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Cinnamon Jones #2
Archangels of Funk
Run from your past. Hide from your future. Protect your present.
The Water Wars have scrambled the world. Flood refugees are on the run. Disruptors and the nostalgia militia roam the roads wreaking havoc. Invisible Darknet Lords troll the internet solidifying their power, while Cinnamon her three Circus-Bots, and two dogs, work with a community of Farmers, Motor Fairies and Wheel-Wizards to provide housing, healthcare and education for flood refugees.
Slipping into periodic despair, Cinnamon’s been hiding out. She’s ready to ditch the Next World Festival she runs―a sci-fi carnival jam featuring music, dance, masked revelers, drum circles and storytellers in a grassy amphitheatre on the farm she inherited. Her elders haunt her, insisting she do the Festival no matter what.
As she confronts threats from the Darknet Lords and the nostalgia militia, Cinnamon must determine how best to honor her elders and her history, while building a future for herself and her charges.
It’s not going to be easy.
The Water Wars have scrambled the world. Flood refugees are on the run. Disruptors and the nostalgia militia roam the roads wreaking havoc. Invisible Darknet Lords troll the internet solidifying their power, while Cinnamon her three Circus-Bots, and two dogs, work with a community of Farmers, Motor Fairies and Wheel-Wizards to provide housing, healthcare and education for flood refugees.
Slipping into periodic despair, Cinnamon’s been hiding out. She’s ready to ditch the Next World Festival she runs―a sci-fi carnival jam featuring music, dance, masked revelers, drum circles and storytellers in a grassy amphitheatre on the farm she inherited. Her elders haunt her, insisting she do the Festival no matter what.
As she confronts threats from the Darknet Lords and the nostalgia militia, Cinnamon must determine how best to honor her elders and her history, while building a future for herself and her charges.
It’s not going to be easy.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2024
About the author
Andrea Hairston
19 books329 followersAndrea Hairston is an African-American science fiction and fantasy playwright and novelist who is best known for her novels Mindscape and Redwood and Wildfire. Mindscape, Hairston's first novel, won the Carl Brandon Parallax Award and short-listed for the Philip K. Dick Award and the James Tiptree, Jr. Award.
She is the Artistic Director of Chrysalis Theatre and has created original productions with music, dance, and masks for more than a decade. Hairston is also the Louise Wolff Kahn 1931 Professor of Theatre and Afro-American Studies at Smith College. She teaches playwriting, African, African American, and Caribbean theatre literature. Her plays have been produced at Yale Rep, Rites and Reason, the Kennedy Center, StageWest, and on public radio and television. In addition, Hairston has translated plays by Michael Ende and Kaca Celan from German to English.
(source: Wikipedia)
She is the Artistic Director of Chrysalis Theatre and has created original productions with music, dance, and masks for more than a decade. Hairston is also the Louise Wolff Kahn 1931 Professor of Theatre and Afro-American Studies at Smith College. She teaches playwriting, African, African American, and Caribbean theatre literature. Her plays have been produced at Yale Rep, Rites and Reason, the Kennedy Center, StageWest, and on public radio and television. In addition, Hairston has translated plays by Michael Ende and Kaca Celan from German to English.
(source: Wikipedia)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 4, 2023
The core of the novel is the Next World Festival -- a welcoming celebration of dance, storytelling, music, and more -- that invites people to remember their pasts and choose their future. Cinnamon Jones promised her family she'd continue the tradition after they'd gone, but environmental disaster, a string of kidnappings, and a flood of sad memories have doused her creativity.
But Cinnamon helped create a charitable, kind community that hides inside a country largely controlled by greed and callousness. Neither the ghosts of her family or her still living (or living-ish) friends will let her fall.
While there is tension from corporate spies and attacks from desperate people, much of the novel flows in a delightful eddies. There is music in Hairston's prose and as the perspectives jump from character to character, readers may feel like they're buffeted by the crowd at a massive party. They'll catch a piece of drama here, a fond reminisce there, a bit of new drama, and then maybe peek at a budding romance. It's a little hectic and confusing, but the vibes feel so right that they'll know it will all come together in the end. And it does, in a moving and joyful way.
The conflict resolution in the novel is fascinating, because while no one is a doormat, forgiveness and understanding are incredibly important. There's a theme about how even very recent mistakes don't make someone a bad person necessarily, that people can be pulled onto a better path if they want.
It's also one of my favorite micro-genres -- apocalyptic (or near-to) science fiction with a heavy dose of magic. This one is also sprinkled liberally with whimsy, making this feel a bit like Kiki's Delivery Service crossed with Fahrenheit 451.
This was my first novel by Hairston, but I recognized references to some of her other books, so I am excited to go back and read those and see how they tie into this.
Also, I should note that the wonderful diversity of the cast. Many have mixed heritage, the traditions of their families and cultures matter, and queerness seems completely accepted. The few characters who place too much importance on a binary gendered view are quickly educated and judged accordingly.
But Cinnamon helped create a charitable, kind community that hides inside a country largely controlled by greed and callousness. Neither the ghosts of her family or her still living (or living-ish) friends will let her fall.
While there is tension from corporate spies and attacks from desperate people, much of the novel flows in a delightful eddies. There is music in Hairston's prose and as the perspectives jump from character to character, readers may feel like they're buffeted by the crowd at a massive party. They'll catch a piece of drama here, a fond reminisce there, a bit of new drama, and then maybe peek at a budding romance. It's a little hectic and confusing, but the vibes feel so right that they'll know it will all come together in the end. And it does, in a moving and joyful way.
The conflict resolution in the novel is fascinating, because while no one is a doormat, forgiveness and understanding are incredibly important. There's a theme about how even very recent mistakes don't make someone a bad person necessarily, that people can be pulled onto a better path if they want.
