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Chronicles of Fu Xi #1
Black Sea Gods
The fish have disappeared from the sea. The animals have vanished from the land. All humanity, and even the gods, tremble under the specter of a pending cataclysm. The demigod Fu Xi races home from the edge of the world bringing news of a looming god war, but finds his land under attack by monsters he once called his children. He discovers a terrible curse has been cast, one intended to destroy the gods and all life. To his shock, Fu Xi learns mankind’s hope rest solely on him, a simple fisherman and a banished slave girl.
Beset on all sides, Fu Xi knows he must act quickly and races west to rescue the saviors. Unaware of the real doom that awaits, Aizarg the fisherman and his party begin a perilous journey across a dangerous steppe. They seek the last of the Narim, the legendary Black Sea Gods, who hold the key to their salvation. Leading them is the rescued slave girl Sarah, the only one among them who knows the path to the land of the god-men.
Over seven days the defining struggle of gods and humans begins under the onslaught of a powerful force whose true objective and origin remain a mystery. Fu Xi knows the secret to victory resides in a fisherman and a slave girl, whose lives he must protect, even if it means the rest of the world must perish.
***
BLACK SEA GODS transforms recently re-discovered Black Sea legends, possibly the root of all Eurasian mythology, with ancient Chinese mythology to create an unprecedented epic fantasy series.
Beset on all sides, Fu Xi knows he must act quickly and races west to rescue the saviors. Unaware of the real doom that awaits, Aizarg the fisherman and his party begin a perilous journey across a dangerous steppe. They seek the last of the Narim, the legendary Black Sea Gods, who hold the key to their salvation. Leading them is the rescued slave girl Sarah, the only one among them who knows the path to the land of the god-men.
Over seven days the defining struggle of gods and humans begins under the onslaught of a powerful force whose true objective and origin remain a mystery. Fu Xi knows the secret to victory resides in a fisherman and a slave girl, whose lives he must protect, even if it means the rest of the world must perish.
***
BLACK SEA GODS transforms recently re-discovered Black Sea legends, possibly the root of all Eurasian mythology, with ancient Chinese mythology to create an unprecedented epic fantasy series.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2013
14 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Brian Braden
7 books39 followersI'm a retired military officer . My articles are featured in a variety of defense magazines and websites, to include the Military Times and Air Power Journal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 13, 2013
I thought at first Black Sea Gods was YA literature because it came unsolicited to my inbox and my blog features MG/YA lit. It is not. But it is an exquisitely crafted story, a unique blending of the author's own mythology and a well-known Bible story. But before you classify this as Christian lit, it is not, for the same reasons it is not children's lit. There's a smattering of profanity, brutality that can get a little gruesome, some sexuality, and a great deal of fiction added to the biblical account. But I am a conservative reader, and nothing in the book felt over-the-top.
The story features the Lo, the people of the sea, and their hero, Aizarg. It reminded me greatly of the legends of Native American heroes such as Hiawatha who rise to the challenge of the quests set before them. I loved the dynamic culture Braden creates for this ancient people. And I especially enjoyed the poetry with which he writes. Consider a few of my favorite quotes (which also serve to illuminate some of the book's themes):
"There is no forgiveness without sacrifice, and the price of forgiveness is always blood."
"The unknown is a pit. If we see the bottom, we fill it with our hopes. If we see blackness, we feed it our fears."
"The day when the gods finally weep for the woes of mortals, the world will drown in our tears."
Beautiful stuff, isn't it? The whole book is a treat. I read it in just two sittings.
The story features the Lo, the people of the sea, and their hero, Aizarg. It reminded me greatly of the legends of Native American heroes such as Hiawatha who rise to the challenge of the quests set before them. I loved the dynamic culture Braden creates for this ancient people. And I especially enjoyed the poetry with which he writes. Consider a few of my favorite quotes (which also serve to illuminate some of the book's themes):
"There is no forgiveness without sacrifice, and the price of forgiveness is always blood."
"The unknown is a pit. If we see the bottom, we fill it with our hopes. If we see blackness, we feed it our fears."
"The day when the gods finally weep for the woes of mortals, the world will drown in our tears."
Beautiful stuff, isn't it? The whole book is a treat. I read it in just two sittings.
May 6, 2013
Black Sea Gods by Brian L. Braden is an excellent action packed adventure that will keep your heart racing from cover to cover. It is nonstop and I love the “Ah-ha” ending.
The storyline is very well developed and flows seamlessly from one twist to another. It was easy to follow and keep up with the themes as the story developed. The story was very believable and I found it easy to identify with. I always like a story I can follow along and put myself in as an unseen character.
Brian L. Braden did and great job with character development. The characters where very believable and real, which made it easy to identify with them. I like the way he made the lead character and hero human with all the normal self-doubts and internal worries.
I really enjoyed reading Black Sea Gods by Brian L. Braden and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
The storyline is very well developed and flows seamlessly from one twist to another. It was easy to follow and keep up with the themes as the story developed. The story was very believable and I found it easy to identify with. I always like a story I can follow along and put myself in as an unseen character.
Brian L. Braden did and great job with character development. The characters where very believable and real, which made it easy to identify with them. I like the way he made the lead character and hero human with all the normal self-doubts and internal worries.
I really enjoyed reading Black Sea Gods by Brian L. Braden and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
May 31, 2013
Brian Braden creates a world that is based on age-old myths. The plot and characters kept me reading, but it is the background of the story, the nuances that your average reader will probably not even pick up on, that really make the book. Brian's knowledge of history and myth is in-depth and awe-inspiring, and he weaves his knowledge into an epic fantasy world that anyone will appreciate, even those who don't normally tend towards world-building fiction.
Black Sea Gods is an epic fantasy to put on your must-read list. The plot will keep you turning the pages, the world is wild and unpredictable and the characters run the gamut from despicable to loveable. This is a book that will stay on your mind long after you read the last page.
Black Sea Gods is an epic fantasy to put on your must-read list. The plot will keep you turning the pages, the world is wild and unpredictable and the characters run the gamut from despicable to loveable. This is a book that will stay on your mind long after you read the last page.
