The Ninth Circle – Alex Bell
Hachette Livre Gollancz, 2008
RRP: AU$32.99
ISBN: 978-057-508027-0

Reviewed by Kate Smith

The Ninth Circle by Alex Bell is not simply another mystery story which is diverting at the time of reading but is ultimately of little impact on the reader. For a reader looking for something different, both in subject matter and style, this novel is well worth a read. The story builds from being a simple tale of a man struggling to come to terms with amnesia to a much more complicated one with serious questions about morality and the nature of religion. If the reader does not seek to guess ahead of the story it is very easy to become swept away and to feel the situation as Gabriel, the central character, sees it. Bell’s manner of writing communicates the confusion and desperation Gabriel experiences, and this makes for an engrossing read. The story is brought together nicely at the end, completing the story arc and ensuring the reader is clear about the situation Gabriel has finally taken some measure of control over.

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