BOOK REVIEW: The Borealis Queen (Henry Guard)

 

The Borealis Queen is a delightful read that exceeded my expectations. It follows Nin's transformation into the Borealis Queen.

Yes, there are some possible plot holes that raise my eyebrows and knock half a star for me, I still round it up. Although they significantly distracted me, fortunately, the rest of the book still makes up for them. For example, why would two prisoners have access to her weapon before her battle when the enemies know well what she is capable of? The other prisoner, access to her scout? The timeline of the princess's capture and how her tribe has sort of recovered within a short period of time. The powerful and conveniently forgotten sling through some moments like Artko's distraction and final square off?

Besides that, it's a very well-written and enjoyable book. When an enemy is conquered, others arise, keeping the readers on their toes. Although many prominent characters are introduced along the way, they each hold their own and are distinctive, leaving their own marks in the story. The story is fast-paced and very imaginative. The battles are great, vivid, and I feel like I'm there with them.

It's a very enjoyable read and worth every minute.

5 out of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW: A Quick Spin Around the Galaxy (J.A. Freely)

I had my own quick spin around the galaxy by reading this book. It introduces itself in the beginning as a non-fiction, a statement that gets better and better as the book goes on. We start by meeting one of the most unremarkable humans (although I’d admit he would make a better candidate than me, even in the beginning, as I would just suggest, “Do it, but do it quickly, please.”

The beginning feels a bit clunky to me, and I was afraid I had to suffer through the mediocre, predictable jokes, excessive name-calling (literal), and poopy burritos. However, I was pleasantly surprised because apparently, I care about the whales, too.

After the initial nitty-gritty before the journey, it became a treat to read the book and the plethora of imaginations and nostrils that come with it. It genuinely drew laughs and smiles from me, and the author does a good job inserting real messages without being patronizing, preachy, or cliché.

While I, a sadist, would love to see how Jake probably faces with ‘nothing’ back on earth at the end, with no one acknowledging his effort with his possible new tin foil Youtube channel and three subscribers, I think the story ends in a good note.

I’m still unsure what is going on in Nimpossipho with all the ice cream, but pass me the road-kill stew, please, as I’d love to recommend the quick spin and its exquisite cuisines.

5 out of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW: Children of Jotunheim (Mehmet Caliskan)

 

Children of Jotunheim explores an idea that is a reflection of many aspects in real life. It's not unique, as there have been many books and stories that touch this subject. The presentation, however, is unusual. It reads more like a detailed exploration and expedition report that stretches throughout time. While there is a standout character, most of the books stay away from it, as if we readers observe the situation from far.

The ideas and plot, especially about how the colonization is revealed, are intriguing. Personally, I think it would be much more powerful if the book were more immersive, if the readers experienced all this from a character's point of view and were more involved, attached, and conflicted. It might not be the author's intention for the book, but I can't help but think how much potential it has and how stronger the story and message would be.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. It just goes away very fast and feels detached to me. I wish to have a more immersive reading experience, as I love the idea and the world-building.

4 out of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW: Afterlife (Ed Morawski)

 

I rounded up my rating to 5 stars, but not because the book is without flaws. In fact, I can list them, but I can also explain the rating in this review. 

Afterlife is an acquired taste. It touches on sensitive subjects and is very daring in exploring the topic. I have read multiple books from this author, and one thing remains consistent: there is always a burst of creativity and original ideas. Ed always prods deeper into unusual topics and delivers them with a bang.

The best part of this book is the first half, when readers learn about the reality of this dystopian society and when some characters go with their diabolical plan. Although I wish it were explored more, at least we learn things about these characters and their motivations. The intricate and grim society builds up to why this diabolical plan is necessary. Readers are left to decide whether the road to hell is really paved with good intentions, or the heaven on earth is built on blood and sacrifices. It’s intriguing, and the question I love to explore myself since I write in this genre as well.

The events before the ending are the weakest part, imho, where the suspension of belief has to be strong, and I admit it almost knocks a star off, but the ending itself is conclusive and probably provokes many potential close-minded readers, but it’s refreshingly unapologetic.

Overall, this is a read up to my alley. I finished it in less than a day, and if you are looking for something daring and original, I’d recommend this book.

