14 is a sci-fi novel by Peter Clines. It was published by Permuted Press in 2012. It is the first book in Clines’ Threshold series. This review is intended to be free of spoilers, but none of us are perfect. I purchased the book myself, and no review copy was provided. There are affiliate links at the end of this review.
Blurb:
Padlocked doors. Strange light fixtures. Mutant cockroaches.
There are some odd things about Nate’s new apartment.
Of course, he has other things on his mind. He hates his job. He has no money in the bank. No girlfriend. No plans for the future. So while his new home isn’t perfect, it’s livable. The rent is low, the property managers are friendly, and the odd little mysteries don’t nag at him too much.
At least, not until he meets Mandy, his neighbor across the hall, and notices something unusual about her apartment. And Xela’s apartment. And Tim’s. And Veek’s.
Because every room in this old Los Angeles brownstone has a mystery or two. Mysteries that stretch back over a hundred years. Some of them are in plain sight. Some are behind locked doors. And all together these mysteries could mean the end of Nate and his friends.
Or the end of everything…
Review:
14 by Peter Clines is a fantastic entry in the realm of speculative fiction, a genre-bending novel that weaves together elements of mystery, horror, and science fiction into a narrative tapestry that is as richly detailed as it is utterly fascinating.
The story unfolds almost entirely within the confines of the Kavach building, an old, seemingly-ordinary Los Angeles apartment complex that our protagonist, Nate, calls home. But as Nate and his fellow tenants soon discover, there is nothing ordinary about their new residence. Behind every door lies a seemingly bizarre secret, and every secret is a gateway to a reality far removed from their own.
Clines is a really solid writer. This shines through in his attention to detail. The Kavach building is described with such precision and depth that it becomes a character in its own right, its silent corridors and hidden rooms echoing with the whispers of its enigmatic past. The sense of creeping dread that permeates the narrative is palpable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the building’s labyrinthine mysteries alongside the characters. This is a journey that I really enjoyed, and one that I think would work well as the premise of an RPG adventure. Perhaps once I’ve finished reviewing the Threshold series as a whole, I might look at some gameplay options. I do like doing that sort of post.
The characters themselves are well-developed. This is a story largely told through character interactions, so each of the Kavach building housemates ends up feeling pretty distinct and fully realised. From the affable Nate to the enigmatic Veek, the residents of the Kavach building are as diverse as they are relatable. Their friendships, and the portrayals thereof, add a layer of warmth and humour to the narrative, providing a welcome counterpoint to the chilling mysteries that surround them.
What sets 14 apart from other novels in the genre is its bold originality. Clines takes the familiar trope of a haunted house and infuses it with a fresh, innovative twist, crafting a story that is as unpredictable as it is engaging. Accompany this with a dollop of Lovecraftian horror, and you know you’re onto a winner with me! The plot twists are cleverly executed, the suspense skillfully maintained, ensuring that the narrative momentum never falters. If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ll be aware that my biggest issue with many books is inconsistent or sluggish pacing. This is not a problem from which Clines’ work suffers.
Beyond the thrills and chills, 14 also delves into deeper, more philosophical territory. It explores themes such as the nature of reality, the human thirst for knowledge, and the ethical implications of scientific discovery. It poses intriguing questions about the lengths we are willing to go to uncover the truth, and the price we are willing to pay for it. It also draws on some of the best aspects of Lovecraftian fiction, bringing it into a relatable, modern setting.
14 is a really fantastic novel that transcends genre boundaries. It is a testament to Clines’ storytelling prowess and his ability to create a complex, captivating world within the confines of a single building. That’s something to be admired. With its interesting and likeable characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, 14 is more than just a book; it’s an experience that lingers long after the final page is turned, leaving readers eager for more. I found myself thinking about this story, and about the Kavach building, for some time to come. In addition to the success of this story, 14 is also the first book in Clines’ Threshold series, which is (with the exception of the disappointing third book) one of my favourite recent sci-fi series.
Rating: 5 / 5
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