M.S. Clements – The Third Magpie

‘The Third Magpie’ by M.S. Clements is a unique dystopian story that is set in the imaginary terrifying state of New Albany. Although terrifying it is also kind of plausible, a type of world that, if Hitler had succeeded in his quest, we may have had. One where we have one race that is ‘the’ race to be and god help you if you aren’t part of that specific group!

Finn and Sophie are a perfect example, married and totally in love. The only problem being Finn is the outcast and Sophie is accepted, being part of the ‘Elite’, you could say. The abuse and humiliation he experiences on a daily basis begs the question, will his love for Sophie override this treatment? Or not? He gains a job which brings respite but circumstances turn again, the oppression returns. Will they survive this system that threatens everything even life for them?

An immersive, delicately handled story, that brings the theme of oppression, sometimes brutal reading as well, yes, however delicately handled I found it brutal at times. I was really rooting for Finn, in such a hard world I wanted him and Sophie to find their way so much. I found it to be a gripping story, one which I couldn’t put down until I had read just one more chapter. A story that I thought about after I had finished the book.Thanks to Random Things Tours for the book to take part in the blog tour today.