Isobelle Carmody, Comes the Night, Allen & Unwin, October 2024, 480 pp., RRP $19.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781760294762
Isobelle Carmody, renowned for her masterful storytelling in the Obernewtyn Chronicles and The Gathering, has returned with a gripping standalone novel, Comes the Night. Set in a dystopian Australia of 2070, this young adult fantasy combines futuristic intrigue and high-stakes drama, creating a story that will captivate both long-time fans and new readers.
The novel unfolds in a Canberra encased in a protective dome, shielding its inhabitants from a perilous outside world shaped by climate crises and civil unrest. Through the perspective of sixteen-year-old Will, Carmody weaves a layered narrative that explores grief, family, identity, and self-discovery. Will’s life seems ordinary at first: grappling with the loss of a beloved uncle, navigating his parents’ separation, and dealing with the complexities of his evolving friendship with his best friend, Ender. But after the discovery of his dreamwalking ability, Will is propelled into a shadowy dimension brimmed with danger, secrets, and a conspiracy that could shatter his carefully controlled world.
Carmody excels at blending the ordinary with the extraordinary. The dreamwalking sequences are richly atmospheric, evoking a sense of otherworldly menace while maintaining a connection to Will’s emotional struggles. The secondary characters—Ender, her sharp-witted sister Magda, and a cryptic legacy from Will’s uncle—add depth and complexity to the story. The dynamic between Will and Ender is especially poignant, balancing moments of tenderness and tension as their relationship evolves.
While the plot is a slow burn in the initial chapters, the intricate world-building and character development more than compensate. Carmody’s vision of a domed Australia feels both futuristic and unsettlingly plausible, reflecting concerns about environmental collapse and societal control. As the stakes escalate, the narrative becomes a thrilling blend of action, mystery, and emotional resonance.
Comes the Night is a testament to Carmody’s prowess as a worldbuilder and storyteller. With its deftly woven plot, compelling characters, and themes of resilience and self-discovery, the novel is a standout addition to the YA fantasy genre. The open-ended conclusion hints at the potential for more adventures in this richly imagined world, leaving readers eager for what might come next.
I absolutely adored this novel which left me eagerly turning each page. The read was thrilling and thought-provoking, making me reflect and reimagine current Australia and what the future might hold for the country. Carmody has definitely left me stunned with another beautifully written YA fantasy. I definitely recommend this story to teens who love a good fantasy read packed full of speculative fiction.
Reviewed by Anna Tran