April 7, 2013
Aizarg and Levidi, two Lo Nation fisherman, are out stalking through the marshes one day when they notice something strange. There are no flies or mosquitoes biting them. The fish they hunt are gone, and all the animals are leaving. The Lo people nervously call a Council meeting together when they realize their livelihoods will vanish with the fish, and their families will starve. They fear something has angered the gods and goddesses of nature, and they need to figure out what it is...and fix it, if possible. At Council, it's decided that a team of clan and spirit-leaders--including Aizarg and Levidi--will venture into the grasslands and risk their lives to seek the wisdom of the immortals known as Narim.
In the meantime, Fu Xi arrives home from his journeys all over the world to find that chaos has ensued--the primitives he once tried to civilize (known as Ice Men) have savagely cannibalized his village. He immediately seeks the counsel of his mother, the goddess Nuwa, to find out why, and she reveals that the world is being punished by the Celestial Emperor due to the sins of the gods, goddesses and fallen mortals. Can Fu Xi, Aizarg and his clan somehow change the heart of the Divine, or will they perish with the rest of the world?
Braden's BLACK SEA GODS is a tale that blends Chinese folklore with the Biblical account of the Nephilite giants. The literary undertaking is nothing less than epic, here, but I don't feel the author has "bitten off more than he can chew." I found the two ancient stories blending quite well together. There might have been a tad too much complexity, especially with the author's use of terms like g'an and sco-lo-ti and patesi-le. Combined with names like Levidi, Aizarg, Setenay, Ood-i, etc, I frequently got confused. However, I'm a relatively new reader of epic fantasies and find that the names associated with different peoples and worlds is what makes fantasy "fantasy." So take me with a grain of salt on that.
Braden has crafted scenes with vivid detail, almost too much at times that it slows the pacing. But overall, the novel is packed with so much adventure, gore and tension that the reader will gnaw nails (I lost two) and find the images lingering long after finishing the book. Also, it's important to note the narrative is written from several points-of-view, and I found Fu Xi's voice particularly unique. His italicized Chronicles are so crisply poetic that I'd go back and re-read them for the beauty of the prose.
Fantasy fans will love BLACK SEA GODS, and I look forward to Book II in the series. Highly recommended. [review to appear on tarastaley.com]
In the meantime, Fu Xi arrives home from his journeys all over the world to find that chaos has ensued--the primitives he once tried to civilize (known as Ice Men) have savagely cannibalized his village. He immediately seeks the counsel of his mother, the goddess Nuwa, to find out why, and she reveals that the world is being punished by the Celestial Emperor due to the sins of the gods, goddesses and fallen mortals. Can Fu Xi, Aizarg and his clan somehow change the heart of the Divine, or will they perish with the rest of the world?
Braden's BLACK SEA GODS is a tale that blends Chinese folklore with the Biblical account of the Nephilite giants. The literary undertaking is nothing less than epic, here, but I don't feel the author has "bitten off more than he can chew." I found the two ancient stories blending quite well together. There might have been a tad too much complexity, especially with the author's use of terms like g'an and sco-lo-ti and patesi-le. Combined with names like Levidi, Aizarg, Setenay, Ood-i, etc, I frequently got confused. However, I'm a relatively new reader of epic fantasies and find that the names associated with different peoples and worlds is what makes fantasy "fantasy." So take me with a grain of salt on that.
Braden has crafted scenes with vivid detail, almost too much at times that it slows the pacing. But overall, the novel is packed with so much adventure, gore and tension that the reader will gnaw nails (I lost two) and find the images lingering long after finishing the book. Also, it's important to note the narrative is written from several points-of-view, and I found Fu Xi's voice particularly unique. His italicized Chronicles are so crisply poetic that I'd go back and re-read them for the beauty of the prose.
Fantasy fans will love BLACK SEA GODS, and I look forward to Book II in the series. Highly recommended. [review to appear on tarastaley.com]
April 16, 2014
I would like to thank Brian Braden for providing me this book in exchange of my honest review.
This story reigns in the time when all humanity and even the gods are threatened to tremble under the specter of a pending cataclysm. It is a kind of apocalyptic fantasy based on mythology and is inspired from a well known tale from the bible.
The future depends on a demigod Fu Xi, who is forced to see his land under attack by his own children. It was fun how the adventure unravels from here, where a mere fisherman (Aizarg) and a slave girl are brought together with Fu Xi to save mankind. In my opinion it wasn’t a great epic story as I wanted it to be, the story did not overcome my expectations and was a somewhat disappointment. Though it was a engaging read and I want others to give it a try and have their own opinion about it.
This story reigns in the time when all humanity and even the gods are threatened to tremble under the specter of a pending cataclysm. It is a kind of apocalyptic fantasy based on mythology and is inspired from a well known tale from the bible.
The future depends on a demigod Fu Xi, who is forced to see his land under attack by his own children. It was fun how the adventure unravels from here, where a mere fisherman (Aizarg) and a slave girl are brought together with Fu Xi to save mankind. In my opinion it wasn’t a great epic story as I wanted it to be, the story did not overcome my expectations and was a somewhat disappointment. Though it was a engaging read and I want others to give it a try and have their own opinion about it.
November 17, 2014
EPIC! Braden weaves a fantastical journey through the land of tall men and ice men, a world abandoned by the gods where Fu Xi, the immortal, walks among men. His tale is one of mythological proportions, an entire philosophy and religion built from the ground up, reminding often of Frank Herbert's Dune but with elements of Greek mythos. Very well written and deserves its a place among mythology.
November 7, 2013
Wow. My mind is blown.
I stated in my comments while reading Black Sea Gods that I loved the prehistory aspect. Masterfully done, and it totally set me up for a spectacular surprise. This huge reveal is handled with immaculate care and attention to detail, the lack, or misshandling of which could have caused this story to collapse like a delicate souffle. It did not collapse. It delivered the good in what I am sure will be one of the most memorable surprise reveals that has ever been pulled over on me.
My hat is off to Brian Braden for keeping me enthralled throughout and taking me on an adventure that I never expected.
I loved the characters, they built up wonderfully and carried me on their shoulders through their harrowing journey. Aizarg had a depth of warmth and goodness in him that amounted to nothing short of holy. Just reading of him raised my own spirit. He is one of many characters that are deeply and lovingly rendered. They make the reader feel, and experience their tribulations right beside them.
I experienced a bit of seperation from Fu Xi, but then he's not really human, is he? Brian Braden captured this aspect of the character very well. We see how he is different, how he perceives the world in a very unique fashion. We can emphasise with him enough to feel his pain and his joy, but he stands out for what he is.
