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Worldshaker #2
Liberator
Equality remains elusive in this stunning steampunk sequel to Worldshaker .
In the aftermath of the events of Worldshaker , the Filthies control the massive juggernaut, now called Liberator. Many members of the former upper class, called Swanks, have remained behind to help teach them how to operate the juggernaut and to build a new society together. But all is not idyllic aboard Liberator .
A saboteur seems determined to drive up anti-Swank sentiment among the more volatile Filthy factions. And the Swanks are finding that their best efforts to work with the Filthies are being tossed aside. Even Col, who thought his relationship with Riff was rock solid, is starting to see their friendship crumbling before him.
As tensions run high and coal supplies run low, Liberator is on the verge of a crisis. Can Col and Riff unify their divided people before disaster strikes?
In the aftermath of the events of Worldshaker , the Filthies control the massive juggernaut, now called Liberator. Many members of the former upper class, called Swanks, have remained behind to help teach them how to operate the juggernaut and to build a new society together. But all is not idyllic aboard Liberator .
A saboteur seems determined to drive up anti-Swank sentiment among the more volatile Filthy factions. And the Swanks are finding that their best efforts to work with the Filthies are being tossed aside. Even Col, who thought his relationship with Riff was rock solid, is starting to see their friendship crumbling before him.
As tensions run high and coal supplies run low, Liberator is on the verge of a crisis. Can Col and Riff unify their divided people before disaster strikes?
496 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
14 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Richard Harland
70 books123 followersI was born in Yorkshire, England, then migrated to Australia at the age of twenty-one. I was always trying to write, but could never finish the stories I began. Instead I drifted around as a singer, songwriter and poet, then became a university tutor and finally a university lecturer. But after twenty-five years of writer’s block, I finally finished the cult novel, The Vicar of Morbing Vyle, and resigned my lectureship to follow my original dream.
Since then, I've had seventeen books published, all fantasy, SF or horror/supernatural, ranging from Children’s to Young Adult to Adult. My biggest success internationally has come with my YA steampunk fantasies, Worldshaker and its sequels. I've won six Aurealis Awards (Australia's Nebulas) and the Prix Tam-tam du Livre Jeunesse for Le Worldshaker.
I live with partner Aileen near Wollongong, south of Sydney, between golden beaches and green escarpment. Walking Yogi the Labrador while listening to music is my favourite relaxation—when I'm not writing like a mad workaholic, catching up on those wasted twenty-five years …
My website for The Ferren Trilogy and other books is at www.ferren.com.au. I've also put up a comprehensive 145-page guide of tips for writing fantasy fiction at www.writingtips.com.au.
Since then, I've had seventeen books published, all fantasy, SF or horror/supernatural, ranging from Children’s to Young Adult to Adult. My biggest success internationally has come with my YA steampunk fantasies, Worldshaker and its sequels. I've won six Aurealis Awards (Australia's Nebulas) and the Prix Tam-tam du Livre Jeunesse for Le Worldshaker.
I live with partner Aileen near Wollongong, south of Sydney, between golden beaches and green escarpment. Walking Yogi the Labrador while listening to music is my favourite relaxation—when I'm not writing like a mad workaholic, catching up on those wasted twenty-five years …
My website for The Ferren Trilogy and other books is at www.ferren.com.au. I've also put up a comprehensive 145-page guide of tips for writing fantasy fiction at www.writingtips.com.au.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 18, 2014
I love Riff. She is the best thing that has happened in this duology. Col, however, has been a complete useless and incompetent Swank who does nothing but drag Riff down. BUT, if he makes her happy, then at east he has SOME meaning in life, right?
May 18, 2017
I'm no writer. I admit this. I'm not even a literary student of any kind. But I am a consumer of stories. And in my opinion this book has some of the worst flaws a writer can put into a story. Once driven, intelligent, and perceptive people are suddenly wishy washy, blind, and stupid because the writer doesn't seem to want to put effort into reaching a plot they want. Its really disgusting.
September 8, 2011
http://www.rantingdragon.com/liberato...
(This review contains spoilers for Worldshaker by Richard Harland)
Liberator is the excellent sequel to Richard Harland’s 2009 steampunk adventure, Worldshaker, and once again the majority of the story takes place on the huge mobile city, now renamed to reflect its liberated status. While you do have to have read Worldshaker to fully appreciate Liberator, I personally found the entertainment value alone of both books more than worth the few hours it took to read them.
The story continues
Liberator picks up a few months after the events of Worldshaker. The Filthies may now have their freedom, but not all is well on the immense juggernaut. A saboteur and murderer is concealed within the population and suspicion falls upon the former upper decks residents, or Swanks. The resulting paranoia, paired with the lingering ill-feeling of the Filthies towards their former oppressors, widens the already substantial division between the two groups and offers the perfect climate for extremists to gain power. Furthermore, the Liberator faces not only war within the ranks of its citizens, but also assault from external sources as Imperialist juggernauts converge upon its position. Riff and Col must overcome their mistrust and unite the factions if anyone is to survive the oncoming storm.
Bigger and bolder
Overall, Liberator encompasses greater character development, greater scope and more intense action than its predecessor. We are offered more insight into the characters of the protagonists, Riff and Col, and watch them grow with the decisions they make throughout the story. Furthermore, Harland’s antagonists, such as Lye, are more developed than those in Worldshaker, with understandable flaws and motives rather than coming across as ‘just plain evil’ or serving solely as devices through which to parody certain historical stereotypes. The supporting cast, such as Col’s parents, teacher and even the ambiguous dog/cat Murgatrude, also benefit from some further attention. The result makes them much more real and endearing, while still remaining quirky and larger than life.
Throughout the course of this novel we finally get a glimpse of what Harland’s world is like beyond the claustrophobic confines of the mobile city. We visit an Imperial colony, located in Botany Bay and powered by convict labour, that exists purely to refuel the roaming juggernauts, and we even get to see some of the other, deadlier, mobile fortresses firsthand. The world outside is alien and threatening to Filthies and Swanks alike, yet can no longer be ignored if they are to continue to survive. All in all, this enhanced worldbuilding adds to the authenticity of the novel, reinforcing the perception of the Liberator as both a world contained within itself and yet still a part of a greater whole.