It's also one of my favorite micro-genres -- apocalyptic (or near-to) science fiction with a heavy dose of magic. This one is also sprinkled liberally with whimsy, making this feel a bit like Kiki's Delivery Service crossed with Fahrenheit 451.
This was my first novel by Hairston, but I recognized references to some of her other books, so I am excited to go back and read those and see how they tie into this.
Also, I should note that the wonderful diversity of the cast. Many have mixed heritage, the traditions of their families and cultures matter, and queerness seems completely accepted. The few characters who place too much importance on a binary gendered view are quickly educated and judged accordingly.
May 11, 2024
This audiobook was made available for me to listen to and review by Andrea Hairston, RB Media, and NetGalley.
This is a fun and unique novel, almost like a podcast in a way. This starts off with an ad for the Next World Festival. The Next World Festival is a celebration of life focusing on dance, storytelling, music, etc at this festival attendees both honor the past and dream the future. It's unique and I would LOVE to attend this festival! This is set in a dystopian future of water shortages and resulting wars and deep income and inequality and resource hoarding by the wealthy living in enclaves. This deals with how the world responds to these crisis's and the resulting societal mayhem. So we have joy and despair side by side and what it means to live in such harrowing times. I loved the nod to West African/Black Dysphoric and Native American/First Nations mythology and mythological beings. This is a fun festival set in an Octavia Butler dystopian future. Cinnamon has created a utopia inside of this dystopic hell scape. It reminded me a bit of Parable of the Talents' Acorn. A place where community means no one is left out and everyone respects and honors everyone else. This enclave is threatened and stressed by outside forces like the corporate spies and desperate folks. The novels tone is light allowing the stress of this world to feel manageable and dreamy. It's a heady stuff, almost a cozy dystopia🤔 What a fun and wild mix.
This novel is narrated by January LaVoy. January narrated an audiobook by Shari Lapena that I listened to awhile ago so I was already familiar with her work. Her ability to be light but serious was crucial to narrating a book like this. Cinnamon and her crew of 2 dogs and 3 circus-bots came to life with January's narration. It truly enhanced the listening experience.
Thank you to Andrea Hairston, RB Media, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
This is a fun and unique novel, almost like a podcast in a way. This starts off with an ad for the Next World Festival. The Next World Festival is a celebration of life focusing on dance, storytelling, music, etc at this festival attendees both honor the past and dream the future. It's unique and I would LOVE to attend this festival! This is set in a dystopian future of water shortages and resulting wars and deep income and inequality and resource hoarding by the wealthy living in enclaves. This deals with how the world responds to these crisis's and the resulting societal mayhem. So we have joy and despair side by side and what it means to live in such harrowing times. I loved the nod to West African/Black Dysphoric and Native American/First Nations mythology and mythological beings. This is a fun festival set in an Octavia Butler dystopian future. Cinnamon has created a utopia inside of this dystopic hell scape. It reminded me a bit of Parable of the Talents' Acorn. A place where community means no one is left out and everyone respects and honors everyone else. This enclave is threatened and stressed by outside forces like the corporate spies and desperate folks. The novels tone is light allowing the stress of this world to feel manageable and dreamy. It's a heady stuff, almost a cozy dystopia🤔 What a fun and wild mix.
This novel is narrated by January LaVoy. January narrated an audiobook by Shari Lapena that I listened to awhile ago so I was already familiar with her work. Her ability to be light but serious was crucial to narrating a book like this. Cinnamon and her crew of 2 dogs and 3 circus-bots came to life with January's narration. It truly enhanced the listening experience.
Thank you to Andrea Hairston, RB Media, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
May 4, 2024
Different and I don’t think it’s going to be for everyone but it’ll work very well for the right readers. It’s very slow paced and takes its time tell the story of just a few days. It describes the life of those living in a slow apocalypse well and the tone of the writing suits the characters and setting. But a lot of science fiction tends to be Adventure! Action! So for readers that want that, this probably isn’t the book. But for a reader who is looking for something slower paced and more towards the literary end of the genre this is a solid choice and the four star rating is for that reader.
May 13, 2024
I loved Will Do Magic for Small Change. It was instantly one of my favorite books of the year, and it made this an auto-buy. But... I just don't think this one was for me. The acknowledgements reveal this was originally a short story, then another, then tied together as a play, then turned into a novel, and something about that clicked for me. The writing was good. The world was solid. But I just couldn't find a foothold for the story. I couldn't get settled with it. I think the patchwork nature of its creation may have been the reason. I'm still going to keep Hairston on my watch list because even when I was struggling through this, I really, really wanted to connect. I just couldn't find it this time.
April 9, 2024
It took me awhile to finish, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'll be looking for more of this author's work.
I'm thankful to have received this ARC.
I'm thankful to have received this ARC.
June 6, 2024
Well, I'm a dummy because I didn't realize this was the second book. 😅😂 While it stands alone fairly well, knowing the broader context from the first book would have likely enhanced my understanding.
This is a richly imagined dystopian future, shaped by the catastrophic Water Wars. Hairston's writing is undeniably powerful and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a world grappling with profound inequality and resource scarcity. This has an imaginative setting and a lyrical, almost poetic prose. Each sentence is meticulously crafted, demanding thoughtful engagement from the reader. This style, while beautiful, does contribute to a slower pacing that might not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more straightforward dystopian adventure. But honestly, it's beautiful to read and I found it charming.
The blending of sci-fi elements with a community-focused story adds a unique flavor to the dystopian genre. The diverse cast of characters, dogs, refuges, and robots enrich the story, though the sheer number of characters can sometimes make it challenging to keep track of who’s who and what’s happening.
Cinnamon’s internal struggles and her interactions with the various characters around her form the crux of the story. Her journey is less about action and more about introspection. This character-driven approach provides deep emotional and psychological insights but can feel slow-moving. I also struggled a bit to maintain interest.
