Ex Machina: Power Down

Amazon link.

HTF: It was a passing reference on Slate. I read the first five, liked them, and periodically check the library stock for the latest volumes.

Synopsis: In an alternate-reality post 9-11 where only one of the towers fell and a former superhero becomes mayor, a major power outage hits New York City. Wacky hijinks ensue.

Verdict: Enh.

I thought that I’d start my project with an easy read — 20 minutes max — but at the end, I was left thinking, “That’s it?” A few more mysteries introduced, a few more predictable situations, and no real resolutions, characters are still bitter, and ultimately, not much happens.

In fact, so put-off was I that I read it again, just to check if I missed anything, and I found myself still irritated. The blurb promises that the mayor will face “his most difficult challenge to date.” I wasn’t impressed. What does the good mayor do? He runs off, leaving his staff to manage the meat and potatoes.

I guess my tastes have changed over the years. The Rabbi’s Cat was a more satisfying story.