Life after revolution
Harland also does a good job of showing that life is not all joy and harmony in the aftermath of a revolution (complete with ample thinly veiled allusions to the Russian Revolution). Fanatics from both sides, Imperialist and Revolutionary, are depicted as inclined to bigotry and capable of using ruthless means to achieve their goals. Questions raised by the previous book, such as the inevitable reactions of the other Imperial juggernauts to the Filthy upheaval and the plight of their own analogous lower classes, are likewise explored.
The novel also provides some exhilarating battle scenes, laugh out loud moments (I’m thinking of Col’s mother’s personal revelation) and food for thought, all set in the bizarre and strangely alluring environment of the industrial behemoth.
Why should you read this book?
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both Liberator and Worldshaker, and while their slightly unconventional style may not be to everyone’s taste, I found it a welcome break from the bleaker outlook and somewhat heavier tone prominent in many contemporary sci-fi and fantasy offerings. While the book is aimed at the young adult audience, I would also recommend it to older readers, such as myself, who are looking for a fun and quirky science fiction/fantasy read that has depth but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
(This review contains spoilers for Worldshaker by Richard Harland)
Liberator is the excellent sequel to Richard Harland’s 2009 steampunk adventure, Worldshaker, and once again the majority of the story takes place on the huge mobile city, now renamed to reflect its liberated status. While you do have to have read Worldshaker to fully appreciate Liberator, I personally found the entertainment value alone of both books more than worth the few hours it took to read them.
The story continues
Liberator picks up a few months after the events of Worldshaker. The Filthies may now have their freedom, but not all is well on the immense juggernaut. A saboteur and murderer is concealed within the population and suspicion falls upon the former upper decks residents, or Swanks. The resulting paranoia, paired with the lingering ill-feeling of the Filthies towards their former oppressors, widens the already substantial division between the two groups and offers the perfect climate for extremists to gain power. Furthermore, the Liberator faces not only war within the ranks of its citizens, but also assault from external sources as Imperialist juggernauts converge upon its position. Riff and Col must overcome their mistrust and unite the factions if anyone is to survive the oncoming storm.
Bigger and bolder
Overall, Liberator encompasses greater character development, greater scope and more intense action than its predecessor. We are offered more insight into the characters of the protagonists, Riff and Col, and watch them grow with the decisions they make throughout the story. Furthermore, Harland’s antagonists, such as Lye, are more developed than those in Worldshaker, with understandable flaws and motives rather than coming across as ‘just plain evil’ or serving solely as devices through which to parody certain historical stereotypes. The supporting cast, such as Col’s parents, teacher and even the ambiguous dog/cat Murgatrude, also benefit from some further attention. The result makes them much more real and endearing, while still remaining quirky and larger than life.
Throughout the course of this novel we finally get a glimpse of what Harland’s world is like beyond the claustrophobic confines of the mobile city. We visit an Imperial colony, located in Botany Bay and powered by convict labour, that exists purely to refuel the roaming juggernauts, and we even get to see some of the other, deadlier, mobile fortresses firsthand. The world outside is alien and threatening to Filthies and Swanks alike, yet can no longer be ignored if they are to continue to survive. All in all, this enhanced worldbuilding adds to the authenticity of the novel, reinforcing the perception of the Liberator as both a world contained within itself and yet still a part of a greater whole.
Life after revolution
Harland also does a good job of showing that life is not all joy and harmony in the aftermath of a revolution (complete with ample thinly veiled allusions to the Russian Revolution). Fanatics from both sides, Imperialist and Revolutionary, are depicted as inclined to bigotry and capable of using ruthless means to achieve their goals. Questions raised by the previous book, such as the inevitable reactions of the other Imperial juggernauts to the Filthy upheaval and the plight of their own analogous lower classes, are likewise explored.
The novel also provides some exhilarating battle scenes, laugh out loud moments (I’m thinking of Col’s mother’s personal revelation) and food for thought, all set in the bizarre and strangely alluring environment of the industrial behemoth.
Why should you read this book?
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both Liberator and Worldshaker, and while their slightly unconventional style may not be to everyone’s taste, I found it a welcome break from the bleaker outlook and somewhat heavier tone prominent in many contemporary sci-fi and fantasy offerings. While the book is aimed at the young adult audience, I would also recommend it to older readers, such as myself, who are looking for a fun and quirky science fiction/fantasy read that has depth but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
May 28, 2013
I really enjoyed Liberator, and World Shaker, too. I think these books deserve a higher fan base. In my opinion, they weren't as great as other steampunk books I've read, like the Leviathan and Airborn trilogies, but still...Worldshaker and Liberator were awesome. I wish I'd never read them, so I could experience reading them for the first time all over again!
March 8, 2017
This book as a previous one is very good at connecting themes together. There was some questions from book one that were answered here. Some questions were not answered possibly because author couldn't keep up with them nevertheless it did answer a lot of them.
August 10, 2018
This book is awesome, for the first 400 pages or so. It all goes downhill from there. And i'm going to tell you what the problem was- THE AUTHOR TRIED TO TELL 2 BIG STORIES IN 1 BOOK. Don't get me wrong, many book's have multiple stories. But the problem here is that the author has 2 different plot's and one get's big attention, while the other is rushed through,
The first 400 pages (roughly) find's our hero Col struggling to adjust to his new life in the liberator. But shiv and Lye (antagonists) are trying to take control of the liberator. Here is where the book truly shines. The plot keep's on moving and never stops.
But then out of nowhere the author just gets rid of the stories antagonists and introduces new one's around page 400 (The juggernauts)Now the Juggernauts were already there before in minor roles, but the author suddenly made them the main enemy. He just tossed Lye to the side and switched enemies. WHY?? Why spend all the time setting her up to go out in such an anti-climatic way. Big mistake.
The whole mission with Col liberating the Russian's was BORING. Why? Because it was rushed. And i do mean rushed.
While it took us 400 pages to see Col struggle with LYE and her new regime, it took only about 84 for COl (and friends) to break into the Russian Juggernaut, have their leader killed, and yet somehow gain their trust, take over the Russian juggernaut, and then then defeat all the combined forces of the juggernaut's armies. So the whole end is a jumbled blur.