Despite these strengths, the book may not resonate with everyone. The concentration of quirky and unconventional elements, while intriguing, might have been more effective in a shorter format. The pacing felt stretched, making it harder to maintain attention, and the poetic nature of the writing, while beautiful, further decelerated the story’s momentum.
In conclusion, this is a beautifully written, character-driven dystopian novel that demands patience and thoughtful reading. Andrea Hairston’s lyrical prose and imaginative world-building offer a unique experience, but the slow pacing and dense character roster might not be for everyone. If you appreciate poetic narratives and deep character explorations set against a backdrop of societal upheaval, this book will captivate you. However, if you prefer fast-paced, action-oriented dystopian tales, you might find it a bit of a challenge to get through.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
This is a richly imagined dystopian future, shaped by the catastrophic Water Wars. Hairston's writing is undeniably powerful and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a world grappling with profound inequality and resource scarcity. This has an imaginative setting and a lyrical, almost poetic prose. Each sentence is meticulously crafted, demanding thoughtful engagement from the reader. This style, while beautiful, does contribute to a slower pacing that might not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more straightforward dystopian adventure. But honestly, it's beautiful to read and I found it charming.
The blending of sci-fi elements with a community-focused story adds a unique flavor to the dystopian genre. The diverse cast of characters, dogs, refuges, and robots enrich the story, though the sheer number of characters can sometimes make it challenging to keep track of who’s who and what’s happening.
Cinnamon’s internal struggles and her interactions with the various characters around her form the crux of the story. Her journey is less about action and more about introspection. This character-driven approach provides deep emotional and psychological insights but can feel slow-moving. I also struggled a bit to maintain interest.
Despite these strengths, the book may not resonate with everyone. The concentration of quirky and unconventional elements, while intriguing, might have been more effective in a shorter format. The pacing felt stretched, making it harder to maintain attention, and the poetic nature of the writing, while beautiful, further decelerated the story’s momentum.
In conclusion, this is a beautifully written, character-driven dystopian novel that demands patience and thoughtful reading. Andrea Hairston’s lyrical prose and imaginative world-building offer a unique experience, but the slow pacing and dense character roster might not be for everyone. If you appreciate poetic narratives and deep character explorations set against a backdrop of societal upheaval, this book will captivate you. However, if you prefer fast-paced, action-oriented dystopian tales, you might find it a bit of a challenge to get through.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
May 25, 2024
I finally finished listening to "Archangels of Funk: Episodes from the Continuing Drama of Cinnamon Jones, A Scientist, Artiste, and Hoodoo Conjuror, A Novel of What Might Be" by Andrea Hairston. It was so so long!! I meant the book, but hey, that title, too! The audiobook is 15 hrs, 22 minutes at 1.0 speed. I listened to it at 1.75 to 2.0. I have listened to much longer books and haven't had the length of those bother me, so let's dig in here.
The whole thing was confusing and disjointed! I think it is more like short stories strung together rather than a consistent book. It is set in the future after terrible floods of the future and somewhere in Western Massachusetts.
The main character is Cinnamon Jones, who at first seems to be a young adult. Later, we find it she is in her 50s. She hosts an annual festival, the Next World Festival, with music and dancing and lots of masks and costumes like a carnival. She has two dogs, Spook (ghost dog), who is half cybernetic, and Bruja (witch dog), who can find anything.
She has three circus bots that she created with junk and functioning with AI programming. One looks like a mermaid, sort of, and is called Mami-Wo. Cinnamon sees her relatives inhabit the three bots to haunt her and nag or guide her.
There is a weak plot here, but the book is primarily character driven.
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 3/5
Plot - 2/5 Very weak
Pacing - 3/5
Unputdownability - 1/5
Enjoyment - 2/5
Narration - 5/5 January LaVoy
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 25/8 = 3.1
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media, and Andrea Hairston for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
The whole thing was confusing and disjointed! I think it is more like short stories strung together rather than a consistent book. It is set in the future after terrible floods of the future and somewhere in Western Massachusetts.
The main character is Cinnamon Jones, who at first seems to be a young adult. Later, we find it she is in her 50s. She hosts an annual festival, the Next World Festival, with music and dancing and lots of masks and costumes like a carnival. She has two dogs, Spook (ghost dog), who is half cybernetic, and Bruja (witch dog), who can find anything.
She has three circus bots that she created with junk and functioning with AI programming. One looks like a mermaid, sort of, and is called Mami-Wo. Cinnamon sees her relatives inhabit the three bots to haunt her and nag or guide her.
There is a weak plot here, but the book is primarily character driven.
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 3/5
Plot - 2/5 Very weak
Pacing - 3/5
Unputdownability - 1/5
Enjoyment - 2/5
Narration - 5/5 January LaVoy
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 25/8 = 3.1
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media, and Andrea Hairston for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
May 29, 2024
Archangels of Funk is a dazzling, kaleidoscopic adventure that pulses with life, rhythm, and soul. Each character leaps off the page, every idiom crackles with energy, and every lyric and melody swirls in a symphony of emotion. The narrative is a masterfully crafted whirlwind, offering a thrilling, nostalgic, and hopeful journey through a world bursting with imagination and heart.
From the first page, the story grips you with nail-biting tension and lifts you to euphoric heights. The dialogue is sharp, witty, and unforgettable, sparking belly laughs and wake-up calls. Marvel at a world where gender nonconformity is celebrated and woven into the fabric of life. A world where lofty ambitions, heart-pounding polyrhythms of desire, and selfless sacrifices for love exist right alongside all the hope we can muster. Every character, every idiom, every mouthwatering morsel, every lyric, every melody, every bit of tech is swirling with life and wonder.
Every page of Archangels of Funk is infused with wisdom, hope, and love. The book brims with timeless wisdom: "We become the people we’ve known," "Freedom is the air we breathe together," offering deep, resonant truths. This novel is a testament to Andrea Hairston’s boundless creativity and heartfelt dedication, creating a magical experience that captivates and inspires.
