Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld

Behemoth (Leviathan, #2)

by Scott Westerfeld

The Leviathan arrives in Constantinople, a city where Clanker culture and Darwinst principles intersect in the most intriguing ways. Dr Barlow and Deryn deliver their precious cargo to the Sultan, but their peace-keeping mission goes unexpectedly - and disastrously - awry. Now the only way to save themselves in this hostile, politically-charged city is for Dr Barlow to offer up the thing that matters most: the air ship. Alek escapes from his prison camp and goes on the run with his men and the loris while Count Volger stays behind to fend-off the pursuit, forcing Alek to take on new responsibilities. Meanwhile a secret mission lands Deryn in serious danger...and leads both teens to re-evaluate their precarious situations in the world.

Reviewed by inlibrisveritas on

4 of 5 stars

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If you've seen my review for Leviathan then you know I wasn't terribly sure how I felt about the book and ended up giving three stars because of that. Well Behemoth did what the first couldn't for me and helped me decide that I bloody love this series. I had a few irritants here and there so I couldn't give it a five but it's still a brilliant book and made me realize that the first was just as good, so I may go back to my review and rework it if I have the time.

I really love Alek and Deryn as main characters, they are each others opposite so they fill in what the other is missing. Also I really like the fact that it's not turning into a romance and becoming all love sick, this is first and foremost about how they deal with the war and the friendship between them. Deryn is a wonderful female character and she's breaking the mold of so many YA main characters. She's bold, straight forward, strong, and clever. It's really enjoyable reading about her and her situations. Alek is just as enjoyable and not just because he's noble, but because he's also a strong character with a unique situation. Also I adore Bovril, he's so adorable!!

These are some well thought out books, and that much is very clear. It's an alternate history so of course you have facts mingling with fiction in vast amounts, but you also have interesting steampunk creations and beautiful illustrations. I'm in love with the idea of the Allies being 'Darwinists' and the Axis being 'Clankers', it gives a whole new outlook on WWI, not to mention the interesting battles that take place. The illustrator, Keith Thompson, does a fantastic job with the pictures throughout this book. Not only do they give you a glimpse of what this world looks like they are also very nice to look at, I kind of wish that I could find a colored poster version of a few to hang in my room.

I can't wait for Goliath to hit the shelves! I also regret getting rid of my copy of Leviathan, so I'll have to re-buy it when I get the chance.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 7 August, 2011: Finished reading
  • 7 August, 2011: Reviewed