The Black Tattoo

Now that I’ve been Trapped By Monsters – I decided I wanted to know more about the beasts holding us captive, to get into their heads and find out what makes them tick.  So I scoured the bookshelves built into the walls of the cave until I found a copy of The Black Tattoo by Sam Enthoven – a book I’d first read and enjoyed a year or so ago but which, on second reading, really blew me away.

Strangely, there were certain things I’d forgotten about since reading it last.  I’d forgotten just how intricate the plot becomes at times, with the breath-taking action leaping from one scene to the next, carrying you along with it.  I lost count of how many times I’d reach the end of a chapter and take a quick peek at the first paragraph of the next, promising myself a break but swiftly finding the need to keep reading.

I’d forgotten the book contains some of the most jaw-dropping, amazing fight scenes ever immortalised on paper.  This isn’t just Kung-Fu people – this is martial arts sponsored by Red Bull!  In fact, I may have to go and watch Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on fast forward, just to take a break.

But, most of all, I’d forgotten how every single character – from the main protagonists (tortured Charlie, dedicated Esme and typical Jack) to the smallest of bit parts (the delightful Chinj, and the monster to end ‘em all, Jagmat!) – is so perfectly crafted.  First page to last, there isn’t a single two-dimensional, ‘only in it for a scene and a half so that’ll do’ character in the entire book (just experience the Akachash to see for yourself).  They could all take the lead in their own novels without the slightest bit of work.

Has reading The Black Tattoo again given me any insight into the minds of the creatures now guarding the entrance to the cave?  Perhaps.  Has it prepared me for dealing with the next monster to slither in my direction?  Maybe.  Has it reminded me just how UTTERLY BRILLIANT finely-crafted, imaginative books can be?  Too flippin’ right!

Read The Black Tattoo without delay.  You will not regret it.