I also pointed out in my comments how much this reminded me of classic works by Edgar Rice Burroughs. That's no easy task. I suspect is was not intentional, and Burroughs almost never touched on supernatural or spiritual subjects directly, yet I felt the touch of the old master of adventure coming through. The trials of a primative people. The best of human nature. The awe of the inexplicable. The conviction of superstition. All of these things come together to build a world worthy of such inspiration.
Black Sea Gods is nothing short of a wonderful tale, written with skill and artistry. I would love to say more, but I don't want to give anything away.
Are there any points I didn't care for? Some, and only slightly, not enough to take anything away from the story at all. The handling of Fu Xi's flashbacks slowed the pace and tension during the brief section of his story. This was an issue with the editing; the story being told through those flashbacks was excellent. I just feel a different arrangement may have helped build up the tension rather than cool it off, but that is only my opinion.
I stated in my comments while reading Black Sea Gods that I loved the prehistory aspect. Masterfully done, and it totally set me up for a spectacular surprise. This huge reveal is handled with immaculate care and attention to detail, the lack, or misshandling of which could have caused this story to collapse like a delicate souffle. It did not collapse. It delivered the good in what I am sure will be one of the most memorable surprise reveals that has ever been pulled over on me.
My hat is off to Brian Braden for keeping me enthralled throughout and taking me on an adventure that I never expected.
I loved the characters, they built up wonderfully and carried me on their shoulders through their harrowing journey. Aizarg had a depth of warmth and goodness in him that amounted to nothing short of holy. Just reading of him raised my own spirit. He is one of many characters that are deeply and lovingly rendered. They make the reader feel, and experience their tribulations right beside them.
I experienced a bit of seperation from Fu Xi, but then he's not really human, is he? Brian Braden captured this aspect of the character very well. We see how he is different, how he perceives the world in a very unique fashion. We can emphasise with him enough to feel his pain and his joy, but he stands out for what he is.
I also pointed out in my comments how much this reminded me of classic works by Edgar Rice Burroughs. That's no easy task. I suspect is was not intentional, and Burroughs almost never touched on supernatural or spiritual subjects directly, yet I felt the touch of the old master of adventure coming through. The trials of a primative people. The best of human nature. The awe of the inexplicable. The conviction of superstition. All of these things come together to build a world worthy of such inspiration.
Black Sea Gods is nothing short of a wonderful tale, written with skill and artistry. I would love to say more, but I don't want to give anything away.
Are there any points I didn't care for? Some, and only slightly, not enough to take anything away from the story at all. The handling of Fu Xi's flashbacks slowed the pace and tension during the brief section of his story. This was an issue with the editing; the story being told through those flashbacks was excellent. I just feel a different arrangement may have helped build up the tension rather than cool it off, but that is only my opinion.
October 29, 2014
This was not what I expected when I started reading. I was expecting a tale of gods and goddesses only. But this was definitely more than that. This story builds on the mythology of the Black Sea. It starts out slowly but once you get past the first few chapters it gets very interesting. I found myself liking the characters and wanting them all to survive, but that does not always happen.
The best way to give a look at this is through the blurb:
"The fish have disappeared from the sea. The animals have vanished from the land. All humanity, and even the gods, tremble under the specter of a pending cataclysm. The demigod Fu Xi races home from the edge of the world bringing news of a looming god war, but finds his land under attack by monsters he once called his children. He discovers a terrible curse has been cast, one intended to destroy the gods and all life. To his shock, Fu Xi learns mankind's hope rest solely on him, a simple fisherman and a banished slave girl.
Beset on all sides, Fu Xi knows he must act quickly and races west to rescue the saviors. Unaware of the real doom that awaits, Aizarg the fisherman and his party begin a perilous journey across a dangerous steppe. They seek the last of the Narim, the legendary Black Sea Gods, who hold the key to their salvation. Leading them is the rescued slave girl Sarah, the only one among them who knows the path to the land of the god-men.
Over seven days the defining struggle of gods and humans begins under the onslaught of a powerful force whose true objective and origin remain a mystery. Fu Xi knows the secret to victory resides in a fisherman and a slave girl, whose lives he must protect, even if it means the rest of the world must perish."
If you want something that will make you think and not just entertain I think this would be a good read. It took myths I had known all my life and gave them a spin I would never had considered. I really enjoyed it!
The best way to give a look at this is through the blurb:
"The fish have disappeared from the sea. The animals have vanished from the land. All humanity, and even the gods, tremble under the specter of a pending cataclysm. The demigod Fu Xi races home from the edge of the world bringing news of a looming god war, but finds his land under attack by monsters he once called his children. He discovers a terrible curse has been cast, one intended to destroy the gods and all life. To his shock, Fu Xi learns mankind's hope rest solely on him, a simple fisherman and a banished slave girl.
Beset on all sides, Fu Xi knows he must act quickly and races west to rescue the saviors. Unaware of the real doom that awaits, Aizarg the fisherman and his party begin a perilous journey across a dangerous steppe. They seek the last of the Narim, the legendary Black Sea Gods, who hold the key to their salvation. Leading them is the rescued slave girl Sarah, the only one among them who knows the path to the land of the god-men.
Over seven days the defining struggle of gods and humans begins under the onslaught of a powerful force whose true objective and origin remain a mystery. Fu Xi knows the secret to victory resides in a fisherman and a slave girl, whose lives he must protect, even if it means the rest of the world must perish."
If you want something that will make you think and not just entertain I think this would be a good read. It took myths I had known all my life and gave them a spin I would never had considered. I really enjoyed it!
June 18, 2013
Black Sea Gods is a thought-provoking read that is a little bit hard to get into, but once you do the trouble to get to know the characters and get into the story, it is quite addictive. It is the retelling of familiar Bible stories in a manner that seems to mix a few different elements of different religions.
The story follows Aizarg and a group of Lo people who one day find the fish gone from their waters and the animals fleeing together inland. Strange and disturbing things are happening all around and the Lo people do not understand. Instead of giving in to hopelessness and starvation, they consult their wise-woman and a small group with the leader of the people, Aizarg, set out on a perilous journey far from all they know.
