All the Castles Burned

All the Castles Burned explores what it means to be young and in love. Michael Nye’s novel puts a dark spin on typical experiences of infatuation, touching on themes of obsession, manipulation, and unwavering loyalty. The book opens with Owen Webb, a lower-middle-class freshman on scholarship at a prestigious private school in Cincinnati. Owen is approached by an upperclassman by the name of Carson Bly, and the two become close friends through a mutual love of basketball. However, Owen’s affection for Carson quickly turns to obsession once he is exposed to his friend’s wealthy lifestyle. Nye’s book illustrates the kind of influence wealth, status, and tumultuous home lives can have on young boys.

For me, Nye’s novel sat firmly at three stars. I found myself invested in the emotions and choices of the characters; I was sympathetic toward good guys and bad guys alike. Though I wouldn’t pick it up again, it would make one excellent beach read for someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. All the Castles Burned is a novel to lose oneself in; Nye’s story is escapism at its finest.