Thank you, Andrea, for conjuring this extraordinary story and for filling our world with your unique magic. Archangels of Funk is a vibrant celebration of life and love, a spellbinding journey that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
From the first page, the story grips you with nail-biting tension and lifts you to euphoric heights. The dialogue is sharp, witty, and unforgettable, sparking belly laughs and wake-up calls. Marvel at a world where gender nonconformity is celebrated and woven into the fabric of life. A world where lofty ambitions, heart-pounding polyrhythms of desire, and selfless sacrifices for love exist right alongside all the hope we can muster. Every character, every idiom, every mouthwatering morsel, every lyric, every melody, every bit of tech is swirling with life and wonder.
Every page of Archangels of Funk is infused with wisdom, hope, and love. The book brims with timeless wisdom: "We become the people we’ve known," "Freedom is the air we breathe together," offering deep, resonant truths. This novel is a testament to Andrea Hairston’s boundless creativity and heartfelt dedication, creating a magical experience that captivates and inspires.
Thank you, Andrea, for conjuring this extraordinary story and for filling our world with your unique magic. Archangels of Funk is a vibrant celebration of life and love, a spellbinding journey that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
May 13, 2024
I requested this one both for the title/cover imagery and the narrator. I love the way January Lavoy handles narration, and always try to choose titles she has narrated - even if they are, like this one, somewhat outside of my typical genre preferences. She has a magical ability to draw me in and to bring a story to life, and that magic is definitely in evidence here.
I don't tend to prefer dystopian or futuristic tales, or things with heavy technological components, both of which are major elements in this story. Yet somehow, the combination of writing and narration blended together here in a way that not only held my attention, but secured it. This is a wholly original, unique tale that takes the reader on a wild adventure into a future full of magic and tech and unlikely sassy saviors. Post-apocalyptic fiction is still not my jam, but this is a take on it that I found fresh and entertaining.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
I don't tend to prefer dystopian or futuristic tales, or things with heavy technological components, both of which are major elements in this story. Yet somehow, the combination of writing and narration blended together here in a way that not only held my attention, but secured it. This is a wholly original, unique tale that takes the reader on a wild adventure into a future full of magic and tech and unlikely sassy saviors. Post-apocalyptic fiction is still not my jam, but this is a take on it that I found fresh and entertaining.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
July 19, 2024
so full of joy and love and shooting stars
April 13, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
DNF 13%.
It almost doesn't seem fair to write a review for this one - I think it just wasn't for me. I had a hard time paying attention, a hard time figuring out who and what was happening. The imagery and inner monologue were beautiful, but after two-ish weeks of forcing myself to read one more page, I admit defeat for the moment.
Perhaps I will pick it up again. Perhaps it will make sense after reading earlier books by this author.
2.5/5 rounded up to 3
DNF 13%.
It almost doesn't seem fair to write a review for this one - I think it just wasn't for me. I had a hard time paying attention, a hard time figuring out who and what was happening. The imagery and inner monologue were beautiful, but after two-ish weeks of forcing myself to read one more page, I admit defeat for the moment.
Perhaps I will pick it up again. Perhaps it will make sense after reading earlier books by this author.
2.5/5 rounded up to 3
March 3, 2024
Archangels of Funk is packed full of great ideas, vivid world building, and lyrical prose that is rhythmic throughout - I would have loved to have seen it in its original theatrical incarnation, which I didn't know about until the acknowledgements. I can really imagine it working well in this format.
As a novel, it felt ambitious and fresh to me. My only quibble is the pacing - the combination of slow plot progression, coupled with very short chapters, meant that this book took me a very long time to read. I found myself dipping in and out, rather than ploughing through in one sitting - and I worry it may have lost some of its impact because of this.
However, when I was reading, the world felt so real and fully fleshed out. I was attached to all of the characters, no matter how minor - and I loved the Bruja and Scout POV chapters. These brought a brilliant perspective, that was so different from the human characters but, as with the rest of the book, bursting with feeling - particularly love.
Thanks to Tor and Edelweiss for the ARC.
As a novel, it felt ambitious and fresh to me. My only quibble is the pacing - the combination of slow plot progression, coupled with very short chapters, meant that this book took me a very long time to read. I found myself dipping in and out, rather than ploughing through in one sitting - and I worry it may have lost some of its impact because of this.
However, when I was reading, the world felt so real and fully fleshed out. I was attached to all of the characters, no matter how minor - and I loved the Bruja and Scout POV chapters. These brought a brilliant perspective, that was so different from the human characters but, as with the rest of the book, bursting with feeling - particularly love.
Thanks to Tor and Edelweiss for the ARC.
June 27, 2024
A funky sci-fi adventure with heart and soul. There’s music and performance and magic and ghost dogs and circus bots and inter-dimensional trees and water spirits and adaptive AI. There’s also love and family and loss and the past and the present and the future. These characters are learning and growing and challenging themselves to be better, despite their fears and their past failures. And most of all, they want to be true to themselves, to honor the ancestors who have guided and protected them, to build the kind of future they want to live in, to trust that those around them truly have their backs.
Honestly, there’s so much going on in this book, I’m not sure I can even describe it. It was almost too much for me at times - I had a hard time following how the tech worked, and which characters were the bots and which were the ghosts of those they’d lost. The festival was the main centerpiece of the book, but as someone who has difficulty picturing things when I read, a lot of those rich descriptions of magical beings and leaping dogs and alien spaceships were lost on me. She described the circus bots so many times, but I still can’t picture what they looked like, and I think that’s part of why I was always getting confused.
I enjoyed the rhythmic flow of the songs/raps everyone was continuously inventing and jumping into, which sort of translated into the audiobook, but I wish they flowed smoother or were more clear about whether it was song or rap or spoken word poetry. I wonder if I would have enjoyed it more if I was reading it and could hear it however I wanted?
