The Plotters   By: Alexander Blade

The Plotters by Alexander Blade is a compelling thriller that takes readers on a deeply engrossing ride through the underbelly of Seoul's dark world of assassination. The novel opens with an intriguing premise, following an eclectic cast of characters known as plotters who are tasked with carrying out contract killings for an anonymous organization called The Library.

Blade masterfully constructs a meticulously crafted world where violence is an art form, drawing readers into a morally ambiguous landscape filled with secrets, betrayals, and unexpected alliances. The author's writing style is sharp and evocative, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of bustling Seoul while simultaneously delving into the psyche of the plotters.

At the center of the story is Reseng, a young assassin who was raised in The Doghouse, a mysterious orphanage where children are trained to become efficient killers. Reseng's character is deeply complex, grappling with his past, his purpose, and his growing disillusionment with the brutal world he inhabits. Blade skillfully develops Reseng's internal conflicts, making him relatable despite his dark profession.

As the narrative unfolds, Blade expertly weaves together multiple plotlines, seamlessly shifting perspectives between characters. This keeps readers on their toes, eagerly turning pages to discover the connections between each character's story and its ultimate impact on the main plot. Each twist and turn is carefully calculated, building suspense while revealing the intricacies of The Library's machinations.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its thought-provoking exploration of the nature of power, control, and the consequences of unchecked authority. Blade delves into the questionable ethics surrounding assassination as a means of societal control, forcing readers to question the moral boundaries of justice and retribution.

Furthermore, The Plotters delves into the blurred lines between loyalty and betrayal, highlighting the precarious relationships and shifting alliances between the plotters themselves. The complex dynamics between characters, coupled with the high stakes of their missions, create a constant sense of tension and uncertainty, ensuring readers are kept on the edge of their seats until the very end.

While the pacing occasionally falters, with slower sections that provide deeper exposition into the plotters' backgrounds and motivations, Blade's rich and detailed storytelling compensates for these moments. The intricate world-building and the vividly realized characters make up for any temporary lulls in the narrative, keeping readers invested in the story's outcome.

In conclusion, The Plotters is a gripping and inventive thriller that immerses readers in a world of shadows, secrets, and moral dilemmas. Blade's skillful writing, complex characterizations, and thought-provoking themes create a memorable reading experience that will linger with readers long after the final page.

First Page:

In my conscious mind there was only a sort of grayness. I didn't know where I was, or who I was, or why I was running. I didn't know that if I ran long enough and bumped into enough trees and scratched myself often enough I would eventually feel pain. Or that out of the exertion and the pain would come awareness... Continue reading book >>