The Lies of Locke Lamora

This is a 750-page fantasy epic with a lot to grasp and you'd be forgiven for maybe not wanting to make a start!

The complexities of a new world with so many characters and concepts can be off-putting.

And the writing style that uses twice as many words as necessary doesn't bode well either.

Overly long, then, too complex and verbose - nothing to enthuse about?

You couldn't be more wrong.

The circular and repetitive style makes reading a boon as complexities are explained in fresh words, to ensure you never get overwhelmed.

This fluency is helped along by irreverent and aggressive language bouncing off literary waves instead of getting bogged down with technicalities, which is unexpectedly fresh.

It's fair to say I loved this book because of how articulate, fluid and well researched it is. Scott Lynch does a stellar job of thinking things through, being plausible and going full circle with no glaring potholes.

What could have been a horrid mess is tight and fun and alive.

Far from perfect - the return to the past interludes are not always welcome and sometimes slow down the pace, but to counter for that, the action scenes are mostly terrific.

Just as importantly, characters are relatable and likeable and really cool.

A long book, a bit of a task and a minor risk if fantasy isn't your usual thing, but totally worth it.

I'm delighted to award this five massive stars for scope, planning and entertainment.