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Song of the Slums
England, 1846 – das Dampfmaschinenzeitalter. Auf dem Thron sitzt König Georg IV., die gesellschaftliche Ordnung ist brüchig. Das Land versinkt im Smog. Kriegsgewinnler greifen nach der Macht. Die Slumbewohner sind die Verlierer der Industrialisierung. Doch sie lassen sich nicht unterkriegen. Ihre schärfste Waffe ist die Slumtown-Musik …
Astor ist 17 Jahre alt, als das Dampfluftschiff am Wohnturm der Swales in der Industriestadt Brummingham festmacht. Sie erwartet ihre Verlobung mit dem jüngsten der reichen Swale-Brüder, wird aber zur Hauslehrerin degradiert. Ihr einziger Trost ist die Gesellschaft des 20-jährigen Verrol, den ihr Stiefvater ihr als Diener mitgegeben hat. Als die Swales einen Brief entdecken, in dem Astor von deren politischen Putschplänen berichtet, kann sie im letzten Augenblick mit Verrol fliehen. Dabei stellt sie fest, dass der gutaussehende junge Mann so manche Tricks beherrscht, die auf eine dunkle Vergangenheit verweisen.
Draußen haben die beiden nur eine Überlebenschance: Sie müssen sich einer Slumgang anschließen. Astor entdeckt ihr Talent als Drummerin, sie gründen eine Band und schaffen es so, von einer der Gangs akzeptiert zu werden. Ein Auftritt führt die Band nach London Town. Sie wissen, dass sie dort den Putsch und die Machtübernahme der Plutokraten verhindern müssen, doch es ist gefährlich in den Straßen, denn Veteranen und Milizen lungern überall herum …
Astor ist 17 Jahre alt, als das Dampfluftschiff am Wohnturm der Swales in der Industriestadt Brummingham festmacht. Sie erwartet ihre Verlobung mit dem jüngsten der reichen Swale-Brüder, wird aber zur Hauslehrerin degradiert. Ihr einziger Trost ist die Gesellschaft des 20-jährigen Verrol, den ihr Stiefvater ihr als Diener mitgegeben hat. Als die Swales einen Brief entdecken, in dem Astor von deren politischen Putschplänen berichtet, kann sie im letzten Augenblick mit Verrol fliehen. Dabei stellt sie fest, dass der gutaussehende junge Mann so manche Tricks beherrscht, die auf eine dunkle Vergangenheit verweisen.
Draußen haben die beiden nur eine Überlebenschance: Sie müssen sich einer Slumgang anschließen. Astor entdeckt ihr Talent als Drummerin, sie gründen eine Band und schaffen es so, von einer der Gangs akzeptiert zu werden. Ein Auftritt führt die Band nach London Town. Sie wissen, dass sie dort den Putsch und die Machtübernahme der Plutokraten verhindern müssen, doch es ist gefährlich in den Straßen, denn Veteranen und Milizen lungern überall herum …
420 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2013
15 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
About the author
Richard Harland
70 books124 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 52 reviews
September 20, 2018
There are much much better adventure/romance YA books out there with stronger female teenage protagonists, and romance with better chemistry and characterisation of her love interest. The only thing that saved this book was the world building and writing style.
April 21, 2013
I'll admit I was wary when I opened the package from Allen & Unwin and found this book inside. I'd never heard of it, and although I love steampunk and alternate history, I worried about how much I could enjoy a book so centrally focussed on music - after all, I know next to nothing about music. I shouldn't have worried: Song of the Slums is a delightful read, rhythmic and romantic at the same time.
The book begins with Astor, who thinks she's about to wed the handsome plutocrat Lorrain Swale. To her horror (and mine), she's abandoned by her mother and step-father and forced to become a governess for the Swale children - petulant, stubborn and disagreeable creatures, all three of them. I sympathised with Astor's plight, and admired her tenacity as she continued teach the children every day, despite their hostility. When the children turn on her and she's forced out of the household, Astor relies heavily on her servant Verrol, who, it turns out, has secrets of his own. Their only hope for survival is to join a street gang. It's a far cry from the luxury Astor is accustomed to, but she adapts remarkably well, and I liked witnessing the vibrant, smoky atmosphere through her eyes.
The camaraderie between members of the slum gangs is endearing, and I liked the relationships between the members of the band, The Rowdies. The band coalesces wonderfully, and they grew to love and respect one another, and I relished the attachment between the only two girls in the band, Mave and Astor. The Song of the Slums explores their friendships and bonds, and also allows love to blossom in the unlikeliest of places, and I laughed a lot reading about the characters bumble over their romances.
Behind the basic plot-line of survival is another story, one of poverty, courage, politics and war, which the slum gangs get involved in because of the influence of their music. Song of the Slums cleverly explores the consequences of war, the ex-soldiers and heavy industrialisation that have no place in a world of peace, the plight of the slum children who were press-ganged into service, and the power music has over all our souls. The book isn't heavy-handed with these concepts, but they allow for a richer plot, filled with nuance and intrigue.
Readers with a soft spot for steampunk will appreciate the gaslight fantasy of The Song of the Slums, and readers looking for quick, absorbing read will not go wrong by picking it up. I am very glad I read this, and I think you will be too.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for review.
You can read more of my reviews at Speculating on SpecFic .
The book begins with Astor, who thinks she's about to wed the handsome plutocrat Lorrain Swale. To her horror (and mine), she's abandoned by her mother and step-father and forced to become a governess for the Swale children - petulant, stubborn and disagreeable creatures, all three of them. I sympathised with Astor's plight, and admired her tenacity as she continued teach the children every day, despite their hostility. When the children turn on her and she's forced out of the household, Astor relies heavily on her servant Verrol, who, it turns out, has secrets of his own. Their only hope for survival is to join a street gang. It's a far cry from the luxury Astor is accustomed to, but she adapts remarkably well, and I liked witnessing the vibrant, smoky atmosphere through her eyes.
