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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Set in a brutal apocalyptic world with two suns, Mathias B. Freese's In The Throes follows the story of a creature that unexpectedly attains awareness. The only thing Gruff's undeveloped mind could fathom as he opened his eyes to the world was that the Close One's slashes didn't incite pain. He went to the Park for his first kill and hunted keet. Abandoned by the Close One, Gruff set out on his own, fighting a brutal battle for survival one day at a time, until he found Man Youth and bonded with him. Suddenly, Gruff's entire worldview changed. His instincts were overwhelmed by his awakening. However, with awareness came anxiety and loneliness. He became a sculptor, a philosopher, a protector of men, and even a father figure to another Gruff. He continued to change the landscape for the better.
In The Throes is a thought-provoking tale of awakening. Author Mathias B. Freese has crafted a riveting story narrated through the perspective of a non-human creature on a journey of self-discovery. The book is a slow-burner but all the more enjoyable for that. The story is deeply philosophical, gritty, poignant, but most of all, rewarding. Gruff's character goes through a harrowing but ultimately illuminating journey. His development from a primal creature with base desires to someone who contemplates, creates, builds, and protects is truly fascinating to read. I really enjoyed his friendship with Man, as well as the interactions between him and young Gruff, with whom he takes upon the role of a mentor/father figure. If you enjoy stories that make you think and feature deep philosophical discourse, you will love this book. Highly recommended!
