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SynWorld Chronicles

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In the infinite SynWorlds where Karma is currency, every form of paradise exists, or could do, for a price. Kindness can buy a castle. The virtuous reign supreme. But hubris walks a fine line between divinity and damnation.

Brims struggles to redeem his soul, plagued by nightmares of his sinful life. One last contract stands between him and freedom—his client Sera, a mysterious orphan searching for her family, except she wears the haunting face of his past love.

Destiny has never been kind to Sera, confined to a cage of sickness and disability, but she makes her own luck now. If Karma cannot grant her wish, then perhaps the black market Synporium can, even at the price of dark magic that risks her humanity. But as they journey across the impossible realms of angels, demons and laughing gods, Sera can’t help but feel uneasy. Did Brims guide her to this cursed pawnshop out of sheer goodwill, or is there more beneath his helpful smile?

Ready Player One meets The Good Place in this dark fantasy tale of life and death, magic and mystery, love and loss.

319 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2024

4 people are currently reading
32 people want to read

About the author

Rai Bowyn

1 book4 followers
Rai Bowyn lives in New Zealand with their family and cat, who adopted them as a stray. SynWorld Chronicles has been over a decade in the making. Rai got the idea as a teenager and started writing it in the summer break between secondary school and university. They also enjoy board games, video games, movies, anime and loaf watching. This is the first book in a multi-part series. Rai’s dream is to tell the story using various forms of media.

A massive thank you to the many, many people over the years who have helped make it a reality—Omni et Aeterna.

Connect with Rai via:

Email Angel.Armour@Hotmail.com

Instagram @LoafWatch

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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Profile Image for CS.
210 reviews21 followers
October 5, 2024
This book hooked me from the beginning and took me on what was probably the wildest ride I've experienced from a book in 2024. Absolutely jam packed with action, mystery, magic, love, friendship, and fluffy cuteness.

The foreshadowing, the twists and turns were all so clever, and by the end I really wasn't sure if I was more shocked or relieved. What I am sure about is that this is a work of art and passion with highly impressive writing quality, particularly for an indie work. My biggest gripe, though, is
22 reviews
October 6, 2024
Where do I start? I am still dizzy from the roller coaster book ride.

It’s action packed, pulling you into a whirlwind of unexpected twists and relentless surprises, with each chapter packing more adrenaline than the last.

The characters are dynamic, constantly evolving as MCs navigate life-or-death stakes with THE CUTEST FLUFFY CHICKEN SIDEKICK.

The pacing is relentless, and yet, the author still finds moments to explore deeper emotional beats through flashback scenes, making the intensity even more meaningful.

The tension keeps building, leaving you breathless right until the explosive finale (literally!). Looking forward to subsequent books, as the epilogue hinted?! I really hope this indie author will continue to write and I can’t wait to see what happens to the MC’s future journey together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Arleigh Salerno.
441 reviews14 followers
September 29, 2024
Holy rollercoaster ride... began thinking I'd love if this is how the after is to... maybe not... to holy mother of pearl! Love, betrayal, and secrets follow in all walks of life in this love and action-packed story. And gotta love the fluffy star of the show... Chickadee.
The author of this book wrote well enough to have me wanting to dive into the world for sure!
23 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2024
INSANE worldbuilding, creative concept with karma = $, relatable main characters, my fav was the awesome chicken, some pacing issues, there is a lot packed into this book (need to digest and reread), overall 4 ish stars, realized it's indie author -> 5 stars for first book

There is a LOT of ideas and concepts in here. Like I'm not even talking all the deep philosophical, morality and ethical stuff. You could brush past most of that and it's a fairly simple main story, but still there are so many worlds and chapters where I'm like holy cow slow down I'd really love to spend another couple of pages on the worldbuilding or even an extra chapter or two focusing on this bit. But that's actually a strength I think, because it doesn't feel too overwhelming, and the worldbuilding is generally introduced in decent chunks without info dumps. Personal taste maybe, but I wouldn't mind some of the arcs to take their time and add like an extra 20k words.

I like how the author used other senses like smell, not many do this enough. Simple prose (not really prose lol)

And boy this story took a different turn than what I was predicting going from the blurb and the first couple of chapters. It gets dark and unexpected, weird for sure, but in a refreshing way, mixed emotions but I arrived at the ending feeling generally satisfied.

A heap of unanswered questions - sequel in the making it seems. Overall great debut effort from an indie author, looking forward to book 2.
1 review
August 3, 2024

I recently finished SynWorld Chronicles and I couldn't put it down! This book is a fantastic blend of sci-fi and fantasy, set in a world where tech and magic coexist in the coolest ways.

