Chains of Freedom

ISBN: 1-892065-43-8 Order from: Amazon.com

Superficial and sketchy novel of the underdogs fighting oppression, this comic-like novel succeeds through breathtaking pace and a darkish, Rabelaisian heroine that comes to life through sheer force of personality.

Reviewed by David on December 15, 2002

Genre: Science Fiction (Politics, War)

Synopsis: The world is controlled by Reliance, an all-encompassing police state that keeps most people ignorant and poor, while a small elite live in luxury, all enforced by ruthless military.

A minor rebellion lands David Grant, a member of the ignorant masses in a brutal labor camp. His desperate bid for freedom ends next RJ—a renegade soldier of the Reliance. Their tentative alliance may prove the start of a rebellion—if they survive long enough.

Full review: The heroine of the novel—RJ—is a character who defines chutzpah. Like Rosen's earlier heroine, Drewcila Qwah (Queen of Denial), RJ is big, daring, intelligent. Here, the heroine takes superhuman proportions. Her strength is incredible, her appetites are enormous, and her self-confidence dwarfs both.

There are a number of weaknesses in this book. The world is rough—the political structure as well as technology is not very plausible. The villains are venal with nary a trace of redeeming motifs; alas, most are incompetent as well, cheapening the rebellion. The plot developments are predictable, resembling the progress of a television series or a comic-book. Worse yet, characters, too, are predictable and stereotypical.

However, there is charm in this book, too. If the characters are stereotypical, many are archetypal, too. None more than RJ herself—bigger than life, but still vulnerable. Her sheer arrogance and forward momentum take the reader's breath, and carry the predictable plot and the political polemic at a pace that requires attention, not unmixed with laughter.

This is a book that entertains despite its flaws, and leaves the reader wanting more RJ.

The heroine reminds one of Sonja Blue (Midnight Blue), another strong woman full strength, arrogance and vulnerability. The plot, on the other hand, bears some resemblance to Bruce Holmes' Anvil of the Heart.

Overall: 5.5; Plot: 4.5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 5;

ISBN: 1-892065-43-8 Order from: Amazon.com