On the way they meet a young slave girl who will be a guide to the city of the Narim, a fabled race known as ‘The Black Sea Gods’. As the story unfolds, more and more layers are revealed, and the familiar themes begin to show. The world as they know it is ending and soon enough time becomes of the essence and a race for their lives and the lives of those they love begins. Aizarg must learn to trust the ‘true God’ and also those around him if he is to fulfil his purpose and keep a promise.
The storyteller weaves an intricate and involved story, carrying different storylines with ease. The descriptions are well done as well as the conversation. There were several memorable quotes that really attributed to the skill of the author.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
The story follows Aizarg and a group of Lo people who one day find the fish gone from their waters and the animals fleeing together inland. Strange and disturbing things are happening all around and the Lo people do not understand. Instead of giving in to hopelessness and starvation, they consult their wise-woman and a small group with the leader of the people, Aizarg, set out on a perilous journey far from all they know.
On the way they meet a young slave girl who will be a guide to the city of the Narim, a fabled race known as ‘The Black Sea Gods’. As the story unfolds, more and more layers are revealed, and the familiar themes begin to show. The world as they know it is ending and soon enough time becomes of the essence and a race for their lives and the lives of those they love begins. Aizarg must learn to trust the ‘true God’ and also those around him if he is to fulfil his purpose and keep a promise.
The storyteller weaves an intricate and involved story, carrying different storylines with ease. The descriptions are well done as well as the conversation. There were several memorable quotes that really attributed to the skill of the author.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 22, 2014
Omens of doom haunt the ancient world, where godlings and demons walk the land, side by side with humanity. The peaceful Lo people call a council and the seers decree a small band must undertake a quest for answers and a means to survive. Guided by a rescued slave girl, they encounter myths, monsters, and worst of human depravity in this blending of Chinese and Western mythology. The first of an intriguing and exotic series.
Meanwhile, a godling and key figure in Chinese mythology is summoned by his divine mother and given a task to complete. He must redeem the crimes of the gods by aiding the Lo.
Black Sea Gods is in many ways a unique book, with the feel of foundational mythology such as the Aeneid or an early Biblical tale. The story is told after the manner of a historical fantasy or historical novel recounting events from the points of view of ordinary people caught up in cataclysmic turmoil.
In addition, Braden’s book is both well-written and polished with nary a typo to be found, and his love of the cultures and subject matter he writes of shines through.
That said, there were some early sections that felt overwritten and the first half seemed padded.
However, the ending sets a hook that can’t be beat, and I’m eagerly awaiting the release of the second book Aug. 8. Around 60 authors have signed up to give free or discounted books for the event, yours truly included. Check it out!
Meanwhile, a godling and key figure in Chinese mythology is summoned by his divine mother and given a task to complete. He must redeem the crimes of the gods by aiding the Lo.
Black Sea Gods is in many ways a unique book, with the feel of foundational mythology such as the Aeneid or an early Biblical tale. The story is told after the manner of a historical fantasy or historical novel recounting events from the points of view of ordinary people caught up in cataclysmic turmoil.
In addition, Braden’s book is both well-written and polished with nary a typo to be found, and his love of the cultures and subject matter he writes of shines through.
That said, there were some early sections that felt overwritten and the first half seemed padded.
However, the ending sets a hook that can’t be beat, and I’m eagerly awaiting the release of the second book Aug. 8. Around 60 authors have signed up to give free or discounted books for the event, yours truly included. Check it out!
April 21, 2014
Brian Braden became a new “favorite” author after reading a short story of his (which was part of an anthology), but I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about his books, because this genre isn’t my usual fare. So I dug into Black Sea Gods a little doubtful that I'd be able to finish it. I'm so glad I took the chance, because this is one of the best stories I've read in a very long time.
Braden pays close attention to the details, which (of course) enhances his masterful storytelling. As a writer, I found myself in awe of the beautiful language used in the narrative, and the exquisite detail Braden puts into his setting and characters. As a reader, the world created in Black Sea Gods is breathtaking, and more than one line grabs you in that awesome, quotable way. (one of my favorites: "The unknown is a pit. If we see the bottom, we fill it with our hopes. If we see blackness, we feed it our fears.”)
And as I reached the end, the only thought in my mind was "Wow."
Braden pays close attention to the details, which (of course) enhances his masterful storytelling. As a writer, I found myself in awe of the beautiful language used in the narrative, and the exquisite detail Braden puts into his setting and characters. As a reader, the world created in Black Sea Gods is breathtaking, and more than one line grabs you in that awesome, quotable way. (one of my favorites: "The unknown is a pit. If we see the bottom, we fill it with our hopes. If we see blackness, we feed it our fears.”)
And as I reached the end, the only thought in my mind was "Wow."
June 8, 2013
Black Sea Gods is not the usual fantasy. It weaves Chinese imagery, other mythology and a Bible story into a beautifully written adventure. I was so impressed with the creative world building, and loved the description of the Lo fisher people and their customs. The story centers on a humble Lo fisherman, and Fu Xi, son of a goddess, and how their lives eventually affect each other. This is a marvelous novel I highly recommend.
Please note I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Please note I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2013
A wonderfully crafted tale. It has all the makings of a great fantasy, with just the right amount of historic element woven artfully in to a battle between the gods to save life on earth. I admit to missing the clues in the build up to the conclusion of book one - but I think that's because it was really unexpected.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can't wait for the sequel.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can't wait for the sequel.
March 19, 2017
Review of Black Sea Gods: Chronicles of Fu Xi by Brian Braden
This book is a sure bet for lovers of epic fantasy with thorough world-building. It takes its time getting where it's going, but the time isn't wasted. Due to my fits and spurts reading schedule I generally prefer stories that move a little faster, but although it took me a while to get settled into this one, the writing itself was so smooth that I didn't get tired of it. There are quite a few characters and a really big world to integrate into, and if that's your thing, you should definitely pick up Black Sea Gods: Chronicles of Fu Xi. If that's not your thing, at least read the last paragraph of this really long review for some of the messages in this book. It's good stuff.
I had a hard time relating to the characters for a while because they are so foreign to me, and honestly it wasn’t until I started getting the story from Fu Xi's perspective that I became truly engrossed, but although I didn't relate to them, I did like them. That's important to me, and it turns out that it was important to the story--for the characters to be likable, I mean. I got to know and enjoy them as I journeyed with them, to the point that by the end of the book I truly felt connected, and that's all a girl can ask.
Some who read this book will soon begin to pick up on the big picture of what's going on, at least I suspected that I did, and I was right. That's not to say the story is predictable, far from it, but there is an element of it that cleverly weaves throughout and is explained at the end. I so just want to say what it is, but that would ruin everything. I'll just say it's cool. I didn't exactly like the ending, but I can't say why or it will totally spoil, and my unhappiness wasn't a fault, it was intentional.
Language: Clean so far as I remember.
Sexual Content: Nothing graphic, but a lot of it is…non-consensual. For this and other reasons, I recommend for older teens and up.
Violence: Yes, it's a violent world, but for the most part it isn't explicitly depicted. Still, not for young readers.
Diversity: Well, yes and no. The main group of characters, the Lo, are all fair-skinned, but they interact and join up with others who are more tan. And I always picture Fu Xi and his people as being a non-specific ancient Asian. Many things about him and his people had a Asian vibe to me. For all I know, it was based off a specific ancient culture, but of course since this is a fantasy world it wasn't spoken of. (Unless it was and I just didn't 'get' it. I don't know much about ancient Asia, so if there were references, I would have missed them.)
Overall Message/Plot: As far as I kept track, everything fit together well. It wasn't exactly a satisfying ending, but it did wrap up and set the stage for the next book. There were definitely messages in the book, and I'll share a couple that really struck me.
First, that living with love, contentment, and courage is what counts. The Lo really aim for this, and it's their salvation.
Second, there was a profound moment when the Lo were immersed in another culture, and they saw the way the un-parented children ran around stealing and begging, and the Lo wondered what kind of people could allow their children to live like that. Not their own offspring, mind you, but their country's children. This really resonated with me because in our country I so often see an attitude in others, an attitude that says 'Other people's children aren't my problem, and I shouldn't be paying to educate them, and I shouldn't be obliged to help feed them, and they should just work harder.' They ARE our children, we're in this together and what's good for their future is good for mine, since we're going to be sharing that future. People mourn the passing of community and the traditional family, but often don't really want to be part of creating that community in our world because it involves giving up a bit of what's 'ours'. And then they go on to talk about how it's all God's anyway, and they know we can't hold on to it… OK, rant over.
Third, be careful who you put your faith in. In this case it was lower 'deity', but in our case it might be politicians, religious leaders, or our inaccurate interpretations of God. This story illustrates well how the mighty fall, and when they do, all the crap rolls down hill.
My blog: rawhitebooksandmore(dot)weebly(dot)com
This book is a sure bet for lovers of epic fantasy with thorough world-building. It takes its time getting where it's going, but the time isn't wasted. Due to my fits and spurts reading schedule I generally prefer stories that move a little faster, but although it took me a while to get settled into this one, the writing itself was so smooth that I didn't get tired of it. There are quite a few characters and a really big world to integrate into, and if that's your thing, you should definitely pick up Black Sea Gods: Chronicles of Fu Xi. If that's not your thing, at least read the last paragraph of this really long review for some of the messages in this book. It's good stuff.
I had a hard time relating to the characters for a while because they are so foreign to me, and honestly it wasn’t until I started getting the story from Fu Xi's perspective that I became truly engrossed, but although I didn't relate to them, I did like them. That's important to me, and it turns out that it was important to the story--for the characters to be likable, I mean. I got to know and enjoy them as I journeyed with them, to the point that by the end of the book I truly felt connected, and that's all a girl can ask.
Some who read this book will soon begin to pick up on the big picture of what's going on, at least I suspected that I did, and I was right. That's not to say the story is predictable, far from it, but there is an element of it that cleverly weaves throughout and is explained at the end. I so just want to say what it is, but that would ruin everything. I'll just say it's cool. I didn't exactly like the ending, but I can't say why or it will totally spoil, and my unhappiness wasn't a fault, it was intentional.
Language: Clean so far as I remember.
Sexual Content: Nothing graphic, but a lot of it is…non-consensual. For this and other reasons, I recommend for older teens and up.
Violence: Yes, it's a violent world, but for the most part it isn't explicitly depicted. Still, not for young readers.
Diversity: Well, yes and no. The main group of characters, the Lo, are all fair-skinned, but they interact and join up with others who are more tan. And I always picture Fu Xi and his people as being a non-specific ancient Asian. Many things about him and his people had a Asian vibe to me. For all I know, it was based off a specific ancient culture, but of course since this is a fantasy world it wasn't spoken of. (Unless it was and I just didn't 'get' it. I don't know much about ancient Asia, so if there were references, I would have missed them.)
Overall Message/Plot: As far as I kept track, everything fit together well. It wasn't exactly a satisfying ending, but it did wrap up and set the stage for the next book. There were definitely messages in the book, and I'll share a couple that really struck me.
First, that living with love, contentment, and courage is what counts. The Lo really aim for this, and it's their salvation.
Second, there was a profound moment when the Lo were immersed in another culture, and they saw the way the un-parented children ran around stealing and begging, and the Lo wondered what kind of people could allow their children to live like that. Not their own offspring, mind you, but their country's children. This really resonated with me because in our country I so often see an attitude in others, an attitude that says 'Other people's children aren't my problem, and I shouldn't be paying to educate them, and I shouldn't be obliged to help feed them, and they should just work harder.' They ARE our children, we're in this together and what's good for their future is good for mine, since we're going to be sharing that future. People mourn the passing of community and the traditional family, but often don't really want to be part of creating that community in our world because it involves giving up a bit of what's 'ours'. And then they go on to talk about how it's all God's anyway, and they know we can't hold on to it… OK, rant over.
Third, be careful who you put your faith in. In this case it was lower 'deity', but in our case it might be politicians, religious leaders, or our inaccurate interpretations of God. This story illustrates well how the mighty fall, and when they do, all the crap rolls down hill.
My blog: rawhitebooksandmore(dot)weebly(dot)com
September 3, 2022
This a book that I really wasn't sure what to think of, at least for the first few chapters. It's an odd sort of aquatic, apocalyptic fantasy, propelled by a deep (pun intended) mythology. It has a feel of the classics, tales where gods and goddesses are made human, and left to mingle with us lowly mortals, often as much for their own benefit as ours. There are, I'm sure, some biblical parallels or inspirations, but I honestly don't know (or care) enough about the source material to comment.
