Quirky Cat
Written on Aug 3, 2017
Shutter is a pretty perfect example of a chaotic storytelling style. I found myself unsure of what was happening at times, though thankfully never to the point where I found myself overwhelmed. I believe this was done intentionally to obfuscate the truth of Kate’s past. There are many reasons I believe that, including that some information was presented as a fact in the beginning and then later put into question.
There’s a lot of flashback in this series, as Kate Kristopher, “the most famous explorer” has retired from exploring. That’s not to say that trouble doesn’t still find her (obviously) but it does mean there’s quite a bit of backstory to be told, and only so many ways in which to tell it.
I think some of my favorite parts are the smaller elements, like her classic clockwork cat man-servant that follows her around, or the skeleton butler she had growing up (I actually really enjoyed his backstory). One favorite of mine is the unspoken question of her roommate’s identity and history. Little things like that build up to leave you with questions and ideas. It fills out this odd little world being built for us.
I’ll admit that sometimes the fighting gets a little graphic for my taste – but I think this might be my bias showing. There are many anthropomorphized animals running around, and seeing them get hurt/killed, especially in graphic manners is a bit upsetting for me (in case this was self explanatory: because I love animals).
All in all the world of Shutter is pretty interesting and well designed. I’m very curious to see where volume two will take us, and intend to continue reading the series.
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks