Melvin Burgess’s “BLOODSONG” is deeply compelling as well as imaginative and thought provoking. In this story, Melvin combines mythology, and science fiction, with magic, and humour.

Sigurd son of King Sigmund is destined to kill Fafnir, a man who gradually transformed himself into a mighty technological dragon. Using the dust of Odin’s knife, Regin an accomplice of Sigurd will forge a sword that will be powerful enough to cut through Fafnir’s impenetrable scale armour. From here the adventure begins as they set out across Britain to slay the beast.

“BLOODSONG” unlike most fiction books, manages to combine science fiction with the mythological aspects very well. Never does one aspect over power the other. Instead you are caught up in this apocalyptic world, full of mythological beasts and mighty technological machines, which entwine and really drag the reader in. However, unless you have some general knowledge of mythological Gods, an interest in fantasy/science fiction, and enjoy bizarre concepts where horses are built using allow and electronics, “BLOODSONG” may not be for you.

Overall for any science fiction loving, fantasy dwelling reader, “BLOODSONG” is a definite purchase. You will be brought into the manic world of mythological cyborgs, whilst stepping the steps Sigurd takes on his quest to slay the technologically advanced dragon Fafnir.