The camaraderie between members of the slum gangs is endearing, and I liked the relationships between the members of the band, The Rowdies. The band coalesces wonderfully, and they grew to love and respect one another, and I relished the attachment between the only two girls in the band, Mave and Astor. The Song of the Slums explores their friendships and bonds, and also allows love to blossom in the unlikeliest of places, and I laughed a lot reading about the characters bumble over their romances.
Behind the basic plot-line of survival is another story, one of poverty, courage, politics and war, which the slum gangs get involved in because of the influence of their music. Song of the Slums cleverly explores the consequences of war, the ex-soldiers and heavy industrialisation that have no place in a world of peace, the plight of the slum children who were press-ganged into service, and the power music has over all our souls. The book isn't heavy-handed with these concepts, but they allow for a richer plot, filled with nuance and intrigue.
Readers with a soft spot for steampunk will appreciate the gaslight fantasy of The Song of the Slums, and readers looking for quick, absorbing read will not go wrong by picking it up. I am very glad I read this, and I think you will be too.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for review.
You can read more of my reviews at Speculating on SpecFic .
August 2, 2016
A story of a young woman who falls from high society into the slums. She survives with the help of her servant who has a dark secret. Fortunately, they fall in with a gang whose matron has a vision of creating the best gang music of all time. While finding their sound, they invent rock and roll in the nineteenth century. Some of the romance was predictable, some of the characters were over the top, but overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride that made me want to tap my toes to my favorite steampunk bands.
March 17, 2016
A nice YA steampunk, a good gateway drug to the rest of the genre. Had the ending spoiled by the author but overall quite good (also he had this badass steampunk guitar that I recommend seeing)
August 24, 2014
THIS ISN'T A BAD BOOK! Just putting it out there for people who judge 3 stars as "meh".
I really wanted to rate this 3.5 stars! Now I feel bad that I demoted it instead of increased it . . . Sorry Richard Harland :(
So when I saw the description of the book, I admit I didn't sound too interested. I bought the book because I read his other book WORLDSHAKER and loved it! (Think I rated it 5.) But I read SONG OF THE SLUMS anyway and I have to give credit to Harland's writing style for keeping me engaged in a plot that I didn't necessarily support from the beginning. I loved the first act and the main character Astor, though there were some of her parts that I questioned. I liked the situation Harland chose to put her in and the way she reacted/her attitude towards certain events. Maybe I didn't support all of her decisions, but it certainly made her an interesting character. And Verrol! I loved him and his backstory, and his personality! I do like how he turned out to be . Liked every bit of him.
Additionally I also liked the little action scenes that Harland managed to insert into the book. I NEED books with action, and he put it in! It was less than I'd usually like, but I went in expecting none at all, so I still wasn't too disappointed.
The thing that let me down for this book is probably the pacing. And the romance, come to think of it. But I guess that comes under the same point. . . .
For me it seemed like act 1 ended quickly because tons of things happened, like Astor getting chased out of the Swale house, but act 2 seemed to drag on for me a little on just one sole point: the development of the band. It seriously went on for about one hundred pages. Then when it got to act 3 everything happened again and it became kinda messy. There was too much conflict to be smashed into the amount of pages it was, and too much change. It would've been nice for him to slow it down at some parts and speed it up at others. Which leads me to the love--Astor and Verrol's relationship seemed mostly like friends to me. They didn't really have much romantic chemistry in the book to me, except . It probably could've been improved if we heard from Verrol's POV, instead of just Astor's--it's third person after all. He has the space to do so.
Again, this book isn't bad. It's entertaining. Just in comparison to WORLDSHAKER, I honestly didn't think it compared.
I really wanted to rate this 3.5 stars! Now I feel bad that I demoted it instead of increased it . . . Sorry Richard Harland :(
So when I saw the description of the book, I admit I didn't sound too interested. I bought the book because I read his other book WORLDSHAKER and loved it! (Think I rated it 5.) But I read SONG OF THE SLUMS anyway and I have to give credit to Harland's writing style for keeping me engaged in a plot that I didn't necessarily support from the beginning. I loved the first act and the main character Astor, though there were some of her parts that I questioned. I liked the situation Harland chose to put her in and the way she reacted/her attitude towards certain events. Maybe I didn't support all of her decisions, but it certainly made her an interesting character. And Verrol! I loved him and his backstory, and his personality! I do like how he turned out to be . Liked every bit of him.
Additionally I also liked the little action scenes that Harland managed to insert into the book. I NEED books with action, and he put it in! It was less than I'd usually like, but I went in expecting none at all, so I still wasn't too disappointed.
The thing that let me down for this book is probably the pacing. And the romance, come to think of it. But I guess that comes under the same point. . . .
For me it seemed like act 1 ended quickly because tons of things happened, like Astor getting chased out of the Swale house, but act 2 seemed to drag on for me a little on just one sole point: the development of the band. It seriously went on for about one hundred pages. Then when it got to act 3 everything happened again and it became kinda messy. There was too much conflict to be smashed into the amount of pages it was, and too much change. It would've been nice for him to slow it down at some parts and speed it up at others. Which leads me to the love--Astor and Verrol's relationship seemed mostly like friends to me. They didn't really have much romantic chemistry in the book to me, except . It probably could've been improved if we heard from Verrol's POV, instead of just Astor's--it's third person after all. He has the space to do so.
Again, this book isn't bad. It's entertaining. Just in comparison to WORLDSHAKER, I honestly didn't think it compared.
