Fabrick

In this wildly imaginative SF adventure, Post (Knuckleduster) introduces an eclectic group of unlikely allies, who work together to protect a dying city—and each other—from myriad dangers. When an attack devastates the city of Geyser, 19-year-old Clyde, who is strangely ignorant of the world around him, sets out to avenge his slain master. He quickly accumulates several odd companions, including the animal-like mercenary Flam, a patchwork “Stitcher” named Nevele, and the intelligent rodent collective known as Rohm. Their quest takes them into the depths of Geyser, where they make some monumental discoveries, leading them on a collision course with several warring factions. Post delivers one bizarre concept after another in this epic coming-of-age story, packing it full of action, intrigue, and surprise. Strong characterizations and an intriguing setting don’t quite offset the meandering storyline and several subplots that make this tale drag in places. However, the underlying charm of the strange and surprising ideas Post brings to the table does much to rectify these drawbacks—the sheer originality of the novel is its best asset. Ages 12–up. (Nov.)