On the Many Deaths of Amanda Palmer (21 page)

It is clearly a very confidently written piece, both in terms of what is included and what is left out. The descriptions are perfectly pointed, uneasy and luxurious, and the symbolism doesn't overly weigh upon the storyline.

I also noticed the cunning use of point-of-view. The work is divided into four sections, starting from Grimble's perspective, then moving through Father Stringer and Mary-Beth to finally arrive with Amanda as she dies upon the cross. In addition each section is made shorter than the last to give the piece a feeling of momentum.

Overall I found this to be a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read, although I might add that the preaching got a bit tedious towards the end.

In addition it may, or may not, be worth mentioning that the author is clearly unschooled in the biological realities of the Dartmoor environment, as a number of the creatures he/she mentions would be hibernating throughout the winter period during which the story is set.