I felt no attachment or nor did I care for anything going on like I had for the 1st 400 pages or the previous books.
Richard Harland should have ended the book with Lye's demise. And then he could have written another book that concentrated on the battle versus the juggernaut's. This way he wouldn't have had to rush through it like there was no tomorrow.
When I finished WORLDSHAKER I was left craving more. I suggested the book to all my friends (I actually gave it a 5 star review on Amazon). I wanted to see what would happen next with Col and Riff. Now, sadly, I could care less.
(Don't even get me started on how Sephaltina was unjustly treated like an expendable piece of trash).
The first 400 pages (roughly) find's our hero Col struggling to adjust to his new life in the liberator. But shiv and Lye (antagonists) are trying to take control of the liberator. Here is where the book truly shines. The plot keep's on moving and never stops.
But then out of nowhere the author just gets rid of the stories antagonists and introduces new one's around page 400 (The juggernauts)Now the Juggernauts were already there before in minor roles, but the author suddenly made them the main enemy. He just tossed Lye to the side and switched enemies. WHY?? Why spend all the time setting her up to go out in such an anti-climatic way. Big mistake.
The whole mission with Col liberating the Russian's was BORING. Why? Because it was rushed. And i do mean rushed.
While it took us 400 pages to see Col struggle with LYE and her new regime, it took only about 84 for COl (and friends) to break into the Russian Juggernaut, have their leader killed, and yet somehow gain their trust, take over the Russian juggernaut, and then then defeat all the combined forces of the juggernaut's armies. So the whole end is a jumbled blur.
I felt no attachment or nor did I care for anything going on like I had for the 1st 400 pages or the previous books.
Richard Harland should have ended the book with Lye's demise. And then he could have written another book that concentrated on the battle versus the juggernaut's. This way he wouldn't have had to rush through it like there was no tomorrow.
When I finished WORLDSHAKER I was left craving more. I suggested the book to all my friends (I actually gave it a 5 star review on Amazon). I wanted to see what would happen next with Col and Riff. Now, sadly, I could care less.
(Don't even get me started on how Sephaltina was unjustly treated like an expendable piece of trash).
June 23, 2014
I thought the ending of the Worldshaker was it but it was good that it did and that Liberator was created.
It starts off with the attack of a saboteur and the power control within the Filthies.
I am not much of a fan of stories like this and I got bored at it and I feel like I was dragging myself again like in the first book about the happenings in this story, though there is one part of the story that got me interested. Right now, I just figured out that the entire story for me was like a roller coaster ride for children, its slow but their are parts of it that are exhilarating to experience. Sadly, I cannot imagine much of what was happening in the story especially on parts where automation is concerned.
In the story, I was amused that the Upper Class people were given a name in the second installment: Swanks. I would also like to note about the attitude of Sephaltina and her spoiled bratiness, I kinda reminds me of well me. But I wouldn't go over drive like her, just sayin. Mr. Gibber was a really really really weird character but nonetheless prove his significance in the story.
I thought Lye's cruelty was that she was jealous of Riff because Col is in love with Riff and not her. I was so wrong. But I was right in some accusations I had of her.
The character that I really liked was Antrobus (In my ad I keep saying Astrobus XD) and how he really made an impact in the story by not saying a single word to uttering a complete and comprehensive sentence that even I was left to stutter. I would have like Septimus to express more of his love toward Gillabeth because I am a sucker for romance. Col and Riff's relationship was stronger than ever and I was happy that everything went well.
Just a side remark:the names of the characters were very hard, specially the Swanks's, to remember and pronounce unlike the names of the Filthies.
This may come as a shock (to me) because when the ending came, it was so heartfelt that made this book a three stars and not two.
I would suggest this to people wanting action and not much the lovy dovy stuff.
It starts off with the attack of a saboteur and the power control within the Filthies.
I am not much of a fan of stories like this and I got bored at it and I feel like I was dragging myself again like in the first book about the happenings in this story, though there is one part of the story that got me interested. Right now, I just figured out that the entire story for me was like a roller coaster ride for children, its slow but their are parts of it that are exhilarating to experience. Sadly, I cannot imagine much of what was happening in the story especially on parts where automation is concerned.
In the story, I was amused that the Upper Class people were given a name in the second installment: Swanks. I would also like to note about the attitude of Sephaltina and her spoiled bratiness, I kinda reminds me of well me. But I wouldn't go over drive like her, just sayin. Mr. Gibber was a really really really weird character but nonetheless prove his significance in the story.
I thought Lye's cruelty was that she was jealous of Riff because Col is in love with Riff and not her. I was so wrong. But I was right in some accusations I had of her.
The character that I really liked was Antrobus (In my ad I keep saying Astrobus XD) and how he really made an impact in the story by not saying a single word to uttering a complete and comprehensive sentence that even I was left to stutter. I would have like Septimus to express more of his love toward Gillabeth because I am a sucker for romance. Col and Riff's relationship was stronger than ever and I was happy that everything went well.
Just a side remark:the names of the characters were very hard, specially the Swanks's, to remember and pronounce unlike the names of the Filthies.
This may come as a shock (to me) because when the ending came, it was so heartfelt that made this book a three stars and not two.
I would suggest this to people wanting action and not much the lovy dovy stuff.
May 12, 2014
This book was AAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG
September 8, 2018
Liberator AKA Col gets a personality and violence is the answer to freedom
Ok so this book was a definite improvement from the first book buuut I had some problems:
~ There wasnt enough Gillabeth and Septimus! i need
~ The ending was really rushed and everywhere, my brain felt so busy reading it
~ Like it felt as though there was too much in the space of less than 100 pages
~ I wanted to know more about Lye??? What were her true motives?
~ It was predictable AS HECK
~ There was so much unecessary violence
~ Like to the point where the answer to every problem was to kill, it felt like gun= freedom, which did not bode well with me
However, there were also things I liked!
⭐ Col got a personalityyy!!! yayyyy!!! like he was actually helpful and I quite liked him!
⭐ Baby Antrobus is actually hilarious and I LOVED Vicotria and Albert
⭐ I liked the plot in general, like it showed that after the events of book one, there was repurcussions for such revolutionary actions
⭐ Also the blend of historical elements with the storyline was real cool I just love the whole steampunk-y feel
And thats all my brain could muster to think of now but yeah those are my thoughts!