My favorite parts of the books were the dogs’ perspectives - I loved seeing what they were focused on and how much their loved everyone who was in their circle, and the lengths they’d go to to protect their people. I just wanted to give them a big hug, ear rub, and all the human food they can eat. Much love to Bruja and Spook!
All in all, I would recommend this one to those who enjoy sci-fi, and specifically Afrofuturism. There was a great blending of cultures, from African to indigenous American to German, etc, and it was fascinating to see those influences play out in a futuristic sci-fi environment. If I had any advice, I’d recommend you first read Hairston’s previous Cinnamon Jones book, set during her teenage years. I didn’t realize this was the second in a sort-of series until I was well into the book, and I wonder if that would have helped me understand it a bit more.
“What is the absolute worst you can imagine?” Indigo asked no one in particular. “Besides losing you all? Making no difference whatsoever to this world or the next,” Cinnamon rasped.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book.
Honestly, there’s so much going on in this book, I’m not sure I can even describe it. It was almost too much for me at times - I had a hard time following how the tech worked, and which characters were the bots and which were the ghosts of those they’d lost. The festival was the main centerpiece of the book, but as someone who has difficulty picturing things when I read, a lot of those rich descriptions of magical beings and leaping dogs and alien spaceships were lost on me. She described the circus bots so many times, but I still can’t picture what they looked like, and I think that’s part of why I was always getting confused.
I enjoyed the rhythmic flow of the songs/raps everyone was continuously inventing and jumping into, which sort of translated into the audiobook, but I wish they flowed smoother or were more clear about whether it was song or rap or spoken word poetry. I wonder if I would have enjoyed it more if I was reading it and could hear it however I wanted?
My favorite parts of the books were the dogs’ perspectives - I loved seeing what they were focused on and how much their loved everyone who was in their circle, and the lengths they’d go to to protect their people. I just wanted to give them a big hug, ear rub, and all the human food they can eat. Much love to Bruja and Spook!
All in all, I would recommend this one to those who enjoy sci-fi, and specifically Afrofuturism. There was a great blending of cultures, from African to indigenous American to German, etc, and it was fascinating to see those influences play out in a futuristic sci-fi environment. If I had any advice, I’d recommend you first read Hairston’s previous Cinnamon Jones book, set during her teenage years. I didn’t realize this was the second in a sort-of series until I was well into the book, and I wonder if that would have helped me understand it a bit more.
“What is the absolute worst you can imagine?” Indigo asked no one in particular. “Besides losing you all? Making no difference whatsoever to this world or the next,” Cinnamon rasped.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book.
May 29, 2024
Audio review: What an interesting book to try to describe. I’d say this is a funky, slice-of-life-ish, hopeful cyberpunk. Hopeful because in the near future after the Water Wars, there is a community bursting with creativity, care, found family and love. In this high tech world where the resources we know now are low there are also haints and spirits and a Boneyard Barron from another universe. The “plot” takes place over a few days when our MCs are trying to prepare for the annual Next World Festival. There are also threats to the community that emerge and drive the book forward.
Overall I was really transported to this community and came to deeply care for it. I was entranced by the writing, especially the dialogue, which often made me feel like I was part of a poetry slam or spoken word performance (possibly especially amplified by January Lavoy’s narration). In some ways Festival is where I was disappointed, because it all felt a bit anti-climactic and was hoping for more on-page pizzazz and magic from the celebration and performances, which were overshadowed by the character goings-on and threats. It’s not a book one gobbles down, but it’s like slowly drinking tea or coffee and being gratified by every sip. I fell in love with Cinnamon, Zaneesha, Spook and Bruja (the latter two are canine friends).
Obviously I’d recommend this for folks who like cyberpunk or post-apocalyptic with high-tech, especially if you don’t want just doom and gloom, but I’d also rec this for the theater kids, artists, poets, funk fans, music fans, or anyone looking for those types of stories that are doing something different and/or influenced by US Southern and African-American culture. I wouldn’t rec this for people who NEED an obvious plot arc or action. I’m rooting for this book to find its audience and curious to see if it ends up on any award nomination lists.
Overall I was really transported to this community and came to deeply care for it. I was entranced by the writing, especially the dialogue, which often made me feel like I was part of a poetry slam or spoken word performance (possibly especially amplified by January Lavoy’s narration). In some ways Festival is where I was disappointed, because it all felt a bit anti-climactic and was hoping for more on-page pizzazz and magic from the celebration and performances, which were overshadowed by the character goings-on and threats. It’s not a book one gobbles down, but it’s like slowly drinking tea or coffee and being gratified by every sip. I fell in love with Cinnamon, Zaneesha, Spook and Bruja (the latter two are canine friends).
Obviously I’d recommend this for folks who like cyberpunk or post-apocalyptic with high-tech, especially if you don’t want just doom and gloom, but I’d also rec this for the theater kids, artists, poets, funk fans, music fans, or anyone looking for those types of stories that are doing something different and/or influenced by US Southern and African-American culture. I wouldn’t rec this for people who NEED an obvious plot arc or action. I’m rooting for this book to find its audience and curious to see if it ends up on any award nomination lists.
May 27, 2024
This is a fun, creative hopepunk story incorporating diverse cultures. I was initially confused about what was happening and which characters were and were not human, but I’m so glad I stuck with it. Be patient and go with the flow and watch the characters and the story unfold.
The characters (human and otherwise) were complex and interesting, and the imagery was vivid. The setting is a dystopian future where economic inequality, environmental problems, and pandemics have caused many people to lose everything, including hope, but Cinnamon Jones and her friends are determined to work together to create a better life. The story includes various mysteries and challenges to be resolved, but the focus is on the characters and their choices more than the plot.
The story is told from multiple points of view, including the dogs and AI circus bots as well as Cinnamon and her friends. I love the ethnic, socioeconomic, religious, gender, and sexual diversity of the characters and watching how they learn to trust each other and work together.