May 23, 2024
So, this book was fine, but it was also kind of boring and also a mess.
So maybe not fine?
Anyway -
One final note, about the "Steampunk"...
Like, where?
I mean, there's a zeppelin, that ever popular transportation of Steampunk. But, otherwise... there didn't really seem to be a whole lot of actual anachronistic tech which is the hallmark of good Steampunk. The world, itself, didn't seem super fleshed out - but, like, none of the rest of it was, either, so ya know, why would this be different?
Like, yes, there was technology. There was discussion about the factories and the pollution and the smog. But those are things that actually happened during the Industrial Revolution, so... ?
Also, the blurb says Victorian, but King George is at the helm, so... not Victorian, guys. 'Cause the funny thing about the Victorian Era is it was when Queen Victoria was, well, queen... *eyeroll*
***
For a non-spoilery, super short summary, here's a better review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So maybe not fine?
Anyway -
One final note, about the "Steampunk"...
Like, where?
I mean, there's a zeppelin, that ever popular transportation of Steampunk. But, otherwise... there didn't really seem to be a whole lot of actual anachronistic tech which is the hallmark of good Steampunk. The world, itself, didn't seem super fleshed out - but, like, none of the rest of it was, either, so ya know, why would this be different?
Like, yes, there was technology. There was discussion about the factories and the pollution and the smog. But those are things that actually happened during the Industrial Revolution, so... ?
Also, the blurb says Victorian, but King George is at the helm, so... not Victorian, guys. 'Cause the funny thing about the Victorian Era is it was when Queen Victoria was, well, queen... *eyeroll*
***
For a non-spoilery, super short summary, here's a better review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 7, 2016
This was probably more like 2.5 stars for me. I loved the first section - I mean, how can you not love a steampunk-y YA story in which the female protagonist thinks she's en route to get engaged to one of the most eligible bachelors in the land only to discover that her stepfather has actually contracted her to be governess to his niece and nephews?! - but then so much of the middle of the book was caught up in forming a band and musical stuff that I didn't really care about. I loved the world building and the background of the rebellion/coup/whatever. But the band side of things, despite ultimately being incredibly significant, frequently dragged the pace of the story down and almost pulled me out of the world that Harland had created.
The romantic subplot was apparent from the get-go, but petered out midway through the story only to be brought back in a rush towards the end. Despite being brought back, it felt a little underdeveloped, and incomplete.
It almost ended up feeling like two completely different books - one about music and one about a girl who finds herself in the middle of a political upheaval - that had been crammed together into one. I wanted to like it a lot, but it ended up falling short.
The romantic subplot was apparent from the get-go, but petered out midway through the story only to be brought back in a rush towards the end. Despite being brought back, it felt a little underdeveloped, and incomplete.
It almost ended up feeling like two completely different books - one about music and one about a girl who finds herself in the middle of a political upheaval - that had been crammed together into one. I wanted to like it a lot, but it ended up falling short.
April 2, 2020
I don't understand how I ever enjoyed this book because upon reading it a second time, it's quite possibly the worst book I've ever read. The story-line was impossibly shallow and the sentence lengths were all of similar lengths meaning that there was no flow and it was hard to read. Characters never spoke to one another apart from when they needed to for plot and while I understand that unnecessary dialogue can bring down a perfectly good book otherwise, this really hammered in the shallowness of the book by making it clear that the characters were characters and nothing more. I skipped a good portion of the middle of the book simply because each sentence made me feel like I was banging my head into a brick wall. It seemed the author had no sense of the simple "show don't tell" rule that everybody is told from Year 4 onwards when writing and stated the character's emotions and intentions openly rather than letting facial expressions or movements or dialogue do the work.
In short, it was frustrating and I will definitely not be reading this again.
In short, it was frustrating and I will definitely not be reading this again.
August 26, 2020
This book was okay...to me it seemed like a solid first or second draft that needed some further revising to make it really good. It's steampunk - and yet, there is not enough steampunk to really sink your teeth into. It's a romance - and yet the romance is never really developed properly. It's an intrigue - and yet the political drama that unfolds at the back of the story is never really capitalised on either. The result of all this surface-only story telling in a tepid, rather uninspiring tale that could have been so much more.
November 22, 2017
I'm not a much of a fan of the steampunk genre. I am, however, a huge fan of Richard Harland - the Vicar of Morbing Vyle is in my top 10 books of all time - so I was fairly sure I was going to enjoy this one. In many ways the humour in Song of the Slums reminds me of that in Vicar, particularly the Swales brothers and the horrid child, Widdy. The characters are all different, interesting and well developed. The steampunk "history" re-imagines post-WWI England, with disenfranchised returned soldiers, widespread poverty, all pollution, and insatiably greedy industrialists ("plutocrats"). Hopefully this will be the first of a series. I also think it would be a good basis for a movie. I'd like to hear the gang music realised - with songwriting input from the author of course. While Richard Harland seems to have been very busy attending various steampunk conventions, it concerns me somewhat that he hasn't put out a new novel since this was published in 2013. Highly recommended.
September 1, 2020
I really wish I could have enjoyed this book more. The premise was really interesting to me but the execution just wasn't what I was looking for. It might be because I didn't realise it was a side novel to a series I've never read but something just felt off about it.
February 23, 2024
I don't understand the fascination with Steampunk! It does not seem to add to the story and just sets it in a world similar to ours. I don't think it is fantasy but somehow it is not normal fiction either.
The premise was ok, but I was not invested in the characters or the outcome.
The premise was ok, but I was not invested in the characters or the outcome.
January 29, 2018
Nice little book!
January 21, 2020
Had a signed copy when I was younger, pretty fun book! Definetely a unique one. Richard was awesome too.
December 21, 2021
Gang members with a passion for music.