5 out of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW: The Eye of Ebon (P. Pherson Green)

 

 

The Eye of Ebon is a rich fantasy with two strong women as the main protagonists, navigating in a world dominated by men to fulfill their purposes and duties.

The author has woven a beautifully written story that promises many adventures to come. It doesn’t shy away from heavy subjects and intricate world-building. Readers are introduced to one of the main characters, Samiare, through the darkest moment of her life, which is very powerful.

I understand this is the first book of many, and there is much more to discover. Book One provides a complete story on its own. Almost. However, I think it’s missing an important bookend, Nechare. From something so prominent in the beginning, it dwindles down and disappears to nothing in the end. It doesn’t need to be resolved, but a reminder about an oath, something that is felt so strongly by the character. Samiare’s struggles and resilience in the beginning make her very intriguing. However, as the book progresses, we barely see that side of her anymore, and she unfortunately becomes less three-dimensional. The battles also feel repetitive after a few times.

Having said that, overall, this is an enjoyable book. It’s beautifully written, and there are too many characters to keep track of at times, but it will pay off over the course of the series.

4 out of 5 stars

 

BOOK REVIEW: The Millennial and the King (Miriam Schwellnus)

 

The Millennial and the King is not the book I thought it would be. From the title, it could be an awesome fantasy. When I found out about the actual content, I was ready as well.

As a late Gen-Xer, I can relate to the time period. Although Michael Jackson was not at the top of my preferences, I had one of his albums, which says a lot for a broke teenager who could only afford a few cassette tapes throughout the years. The quality of his music was mostly undeniable, and he was the greatest showman.

The book starts out great, but unfortunately, it goes downhill halfway for me. I like the parallel and how the author relates to her experience in life and as a fan. It was on par at first, but the book drags on for too long, making it feel forced and out of focus as it gets into 200+ pages. The out-of-focus is the one that doesn’t do it well for me. I think I’d be more prepared if this were categorized as part of an autobiography, because it focuses much more on the author. There are many relevant ones (and they are good), but there are many distracting ones that contribute nothing to the ‘plot.’ It makes me forget what I was reading. The author herself acknowledges this, but I have to agree with the unnamed beta readers. Two boring books are not a good option, but one solid, compact one is much better. I draw the number from the air, but maybe 35% of the book can be streamlined. The Screenplay chapter is an unnecessary filler, especially because it’s a mock screenplay. The first AI interview was okay; it tells many unspoken feelings, but the second one, although the last part is a good way to end the book, is also a very questionable filler, in my humble opinion. It blurs the facts and fiction. I’m not sure what the message is here. The other one that is absolutely out of focus is the political rants. Does the book really need this? Again, it distracts too much and weighs on the credibility, which is a pity because I’m sure a lot of efforts were put into making this.

Having said that, others might enjoy the book more. I admire the research, the sources, the details, and the experience of reliving the time again. It is nostalgic, and I reminisce about my own experience. That is the best part of this book. It is also raw and honest, which I appreciate.

3 out of 5 stars

BOOK REVIEW: Bird Streets Vampire Murders (Ed Morawski)

 

This is a creative book, and it quickly pulls my attention from the start. There are many characters, but almost all of them are distinctive enough. We follow the story from the main protagonist, Janice, who investigates bizarre murders after joining her new team. Unfortunately, some of the victims are famous, which escalates the situation and media attention.

I enjoy how this book doesn’t bother in being politically correct, and it’s both strange and cliché in a certain way. Although the revelation comes late into the book, it doesn’t frustrate me because it’s interesting along the way. My only but main complaint is the ending. It’s front-heavy with a lightning speed ending. While I don’t have any problem with how the plot is solved, it feels very rushed, and the best part is only fleshed out in a few pages. No spoiler here, but I’d love to see more of the catastrophe and the days leading to it. I can’t help but feel that the author wants to wrap it up and get it over and done, and it’s such a waste after all the build-up.

Then again, I don’t think this book is meant to be taken too seriously, after all, it’s a satire. There are many great details and interesting information along the way, including unusual characters’ behavior.

If you enjoy fast-paced mystery crime thriller with a touch of paranormal, try this book.

5 out of 5 stars