Ok so this book was a definite improvement from the first book buuut I had some problems:
~ There wasnt enough Gillabeth and Septimus! i need
~ The ending was really rushed and everywhere, my brain felt so busy reading it
~ Like it felt as though there was too much in the space of less than 100 pages
~ I wanted to know more about Lye??? What were her true motives?
~ It was predictable AS HECK
~ There was so much unecessary violence
~ Like to the point where the answer to every problem was to kill, it felt like gun= freedom, which did not bode well with me
However, there were also things I liked!
⭐ Col got a personalityyy!!! yayyyy!!! like he was actually helpful and I quite liked him!
⭐ Baby Antrobus is actually hilarious and I LOVED Vicotria and Albert
⭐ I liked the plot in general, like it showed that after the events of book one, there was repurcussions for such revolutionary actions
⭐ Also the blend of historical elements with the storyline was real cool I just love the whole steampunk-y feel
And thats all my brain could muster to think of now but yeah those are my thoughts!
May 1, 2019
Took forever to track down a copy of this sequel to Worldshaker. Even at 487pp it was a fast read with nice short chapters, decent world building, lots of intrigue and action. Didn’t enjoy it quite as much as #1 which was primarily about the rise of the downtrodden. This was more about power struggles, political back-stabbing and general human nastiness to one another so a little less uplifting in tone.
July 14, 2020
I think this book was waaaay rushed but the story line itself was kinda cool. Honestly feel this could have made at least 2 books.
November 30, 2024
Not quite as awesome as World Shaker, but still amazing. Loved it.
December 31, 2024
Not as good as worldshaker
September 13, 2011
Also published under The Ranting Dragon: http://www.rantingdragon.com/liberato...
Interview with author: http://www.rantingdragon.com/intervie...
Liberator is the excellent sequel to Richard Harland’s 2009 steampunk adventure, Worldshaker, and once again the majority of the story takes place on the huge mobile city, now renamed to reflect its liberated status. While you do have to have read Worldshaker to fully appreciate Liberator, I personally found the entertainment value alone of both books more than worth the few hours it took to read them.
The story continues
Liberator picks up a few months after the events of Worldshaker. The Filthies may now have their freedom, but not all is well on the immense juggernaut. A saboteur and murderer is concealed within the population and suspicion falls upon the former upper decks residents, or Swanks. The resulting paranoia, paired with the lingering ill-feeling of the Filthies towards their former oppressors, widens the already substantial division between the two groups and offers the perfect climate for extremists to gain power. Furthermore, the Liberator faces not only war within the ranks of its citizens, but also assault from external sources as Imperialist juggernauts converge upon its position. Riff and Col must overcome their mistrust and unite the factions if anyone is to survive the oncoming storm.
Bigger and bolder
Overall, Liberator encompasses greater character development, greater scope and more intense action than its predecessor. We are offered more insight into the characters of the protagonists, Riff and Col, and watch them grow with the decisions they make throughout the story. Furthermore, Harland’s antagonists, such as Lye, are more developed than those in Worldshaker, with understandable flaws and motives rather than coming across as ‘just plain evil’ or serving solely as devices through which to parody certain historical stereotypes. The supporting cast, such as Col’s parents, teacher and even the ambiguous dog/cat Murgatrude, also benefit from some further attention. The result makes them much more real and endearing, while still remaining quirky and larger than life.
Throughout the course of this novel we finally get a glimpse of what Harland’s world is like beyond the claustrophobic confines of the mobile city. We visit an Imperial colony, located in Botany Bay and powered by convict labour, that exists purely to refuel the roaming juggernauts, and we even get to see some of the other, deadlier, mobile fortresses firsthand. The world outside is alien and threatening to Filthies and Swanks alike, yet can no longer be ignored if they are to continue to survive. All in all, this enhanced worldbuilding adds to the authenticity of the novel, reinforcing the perception of the Liberator as both a world contained within itself and yet still a part of a greater whole.
Life after revolution
Harland also does a good job of showing that life is not all joy and harmony in the aftermath of a revolution (complete with ample thinly veiled allusions to the Russian Revolution). Fanatics from both sides, Imperialist and Revolutionary, are depicted as inclined to bigotry and capable of using ruthless means to achieve their goals. Questions raised by the previous book, such as the inevitable reactions of the other Imperial juggernauts to the Filthy upheaval and the plight of their own analogous lower classes, are likewise explored.
The novel also provides some exhilarating battle scenes, laugh out loud moments (I’m thinking of Col’s mother’s personal revelation) and food for thought, all set in the bizarre and strangely alluring environment of the industrial behemoth.
Why should you read this book?
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both Liberator and Worldshaker, and while their slightly unconventional style may not be to everyone’s taste, I found it a welcome break from the bleaker outlook and somewhat heavier tone prominent in many contemporary sci-fi and fantasy offerings. While the book is aimed at the young adult audience, I would also recommend it to older readers, such as myself, who are looking for a fun and quirky science fiction/fantasy read that has depth but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
My website also has a poll on all the currently availiable covers if anyone is interested.
Original version:
http://vilutheril.wordpress.com/2011/...
Interview with author: http://www.rantingdragon.com/intervie...
Liberator is the excellent sequel to Richard Harland’s 2009 steampunk adventure, Worldshaker, and once again the majority of the story takes place on the huge mobile city, now renamed to reflect its liberated status. While you do have to have read Worldshaker to fully appreciate Liberator, I personally found the entertainment value alone of both books more than worth the few hours it took to read them.
The story continues
Liberator picks up a few months after the events of Worldshaker. The Filthies may now have their freedom, but not all is well on the immense juggernaut. A saboteur and murderer is concealed within the population and suspicion falls upon the former upper decks residents, or Swanks. The resulting paranoia, paired with the lingering ill-feeling of the Filthies towards their former oppressors, widens the already substantial division between the two groups and offers the perfect climate for extremists to gain power. Furthermore, the Liberator faces not only war within the ranks of its citizens, but also assault from external sources as Imperialist juggernauts converge upon its position. Riff and Col must overcome their mistrust and unite the factions if anyone is to survive the oncoming storm.