I'll never get sick of reading this.
It touches my soul and warms my heart in all the most wonderful ways.
I'll never get sick of reading this.
It touches my soul and warms my heart in all the most wonderful ways.
January 4, 2014
I picked up this book off a shelf in the library, read the blurb and thought 'aw this seems pretty cute... I'll give it a go' and then accidentally fell in love with it.
Astor is a noble, yes, and she retains some of those 'pompous' qualities but as the story progresses her wilder side comes out and i absolutely loved that- the fact that in the beginning of the book, she's sneered at by the plutocrats as too 'soft' and without 'character' and instead of wallowing in self pity, she sits up and takes on the world with music and passion. the characters in the book are all so nuanced and complicated- all flawed (Astor and her naivety at the start, Verrol and his struggle with his violent past (unlike most YA books, where violence seems almost coveted in the ~main male protagonist~, in Song of the Slums, Verrol actively stands against war and feuding because of what his past taught him, and learns from his mistakes- something I especially appreciated considering how novels usually fare with this) Ollifer and his narcissism), yet all so relatable. even if you don't like them, you believe in their possibility and potential.
And the romance between Astor and Verrol tbh!! Their differences in terms of experiences and personality and how they deal with that had me totally engaged. Their relationship is raw and based on mutual respect, though filled with confrontational attitude and tension- they know each other's strengths and weaknesses, and it comes across with their emotional honesty. Astor is spirited, and she knows what she wants, and understands that Verrol, though inclined to irony, hides his pride and vulnerability beneath. They respect each other- She understands his problems and he hers, and that bond of respect is what convinces me both characters would know when to draw the line, despite struggling with their issues; to better themselves in order for the other to respect them. Though one scene in particular comes to mind- when however, generally speaking, it's a healthy, strong relationship that I enjoyed seeing developing a lot!
The music- I quit piano when I was 10, and occasionally I wish I hadn't. This book dug deep and completely revived that feeling- like it or not, music is a powerful tool and songs of the slums utilizes this in a wonderfully creative (and dare I say inspiring) way.
Entwined in this book are great parallels to our modern day political and socioeconomic environment and that was a huge part of why i loved this book so much. Steampunk is intriguing, of course, but no fantasy or sci-fi is better than when it's believable. the writer did a fantastic job contrasting the slums with the rich (i was very sorry to leave the slums behind- granny's words still echo through my head- 'This is where you began. Never forget it.'), and gave us such an insight into the inner workings of the city, much of which will be uncannily familiar to readers: seedy politicians and tense gangs, riots and a swelling London smog. the leftover soldiers from war, the stratification between rich and poor, the manipulation of democracy and the masses, the connections and dealings, even the awfully un-fairytale like, yet starkly realistic ending with prime minister Hassock ... i can almost believe this story did happen, once upon a time (and is in fact still happening).
This book isn't perfect. there are moments where i wish the author delved deeper, particularly into certain relationships (e.g. Astor and her mother, the unresolved questions in Astor and Verrol's argument), and generally i wanted a fuller resolution (though I'll be picking up the other books set in the same universe to find out what happens!!). but i believe in it enough to give it 5 stars.
p.s. listen to fall out boy when reading this trust me u will not regret it (i recommend headfirst slide into cooperstown on a bad bet!!)
Astor is a noble, yes, and she retains some of those 'pompous' qualities but as the story progresses her wilder side comes out and i absolutely loved that- the fact that in the beginning of the book, she's sneered at by the plutocrats as too 'soft' and without 'character' and instead of wallowing in self pity, she sits up and takes on the world with music and passion. the characters in the book are all so nuanced and complicated- all flawed (Astor and her naivety at the start, Verrol and his struggle with his violent past (unlike most YA books, where violence seems almost coveted in the ~main male protagonist~, in Song of the Slums, Verrol actively stands against war and feuding because of what his past taught him, and learns from his mistakes- something I especially appreciated considering how novels usually fare with this) Ollifer and his narcissism), yet all so relatable. even if you don't like them, you believe in their possibility and potential.
And the romance between Astor and Verrol tbh!! Their differences in terms of experiences and personality and how they deal with that had me totally engaged. Their relationship is raw and based on mutual respect, though filled with confrontational attitude and tension- they know each other's strengths and weaknesses, and it comes across with their emotional honesty. Astor is spirited, and she knows what she wants, and understands that Verrol, though inclined to irony, hides his pride and vulnerability beneath. They respect each other- She understands his problems and he hers, and that bond of respect is what convinces me both characters would know when to draw the line, despite struggling with their issues; to better themselves in order for the other to respect them. Though one scene in particular comes to mind- when however, generally speaking, it's a healthy, strong relationship that I enjoyed seeing developing a lot!
The music- I quit piano when I was 10, and occasionally I wish I hadn't. This book dug deep and completely revived that feeling- like it or not, music is a powerful tool and songs of the slums utilizes this in a wonderfully creative (and dare I say inspiring) way.
Entwined in this book are great parallels to our modern day political and socioeconomic environment and that was a huge part of why i loved this book so much. Steampunk is intriguing, of course, but no fantasy or sci-fi is better than when it's believable. the writer did a fantastic job contrasting the slums with the rich (i was very sorry to leave the slums behind- granny's words still echo through my head- 'This is where you began. Never forget it.'), and gave us such an insight into the inner workings of the city, much of which will be uncannily familiar to readers: seedy politicians and tense gangs, riots and a swelling London smog. the leftover soldiers from war, the stratification between rich and poor, the manipulation of democracy and the masses, the connections and dealings, even the awfully un-fairytale like, yet starkly realistic ending with prime minister Hassock ... i can almost believe this story did happen, once upon a time (and is in fact still happening).