The story follows Sera, a relatable heroine on a journey of self-discovery, and she’s surrounded by a diverse cast of characters that you can’t help but get attached to. Harper’s world-building is top-notch; the vivid descriptions make you feel like you're right there in Synworld.

What I loved most were the themes of identity and the ethical dilemmas of technology, which made me think about our own world. The writing is beautifully descriptive but still keeps the action moving.

There are a few slow parts, but they’re filled with rich detail that adds to the story. By the end, I was totally hooked and can't wait for the next book in the series. If you love a mix of magic and futuristic tech, Synworld Chronicles is a must-read!
271 reviews14 followers
September 1, 2024
Prepare to be captivated by *Synworld Chronicles* by Rai Bowyn, a journey through a universe where Karma is not just an abstract concept but a tangible currency that can buy you a ticket to paradise—or condemn you to eternal damnation. Imagine a world where every action, every choice, impacts your place in the cosmos, and redemption comes at a steep price. Bowyn masterfully intertwines the thrill of *Ready Player One* with the existential depth of *The Good Place*, all enveloped in a dark fantasy that promises to keep you entranced from beginning to end.

At the heart of this enthralling tale is Brims, a man burdened by his past sins, given one last shot at salvation. His mission is to assist Sera, a resilient orphan who has endured unspeakable hardships. Sera, battling a debilitating illness and seeking solace, ventures into the treacherous Synporium, where dark magic offers both peril and hope. As Brims and Sera navigate through a kaleidoscope of realms inhabited by capricious gods, demons, and angels, their journey challenges the very essence of their humanity and the motives that drive them.

Bowyn’s world-building is truly a marvel. Each realm is crafted with an imagination that knows no bounds, and the concept of Karma as currency is nothing short of brilliant. This is a world where “one wrong move could cost them everything,” and every step they take is fraught with danger and wonder.

Brims and Sera are deeply compelling characters, their personal struggles and vulnerabilities making them profoundly relatable. The central enigma of Brims’ true intentions adds layers of intrigue: is he genuinely seeking redemption, or does he have a darker agenda? The tension is palpable, as you find yourself asking, “What’s Brims really after?”

*Synworld Chronicles* is more than a mere story; it is an exploration of a universe where Karma dictates the ultimate fate of souls. It’s a tale of magic, mystery, and the inexorable struggle for redemption, crafted with such heart that it will stay with you long after the final page. If you’re drawn to tales that blend philosophical depth with dark fantasy, this book is an absolute must-read.
Profile Image for Jithendra Jithu.
2,372 reviews124 followers
September 1, 2024
Book Review: SynWorld Chronicles by Rai Bowyn ✨

Rating:5/5

Review:

🥰📚 In the mesmerizing universe of SynWorld Chronicles, Rai Bowyn introduces us to a world where Karma is the ultimate currency, determining one’s fate in realms that range from paradises to prisons. This novel is a breathtaking exploration of morality, redemption, and the complex nature of human desires, all wrapped up in a dark fantasy that keeps you captivated from start to finish.

👉At the heart of the story is Brims, a man haunted by his past sins and desperate for redemption. His soul is tormented by nightmares, and only one final contract stands between him and the freedom he seeks. Enter Sera, a mysterious orphan on a quest to find her lost family, but with a twist—Sera’s face is eerily reminiscent of Brims’ long-lost love, adding layers of tension and intrigue to their journey.

👉Sera is a character who refuses to let her circumstances define her. Despite battling illness and disability, she is determined to take control of her destiny. Her journey takes her to the Synporium, a dark and dangerous market where anything can be bought, even if it costs you your humanity. As she and Brims navigate through the SynWorlds, encountering angels, demons, and deceitful gods, the line between good and evil blurs. The story raises profound questions about the true cost of redemption and whether Brims’ motives are as pure as they seem.

🌟 Bowyn’s world-building is nothing short of extraordinary. The SynWorlds are richly detailed, each realm reflecting the moral standing of its inhabitants. The concept of Karma as a literal currency adds a unique and thought-provoking dimension to the narrative, making every choice the characters make feel significant and weighty.

👉The novel’s themes are deeply woven into the fabric of the story. It’s not just about the adventure—SynWorld Chronicles delves into the ethical dilemmas and emotional conflicts that define the human experience. Brims is a compelling protagonist, deeply flawed yet striving for something greater, while Sera’s resilience and determination make her a character you can’t help but root for.

Happy reading 😁

#bookreview
Profile Image for Sneha.
413 reviews59 followers
September 2, 2024
Hold onto your seats because “Synworld Chronicles” is one heck of a ride! Imagine a universe where Karma is cash, and you can literally buy your way into paradise—if you play your cards right. Rai Brown’s got us hooked with a mix of *Ready Player One* and *The Good Place* vibes, wrapped up in a dark fantasy package that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat.

Meet Brims, a guy on a mission to redeem his messed-up past. He’s got one last shot at freedom—helping Sera, a badass orphan who’s been through hell and back. Sera’s tired of being stuck in her sick, broken body, so she’s ready to try anything, even if it means hitting up the shady Synporium for some dark magic. But as they journey through crazy realms filled with angels, demons, and gods who love messing with people, you can’t help but wonder—what’s Brims really after?

The world-building here is pure gold. Brown creates these insane realms where anything’s possible, and the idea of Karma as currency is just genius. Brims and Sera are flawed, relatable, and stuck in a game where one wrong move could cost them everything.

But here’s the real kicker: the mystery around Brims. Is he really helping Sera out of the goodness of his heart, or does he have his own dark agenda? You’ll be flipping pages like crazy to find out. With its mix of dark magic, epic world-building, and a plot full of twists, “Synworld Chronicles” is a must-read.
Profile Image for Book  Island.
228 reviews54 followers
September 2, 2024
• 𝕭𝖔𝖔𝖐 𝕽𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 •
In the realm of dark fantasy, few tales dare to venture as boldly as Synworld Chronicles. Rai Brown's masterful creation whisks readers away to a universe where Karma reigns supreme, and the fabric of morality is woven with threads of currency. This is a world where the pursuit of paradise is a high-stakes game, where every decision carries the weight of damnation or divinity.

Through the lens of Brims and Sera's complex relationship, Brown expertly explores the gray areas between redemption and manipuIation, kindness and calculation. The narrative is a labyrinth of twists and turns, where allegiances are tested and the true nature of humanity is laid bare.

What sets Synworld Chronicles apart is its thought-provoking commentary on the human condition. Brown's world-building is a rich tapestry of philosophical and moral dilemmas, inviting readers to ponder the value of virtue, the cost of ambition, and the true meaning of freedom. The writing is evocative and immersive, conjuring vivid landscapes that defy imagination.

Ultimately, Synworld Chronicles is a dark fantasy that defies genre conventions, weaving a complex narrative that is both haunting and mesmerizing. With its diverse cast of characters, morally ambiguous themes, and pulse-pounding action, this tale will captivate fans of dark fantasy. Brown's masterful storytelling ensures that the journey through SynWorlds will linger long after the final page is turned.
343 reviews43 followers
August 22, 2024
🌌 SynWorld Chronicles by Rai Bowyn is a wild ride through a universe where Karma is currency, and the price of paradise is anything but simple. 🌟 Imagine a world where kindness buys you castles and virtue is your ticket to the top—but one misstep could send you spiraling into damnation. Brims, our troubled hero, is on a desperate mission to redeem his soul, haunted by the ghosts of his past sins. 🕯️

But the real twist comes with Sera, a determined orphan with a tragic past, who might just be the key to Brims’ freedom—or his downfall. Sera, battling sickness and seeking her lost family, ventures into the dangerous Synporium, where the line between magic and madness blurs. 💀 As they journey through bizarre and dangerous realms filled with angels, demons, and trickster gods, the tension builds—what’s Brims’ true motive? Is he really there to help, or is there a darker game at play?

If you’re a fan of Ready Player One or The Good Place, you’ll love this dark fantasy that mixes life, death, and a hefty dose of mystery. SynWorld Chronicles is a spellbinding tale of redemption, magic, and the high stakes of human desire. 🎭
Profile Image for Ruth.
12 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2024
3.5 STARS

In this world, Karma—not cash—rules. If you're a fan of shows like The Good Place and Upload, this book will be right up your alley!

The world-building flows effortlessly as Brims and his sidekick Chickadee guides you through every corner of this realm, keeping you engaged and always on the move. Like in real life, navigating this world means knowing its ins and outs and choosing your allies wisely, or it just might consume you.

A mix of everything—action, surprises, joyful highs, and heartfelt lows.

Sera wasn't my favorite character, but who could possibly dislike Chickadee? Brims, on the other hand, remains an intriguing mystery, with details about him revealed bit by bit. Is it just me or is Brims giving off Donnie Darko vibes?

If you're in the mood for a dark fantasy or an afterlife adventure, you must check this book out!

Thank you for copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
1 review
September 15, 2024
A Hell of a Heaven – this was a roller coaster in the dark, with twists and turns from start to finish.

This is a sterling debut novel, and more than worth the price.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews

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