Bigger and bolder
Overall, Liberator encompasses greater character development, greater scope and more intense action than its predecessor. We are offered more insight into the characters of the protagonists, Riff and Col, and watch them grow with the decisions they make throughout the story. Furthermore, Harland’s antagonists, such as Lye, are more developed than those in Worldshaker, with understandable flaws and motives rather than coming across as ‘just plain evil’ or serving solely as devices through which to parody certain historical stereotypes. The supporting cast, such as Col’s parents, teacher and even the ambiguous dog/cat Murgatrude, also benefit from some further attention. The result makes them much more real and endearing, while still remaining quirky and larger than life.
Throughout the course of this novel we finally get a glimpse of what Harland’s world is like beyond the claustrophobic confines of the mobile city. We visit an Imperial colony, located in Botany Bay and powered by convict labour, that exists purely to refuel the roaming juggernauts, and we even get to see some of the other, deadlier, mobile fortresses firsthand. The world outside is alien and threatening to Filthies and Swanks alike, yet can no longer be ignored if they are to continue to survive. All in all, this enhanced worldbuilding adds to the authenticity of the novel, reinforcing the perception of the Liberator as both a world contained within itself and yet still a part of a greater whole.
Life after revolution
Harland also does a good job of showing that life is not all joy and harmony in the aftermath of a revolution (complete with ample thinly veiled allusions to the Russian Revolution). Fanatics from both sides, Imperialist and Revolutionary, are depicted as inclined to bigotry and capable of using ruthless means to achieve their goals. Questions raised by the previous book, such as the inevitable reactions of the other Imperial juggernauts to the Filthy upheaval and the plight of their own analogous lower classes, are likewise explored.
The novel also provides some exhilarating battle scenes, laugh out loud moments (I’m thinking of Col’s mother’s personal revelation) and food for thought, all set in the bizarre and strangely alluring environment of the industrial behemoth.
Why should you read this book?
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both Liberator and Worldshaker, and while their slightly unconventional style may not be to everyone’s taste, I found it a welcome break from the bleaker outlook and somewhat heavier tone prominent in many contemporary sci-fi and fantasy offerings. While the book is aimed at the young adult audience, I would also recommend it to older readers, such as myself, who are looking for a fun and quirky science fiction/fantasy read that has depth but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
My website also has a poll on all the currently availiable covers if anyone is interested.
Original version:
http://vilutheril.wordpress.com/2011/...
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August 9, 2013Liberator picks up in the months after the first book in the series, Worldshaker, ends. The ‘filthies,’ the (for all intents and purposes) serf class that operates the mammoth ship has taken over, and the politics of their endeavor are immediately snarled. They’ve renamed their ship the Liberator, but their former rulers are living in ghettos on the ship, even though they helped in the revolt and encouraged the uprising. The action is certainly tenser than in Worldshaker, and the story begins with a murder that threatens everything Col and Riff have worked to establish. This murder allows for a power struggle that leaves Col adrift, and Riff in a precarious position within the new council. Personal relationships also suffer, as Col finds himself increasingly cut off from Riff as they both try to navigate a new reality and peace for the citizens of the ship.
The first time I read Worldshaker I liked it, but was a little underwhelmed by what I thought was too simple a story, and Liberator also suffers from this to a smaller degree. This series is rated for 10-13 year-olds, and the vocabulary and chapter length of these books has been modified to accommodate this young audience. As a result, Col seems a little too naïve, and in places both texts feel ideologically heavy handed to me. By the time I read Harland’s Worldshaker I had already read Scott Westerfeld’s Leviathan (a work of YA literature that has been very well received by adults) and Cherie Priest’s Boneshaker (an adult work that could easily be read by teens), and I felt that Worldshaker suffered in comparison.
I will argue that Liberator is also somewhat lacking the maturity level of other YA authors in this genre; I think adults will enjoy this book if they understand the concerns I have pointed out and read the text with a little patience. Steampunk literature is well-known for exploring concerns about class, the mass-produced and non-unique nature of modern technology, and the environment, and Richard Harland’s book wastes no time establishing itself within the genre in an approachable manner that should be enjoyable for both children and adults.
In a lot of ways, I enjoyed Liberator far more than Worldshaker because the world Richard Harland has created is much bigger, and the reader gets so see the other imperial vessels for the first time and to understand that the behavior demonstrated in the first book of the series is not unique to these massive ships. The young leaders of the Liberator are presented with a fairly large mystery, and although I knew the identity of the saboteur long before they did, it does demonstrate the precarious nature of a democratic society. I like the romance between Col and Riff, but thought it was complicated enough without throwing the distraction of *spoiler* in. This character is used as a simple plot device and then discarded when convenient to the HEA, and it illustrates the simplicity of the overall narrative.
My final analysis is that it is a worthy addition to Steampunk literature, and it is good to have books that a wide age-range can read and discuss. There are many large important themes central to Steampunk literature, and Harland’s books are a great way to expose new/young readers to the genre. Although I have given it three stars, this is a 3.5 star review.
The first time I read Worldshaker I liked it, but was a little underwhelmed by what I thought was too simple a story, and Liberator also suffers from this to a smaller degree. This series is rated for 10-13 year-olds, and the vocabulary and chapter length of these books has been modified to accommodate this young audience. As a result, Col seems a little too naïve, and in places both texts feel ideologically heavy handed to me. By the time I read Harland’s Worldshaker I had already read Scott Westerfeld’s Leviathan (a work of YA literature that has been very well received by adults) and Cherie Priest’s Boneshaker (an adult work that could easily be read by teens), and I felt that Worldshaker suffered in comparison.
I will argue that Liberator is also somewhat lacking the maturity level of other YA authors in this genre; I think adults will enjoy this book if they understand the concerns I have pointed out and read the text with a little patience. Steampunk literature is well-known for exploring concerns about class, the mass-produced and non-unique nature of modern technology, and the environment, and Richard Harland’s book wastes no time establishing itself within the genre in an approachable manner that should be enjoyable for both children and adults.