This book isn't perfect. there are moments where i wish the author delved deeper, particularly into certain relationships (e.g. Astor and her mother, the unresolved questions in Astor and Verrol's argument), and generally i wanted a fuller resolution (though I'll be picking up the other books set in the same universe to find out what happens!!). but i believe in it enough to give it 5 stars.
p.s. listen to fall out boy when reading this trust me u will not regret it (i recommend headfirst slide into cooperstown on a bad bet!!)
October 6, 2013
I enjoyed Song of the Slums so much more than I expected to.
It's a beautiful book about music. Music and how it can change a person. How it allows people to view things in a different light. How it can bring people together.
Astor, the main character, is a horrible girl. She's vain and self-entitled and selfish. She's petty and expects people to fall at her feet. Despite this, she's actually quite likable. Her vanity and expectations of others come across as humorous and it certainly helps that she's put in a situation where she can't afford to be all that she is. She's forced to change for the better. She, with the help of music, ends up appreciating others much more than she did at the beginning of the book. Her look changes drastically and she's no obsessed with being the accepted definition of 'pretty'. All the spoilt brattish aspects of her slowly dwindle away and stronger aspects that were only flittering through at the start, such as determination, really begin to define her.
Verrol's an odd one. He's mysterious and smooth and has a bit of an anger problem. Right from the start it's obvious that he's got a troubling past and while he doesn't really change or grow throughout the book, he becomes clearer and more understandable and relatable as a character. Somewhere along the line, he stops being this horrible mysterious figure we don't anything about.
The minor characters were wonderfully done. You have Ollifer, who does love music, but desperately wants fame. You have Mave who allows music to absorb all of her pain and probably needs to see a psychiatrist of some form. There are a few others with very defining traits and purposes that made the book all that much more enjoyable.
The plot itself I enjoyed. I loved to see the band's rise to power and, as I said before, a lot of it was about how music and being in the band was influencing not only the band, but others as well. The descriptions were stunning and I could envision the slums and the gangs. The descriptions of music was a bit repetitive and for people who have never played music before, I can imagine it would be a bit tedious, but I sort of liked it. Music was a big part of the story and I thought that it was reasonable to spend a fair bit of time actually describing the music. Politics also became an important part of the plot and while I'm shakier on politics, I don't think the book would've been as good without it. While talking about growing as a person and whatnot is great, I feel like without the aspect of politics, this book would've lacked a real point.
The only part I didn't like was the big get-together. It's clear from the beginning of the book that Verrol and Astor are the end-game couple and as they grow from acquaintances to friends, it's easy to see how well they fit together. In terms of characterisation and interaction, they were good couple. But the end, how they actually got together, was a disappointment for me. It felt like we'd had this whole book of wonderful character building and growth and then their transition into a romantic relationship was over in a snap. I just would've liked to see more.
Overall, an excellent book that I thoroughly enjoyed.
It's a beautiful book about music. Music and how it can change a person. How it allows people to view things in a different light. How it can bring people together.
Astor, the main character, is a horrible girl. She's vain and self-entitled and selfish. She's petty and expects people to fall at her feet. Despite this, she's actually quite likable. Her vanity and expectations of others come across as humorous and it certainly helps that she's put in a situation where she can't afford to be all that she is. She's forced to change for the better. She, with the help of music, ends up appreciating others much more than she did at the beginning of the book. Her look changes drastically and she's no obsessed with being the accepted definition of 'pretty'. All the spoilt brattish aspects of her slowly dwindle away and stronger aspects that were only flittering through at the start, such as determination, really begin to define her.
Verrol's an odd one. He's mysterious and smooth and has a bit of an anger problem. Right from the start it's obvious that he's got a troubling past and while he doesn't really change or grow throughout the book, he becomes clearer and more understandable and relatable as a character. Somewhere along the line, he stops being this horrible mysterious figure we don't anything about.
The minor characters were wonderfully done. You have Ollifer, who does love music, but desperately wants fame. You have Mave who allows music to absorb all of her pain and probably needs to see a psychiatrist of some form. There are a few others with very defining traits and purposes that made the book all that much more enjoyable.
The plot itself I enjoyed. I loved to see the band's rise to power and, as I said before, a lot of it was about how music and being in the band was influencing not only the band, but others as well. The descriptions were stunning and I could envision the slums and the gangs. The descriptions of music was a bit repetitive and for people who have never played music before, I can imagine it would be a bit tedious, but I sort of liked it. Music was a big part of the story and I thought that it was reasonable to spend a fair bit of time actually describing the music. Politics also became an important part of the plot and while I'm shakier on politics, I don't think the book would've been as good without it. While talking about growing as a person and whatnot is great, I feel like without the aspect of politics, this book would've lacked a real point.
The only part I didn't like was the big get-together. It's clear from the beginning of the book that Verrol and Astor are the end-game couple and as they grow from acquaintances to friends, it's easy to see how well they fit together. In terms of characterisation and interaction, they were good couple. But the end, how they actually got together, was a disappointment for me. It felt like we'd had this whole book of wonderful character building and growth and then their transition into a romantic relationship was over in a snap. I just would've liked to see more.
Overall, an excellent book that I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 13, 2014
This review was written by Nalini Haynes for Dark Matter Zine. This and more reviews, interviews etc are on Dark Matter Zine, an online magazine. http://www.darkmatterzine.com.
Song of the Slums is a YA novel by award-winning steampunk author, Richard Harland.
Set in an alternative 19th century England, wars have created wealthy plutocrats whose industry has polluted the landscape and destroyed the lives of the lower classes.
