Semi Finalist

Assessment:

Plot/Idea: A Measure of Rhyme transports readers to a version of present-day Israel, where political and personal ambitions are further complicated by the appearance of the Antichrist, along with reincarnations of his friends and foes; heart-pounding and darkly hilarious, readers will not want to put it down, and the fate of the characters rests on the next in the series. 

Prose: Fast-paced and action-packed, the novel's prose is beautifully written and peppered with stunning lyrical passages, providing a good balance between action, drama, and a surprisingly heavy dose of humor. The novel is mostly told in third person, but Emery's chapters pivot to first-person. 

Originality: The complexities of the plot make A Measure of Rhyme feel truly unique, especially in the thoughtful and nuanced ways Jeffries depicts Christian, Israeli Jewish, and Muslim political/religious conflicts in Israel, while also injecting total irreverence in a darkly funny way.

Character/Execution: A Measure of Rhyme features a huge, complex network of characters, many of whom are manifestations of biblical characters (who, in the world of the novel, are essentially immortal and pop up at different points of history). There are times when the sheer scope of characters feels overwhelming, and some readers may find that familiarity with the biblical figures' background will help them grasp the story's nuances. Emery is a standout, with reliable interiority that allows readers to experience firsthand his addictions, emotions, and the levity that his constant running commentary provides, and Vince and Lenny's intrusions are especially delightful.

Blurb: A sweeping tale of Biblical figures, politicians, and secret agents, A Measure of Rhyme follows Rhyme Carter Emery Merrick, former lovers who team up to combat the Antichrist, who has been meddling in Israeli politics. 

Blurb: A sweeping tale of biblical figures, politicians, and secret agents, A Measure of Rhyme follows Rhyme Carter and Emery Merrick, former lovers who team up to combat the Antichrist, who has been meddling in Israeli politics. 

Date Submitted: June 07, 2023