The Machine is a disturbing read but for all the right reasons. Extremely claustrophobic
and atmospheric, it tells the story of Kim and her husband Vic, who has been mentally
damaged whilst serving with the Army during a war in Iran. Set in the near future
where global warming has punishing effects, the world is presented as stark and
apathetic. Kim serves as the central character and her quiet hope propels the
novel. To expand on this would spoil this story. With each chapter Smythe
crafts a sense of foreboding by revealing twists and small amounts of detail
about the pasts of the characters. It serves to heighten the tension and
general uneasiness that you feel as you read the book. I was left constantly
feeling like something bad or uncomfortable was going to happen on the next page. The
twist at the end of the novel is a testament to Smythe’s skill as an author.
The Machine is a suspenseful and well written novel which is hard to put
down.
Ms Frude and Mrs Godden