Book Review: Beyond These Walls – Books 1 – 6 Boxset
When I stumbled upon Beyond These Walls – Books 1 – 6 Boxset by Michael Robertson, I felt an electric thrill run through me. The allure of a post-apocalyptic world filled with lurking dangers and resilient characters promised an escape into the extraordinary. Given my penchant for dystopian tales, I eagerly dove into this collection, ready for a ride that would challenge my perception of survival and humanity.
The narrative thrusts us into the heart of a crumbling society, contained within the walls of Edin, a city teetering on the brink. The protagonists, Spike and Matilda, undertake their six-month mandatory national service—an experience steeped in uncertainty, given that only half of the recruits survive. Right from the outset, Robertson establishes a chilling atmosphere filled with hyper-violent encounters and a sense of impending doom. The stakes are incredibly high, and as the characters step outside the familiar confines of Edin, we are drawn into a brutal reality where their true mettle is tested.
Robertson’s strength lies in his character development. Across six gripping books, Spike and Matilda emerge as multifaceted beings. Their relationships, imbued with loyalty and love, add depth to their survival story. I found myself rooting for them, feeling every pang of fear as they confronted the monstrous "diseased" hordes outside their city walls. The emotional resonance of their journey—navigating friendships, self-discovery, and moral dilemmas—was profoundly impactful and relatable.
What stood out to me was the writing style. It oscillates seamlessly between fast-paced action and introspective moments, allowing readers a moment to breathe amid the chaos. There were scenes that felt vivid and alive; I could almost smell the dampness of the rain-soaked earth and hear the guttural growls of the undead. Yet, some pacing in the earlier books felt uneven—like a rollercoaster that occasionally jolts unexpectedly. A few reviewers, including those who praised the series, noted how some parts felt like they lingered too long on emotional intricacies. While I appreciated the detail, I couldn’t help but agree that certain sections could have benefitted from a brisker pace.
Robertson also weaves in socio-political commentary, examining human nature through survivalist lenses. The way characters grapple with power, corruption, and moral ambiguity adds a layer of richness that sets Beyond These Walls apart from typical fare in the genre. One quote that lingered with me captures this sentiment beautifully: “In the midst of ruin, the greatest battles are often the ones we fight within.” This insight lingers, prompting deep reflection long after turning the last page.
This box set caters perfectly to fans of the post-apocalyptic genre—those who revel in high stakes and relatable characters. If you enjoy tales that blend grit with emotional richness, or you’re simply looking to be glued to the page, this series is tailored for you. Robertson has crafted an engaging world that pushes boundaries, forcing us to confront our own moral compasses in times of crisis.
In conclusion, Beyond These Walls left me exhilarated, challenged, and craving more. As I await the next installment, I’ll certainly recommend this set to friends who seek a gritty yet profound escape into a dystopian landscape. This isn’t just a story about survival; it’s a poignant exploration of what it means to be human in the face of overwhelming odds.