MONSTER ISLAND proves there is power in collaboration. Here, we have two amazing authors, Christopher Golden and Thomas E. Sniegoski, join forces to tackle a Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Angel crossover of epic proportions.The novel has amazing character interaction. It met and exceeded my expectations for crossover meetings, be they reunions or first impressions. I especially enjoyed how well Fred and Tara got along. They almost instantly connect and their newfound friendship continues throughout the story while others comment on the wackiness that is them.
The authors certainly did their research when it comes to the monsters that have been on both shows before. Many familiar faces or races of demons appeared. The descriptions of those who were established on the series are accurate; the details of the new breeds the writers invented are imaginative and creative.
Anything with a wide array of characters, be it a book, a television series or a film, has to be handled very carefully so as not to confuse the readers and viewers. Golden and Sniegoski delicately balance the plotlines and give fan-favorite characters equal facetime. Not only do they incorporate the time-honored story of good versus evil, but they utilize issues that have been everpresent on both shows: ill-meaning father figures, abusive pasts, soul-searching, morality and mortality.
The story is engaging and the final battle is tremendous. I highly recommend this novel to any and all fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel. Two thumbs way up.
Or, if you are a monster, two horns or two fangs up.
Monster Island doesnt have a Historians note but from the story, I would say it is set at the beginning part of Season Six of Buffy and Season Three of Angel.One of the best highlights of Monster Island is that it is a crossover series AND it successfully brings the on screen characters from two different series, who have never or rarely interacted into a context that works. The chemistry is great and you get to see how each of the Sunnydale Gang would work with the LA Crew. Fred and Taras interaction is great as is the Buffy/Angel/Spike sparks that hint in later Season Six and Buffy and Gunns interaction. The book also hints at Willows magic increasing in power. In Monster Island, Giles, Dawn and Anya play minor roles so dont expect to see much from there.
The basic plot is interesting as it draws on old Buffyverse history and Angel history. The authors certainly know their demons as the book makes numerous references to seen demons as well as introducing new ones.The most interesting reference is probably Doyles father and the plot of the Nazi-demon concept is brought into again but on a much larger scale.
Definitely a good read for those wondering what would ever happen if Sunnydale met LA.
Monsterific
A Book of Buffy and Angel Goodness (plus some monsters!)
Good start, boring finish