There is a strong Chinese influence here as well, which makes for a fascinating contrast, but which does tend to weigh the text down in places with difficult names and terms, but shouldn't be an issue for readers of epic fantasy. In terms of narrative, the different voices are as strong as they are unique, really adding a poetic flair to things that, again, hearkens back to the classics. Visually, it's a stunning read, with a significant amount of detail imbued in almost everything. It can be overwhelming at times, particularly in its most violent aspects, but in a way that makes you appreciate, rather than resent, the picture being painted.
Above all else, this is an epic fantasy that feels new . . . fresh . . . unique. It's not your typical swords and sorcery epic, but neither is it your traditional historical epic. I hesitate to make the comparison, as it's unfair to hold Braden to such lofty standards, but there's a taste of Guy Gavriel Kay here that promises a bright future. I definitely enjoyed the telling of it more than the story itself, but it's worth the read.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
There is a strong Chinese influence here as well, which makes for a fascinating contrast, but which does tend to weigh the text down in places with difficult names and terms, but shouldn't be an issue for readers of epic fantasy. In terms of narrative, the different voices are as strong as they are unique, really adding a poetic flair to things that, again, hearkens back to the classics. Visually, it's a stunning read, with a significant amount of detail imbued in almost everything. It can be overwhelming at times, particularly in its most violent aspects, but in a way that makes you appreciate, rather than resent, the picture being painted.
Above all else, this is an epic fantasy that feels new . . . fresh . . . unique. It's not your typical swords and sorcery epic, but neither is it your traditional historical epic. I hesitate to make the comparison, as it's unfair to hold Braden to such lofty standards, but there's a taste of Guy Gavriel Kay here that promises a bright future. I definitely enjoyed the telling of it more than the story itself, but it's worth the read.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
September 17, 2025
An interesting blend of historical fiction and mythology.
January 27, 2016
I was really enjoying this book until the end at the mention of Noah's Ark, and let me tell you why.
The book was marketed as a book that explores the newly rediscovered Black Sea Mythology, which to me seemed incredibly interesting since not much is known about ancient Black Sea. But there were a number of errors throughout the novel and eventually at the end that kept throwing water and dampening my once passionate interest.
First of all, many things that were addressed briefly in the novel were never fleshed out, for example where Sarah came from (I realize she's getting a spinoff prequel book but like that doesn't excuse leaving her an enigma). Also, it was hinted at that Setenay lived with the Scythians and she even loved one, but that was mentioned in the very beginning of the book and we didn't read anything else about it until a half-assed account from Fu Xi at like the very end. To me, that's poor writing and should have been expanded upon way earlier from Setenay's perspective rather than a secondhand account in the form of a legend from Fu Xi.
Another issue was how vague the surrounding people were: the Scythians, anything on the a'gan really, Virag and what he was/where he came from, the Ice Men that demolished Nushen, and especially the Hur-Po which had the most potential to be one of the most interesting settlements of ancient people ever. But all we got about any of these people were biased and vague descriptions; like I couldn't even picture where in the world I was during most of the book, which is a huge issue for me because I like to visualize where I am in the world of the book I'm reading. We really didn't even learn all that much about the Lo people, and they were the main people. Overall, I thought it was a lazy move on the author's part, not to expand upon surrounding civilizations, especially the Ice Men and the Hur-po since both played such a critical part in the plot of the book.
Fu Xi also didn't show up until halfway through... I had to go back and reread the synopsis to figure out if I had even imagined his character. Someone who is included in your blurb as one of the main characters should always be included way before the halfway mark; I didn't form an attachment to him like I had the Lo people, which is a problem.
Finally, and this is biased since I'm a vociferous Atheist, but the inclusion of Noah and God and religion at the end was so disappointing. I wanted Black Sea Mythology, not another Adam and Eve story. If it had been properly ADVERTISED as a religious book, I would have avoided it at all costs. But my own biases aside, the inclusion of Noah and his family as the Narim, and this end of the world a cataclysm brought on by God, was just such a cop out in my opinion. There was the potential here to REALLY delve into the blended Chinese/Black Sea Mythology here and find another way to explain the rain and inundation, but you chose to use Noah and his ark. Like, way to be predictable dude.
And Hur-po was such comparison to Sodom and Gamorra that I was no longer interested in it. It had the potential to be so much more, but in the end it became a cheap Bible story knock off, which I've unfortunately read a hundred times before.
I was going to read the sequel and even the prequel about Sarah (leaving her and Ezra open ended at the end was a shit move too but I'm too tired to expand on how to address it) but honestly the last 3 chapters ruined the entire book for me.
3/5 stars because it did keep me interested for most of the book.
The book was marketed as a book that explores the newly rediscovered Black Sea Mythology, which to me seemed incredibly interesting since not much is known about ancient Black Sea. But there were a number of errors throughout the novel and eventually at the end that kept throwing water and dampening my once passionate interest.
First of all, many things that were addressed briefly in the novel were never fleshed out, for example where Sarah came from (I realize she's getting a spinoff prequel book but like that doesn't excuse leaving her an enigma). Also, it was hinted at that Setenay lived with the Scythians and she even loved one, but that was mentioned in the very beginning of the book and we didn't read anything else about it until a half-assed account from Fu Xi at like the very end. To me, that's poor writing and should have been expanded upon way earlier from Setenay's perspective rather than a secondhand account in the form of a legend from Fu Xi.
Another issue was how vague the surrounding people were: the Scythians, anything on the a'gan really, Virag and what he was/where he came from, the Ice Men that demolished Nushen, and especially the Hur-Po which had the most potential to be one of the most interesting settlements of ancient people ever. But all we got about any of these people were biased and vague descriptions; like I couldn't even picture where in the world I was during most of the book, which is a huge issue for me because I like to visualize where I am in the world of the book I'm reading. We really didn't even learn all that much about the Lo people, and they were the main people. Overall, I thought it was a lazy move on the author's part, not to expand upon surrounding civilizations, especially the Ice Men and the Hur-po since both played such a critical part in the plot of the book.
Fu Xi also didn't show up until halfway through... I had to go back and reread the synopsis to figure out if I had even imagined his character. Someone who is included in your blurb as one of the main characters should always be included way before the halfway mark; I didn't form an attachment to him like I had the Lo people, which is a problem.