In a lot of ways, I enjoyed Liberator far more than Worldshaker because the world Richard Harland has created is much bigger, and the reader gets so see the other imperial vessels for the first time and to understand that the behavior demonstrated in the first book of the series is not unique to these massive ships. The young leaders of the Liberator are presented with a fairly large mystery, and although I knew the identity of the saboteur long before they did, it does demonstrate the precarious nature of a democratic society. I like the romance between Col and Riff, but thought it was complicated enough without throwing the distraction of *spoiler* in. This character is used as a simple plot device and then discarded when convenient to the HEA, and it illustrates the simplicity of the overall narrative.
My final analysis is that it is a worthy addition to Steampunk literature, and it is good to have books that a wide age-range can read and discuss. There are many large important themes central to Steampunk literature, and Harland’s books are a great way to expose new/young readers to the genre. Although I have given it three stars, this is a 3.5 star review.
September 7, 2015
I was dissapointed by this sequel, but not as much as I thought I would be so it gets 3 instead of 2.
Liberator picks up where most of the distopia literature of today leaves off: After the Revolution has won. And here we see the usual fall-out of a takeover. Hostile retribution against the previous ruling class despite an initial cry of equality, an almost immediate restablishment of a ruling/elite class from within the revolution (Animal Farm anyone?) and the hopeful idealistic views of a few who actually thought things would turn out good are crushed.
That said, I liked the way the story moved. From the realization that they were almost out of coal, to figuring out how to get it, and the compications therein. Infighting amonst the Filthies, the attacks on the "swanks".
What I really didn't understand was Col and Riffs relationship. We miss a HUGE and important part of it. For a number of weeks (supposidly) they could be together and not be sneaky or ashasmed. they decorated Riffs room, read books and were basically an adorable couple. But we never see that, in fact we don't even really hear about it until almost halfway through. Which makes Riffs brusque treatment of Col confusing, and his emotions of betrayal seems odd. So far as the reader can tell, they are simply reversed, but nothing changed. Only when Col finally reveals that they had a brief moment int he sun only to have it riped away does that part make sense. It should have been earlier in the book IMHO.
I liked the battle, I thought the reversal of the Menials was plausable to the storyline and I storyline did not feel awkward or forced. I was never sold on Lyes character but I understood her necessity as a device. So all in all, 2.5 stars, rounded to 3. I'll give the third book a go.
Liberator picks up where most of the distopia literature of today leaves off: After the Revolution has won. And here we see the usual fall-out of a takeover. Hostile retribution against the previous ruling class despite an initial cry of equality, an almost immediate restablishment of a ruling/elite class from within the revolution (Animal Farm anyone?) and the hopeful idealistic views of a few who actually thought things would turn out good are crushed.
That said, I liked the way the story moved. From the realization that they were almost out of coal, to figuring out how to get it, and the compications therein. Infighting amonst the Filthies, the attacks on the "swanks".
What I really didn't understand was Col and Riffs relationship. We miss a HUGE and important part of it. For a number of weeks (supposidly) they could be together and not be sneaky or ashasmed. they decorated Riffs room, read books and were basically an adorable couple. But we never see that, in fact we don't even really hear about it until almost halfway through. Which makes Riffs brusque treatment of Col confusing, and his emotions of betrayal seems odd. So far as the reader can tell, they are simply reversed, but nothing changed. Only when Col finally reveals that they had a brief moment int he sun only to have it riped away does that part make sense. It should have been earlier in the book IMHO.
I liked the battle, I thought the reversal of the Menials was plausable to the storyline and I storyline did not feel awkward or forced. I was never sold on Lyes character but I understood her necessity as a device. So all in all, 2.5 stars, rounded to 3. I'll give the third book a go.
June 18, 2011
This is a good book and well worth a read, but read the sequel, 'Worldshaker' first. In it you'll meet the juggernauts, huge machines on rollers or tracks that travel the world on steampower and use masses of coal. The jugernauts are basically cities on wheels and have a similar social strata as the real Victorian period.
The world Richard has created is quite amazing and well thought through. The machinery that runs these juggernauts are well described so that you get a sense of their enormous scale and complexity. The events in Le liberator take place post revolution and the problems now are inner power struggles and relations with the other juggernauts who are still under the old system. These issues are very realistic in terms of what happens in post revolution politics in the real world.
I love the names of the characters, and the desciptions of the upperclass characters are beautifully tongue in cheek, giving the book a lightness to balance the darker aspects of the book. There are no plot holes to annoy me and no hanging questions at the end. It's a well crafted book.
As for the first in the series, the writing style is very straight forward with little internalisation of emotions, so I always feel as if I'm on the outside of the characters, the only downfall of this book for me. However, this style, along with Le Liberator's focus on huge machines and crazy steampunk war machines, makes it very suitable for boys. It's quite a young Young Adult book, I'd place it in the 10 to 14 year old category for girls and up to 16 for boys. I definitely recommend it for boys in that age group.
The world Richard has created is quite amazing and well thought through. The machinery that runs these juggernauts are well described so that you get a sense of their enormous scale and complexity. The events in Le liberator take place post revolution and the problems now are inner power struggles and relations with the other juggernauts who are still under the old system. These issues are very realistic in terms of what happens in post revolution politics in the real world.
I love the names of the characters, and the desciptions of the upperclass characters are beautifully tongue in cheek, giving the book a lightness to balance the darker aspects of the book. There are no plot holes to annoy me and no hanging questions at the end. It's a well crafted book.
As for the first in the series, the writing style is very straight forward with little internalisation of emotions, so I always feel as if I'm on the outside of the characters, the only downfall of this book for me. However, this style, along with Le Liberator's focus on huge machines and crazy steampunk war machines, makes it very suitable for boys. It's quite a young Young Adult book, I'd place it in the 10 to 14 year old category for girls and up to 16 for boys. I definitely recommend it for boys in that age group.
June 20, 2011
As soon as I finished Worldshaker, I was more than eager to get my hands on Liberator. The story picks up three months after the revolution and the Filthies took control over the renamed juggernaut. Though they accomplished their goal, things for Riff and Col isn’t what they hoped. Tension is rife on the Liberator, with Filthies distrusting of the remaining ‘Swanks’, extremist Filthies pushing for more power and someone intent to bring the whole moving mountain to its knees.