The publisher says:
In the slums of Brummingham, the outcast gangs are making a new kind of music, with pounding rhythms and wild guitars. Astor Vance has been trained in refined classical music. But when her life plummets from riches to rags, the only way she can survive is to play the music the slum gangs want. Charismatic Verrol, once her servant, is now her partner in crime… and he could be so much more if only he’d come clean about his mysterious past…
Song of the Slums is the literature equivalent of a 90-minute feel-good movie where the down-trodden discover their talent and triumph over great odds to save the day. [Spoilers, Sweetie] Many of the same tropes are in evidence: He (or in this case she) Knows Too Much, Corrupt Corporate Executive, Evil Diva, Mass Hypnosis, Oblivious to Love, Reunion Revenge, and more. [Spoilers End]
Where Song of the Slums is set apart is in the steampunk alternate history setting; this would make a gorgeous movie in the rock-band-triumph genre, whose audience seems insatiable. The musical instruments strongly remind me of the ‘trash music’ of the 1980s where people gathered in Salamanca Market making beautiful music from recycled objects such as juice bottles and jars. While the clothing worn by the upper classes is Victorian, in the slums creativity born of poverty is the rule. Slum clothes are reminiscent of alternate lifestylers in this era. Inspirational for receptive creatives, this novel could be responsible for a new generation of clothes designers and creative musicians.
This is a feel-good novel that transports the reader emotionally while set in a world of sharp contrasts: dirty world, gorgeous clothing, rock music made from improvised instruments. Song of the Slums is a fun literary ride reminiscent of movies like Josie and the Pussycats and Honey. Highly recommended for fans of YA, steampunk, alternate histories and more.
Song of the Slums is a YA novel by award-winning steampunk author, Richard Harland.
Set in an alternative 19th century England, wars have created wealthy plutocrats whose industry has polluted the landscape and destroyed the lives of the lower classes.
The publisher says:
In the slums of Brummingham, the outcast gangs are making a new kind of music, with pounding rhythms and wild guitars. Astor Vance has been trained in refined classical music. But when her life plummets from riches to rags, the only way she can survive is to play the music the slum gangs want. Charismatic Verrol, once her servant, is now her partner in crime… and he could be so much more if only he’d come clean about his mysterious past…
Song of the Slums is the literature equivalent of a 90-minute feel-good movie where the down-trodden discover their talent and triumph over great odds to save the day. [Spoilers, Sweetie] Many of the same tropes are in evidence: He (or in this case she) Knows Too Much, Corrupt Corporate Executive, Evil Diva, Mass Hypnosis, Oblivious to Love, Reunion Revenge, and more. [Spoilers End]
Where Song of the Slums is set apart is in the steampunk alternate history setting; this would make a gorgeous movie in the rock-band-triumph genre, whose audience seems insatiable. The musical instruments strongly remind me of the ‘trash music’ of the 1980s where people gathered in Salamanca Market making beautiful music from recycled objects such as juice bottles and jars. While the clothing worn by the upper classes is Victorian, in the slums creativity born of poverty is the rule. Slum clothes are reminiscent of alternate lifestylers in this era. Inspirational for receptive creatives, this novel could be responsible for a new generation of clothes designers and creative musicians.
This is a feel-good novel that transports the reader emotionally while set in a world of sharp contrasts: dirty world, gorgeous clothing, rock music made from improvised instruments. Song of the Slums is a fun literary ride reminiscent of movies like Josie and the Pussycats and Honey. Highly recommended for fans of YA, steampunk, alternate histories and more.
March 6, 2015
This was a really enjoyable book - a YA, gaslight romance (for those of you who've never heard of gaslight romance, and I'm one of them - its got all the elements of steampunk, steam powered airships, mid 1800's european setting, but they are more background elements to the love story)
What its about:
Set in smoggy London in 1846, in the middle of the age of steam. King George 4th is on the throne, but the real power lies with the plutocrats, the wealthy factory owners who supply all of London's industry. The war is over - and the streets are full of returned and out-of-work servicemen, itching for another war.
In an age where the best women can hope for is a good marriage, 17 year old Astor, step-daughter of a famous general, expects to be matched well. Instead of getting a fiancee, she finds herself sold off as a governess to three of probably the most awful children in literary history, who make her life living hell. Luckily, help comes in the form of her manservant, the dashing and enigmatic Verrol. They escape into London, to the slums of Brummingham, where they fall in with Granny's Gang. Granny is making a band that plays music with a heavy, thumping beat. This is rock n roll, in the 1850's. Verrol and Astor join the band. Will they be successful? Will they fall in love? You'll have to read and find out.
My thoughts:
I have to caveat my review with a the proviso that I don't read a lot of YA, because usually I find the protagonists, especially female ones, incipid and frustrating. But I really loved Astor. Harland could have written her as a wallflower from a posh life, but instead he gave her plenty of spunk, and brains, which for me make a perfect female literary character. The story itself was really enjoyable; Harland did a great job of making each of the band scenes a little bit different, and raised the stakes each time, and the concept of rock n' roll in the 1800's was unique and fun. At it heart this is a love story, and a fairly traditional one at that - a rich lady has fallen on hard times, and its up to the clever, capable boy with a dark past to save her and help her find her way.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great, easy read - the kind of book you'll want to devour in one sitting.
Reblogged from http://highfantasyaddict.wordpress.com from part of my Book Review VBLOG series.
What its about:
Set in smoggy London in 1846, in the middle of the age of steam. King George 4th is on the throne, but the real power lies with the plutocrats, the wealthy factory owners who supply all of London's industry. The war is over - and the streets are full of returned and out-of-work servicemen, itching for another war.
