Revising history

It's hard to classify Thomas Mullen's novel Revisionists. What sort of a book is it? You could say it's fantasy or science fiction, but it's also a story of espionage and a tale of adventure. Although it may be very hard to classify, it's a unique story, brilliantly told, and made me eager to read more from Thomas Mullen.


Revisionists is set around the present day. The world as usual is war-torn, but is managing against the odds, to stop itself being blown up. Zed has been sent from the future to make sure that history runs its course and that Armageddon is unleashed. In Zed's future world "The Great Conflagration" led to a time of peace throughout the world, but it has come at a cost - history is no more - but, in this apparently perfect world some rebels have found their way back into the past, and are looking for a way to change history, to arrive at a new future which will put away old mistakes while still embracing the past. Zed has been sent to make sure that history will run its course, but love and a former CIA agent are going to get in the way...


This novel was an unexpected delight. It had all the elements that you would normally enjoy in a fast-paced thriller, or a decent spy-story. Part conspiracy theory, part John Le Carre with a dash of Connie Willis' time travelling, an old fashioned love story, and two likeable if confused heroes. With strong female characters, a great setting, and compelling writing, it's a great read.


In some ways it reminded me of A canticle for Leibowitz, the humour is often very similar, and there's often a sad feel to the novel very akin to Canticle. The characters aren't as engaging as they are in Walter M. Miller's book, but this is a stand-up and unusual fantasy read. Well worth a look, if you're into espionage / thrillers, but looking for something a little different.