The action is tenser than in Worldshaker, with things kicking off right from the beginning. Col can feel the distance between himself and Riff growing, and sensing the mounting unease on the juggernaut. As a previously unknown Filthy moves into the Revolution Council, and whispers in Riff’s eager, Col can’t help but realise the Filthies are being manipulated into making an already shaky situation into a full blown dictatorship – they very thing they wanted to oppose in the first place.
In a lot of ways, I enjoyed Liberator far more than Worldshaker. The action was vivid, but with plenty of breathing time. The romance was bittersweet and tender, the mystery so thick and well, mysterious, it played on my mind with every page turn. Old characters make a reappearance and the rollercoaster of a ride this book puts you through makes it impossible to put down.
This is sure to be a hit with any YA lover, steampunk lover or warfare lover. There is something for everyone in this read that will satisfy all tastes.
The action is tenser than in Worldshaker, with things kicking off right from the beginning. Col can feel the distance between himself and Riff growing, and sensing the mounting unease on the juggernaut. As a previously unknown Filthy moves into the Revolution Council, and whispers in Riff’s eager, Col can’t help but realise the Filthies are being manipulated into making an already shaky situation into a full blown dictatorship – they very thing they wanted to oppose in the first place.
In a lot of ways, I enjoyed Liberator far more than Worldshaker. The action was vivid, but with plenty of breathing time. The romance was bittersweet and tender, the mystery so thick and well, mysterious, it played on my mind with every page turn. Old characters make a reappearance and the rollercoaster of a ride this book puts you through makes it impossible to put down.
This is sure to be a hit with any YA lover, steampunk lover or warfare lover. There is something for everyone in this read that will satisfy all tastes.
July 22, 2013
This was a fun read set in a steam punk alternate history where the action is set on juggernauts, city-sized ships that seem to be all that is left of 19th Century European civilization. "Liberator" is the juggernaut containing the remains of the British Empire. In this alternative timeline, she has undergone a Red October type revolution that has put the underclass in charge. Anti-revolutionary juggernauts are out to get her and the Liberator herself is riddled with class tensions and post-revolutionary turmoil. It is a sequel to "Worldshaker," which I haven't read but the book stands squarely on its own two feet. The main characters are well developed and believable. If I have a criticism it is this: the author sets up two really difficult and compelling crises: one involving relationships inside the juggernaut, the other a confrontation with the "Liberator"'s external enemies. Both, however, are resolved too easily and in ways I found less than plausible. Nonetheless, an enjoyable book from beginning to end.
I suppose the acid test is this: would I go back and read the first book? Probably, but not right away.
I suppose the acid test is this: would I go back and read the first book? Probably, but not right away.
February 3, 2016
When i was reading i noticed that this book was different then other future civilization books. Also as the book went on i realized the characters development was very well thought out. i also liked to place myself in the book and if i had been filthie i would have done what they had and taken over the ship so that i could go around and save other filthies on other ships. I think that as the writer was writing this book he wanted to write a future society book that was different then any other one. I did wonder if the writer was going to create a third book or an alternate series. After i finished reading the book i had a few questions i wanted answered. One of my questions was if the writer used other future society stories to inspire this series? As the author was writing this story i think he had in mind that readers wanted a good book about a future civilization. He also had an idea to show people that the struggle in having to be in the best class can destroy a society. the authors intended audience for this book was readers of the previous book world shaker and also readers who like to read about futuristic societies. In all it may seem that this series is over but i feel like it could continue by telling about more adventures of the characters.
February 12, 2013
[Obviously this review contains spoilers for Worldshaker so, um, go read that one first.]
Worldshaker has been liberated, and the Filthies have renamed the juggernaut to Liberator. Col expects great and wonderful things from the union of upper and lower classes, but the new world isn't as perfect as he'd hoped. Instead of cohabitation, the Filthies are taking over. They're persecuting the "swanks," as the upper-class is now called, just as the swanks persecuted them. And then other juggernauts learn of the liberation. And they're not happy.
We see a lot more controversy and issues between the social classes here. In the first book, it was easy to pawn off the Filthies as inhuman; we knew nothing about them. And now, it's equally easy to pawn off the Swanks as stuffy know-it-alls who oppress the lower class. Will they ever see eye to eye? Will they ever accept each other? And after all that hard work, why is Riff suddenly avoiding Col?
Every character is memorable; even the nameless Swanks are learning what it's like to be free. But freedom comes at a price—for both classes.
Worldshaker has been liberated, and the Filthies have renamed the juggernaut to Liberator. Col expects great and wonderful things from the union of upper and lower classes, but the new world isn't as perfect as he'd hoped. Instead of cohabitation, the Filthies are taking over. They're persecuting the "swanks," as the upper-class is now called, just as the swanks persecuted them. And then other juggernauts learn of the liberation. And they're not happy.
We see a lot more controversy and issues between the social classes here. In the first book, it was easy to pawn off the Filthies as inhuman; we knew nothing about them. And now, it's equally easy to pawn off the Swanks as stuffy know-it-alls who oppress the lower class. Will they ever see eye to eye? Will they ever accept each other? And after all that hard work, why is Riff suddenly avoiding Col?
Every character is memorable; even the nameless Swanks are learning what it's like to be free. But freedom comes at a price—for both classes.
October 23, 2014
3.5 stars for Liberator
I do feel bad about how unimpressive and dull this review is. It's been a couple long months since I read it and I was never very taken with it in the first place. Maybe I'll get better at following this system. Who knows?
.5/1 star for plot
Political destabilization isn't my favorite thing, but it was pretty well-handled and it deserved its ending.
1/1 star for writing
Typical YA-heavy-handedness, but colorful and engaging. No cringe-worthy lines and no contradictions so far as I remember.
.5/1 star for characters
Good characterization, but nothing spectacular. Everyone's a bit manufactured, if not bland. I can barely remember their names, but I do remember their actions.
1.5/2 stars for personal enjoyment
While it's not nearly on my list of favorites, I read it in a day, and it's probably the best steampunk novel I've read yet.
I do feel bad about how unimpressive and dull this review is. It's been a couple long months since I read it and I was never very taken with it in the first place. Maybe I'll get better at following this system. Who knows?
.5/1 star for plot
Political destabilization isn't my favorite thing, but it was pretty well-handled and it deserved its ending.