Finally, and this is biased since I'm a vociferous Atheist, but the inclusion of Noah and God and religion at the end was so disappointing. I wanted Black Sea Mythology, not another Adam and Eve story. If it had been properly ADVERTISED as a religious book, I would have avoided it at all costs. But my own biases aside, the inclusion of Noah and his family as the Narim, and this end of the world a cataclysm brought on by God, was just such a cop out in my opinion. There was the potential here to REALLY delve into the blended Chinese/Black Sea Mythology here and find another way to explain the rain and inundation, but you chose to use Noah and his ark. Like, way to be predictable dude.
And Hur-po was such comparison to Sodom and Gamorra that I was no longer interested in it. It had the potential to be so much more, but in the end it became a cheap Bible story knock off, which I've unfortunately read a hundred times before.
I was going to read the sequel and even the prequel about Sarah (leaving her and Ezra open ended at the end was a shit move too but I'm too tired to expand on how to address it) but honestly the last 3 chapters ruined the entire book for me.
3/5 stars because it did keep me interested for most of the book.
June 14, 2013
*This was given to me free via the Read It and Reap program in exchange for an honest review.*
Okay, after reading the first 20 pages I kept shaking my head thinking... what!?! Maybe I'm just not smart enough to keep up but this book, it just seemed like too much, and the names oh my goodness, ridiculous! I mean I couldn't even remember them, but that might have had something to do with their lack of personality, who knows.
I hate writing a bad review, especially for read to review books or just indie authors in general, but there wasn't one thing in this story I loved or even liked. The only reason I finished it was because I said I would and didn't want to go back on my word, though I kind of wish I had because the further I got into the story the head-shaking was upgraded to just plain pissed off.
I hate when you read a book and you feel stupid during or after. It wasn't that I had a hard time with the grammar or vocab, just the mythological aspect, and I openly admit to being uneducated in that department, but still this was something else all together, not just mythological but kind of tied up with biblical aspects as well, and I simply just didn't get it. After reading other reviews I thought maybe it was just me, but then I had my husband TRY to read it and after page 23 he was like "never again" and shot out of the room yelling it over and over. Needless to say it wasn't just me, or maybe I married stupid as well, but I doubt that.
The beginning of the book dragged on and on, and I literally had to re-read half this book because I thought I had missed something. The characters were just boring the plot though semi new and inventive dull and impossible for me to follow. I think this book could have been executed differently and then maybe I would have liked it more, but maybe not.
So far I have loved fantasy book based on mythology, but this one just kept putting me to sleep. Basically guys I didn't like it AT ALL, but I'm not going to say much else because this is just my opinion and you might enjoy it, maybe if you like complicated names and weird plots impossible to follow and make you want to jump in a cold shower just to wake yourself up after the contagious fatigue leaking out this book. If you do try good luck and gods speed.
Okay, after reading the first 20 pages I kept shaking my head thinking... what!?! Maybe I'm just not smart enough to keep up but this book, it just seemed like too much, and the names oh my goodness, ridiculous! I mean I couldn't even remember them, but that might have had something to do with their lack of personality, who knows.
I hate writing a bad review, especially for read to review books or just indie authors in general, but there wasn't one thing in this story I loved or even liked. The only reason I finished it was because I said I would and didn't want to go back on my word, though I kind of wish I had because the further I got into the story the head-shaking was upgraded to just plain pissed off.
I hate when you read a book and you feel stupid during or after. It wasn't that I had a hard time with the grammar or vocab, just the mythological aspect, and I openly admit to being uneducated in that department, but still this was something else all together, not just mythological but kind of tied up with biblical aspects as well, and I simply just didn't get it. After reading other reviews I thought maybe it was just me, but then I had my husband TRY to read it and after page 23 he was like "never again" and shot out of the room yelling it over and over. Needless to say it wasn't just me, or maybe I married stupid as well, but I doubt that.
The beginning of the book dragged on and on, and I literally had to re-read half this book because I thought I had missed something. The characters were just boring the plot though semi new and inventive dull and impossible for me to follow. I think this book could have been executed differently and then maybe I would have liked it more, but maybe not.
So far I have loved fantasy book based on mythology, but this one just kept putting me to sleep. Basically guys I didn't like it AT ALL, but I'm not going to say much else because this is just my opinion and you might enjoy it, maybe if you like complicated names and weird plots impossible to follow and make you want to jump in a cold shower just to wake yourself up after the contagious fatigue leaking out this book. If you do try good luck and gods speed.
July 21, 2014
Marvelous, Mystical, Murderous.
This Novel raises the Bar for Historical Fantasy to new heights. I usually know after reading the first paragraph whether or not I will like a book. With Black Sea Gods, I knew after the first sentence that the writing itself would be good. Well, I was wrong. It is GREAT!
The story is pure fantasy that is not bogged down by still disputed ancient timelines, nor even real places. Yet I "smelled" the salt-water marshes, "saw" the homes tilting above the lagoon, "heard" the incoming tide rush against the pilings, and kept worrying about the fate of the Lo-tribe.
Interestingly, there are two different story-lines: One follows the arduous journey of an intrepid people; the other, the Chronicles of Fu Xi, tells of the birth, death and re-birthing of the gods. The marvel is how the two are fused into an "Aha-moment."
Black Sea Gods is a novel to be enjoyed on several levels: For the sensitivity and beauty of the writing itself (I still demand that in what I choose to read); for the astounding imagination it took to write a story of those early tribes and gods (with the initial unfamiliarity about names quickly being overcome); and lastly for the vivid descriptions.
Writing historical fiction myself, I often stopped to ask myself "how did the writer come up with this?" And then I had to check that, indeed, this is written by a male author (sorry guys, but it is that delicately sensitive in places, yet so vividly strong in others, with some brutal scenes thrown in).
A resounding "Highly Recommended."
This Novel raises the Bar for Historical Fantasy to new heights. I usually know after reading the first paragraph whether or not I will like a book. With Black Sea Gods, I knew after the first sentence that the writing itself would be good. Well, I was wrong. It is GREAT!
The story is pure fantasy that is not bogged down by still disputed ancient timelines, nor even real places. Yet I "smelled" the salt-water marshes, "saw" the homes tilting above the lagoon, "heard" the incoming tide rush against the pilings, and kept worrying about the fate of the Lo-tribe.
Interestingly, there are two different story-lines: One follows the arduous journey of an intrepid people; the other, the Chronicles of Fu Xi, tells of the birth, death and re-birthing of the gods. The marvel is how the two are fused into an "Aha-moment."
