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The author has worked in industry and has studied the eighteenth-century novel, among other subjects. He lives in Devon in the UK. This is his first novel.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Escalator is a work of fiction in the drama and literary subgenres. It is intended for the general reading audience and it was penned by author Andrew Budden. The work sets a tragi-comedic tone from the off as we explore the chaotic life of our central character William, who feels as though he is nearing the end of the great search for meaning in his life. From celebrity connections and dizzying heights down to the bare bones of interpersonal relationships, family, and love, this heartfelt psychological drama discusses the nature of what is truly real and what ought to matter most in our lives.
The character-focused nature of literary fiction often makes it a tricky genre, as you really have to fall for a character in order to be fully invested in their story, yet I challenge anyone not to be intrigued by William. Author Andrew Budden has a clever way of weaving such mystery into the narrative that we are often handling multiple threads of unanswered questions and slowly putting those pieces together as we get to know William and the many fantasies and realities of his life. I also thought that the dialogue and narrative voice were masterfully crafted to give a realistic sense of both William and the ensuing cast that play their parts in his life, bringing pathos, humor, and an emotional core to the piece that resonates with anyone who is at a crossroads in their own life. Overall, I would certainly recommend The Escalator to fans of accomplished literary fiction.