In an age where the best women can hope for is a good marriage, 17 year old Astor, step-daughter of a famous general, expects to be matched well. Instead of getting a fiancee, she finds herself sold off as a governess to three of probably the most awful children in literary history, who make her life living hell. Luckily, help comes in the form of her manservant, the dashing and enigmatic Verrol. They escape into London, to the slums of Brummingham, where they fall in with Granny's Gang. Granny is making a band that plays music with a heavy, thumping beat. This is rock n roll, in the 1850's. Verrol and Astor join the band. Will they be successful? Will they fall in love? You'll have to read and find out.
My thoughts:
I have to caveat my review with a the proviso that I don't read a lot of YA, because usually I find the protagonists, especially female ones, incipid and frustrating. But I really loved Astor. Harland could have written her as a wallflower from a posh life, but instead he gave her plenty of spunk, and brains, which for me make a perfect female literary character. The story itself was really enjoyable; Harland did a great job of making each of the band scenes a little bit different, and raised the stakes each time, and the concept of rock n' roll in the 1800's was unique and fun. At it heart this is a love story, and a fairly traditional one at that - a rich lady has fallen on hard times, and its up to the clever, capable boy with a dark past to save her and help her find her way.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great, easy read - the kind of book you'll want to devour in one sitting.
Reblogged from http://highfantasyaddict.wordpress.com from part of my Book Review VBLOG series.
September 18, 2020
Having played sax. in a school concert band for eight years, Richard had me at the rock n roll in the nineteenth century part. Also gaslight steampunk. Who doesn’t enjoy this kind of crazed genre mish mash. I can’t help it. I love genre subversion. The first part of the novel kicks off with a bang as Astor is mistaken about her marriage prospects and is forced to become governess to three children from hell. Verrol helps her to escape and she and him are forced to join a street gang to survive… how do they join? By making good art, that’s how! Political revolution, family secrets and fame collide when The Rowdie’s Grandmother has a vision of slum music making it big.
How many members of the band will succumb to Lady Gaga’s fame monster? Will the British monarchy gain a back bone and a conscience? Is war justified if it gives the poor something to occupy themselves with? And is this society really just the fault of the loathed new money Plutocrats? Richard always features political upheaval in his steampunk works which adds a great dose of adventure, excitement and danger to his stories and Song of the Slums is no exception. He is also interested in romantic relations between people of different social strata’s. In Worldshaker, Col is the upper class male in love with a lower class woman. In Song of the Slums, Astor represents the fading landed gentry in opposition to the nouveau riche; the privileged girl who falls in love with the slum born Verrol. This romantic angle gives Richard the chance to complicate Astor’s faith in her own middle class values and makes for some really interesting character development.
A book full of rhythm, dark backstreets, concert halls and plenty of political and physical action, I could really see this YA book made into a steampunk film. Someone buy the rights.
How many members of the band will succumb to Lady Gaga’s fame monster? Will the British monarchy gain a back bone and a conscience? Is war justified if it gives the poor something to occupy themselves with? And is this society really just the fault of the loathed new money Plutocrats? Richard always features political upheaval in his steampunk works which adds a great dose of adventure, excitement and danger to his stories and Song of the Slums is no exception. He is also interested in romantic relations between people of different social strata’s. In Worldshaker, Col is the upper class male in love with a lower class woman. In Song of the Slums, Astor represents the fading landed gentry in opposition to the nouveau riche; the privileged girl who falls in love with the slum born Verrol. This romantic angle gives Richard the chance to complicate Astor’s faith in her own middle class values and makes for some really interesting character development.
A book full of rhythm, dark backstreets, concert halls and plenty of political and physical action, I could really see this YA book made into a steampunk film. Someone buy the rights.
May 27, 2013
Having read Harland's World Shaker (W), I preferred Song of the Slums (SotS) and wonder if there's not a movie in the making?
Whilst I loved the all Victoriana characters with clever & amusing dialogue in W, I feel this feature together with the elaborate descriptions of the steam punk world and complicated plot impeded it's appeal to a younger audience. In contrast SotS moves at a cracking pace with this 'gaslight' fantasy world well illuminated. The plight of the two main characters Verrol & Astor is intriguing and I found myself involuntarily pulled deeper into their world; I couldn't put the book down. The element of 'gang music' is sure to appeal to both young and older readers. Like W, SotS has both a hero and heroine & these characters not only steal the show ( quite literally) but our hearts as a leaders who can discern truth in every aspect of their life, personally and in the wider socio- political sense.
Whilst I loved the all Victoriana characters with clever & amusing dialogue in W, I feel this feature together with the elaborate descriptions of the steam punk world and complicated plot impeded it's appeal to a younger audience. In contrast SotS moves at a cracking pace with this 'gaslight' fantasy world well illuminated. The plight of the two main characters Verrol & Astor is intriguing and I found myself involuntarily pulled deeper into their world; I couldn't put the book down. The element of 'gang music' is sure to appeal to both young and older readers. Like W, SotS has both a hero and heroine & these characters not only steal the show ( quite literally) but our hearts as a leaders who can discern truth in every aspect of their life, personally and in the wider socio- political sense.
January 7, 2014
First of a series. A fun read, quite predicable in its plot, but some interesting ideas about the role of music as tool for social cohesion.
Astor is removed from her mother under the pretext of marriage into the wealthy, manufacturing Swale family. However, she soon realises that she has been tricked into becoming the family governess. She finds support in her predicament from the mysterious servant, Verrol, who is using his position to spy on the plots of the Swale brothers to overthrow the government.
When they are forced to flee, they join one of the steet gangs, who are impressed by Astor's skill as a drummer. They form a band who produce a new kind of music, with strong rhythms and pounding guitars, and songs based on the life on the street. This music becomes wildly popular with all sections of society and prompts the plutocrats who are plotting against the government, to try to use it for their own advantage.
Ultimately, though, Astor and Verrol and their band triumph.
