"Mortal Engines" by Philip Reeve is a thrilling and unique dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where cities are now mobile and hunt each other down for resources. The story follows Tom Natsworthy, a young apprentice historian from the city of London, as he is thrown into a dangerous adventure after an assassination attempt on a powerful leader.
Reeve's world-building is incredibly detailed and imaginative, creating a vivid and immersive setting that draws readers in from the very first page. The concept of giant, mobile cities is both fascinating and terrifying, and the author does a fantastic job of exploring the social, political, and environmental implications of such a world.
The characters in "Mortal Engines" are well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and flaws. Tom is a likable protagonist who undergoes significant growth throughout the story, while the mysterious and enigmatic Hester Shaw adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the narrative.
The action in the novel is fast-paced and intense, with plenty of thrilling chase scenes and epic battles between the mobile cities. Reeve's writing is engaging and descriptive, making it easy to visualize the high-stakes conflicts and heart-pounding moments.
Overall, "Mortal Engines" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of dystopian fiction and epic adventure. With its imaginative world-building, well-drawn characters, and thrilling action sequences, this book is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.