The audiobook production was excellent, and I loved the skillful narration by January LaVoy. She has good pacing and pronunciation, distinctive voices and speech patterns to suit each character, and the ability to convey mood and emotion effectively. Because there’s a musicality to so much of the dialog, it’s wonderful to hear it performed by a talented narrator. I definitely recommend enjoying this story as an audiobook.
I received a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
The characters (human and otherwise) were complex and interesting, and the imagery was vivid. The setting is a dystopian future where economic inequality, environmental problems, and pandemics have caused many people to lose everything, including hope, but Cinnamon Jones and her friends are determined to work together to create a better life. The story includes various mysteries and challenges to be resolved, but the focus is on the characters and their choices more than the plot.
The story is told from multiple points of view, including the dogs and AI circus bots as well as Cinnamon and her friends. I love the ethnic, socioeconomic, religious, gender, and sexual diversity of the characters and watching how they learn to trust each other and work together.
The audiobook production was excellent, and I loved the skillful narration by January LaVoy. She has good pacing and pronunciation, distinctive voices and speech patterns to suit each character, and the ability to convey mood and emotion effectively. Because there’s a musicality to so much of the dialog, it’s wonderful to hear it performed by a talented narrator. I definitely recommend enjoying this story as an audiobook.
I received a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
May 14, 2024
This book was fun and out of this world in so many ways. I've never been on any sort of "trip" but I certainly hope they can be as wildly imaginative as this book played out. This was my first foray into a world crafted by Ms. Hairston and it will certainly not be my last. I was intrigued from beginning to end by the choice of words, the flow of the prose, and how I was able to picture so much of the setting in my mind,
Ms. Cinnamon has a lot on her plate. Not only is she no longer young and spry any more, She has circus-bots, dogs, farmer, motorcycle faeries, and a host of other people circling around her. Each year, she hosts a "Next World Festival which seems to blend the sci-fi with the intrigues of circus acts and music. She is kind in a gruff sort of way, and she has worked to create a community of inclusion which isn't as ruled by greed as the outside world.
I think my only real question is whether this is a stand alone or if it was meant to be part of a series I was unaware. I did feel a bit lost at times thinking I was missing something and wasn't sure if there was a book before this I should have read.
Overall, I think this book could hit some people in all the right places if they are looking for an incredibly diverse cast of characters , family issues, and cultural inclusion. However, for others, there may be a lot going on, so give it a chance and see what you think of this out of this world sci-fi, dystopian, psychedelic festival of new wave traditions.
Ms. Cinnamon has a lot on her plate. Not only is she no longer young and spry any more, She has circus-bots, dogs, farmer, motorcycle faeries, and a host of other people circling around her. Each year, she hosts a "Next World Festival which seems to blend the sci-fi with the intrigues of circus acts and music. She is kind in a gruff sort of way, and she has worked to create a community of inclusion which isn't as ruled by greed as the outside world.
I think my only real question is whether this is a stand alone or if it was meant to be part of a series I was unaware. I did feel a bit lost at times thinking I was missing something and wasn't sure if there was a book before this I should have read.
Overall, I think this book could hit some people in all the right places if they are looking for an incredibly diverse cast of characters , family issues, and cultural inclusion. However, for others, there may be a lot going on, so give it a chance and see what you think of this out of this world sci-fi, dystopian, psychedelic festival of new wave traditions.
June 23, 2024
I was so thrilled to listen to this Afrofuturistic adventure in audiobook form, but it didn't work for me. This is a slice of some future life, a day in the drudgery and disco-funk of a fantastic and motley party. What even happened? I don't know. I'm never sure how to engage with these kinds of texts. This is perhaps speculative at its most real. I kept feeling like ... if only this was a movie ... or a video game ... or virtual reality experience. There's so much description and techno-babble. The narrator does an admirable job of distinguishing who and where, but there's only so much that can be described when it comes to such a variegated and futuristic world. At times, I felt like this was riffing from cinematic games like BioShock and the later offerings in the Fallout series, with random interjections in the form of advertisements and warning beacons and literal shows on stage. At the centre of the narrative is a gigantic bash with roots deep in Afro/Black and of course funk+ culture from the present day and near past. Again, I kept wishing to hear it! To see it! To experience it myself! At the same time, I kept wondering where the story was. Like I said, this type of novel is just not for me, as imaginative as the material is.
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media | Recorded Books for the advance copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and RB Media | Recorded Books for the advance copy.
June 3, 2024
The writing style was not the easiest for me to read, and it was really hard to grasp the world building. In reading the acknowledgments, it seems as if these characters were from another book by the author, so maybe if I had read that first it might have been easier here. It also mentioned that this started as several short stories and that makes sense because the plot felt like it was a lot of random ideas cobbled together but missing some cohesiveness.
The writing is lyrical and poetic, but at times it felt almost abstract and I had a difficult time trying to piece together the meaning. There is a lot of repetition and internal thought which isn’t my fav. Cinnamon (the MC) frequently describes herself as having a motor mouth blather or a story storm taking over her tongue, and unfortunately it’s true bc she rambles on and on which was a lot. Formatting wise it was a bit odd as well - random words would be in all caps or italicized but not consistently and it didn’t seem to be for emphasis either. It was distracting for me.
I appreciate the creative story and characters and while it wasn’t the best fit for me, I’d definitely check out some of the author’s other work. Thanks to @tordotcompub for the gifted copy!
The writing is lyrical and poetic, but at times it felt almost abstract and I had a difficult time trying to piece together the meaning. There is a lot of repetition and internal thought which isn’t my fav. Cinnamon (the MC) frequently describes herself as having a motor mouth blather or a story storm taking over her tongue, and unfortunately it’s true bc she rambles on and on which was a lot. Formatting wise it was a bit odd as well - random words would be in all caps or italicized but not consistently and it didn’t seem to be for emphasis either. It was distracting for me.
