Absolution

by Jeff Vandermeer
Absolution cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Technical
  • ID: 4564
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780771020858
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2024-10-22
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

Absolution, the highly anticipated fourth volume in Jeff VanderMeer's Southern Reach Trilogy, returns to the enigmatic and terrifying world of Area X. This final installment explores the unsolved mysteries and untold stories from the previous books, providing a deeper understanding of the events that shaped Area X. Structured in three parts, each recounting a new expedition, the book delivers profound new surprises and more questions, making it a must-read for fans of the series. The Southern Reach Trilogy has already sold over a million copies and secured its place in modern literature, and Absolution promises to be a brilliant and terrifying conclusion to this speculative fiction masterpiece.

Reviews
Locus Magazine · Ian Mond · 2024-11-27
creepy 4.00

The book is described as tricksy and creepy, with a sense of unease that lingers. It is praised for its atmospheric and unsettling qualities.

Ian Mond's review highlights the book's ability to create a sense of unease and mystery. They appreciate the tricksy and creepy nature of the narrative, which keeps the reader on edge. The review suggests that the book is a worthy addition to the Southern Reach series, maintaining the series' signature atmosphere. However, it also notes that the book may leave some questions unanswered, which could be frustrating for some readers.

Quick quotes

    And I can say, with a rictus grin and a persistent tic in the left eye, that I wasn't disappointed.

    Absolution is as tricksy, creepy, and unsettling as one would hope from a Southern Reach novel.

    The book's strength lies in its ability to create a sense of unease and mystery.

The Fiction Fox · 2024-11-02
engaging 4.50

The book is recommended for its engaging narrative and complex characters. It is seen as a valuable companion piece to the original trilogy.

The reviewer at The Fiction Fox recommends Absolution for its engaging narrative and complex characters. They appreciate the book's ability to stand on its own while also enriching the original trilogy. The review suggests that the book is a valuable addition to the series, offering new insights and perspectives. However, it also notes that the book may not provide all the answers readers are looking for, which could be a point of frustration.

Quick quotes

    Absolution isn't a direct sequel or prequel to the original trilogy, but more of a companion-piece.

    I do highly recommend you read it if you're a fan of the series.

    The characters are complex, and the story is engaging.

The Guardian · 2024-10-30
thrilling 4.25

The book adds new information to the series but also leaves some questions unanswered. It is praised for its thrilling and otherworldly qualities.

The Guardian's review highlights Absolution's ability to add new information to the series while also leaving some questions unanswered. They appreciate the book's thrilling and otherworldly qualities, which keep the reader engaged. The review suggests that the book is a worthy addition to the Southern Reach series, maintaining the series' signature atmosphere. However, it also notes that the book may leave some readers wanting more resolution.

Quick quotes

    The novel adds new information to our understanding of the site and its genesis, but also opens new questions, and leaves some dangling loose ends.

    A thrilling coda to an otherworldly trilogy.

    The book's strength lies in its ability to create a sense of mystery and intrigue.

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