Fevre Dream

If you like your vampire stories to be multi-layered, subtle and character driven, as well as drenched in blood, then this is for you. George R R Martin exhibits the splendid command of plot and character which he displays in his later works in this stand alone novel from the early eighties. Set on a Mississippi steamboat in the years bracketing the american civil war, this is a book steeped in historical colour and full of magnificently drawn settings. A confident and unadorned narration keeps the story moving forward to its thrilling climax, and the narrator's multiple characterisations - especially Abner Marsh - are clear and well distinguished. A fine work from an acknowledged master of the genre.

Would you listen to Fevre Dream again? Why?

I read quite a lot of books. There are very few books that i read/ listen to, more than once. Fevre Dream is one that I will read and re-read; its that good. There are so many layers to this story. The historical setting, and morality of that time, is perfect for the choices facing the two lead characters throughout the story; it allows us to see the difficult changes both men are striving for within their own cultures, mirroring the abolition issue thats in the background of the mississippi river life, as the fevre dream journeys to New Orleans.

What did you like best about this story?

The main theme i got running through this story was 'Choice'. Abner and Joshua, from different sides of the fence, have to continually search themselves for what's 'right' in each situation they come across and not just what their peers would do. As Joshua's plan is revealed, there are all new trust issues that need to be dealt with. Abner and Joshua each play the part of a representative for each race with their views and ideals, and a great friendship is the result.
The friendship between the two is the best part of this story. Friendship out of adversity has been done many times before, but I don't think its been done quite like this. The cost of the friendship to each character, is great, yet even over many years hiatus, each remains loyal to the other.

What about Ron Donachie’s performance did you like?

The vocal performance of Ron Donachie is excellent here. He gives real weight to Abner Marsh as the tough steamboat captain, and the slow southern drawl of Julien really gives a sinister fell to the character. Every role is read expertly.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

The epilogue is one of the saddest i've ever read. Not just for the main characters of the story, but for the steamboat trade of the mississippi, also.

Any additional comments?

There are few really original takes on the vampire genre. Not since Anne Rice's first vampire chronicle have i read such a good vampire story, however, this story is great because of its human side.
Well worth a listen