Astor is removed from her mother under the pretext of marriage into the wealthy, manufacturing Swale family. However, she soon realises that she has been tricked into becoming the family governess. She finds support in her predicament from the mysterious servant, Verrol, who is using his position to spy on the plots of the Swale brothers to overthrow the government.
When they are forced to flee, they join one of the steet gangs, who are impressed by Astor's skill as a drummer. They form a band who produce a new kind of music, with strong rhythms and pounding guitars, and songs based on the life on the street. This music becomes wildly popular with all sections of society and prompts the plutocrats who are plotting against the government, to try to use it for their own advantage.
Ultimately, though, Astor and Verrol and their band triumph.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2013
I think this book is fantastic! Its holds the title of my favourite book. Ever. Although Astor is annoying as hell the other main character, Verrol, is easily likeable and I have to admit, I have a small crush on him.
Richard Harland uses many descriptive words the enhance the setting and emotion in the story. For example: How pissed Astor is when she finds out she isn't marrying one of the Swale brothers. She refuses to talk to anyone, even the charming Verrol.
I actually met Richard at my school at an author visit and he wished me good luck in my future writing (as I wish to become an author) and, in a different way, he is as charming as Verrol.
Meeting the author may have raised it position on my 'favourites' list, but I still believe it deserves a high rating and should be in at least the top three of my favourite books.
Richard Harland uses many descriptive words the enhance the setting and emotion in the story. For example: How pissed Astor is when she finds out she isn't marrying one of the Swale brothers. She refuses to talk to anyone, even the charming Verrol.
I actually met Richard at my school at an author visit and he wished me good luck in my future writing (as I wish to become an author) and, in a different way, he is as charming as Verrol.
Meeting the author may have raised it position on my 'favourites' list, but I still believe it deserves a high rating and should be in at least the top three of my favourite books.
November 30, 2013
I enjoyed the atmosphere and vivid descriptions so much that it was as though I was there. The book cover with the real life portrayals of Astor and Verrol was spot-on beautiful and made it easier to imagine what the streets and places were like. Though there was not as much epic action as Worldshaker and Liberator, this book was more of a backstage pass to seeing a band start from scratch. It has excitement, tension and tragedy. It was amazing to see Astor's personal growth throughout the story. Sure, she may have been an annoying princessy brat at first, but it was a result of individual circumstances and childhood bring-up. Over time, she grew on me as she developed independence and boldness.
January 21, 2015
If Richard Harland classifies this novel as Gaslight Romance, I'm in. What I loved most about this book, besides Granny Rouse, was that it was about music and it's power to us as individuals and as a collective. Astor Vance, a young lady from a certain privileged existence in 1840's England is to be engaged to a Swale magnate, Lorrain. Instead, she is deceived and forced into service as the new governess for three horridly spoilt and neglected Swale offspring, Blanquette, Prester & Widdy. With the assistance of a less-than-ordinary servant, Verrol, Astor discovers a world beyond her imaginings. One filled with a cacophony of street music that will alter all she has known.
"We can create feelings of joy and warmth, or we can create feelings of rage and revenge. It's up to us."
"We can create feelings of joy and warmth, or we can create feelings of rage and revenge. It's up to us."
September 27, 2013
I really wanted to like this book - but I found it a bit of a struggle at times. Loved the gaslight/Victorian/steam punk setting; I thought Harland's descriptions of the slums were suitably dark and dirty. I found the long descriptions of the band playing their slum music a bit tiresome. I know a little about music, but am not a musician as such. I wonder if this book would be more enjoyable for someone who has played in a band.
But don't get me wrong; the tension between the two main characters is believable, and the story positively romps along. I'm looking forward to meeting Mr Harland's next month when he comes to my school!
But don't get me wrong; the tension between the two main characters is believable, and the story positively romps along. I'm looking forward to meeting Mr Harland's next month when he comes to my school!
August 10, 2013
It's the Age of Steam with a vibrant heartbeat growing in the slums. Astor has been groomed in the harp, but when she is left in the wealthy Swale household under rather strange marriage circumstances, and escapes, she inadvertently grooms a whole new lifestyle with matriarch Granny Rouse and her slum gang. It is there that Astor finds her real music, her real rhythms and her soul.
My poetic review is on my Songlines on the Winds blog.
My poetic review is on my Songlines on the Winds blog.
October 27, 2014
Such a sense of an alternative world, Verrol and Astor create a lively tale set in slums and smog with hardship and struggle all around them. It has a real Dickensian charm with characters such as tough good hearted Granny, the evil Swales and Marshal Dorrin an obnoxious stepfather. A musical band the Rowdies that becomes the symbol of their struggle against the society they live in and the ominous characters who control their world. A rollicking read that ends with the end of the book! yes no sequels....but I liked it.
May 22, 2013
This surprised me as I LOVED the cover, but didn't read the blurb. So when it began with Astor (the main character) arriving at a fabulously rich house, expecting to be engaged to a son of the house, I was kind of expecting a romancy-type novel. So the rest of the tale came as quite a shock - but an extremely pleasant one. Song of the Slums is actually a really good steam punk novel with interesting, intelligent characters and fabulous music! Recommended.
April 8, 2013
...
Song of the Slums is a complex story, with many interwoven strands and themes. It will reward the discerning and well-read speculative fiction reader who knows a bit about times gone by and how easily small incidents can change the course of history.
This is a snippet of a longer review which will appear in the Winter edition of 'Viewpoint: on books for young adults'.
Song of the Slums is a complex story, with many interwoven strands and themes. It will reward the discerning and well-read speculative fiction reader who knows a bit about times gone by and how easily small incidents can change the course of history.
This is a snippet of a longer review which will appear in the Winter edition of 'Viewpoint: on books for young adults'.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews