Margaret Killjoy's 'A Country of Ghosts' is a thought-provoking alt history fantasy set in a world where individuals live in an anarchist society. The story follows Dimos Horacki, a journalist who is sent to cover a war but ends up questioning his own beliefs and values as he immerses himself in a community of Free Company fighters who have a radically different way of life. The book explores themes of societal norms, personal growth, and the impact of individual actions on society, all while challenging the reader's perspectives on utopia and governance.

The writing style in 'A Country of Ghosts' is described as light, flowing, and engaging, keeping the reader invested in the characters and their journey. The book presents a compelling wartime story with real, relatable characters, humor, and pointed commentary, making it an insightful and informative read that encourages readers to consider different possibilities in relationships and governance.

Characters:

The characters are layered and relatable, each representing different facets of the struggle against imperialism.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is approachable and engaging, blending humor with thoughtful commentary on society.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a journalist's journey of self-discovery amidst conflict, leading him to challenge his initial beliefs while advocating for anarchism.

Setting:

Set in a fictional world that examines anarchist societies amidst the backdrop of war.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, with a compelling start and rushed conclusion, making for a somewhat jarring reading experience.

Notes:

The book explores anarchist society and critiques capitalism.

The main character is a gay journalist named Dimos Horacki.

Dimos starts as a war reporter but questions his role as he meets anarchist fighters.

The story is set in a fantastical world without magic, focusing on character and societal norms.

Margaret Killjoy is a trans author known for her thought-provoking writing.

The pacing of the book received mixed reviews; some felt it dragged in the middle, while others appreciated the character depth.

The author is open about the flaws in the utopian vision presented in the novel.

The book is part of the Black Dawn series but can be read as a standalone story.

Readers have noted the humorous and good-natured tone of the book despite its serious themes.

The afterword provides insight into Killjoy's own experiences with anarchists, inviting readers to consider alternative perspectives.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings may include themes related to war, colonialism, and political strife.

Has Romance?

There are elements of romance present, with the main character being a gay man, though it is not the central focus of the story.

From The Publisher:

Dimos Horacki is a Borolian journalist and a cynical patriot, his muckraking days behind him. But when his newspaper ships him to the front, he's embedded in the Imperial Army and the reality of colonial expansion is laid bare before him.His adventures take him from villages and homesteads to the great refugee city of Hronople, built of glass, steel, and stone, all the while a war rages around him. The empire fights for coal and iron, but the anarchists of Hron fight for their way of life.From the editor of Mythmakers & Lawbreakers: Anarchist Writers on Fiction and author of What Lies Beneath the Clock Tower comes a seditious novel of utopia besieged, a novel that challenges every premise of contemporary society.

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A Country of Ghosts

Margaret Killjoy