I appreciate the creative story and characters and while it wasn’t the best fit for me, I’d definitely check out some of the author’s other work. Thanks to @tordotcompub for the gifted copy!
May 8, 2024
Archangels of Funk by Andrea Hairston and narrated by January LaVoy is an absolutely genius concept. Unique, original, dystopic, speculative sci-fi but with a huge heart
A post-flood world, soceities and cultures fractured. Evil Darknet Lords control the internet, the only source of information outside of the farmers, the Motor Fairies and Wheel Wizards who are trying to protect the refugees from evil gangs of Disruptors and Nostalgia Militia, intent on preying on flood survivors before they can reach safety
Our stunning fmc is Cinnamon, her Dogs (love, love love Bruha and Spook) and circus bots, along with her companions Indigo and Game-Boy and so many more incredible faces and back-stories that are an absolute joy (in most cases) to meet.
The book is genius, multi-faceted, forward thinking and so very, very much to explore and indulge in. Mindboggling concepts but so wonderfully put together to draw light from the destruction of a post-eco-apocalyptic nightmare
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media | Recorded Books the author Andrea HAirston and the narrator January LaVoy for this glorious ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
A post-flood world, soceities and cultures fractured. Evil Darknet Lords control the internet, the only source of information outside of the farmers, the Motor Fairies and Wheel Wizards who are trying to protect the refugees from evil gangs of Disruptors and Nostalgia Militia, intent on preying on flood survivors before they can reach safety
Our stunning fmc is Cinnamon, her Dogs (love, love love Bruha and Spook) and circus bots, along with her companions Indigo and Game-Boy and so many more incredible faces and back-stories that are an absolute joy (in most cases) to meet.
The book is genius, multi-faceted, forward thinking and so very, very much to explore and indulge in. Mindboggling concepts but so wonderfully put together to draw light from the destruction of a post-eco-apocalyptic nightmare
Thank you to Netgalley, RB Media | Recorded Books the author Andrea HAirston and the narrator January LaVoy for this glorious ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
May 28, 2024
Thanks to #Netgally, the author and publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Unfortunately, I didn't finish this book. I was so excited about it based on the synopsis; I love a good dystopian read and January LaVoy is one of my favorite audiobook narrators. It was a bit too all over the place for me, and I had a hard time keeping track of what was happening. The best way I can explain it is that the story was disjointed, in my opinion. The concept was very interesting to me though, I loved the idea of a character trying to keep the memory of the ancestors alive. The execution didn't work for me, however, that could be because I'm not a fan of lyrical/poetic writing outside of music or poetry. I did really enjoy the world building and the character development though! I just couldn't keep track of it all. This one might be a better physical read for me. I'm sure many people will enjoy this one, especially if you've previously read/listened to this author's work.
Unfortunately, I didn't finish this book. I was so excited about it based on the synopsis; I love a good dystopian read and January LaVoy is one of my favorite audiobook narrators. It was a bit too all over the place for me, and I had a hard time keeping track of what was happening. The best way I can explain it is that the story was disjointed, in my opinion. The concept was very interesting to me though, I loved the idea of a character trying to keep the memory of the ancestors alive. The execution didn't work for me, however, that could be because I'm not a fan of lyrical/poetic writing outside of music or poetry. I did really enjoy the world building and the character development though! I just couldn't keep track of it all. This one might be a better physical read for me. I'm sure many people will enjoy this one, especially if you've previously read/listened to this author's work.
May 10, 2024
Loved that this book focused on characters that are often ignored in sci fi.
The narrators jump from character to character but not in a way that distracts or confuses. Cinnamon is queer, black, and an older woman; and 2 of the other narrators are dogs, one of which is a ghost.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I didn't mind the slow pacing, although I do prefer a bit more action. I did find it a little jarring to read about current technology and social media platforms in a post apocalyptic type book.
The narrator of the audiobook also did a great job with differentiating the characters.
There also was a good amount of singing and rapping (lol) and the narrator didn't make me cringe while listening so that was another plus.
3.5/5 rounding up
The narrators jump from character to character but not in a way that distracts or confuses. Cinnamon is queer, black, and an older woman; and 2 of the other narrators are dogs, one of which is a ghost.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I didn't mind the slow pacing, although I do prefer a bit more action. I did find it a little jarring to read about current technology and social media platforms in a post apocalyptic type book.
The narrator of the audiobook also did a great job with differentiating the characters.
There also was a good amount of singing and rapping (lol) and the narrator didn't make me cringe while listening so that was another plus.
3.5/5 rounding up
May 25, 2024
This is a dystopian fantasy that follows a girl on the run and is threatened by the Darknet Lords. This book was easy to get into but very confusing to understand. The storyline wasn’t bad but it was a bit too chaotic. If the world-building was more introduced in the beginning, it would be a bit easier to understand but I felt things were being thrown into the story throughout the book. I did enjoy the main character, Cinnamon, and how she was badass. I liked her development in the story and seeing her grow throughout the book. The side characters were interesting and made the story enjoyable. Overall not a bad book but it would have been more enjoyable if I understood the world a bit more.
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
May 28, 2024
I was interested in this from the title alone, and that we get to focus on what is essentially a post apocalyptic solarpunk traveling circus and the story of a woman's redemption and her trying to pass on her anarchist leanings in the wreck of a world that's been destroyed by corporate greed. There may be a few times you cringe at the earnestness, but learning in the afterword that some of these began as sketches for theater plays, it makes it make a bit more contextual sense. The core story is a lot more formed as compared to the other book of hers that I read, and is rooted in a realistic, socialist, black centric future, even if it's making the best out of a dystopia. This is absolutely a novel based in needing to do the work and community survival that we saw starting to come out of Covid, and it was a great read for that.
May 12, 2024
Post apocalyptic slow burn sci-fi.
