onto and follow. Too many soon become mere spear-carriers, lost in a way-expanded narrative. I’d keep an eye on this author, though (I gave up only after reading 260 pages). There is talent at work here.