I�m not too sure what to say about this short novel. If I was back home with a larger selection of science fiction I definitely would never have given this apparently young adult novel a chance, but as it is I don�t have those opportunities, and I did give it a chance. In the context of the mid 70s young adult pulp sci fi criteria I suppose this book admirably entertained while providing enough action to hold my attention. But intellectually this novel is completely worthless. Strangler�s Moon is the second book in the Family d�Alembert series. It follows the exploits of the Galactic Empire�s two most top secret agents, as they smash intergalactic conspiracies, and live it up James Bond style. This story follows Jules and Yvette d�Ambert, the ex-circus performer brother and sister duo, as they travel to Vesa, think Vegas, and unravel a plot by a veritable hoard of murderers and thieves.
The book is for the most part ridiculous. The characters are two-dimensional, the plot is thin, and the dialogue is horrendous. But the predictable simplicity and the lighthearted action make the book somehow manageable. Its almost like watching a schlock horror or sci fi film. You know its bad, but you enjoy it because its so over the top. Even in the 70s I can�t imagine kids really finding this very stimulating fare. Perhaps the length compensates for the weaknesses of the book. At only 150 pages this book was simple to blast through, and I�m sure easier to forget. I can�t say I�d recommend this one, unless you�re in the mood for pulpy nonsense. Stranglers� Moon was nothing if not absurd and clich�d, yes fun at times, but so very very silly.
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