Black Sea Gods is a novel to be enjoyed on several levels: For the sensitivity and beauty of the writing itself (I still demand that in what I choose to read); for the astounding imagination it took to write a story of those early tribes and gods (with the initial unfamiliarity about names quickly being overcome); and lastly for the vivid descriptions.
Writing historical fiction myself, I often stopped to ask myself "how did the writer come up with this?" And then I had to check that, indeed, this is written by a male author (sorry guys, but it is that delicately sensitive in places, yet so vividly strong in others, with some brutal scenes thrown in).
A resounding "Highly Recommended."
June 11, 2013
Black Sea Gods is an interesting weave of history and legend, myth and mysticism, neatly bound together with a religious ribbon. Brian L. Braden immediately and effortlessly draws his reader into another place and time as the Uros of the Lo sets out to discover why the world is changing. There is a story within a story within a story here, and I believe this book would be worth re-reading in order to come to a better understanding of all the events taking place.
While the book is extremely well-written, it often droned on tediously in an almost monotone fashion. It failed to capture and maintain my interest, often lulling me into sleepiness. the bits of The Chronicles of Fu Xi were beautifully composed and I found them the most interesting.
A unique and fascinating story overall, with some lovely, poetic descriptions and great details of various cultures. Braden is a talented author whom we can likely expect good things to come from.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
While the book is extremely well-written, it often droned on tediously in an almost monotone fashion. It failed to capture and maintain my interest, often lulling me into sleepiness. the bits of The Chronicles of Fu Xi were beautifully composed and I found them the most interesting.
A unique and fascinating story overall, with some lovely, poetic descriptions and great details of various cultures. Braden is a talented author whom we can likely expect good things to come from.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2013
The detail in this book truly blew me away! Brian Braden's writing really draws the reader in, and I truly admire fantasy writers and their ability to create believable fictional worlds. That being said, fantasy is not a genre I read on a regular basis. As such, I get impatient with all the rich detail since I favor a more sparse writing style, but don't get me wrong, it's great detail and die-hard fans of the genre will not be disappointed. The characters were thoughtfully fleshed-out and believable, plus the religious parallels that come in toward the end of the story gave everything an interesting twist. However, the build-up seemed to take a long time, but then again, this is the first book in a series. I'm glad I read this book to gain more exposure the genre of historical fantasy.
June 11, 2013
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via the Read It and Reap program in exchange for an honest review.*
Let me be brutally honest with this book. I couldn't finish it. I did not enjoy the story telling, the characters, or even the plot at all. When I started reading the book, I would almost immediately fall asleep from the lack of excitement I felt. To me, the hard to remember names completely turned me off, and the fantasy aspect, well, I just didn't enjoy for once.
The book blends a famous biblical story and Chinese mythology, which was a nice twist, but that was the only thing I relished about the read. Overall, the book just confused me, and left me very unsatisfied.
Let me be brutally honest with this book. I couldn't finish it. I did not enjoy the story telling, the characters, or even the plot at all. When I started reading the book, I would almost immediately fall asleep from the lack of excitement I felt. To me, the hard to remember names completely turned me off, and the fantasy aspect, well, I just didn't enjoy for once.
The book blends a famous biblical story and Chinese mythology, which was a nice twist, but that was the only thing I relished about the read. Overall, the book just confused me, and left me very unsatisfied.
September 14, 2013
Wow!
Initially, I had a hard time getting into this book, and keeping track of some of the characters, as their names I'm not accustomed too, but pushing through the first few chapters, proved to be well worth it!
What a well written, compelling and adventurous story! It was nothing I expected it to be - but it definitely surpassed my expectations.
I found the characters to interesting, and easy to relate too.
Brian did an amazing job! And his attention to detail is infallible!
Definitely recommend this book!
June 7, 2013
This book was slow in the beginning and started to pick up in the end. The imagery was beautiful and well written. The only downside is that the story will feel familiar to many people, it is a good and bad thing. I'm excited to read the sequel to see more of the world and what happens. I only down rated it to four instead of five because I felt very lost in some parts of the story and couldn't quite get a good grasp on it until about a quarter through.
August 21, 2013
This is not the type of book I would typically read & I guess my disclaimer is that I went to high school with Braden so of course I'm going to read his book. However, in no time I found that a) I was completely immersed in a novel that I normally wouldn't have picked up & b) I had totally forgotten it was written by the kid who had lived across the street. I loved the imagery, the poetry - & can't wait for the next installment.
January 23, 2014
Exceptionally well written with an engaging plot line Black Sea Gods has all the elements you would want to find in epic fantasy. The characters are well developed and you find yourself rooting for them but what I really thought made Black Sea Gods such a good read was the dialogue. It never feels stilted and keeps the book flowing nicely. Will be looking out for the next one form Brian Braden
June 30, 2014
Solid, original and above all sincere fantasy, with warm characters, beautifully carved landscapes, and a clever take on history's most enduring creation legends. You'll find it easy to walk with Brian's heroes, and to share in their fear, hope and resilience, as they begin an adventure that pits innocence against savagery, man against nature and the mortal against the supernatural. A stunning read.
August 15, 2014
"Black Sea God's" is one of those novels that, as you read it, you just keep saying "Wow! Where has he been?" His vibrant character descriptions become embedded as Braden creates this intense world-building epic. No one, however, will be able predict where the ending will lead. This is one of those noels you could read over and over and discover something new. I am hoping for a sequel from this fresh, new author.
July 29, 2014
*Author provided this book for an unbiased review*
This wasn't bad, but I had some trouble reading it. I am not sure if it was the hyphenated titles and names or the fact that I had heat stroke and really have been out of it for a while. It feels like an epic book, and in the long run, it is a good one, but it was fairly long to read.
I enjoyed it, It just took some time to read.
This wasn't bad, but I had some trouble reading it. I am not sure if it was the hyphenated titles and names or the fact that I had heat stroke and really have been out of it for a while. It feels like an epic book, and in the long run, it is a good one, but it was fairly long to read.
I enjoyed it, It just took some time to read.
January 28, 2014
Exceptionally well written and well thought through storyline with an originality that sets it above many fantasy offerings these days. I like the fact it was grounded in an element of biblical legend and the strong moral undertones that ran through the story line. One to be recommended and hoping for a sequel perhaps?
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