Isserley spends almost all of her days driving. She drives up and down the A9 in Scotland, looking for hitchhikers. Not just any hitchhikers, though. She’s looking for muscled men, alone in the world and without any ties. Sometimes she’ll drive past them three times just to make sure that they’re right. But why?
This is a book that was not at all what I’d expected. Your idea of the book from reading just that synopsis is probably the same as mine was, especially when we become aware in the opening pages that Isserley is wearing a low-cut top and checks herself in the mirror before pulling over. It’s not what you think it is. I’m actually surprised by the depth of Michel Faber’s talent, that he can turn out novels so different in style and genre; all they have in common are his beautiful prose style and talent for fantastic storytelling. It’s interesting because you might like all of them, or perhaps you might just like one. So far I have enjoyed all of them.
I don’t want to give away much about this one because so much of it is built on suspense and unpredictability. I had no idea what was coming and I think the book was better for it; it wouldn’t have had the same effect if I knew what was happening. I was left guessing up until the very end. I will say, however, that it could easily be classed as science fiction but it’s another one that could be easily appreciated by anyone who is looking to think a little more deeply about the issues presented. I was astonished as each layer of the story peeled away and I was confronted with some uncomfortable truths even as I was stuck to the page wondering what was going to happen next.
The whole book is ultimately an allegory for something we think very little about. It’s disturbing and makes you rethink certain things. It’s also, however, a very good story. I find it hard to believe that this was Faber’s first novel because it feels like he’s already a master of the craft. His writing is already well polished and really drew me into the story.
Under the Skin was an intensely compelling, thoughtful mystery. I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about it for some time to come.
I am an Amazon Associate. I received this book from the publisher for review.
I love that you’re on a Michel Faber kick! Another book for my TBR list.
.-= Stephanie´s last blog ..Book Review: Before I Fall =-.
I think this review is a perfect example of how sometimes less is more! By revealing practically nothing about the plot, you’ve really piqued my interest! I’m dying to know more! I guess I’ll have to check this one out…
This is right up there with the best (and weirdest) books I’ve read. This Faber kick of yours is making me want to pull them all right off my shelf and get on a re-reading kick. Great review, and as Steph said, your teasers here are perfect.
.-= Rebecca @ The Book Lady’s Blog´s last blog ..Become a BELIEVER [Go see Gina Welch at Fountain Bookstore!] =-.
Wow, your review has REALLY made me want to read this book! I’m definitely adding it to my TBR list! Great job ratcheting up the suspense and not really giving anything away.
.-= S. Krishna´s last blog ..Book Review: Stitches – David Small =-.
This is one of my favorite library finds EVER! I’ve bought so many copies as gifts over the years… I just LOVE it. And of course, less is more. No one should know anything about this going in. The journey is what is so captivating.
.-= Lenore´s last blog ..Book Review: Being Nikki by Meg Cabot =-.
This one is on my shelf and on my list. I love Faber and have heard a lot of good things about this story, including that it is a little dark and disturbing. Loved this review, you piqued my curiosity without spoiling anything! Glad you liked it!
.-= zibilee´s last blog ..The Vintner’s Luck by Elizabeth Knox — Guest Post with Aarti =-.
You’ve made me really curious about why she’s looking for men!
I’m definitely intrigued.
.-= Bluestocking´s last blog ..Sarah Harper: Need to Succeed =-.
This sounds pretty awesome! I could picture it in my head as one of those Mystery! shows that I fall in love with.
I will definitely have to look for this one.
.-= heidenkind´s last blog ..Hex Hall Discussion =-.
Is she killing them for their organs?! lol That’s probably totally random, it’s just what occurred to me while reading your post.
.-= Eva´s last blog ..Library Loot: April 21-27, 2010 =-.
Argh — I am definitely going to have to track this one down.
.-= Beth F´s last blog ..Challenge: 2010 EW Summer Books =-.
I was so blown away by this book, especially after being introduced to Faber by ‘The Crimson Petal…’. It’s so different and has such a sudden change in what kind of genre you think it is, just great and dark and kind of heartbreaking at the end.