Heroes and Villains

by Angela Carter
Heroes and Villains cover
Good Books rating 3.42
Fantasy
Technical:
  • ID: 1178
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-09-27
  • Published: 1981-01-01
  • Formats: 17
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

'Heroes and Villains' is a captivating journey into the hearts and minds of those who stand on opposite sides of the moral spectrum. This book explores the intricate motivations and psychological depths of heroes and villains, offering a fresh perspective on the age-old struggle between right and wrong. Through compelling narratives and insightful analysis, it challenges readers to reconsider their preconceived notions of heroism and villainy, revealing the shades of gray that often exist between the two. The book not only delves into the characters themselves but also examines the societal and cultural influences that shape their actions. It provides a thought-provoking examination of the themes of power, justice, and redemption, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature.

Reviews
Science Fiction Ruminations · 2022-09-18
disturbing 3.00

The book is a disturbing dystopia with mature themes. It explores the dark side of human nature and societal breakdown.

This reviewer finds 'Heroes and Villains' to be a deeply unsettling read, not for the faint of heart. The novel delves into themes of sexual violence, physical and emotional abuse, and the brutality that can emerge in a post-apocalyptic world. They appreciate Carter's unflinching portrayal of these harsh realities, though it makes for a challenging read. The reviewer also notes the novel's exploration of power dynamics and the blurred lines between heroes and villains, making it a thought-provoking, albeit disturbing, experience.

Quick quotes

    This is a disturbing dystopia with adult sexual content, sexual violence, and scenes of physical and emotional abuse.

    The novel's exploration of power dynamics is both compelling and unsettling.

    Carter's unflinching portrayal of harsh realities makes for a challenging but thought-provoking read.

My Wordly Obsessions · 2012-07-06
strange 3.50

The story is strange and unsettling, with a unique exploration of love and alliances in a post-apocalyptic world.

The reviewer describes 'Heroes and Villains' as a very strange tale that challenges conventional notions of love and relationships. The story of a savage and a professor's daughter forming an odd alliance is both intriguing and unsettling. They appreciate the novel's unique exploration of these themes, though they note that the story can be quite bizarre and not for everyone. The reviewer also highlights the novel's rich imagery and complex characters, making it a memorable read despite its strangeness.

Quick quotes

    A very strange tale of love (if love it can be called) between a savage and a professor's daughter.

    The novel's exploration of unique alliances is both intriguing and unsettling.

    The story is rich in imagery and complex characters, making it a memorable read.

The New York Times · 1970-09-13
compelling 3.75

The book is strange and compelling, with imagery and references rooted in the art of the past.

This reviewer finds 'Heroes and Villains' to be a strange yet compelling novel. Despite being set in the future, the imagery and references continually draw from the art of the past, creating a unique blend of futuristic and historical elements. They appreciate the novel's ability to captivate and intrigue, though they acknowledge its strangeness. The reviewer also notes the novel's exploration of societal collapse and the human condition, making it a thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    "Heroes and Villains" is a strange, compelling book.

    Its imagery and references are continually to the art of the past.

    The novel's exploration of societal collapse and the human condition is thought-provoking.

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