HellSans by Ever Dundas

The dark dystopian science fiction makes a fully immersive world, and confirms Ever Dundas as a writer to treasure

Book Review by Alistair Braidwood | 03 Oct 2022
  • HellSans - Ever Dundas
Book title: HellSans
Author: Ever Dundas

Readers have eagerly awaited the next novel from Ever Dundas, whose debut Goblin was not only critically acclaimed, it also won the Saltire First Book Award for good measure. HellSans – the dark dystopian science fiction – only confirms Dundas as a writer to treasure. HellSans is the government’s typeface used in all public pronouncements and publications, having a profound effect on individuals. Set in a world familiar enough to make what unfolds all the more powerful, its very existence keeps the populace in a heightened state of euphoria and, as a result, easily placated. Insurrection is mostly a thing of the past, however, the increasing number of HSAs (‘HellSans Allergic’, with devastating consequences) leads to increasing division and disharmony.

At the centre are scientist Dr Icho Smith and high-powered CEO Jane Ward whose lives are inextricably linked, so much so that you can read by starting with either's story. They are complex, nuanced characters among the most memorable of recent times. Secondary characters are beautifully written, with even the robotic retainers, the ‘Inexes’ (like witches’ familiars crossed with Alexa), having their own personalities. It does take a little time to fully understand the book's nuances, but that is part of acclimatising to what is a fully immersive world. It is a visceral and vicious novel in places – a body horror with brains. Imagine Ray Bradbury meets David Cronenberg, and it's as thought-provoking and outrageous as that sounds. Ever Dundas has written a book which challenges, shocks, and enthrals.


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