This flows a bunch of different people over a couple of days. Which kind of made for a very slow burn book. But the commentary on technology and different companies from so many different POVs was pretty cool. I was expecting more action but if you go in knowing it’s quite slow and takes a minute to figure out who everyone is it good.
Excellent narrator
Thanks to netgalley and recorded books for an alc.
This flows a bunch of different people over a couple of days. Which kind of made for a very slow burn book. But the commentary on technology and different companies from so many different POVs was pretty cool. I was expecting more action but if you go in knowing it’s quite slow and takes a minute to figure out who everyone is it good.
Excellent narrator
Thanks to netgalley and recorded books for an alc.
July 28, 2024
Andrea Hairston is a friend, and one I feel especially lucky to know. I loved her newest book, as I expected to, having loved the two previous books in this family saga (which is not done yet). As those who know me will expect, I always love stories about creating community, especially in the face of exploitive forces. Archangels of Funk does this brilliantly, and without ever papering over how hard it is. The "funk" in the title is brilliant, because it refers both to the music and to the protagonist's state of mind for most of the novel: Cinnamon Jones is in a funk.
I haven't read much fiction, especially speculative fiction, which spotlights characters going through the motions, shoring up something they used to believe in and wish they could still believe in, acting like a leader when their heart and soul is curled up under the covers. Hairston does that beautifully, and one of the reasons it works is that Cinnamon is surrounded by both people that love her and people that believe in her even when she can't find her own truth. I said that Cinnamon is the protagonist--and she is--but she's far from the only important character, and certainly not the only viewpoint character.
I also appreciate that the troublemakers, the obstacles, are human and flawed and often likable. When Tatyana, Cinnamon's ex-sweetheart, appears out of her troubled past, Cinnamon is not happy to see her, not ready to embrace her, but we as readers soon see that the situation is more complicated, and that reconciliation will at least be possible. Similarly, Jerome, who is reluctant to embrace, let alone raise, his young daughter Zaneesha, is not written as a villain, but a man with his own problems and his own reasons.
Another way the book won me over is that I am generally very resistant to fiction from an animal's point of view, and this book has not one but two dogs--Spook and Bruja--who tell their parts of the story. They are cyber-enhanced, which gets me past some of my objections, but they are also really doggy, and often less interested in narrating than in finding food, following an interesting smell, or getting some rest--which makes them really delightful.
The cyber-enhanced dogs are a part of the science-fictional frame of the book. A good deal of the action circles around bots, machines with distinct personalities (often based on deceased people, such as Cinnamon's elders), who are part of the community and--like the dogs--have agency in moving the plot forward.
If you love community-building, if you love world-building, if you're already a Hairston fan, this is for you. If you're not already a fan, start with Redwood and Wildfire and trace this family back a couple of generations first.
I haven't read much fiction, especially speculative fiction, which spotlights characters going through the motions, shoring up something they used to believe in and wish they could still believe in, acting like a leader when their heart and soul is curled up under the covers. Hairston does that beautifully, and one of the reasons it works is that Cinnamon is surrounded by both people that love her and people that believe in her even when she can't find her own truth. I said that Cinnamon is the protagonist--and she is--but she's far from the only important character, and certainly not the only viewpoint character.
I also appreciate that the troublemakers, the obstacles, are human and flawed and often likable. When Tatyana, Cinnamon's ex-sweetheart, appears out of her troubled past, Cinnamon is not happy to see her, not ready to embrace her, but we as readers soon see that the situation is more complicated, and that reconciliation will at least be possible. Similarly, Jerome, who is reluctant to embrace, let alone raise, his young daughter Zaneesha, is not written as a villain, but a man with his own problems and his own reasons.
Another way the book won me over is that I am generally very resistant to fiction from an animal's point of view, and this book has not one but two dogs--Spook and Bruja--who tell their parts of the story. They are cyber-enhanced, which gets me past some of my objections, but they are also really doggy, and often less interested in narrating than in finding food, following an interesting smell, or getting some rest--which makes them really delightful.
The cyber-enhanced dogs are a part of the science-fictional frame of the book. A good deal of the action circles around bots, machines with distinct personalities (often based on deceased people, such as Cinnamon's elders), who are part of the community and--like the dogs--have agency in moving the plot forward.
If you love community-building, if you love world-building, if you're already a Hairston fan, this is for you. If you're not already a fan, start with Redwood and Wildfire and trace this family back a couple of generations first.
June 1, 2024
3.5 upped to 4
It's a good novel, thought provoking and entertaining at the same time.
It deals with plenty of serious characters and I appreciated world building and characters
My only note: the pace is uneven as it can be very fast or very slow.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's a good novel, thought provoking and entertaining at the same time.
It deals with plenty of serious characters and I appreciated world building and characters
My only note: the pace is uneven as it can be very fast or very slow.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
June 4, 2024
Archangels of Funk had such a fantastic premise and so much potential, but ultimately I viewed it as a bit of a missed opportunity. I may have missed a lot because I did not realize that there was an earlier book, and that this is a series! So, I will read the first book and report back if my opinion changes.
May 7, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Publishing for this amazing opportunity! This book is available TODAY!
Firstly this was a gritty and hard hitting scifi novel. It is complex and engaging. Cinnamon is one heck of a main character. I enjoyed this book very much
Firstly this was a gritty and hard hitting scifi novel. It is complex and engaging. Cinnamon is one heck of a main character. I enjoyed this book very much
May 14, 2024
Even though this was a slow read, I couldn’t help but absolutely love it. The world building is fantastic. The writing was absolutely phenomenal. I was immediately sucked into the story. And I couldn’t have imagined a better narrator for this audiobook. All of it was absolutely amazing.
May 14, 2024
What a cool and unique new post apocalyptic world this author created, centered around a 50 something woman named Cinnamon. She’s a really awesome character. I love that this book had different genders and relationships and nationalities in it and nobody cared. And two of the best dogs ever!!
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