1/1 star for writing
Typical YA-heavy-handedness, but colorful and engaging. No cringe-worthy lines and no contradictions so far as I remember.
.5/1 star for characters
Good characterization, but nothing spectacular. Everyone's a bit manufactured, if not bland. I can barely remember their names, but I do remember their actions.
1.5/2 stars for personal enjoyment
While it's not nearly on my list of favorites, I read it in a day, and it's probably the best steampunk novel I've read yet.
September 18, 2014
If you want to read a book with steampunk aspects and action, the book Liberator by Richard Harlan is the book for you. This book show that if want something you can achieve it with a lot of help from others and when you fully believe in yourself.
The plot of the Liberator starts after the liberation of the "Worldshaker" ,the filthies have taken over and they face the challenger of a saboteur causing havoc and making everyone frantic while the other juggernauts are coming to attack. The main protagonists are Col and Riff. The main antagonist is Lye. The setting during most of the book is the Liberator.
I would definitely recommend this book to someone else. Someone else should read this book if they like steampunk and the 1850's. Another reason is that it is very fast paced and a somewhat easy read. But definitely you would need to read the "Worldshaker" first. My age recommendation would be +12 due to the history.
The plot of the Liberator starts after the liberation of the "Worldshaker" ,the filthies have taken over and they face the challenger of a saboteur causing havoc and making everyone frantic while the other juggernauts are coming to attack. The main protagonists are Col and Riff. The main antagonist is Lye. The setting during most of the book is the Liberator.
I would definitely recommend this book to someone else. Someone else should read this book if they like steampunk and the 1850's. Another reason is that it is very fast paced and a somewhat easy read. But definitely you would need to read the "Worldshaker" first. My age recommendation would be +12 due to the history.
August 10, 2016
Col, a Swank, was the future leader of the juggernaut Worldshaker when it was taken over by Riff and the Filthies, who worked in the Below of the ship keeping the engines and boilers running. Col and Riff are now working together to unify the Swanks and the Filthies, however a fanatical element within the Filthies is determined to eliminate the Swanks. In addition, there is a Swank saboteur on the loose who is not helping matters any.
Lots of action, adventure, and intrigue. As a sequel, it stands well enough on its own (I had not read the first one). However, the increased background knowledge of the characters from book one would have been useful at times. Give this to your steampunk fans.
Lots of action, adventure, and intrigue. As a sequel, it stands well enough on its own (I had not read the first one). However, the increased background knowledge of the characters from book one would have been useful at times. Give this to your steampunk fans.
May 23, 2012
You don't have to be a young adult to feel actual physical distress at the opening turns of events on the newly renamed juggernaut Liberator. Richard Harland delivers a (for me) very painful reminder that there are no quick fixes to entrenched inequality, and that being oppressed is not ennobling. Victims can become perpetrators as easily and unthinkingly as anybody else.
And I loved following the juggernaut on its adventure to Botany Bay to load coal.
With the same short chapters and whirlwind pace of its predecessor, this book would make a great gift for girls and boys who don't read a great deal, or who are fans of John Flanagan or Lian Tanner.
And I loved following the juggernaut on its adventure to Botany Bay to load coal.
With the same short chapters and whirlwind pace of its predecessor, this book would make a great gift for girls and boys who don't read a great deal, or who are fans of John Flanagan or Lian Tanner.
June 30, 2012
The sequel to "Worldshaker" picks up a few months after the events of the first book (go read it first, or yes, you'll feel lost). Once again, Mr. Harland keeps the writing tight, and allows his characters to experience pain, grow, discover things about themselves and each other... and kick some butt to boot!
I will confess that the "Dune" nod was perhaps a bit too much for me (I won't give details, for fear of spoilers). However, it wasn't nearly enough to ruin the book, and appeared sparingly. I do like that Mr. Harland recognizes that relationships are not always easy, that trust can be difficult to earn, and that prejudices can be difficult to overcome.
In short, another great ride!
I will confess that the "Dune" nod was perhaps a bit too much for me (I won't give details, for fear of spoilers). However, it wasn't nearly enough to ruin the book, and appeared sparingly. I do like that Mr. Harland recognizes that relationships are not always easy, that trust can be difficult to earn, and that prejudices can be difficult to overcome.
In short, another great ride!
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May 23, 2011This brilliant sequel to Worldshaker follows the changed fortunes of Col and Riff as the juggernaut rolls on. Now the Filthies are in charge, and it's the Upper Decks people who are victimised and reduced to a ghetto-like existence.
The battle continues as the Filthies take over the juggernaut Worldshaker and rename it Liberator. A world of deception and betrayal ensues as the revolution turns radical. With Col now in the minority with his Swank friends, what will happen to his relationship with Riff, as they both face the reality of a world changing its shape forever?
The battle continues as the Filthies take over the juggernaut Worldshaker and rename it Liberator. A world of deception and betrayal ensues as the revolution turns radical. With Col now in the minority with his Swank friends, what will happen to his relationship with Riff, as they both face the reality of a world changing its shape forever?
October 8, 2011
Liberator is the sequel to the fabulous steam-punk adventure, Worldshaker, which I read and enjoyed immensely last year. Richard Harland really knows how to construct a page-turner. The books are set on board a giant metal juggernaut that rolls over the world, carrying an entire city on its back. In Book 1, the juggernaut was driven by down-trodden and maltreated menials called Filthies. With the help of Col, one of the Upper Deck aristocrats, they rise up and seize control of the juggernaut. Liberator tells what happens next, with an intoxicating mix of suspense, humour, romance and action.
October 26, 2012
The class struggle is upon us! The Filthies, the slave underclass of the Juggernaut Worldshaker, overthrew the ship's aristocracy and instituted a Revolutionary council on the renamed "Liberator." All is not well as tyrants arise and manipulate the new government to their own ends. Col & Riff return for a new adventure in this alternate-history tale of 19th century colonialism (and really big machines!)
August 7, 2012
This book frustrated me, but in a way that made me keep reading, even though I really was mad at the characters through most of it. I won't say too much to make any spoilers, but characters I trusted from the first book didn't stand up for each other like I thought they should, not until it was too late. In the end though, I did enjoy the book. Again, it could be a bit shorter but has a lot of action.
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