Just Finished Reading: The Last Stand of the DNA Cowboys by Mick Farren

How could I resist reading a book with such a great title?

In the far, far future fate throws back together three friends separated by circumstance. Reave Mekonta, Billy Oblivion and The Minstrel Boy make up the legendary DNA Cowboys - a group with origins shrouded in mystery and with past exploits exaggerated out of all proportion. Each is horrified to find that they must live up to their reputations as they travel across the Damaged World in search of sanctuary, alcohol and pliant women. Unfortunately for them the Universe and an army of vicious killers have other ideas.

Firstly I have to say that this was a seriously strange book. It took a little to get into but once you get settled into the world Farren has created you realise just how truly odd it is. This book really messes with your head – in a good way. It actually reminded me of Michael Moorcock at his best. It was off the wall, violent, funny and sexy and often all four at the same time. It made me smile a lot and laugh out loud on more than one occasion. I particularly loved the pop-culture references that other characters just didn’t ‘get’.

Weird geography, strange science, wonderful technology (in particular 'Stuff Central') coupled with rich characterisation and a great sense of twisted humour – oh, and the odd song or two. Recommended for anyone who wants to expand their mind without the use of chemical stimulants.