Only Forward

This is MMS's first novel,which absolutely astounds. I'm such a fan of his because of the diversity and scope of his work. Even though his dark , witty voice always shines through, you never really know what kind of story you're going to have with him, only that you're mind will be blown, you will be entertained, and you will probably learn something, possibly unpleasant, and maybe about yourself...So anyway , anything by this author is a must read, this book included.

Gripping from the first page, this classy and unique combination of speculative fiction, adventure, and thriller will keep the reader's attention. Some of the author's ideas and insights are extremely thought-provoking. I originally took this book out of the library -- I enjoyed it enough that I ordered a copy for my personal library, and sent one on to a friend. Read _Spares_ next -- very good, very disturbing, and very different from _Only Forward_.

I must say- this book is absolutely fabulous. It was very unexpected, and I envy Mr. Marshall his grasp of language and tone. I wish I could write like this! This fellow has got quite a grasp on life, and humor, and the way he gets it across is very unique. I loved this book so much, I plan to take it away to college with me. This book is like the tangible world of my imagination--- I wish I had a CloazValet....

Found this book at a used book store. It's the Britishversion, with the funky black cover, and the only things on it werethe title and the phrase "May we introduce Stark. Oh, and by the way, good luck...." I flipped it open to skim the first couple pages and it hooked me. I was laughing in the store. I had to buy it. It didn't disappoint me. It was a convoluted book, alternately funny, nasty, and tragic, with a cast of characters that constantly surprised me, and a flurry of intriguing new concepts. The one that sticks out most for me was this: "The reason that it seems to take less time to return from a place than it was to get there in the first place, is because the way back is actually shorter".The second time I read it, the comedy wasn't as sharp, which was fine, because it made the real story, the tragedy, stand out all the more.I'm not doing this book justice at all. I can't. Buy it, borrow it, do anything to wrap your hands around it. And read it. And read it again. I'm going to.

This is my favorite novel because it is so beautifully sad. I can't explain how this sadness is conveyed, however, so I will just point out its other merits. It is narrated by a character who, the reader gradually discovers, cannot be trusted. The meaning of entire portions of the novel is flip-flopped several times in light of previously withheld information suddenly dispensed by the protagonist. His story is too painful to him to tell all at once, and the consequences of this fact are manifested in the plot itself as its events steadily grow more bizarre and grotesque. Leaving aside the amusement provided by this post-modern presentation, there is the lure of a surreal anarcho-capitalistic setting and writing which can convincingly move to being funny, to horrifying, to just plain depressing. Saying any more might spoil the many surprises. A completely original book.