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Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters and Men, Vol. 1
Don't blink. Don't move. It's the 80s, but the Cold War is no longer the only threat offering mankind's extinction. Something else, some...things stalks in the night. But what will humanity find in themselves once they're given the power to fight back?
455 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2024
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September 26, 2024
Unbiased opinion as the author, but this might just be the greatest book ever🤔
July 28, 2026
پیش از هر چیز شاید بهتر باشد به این نکته اشاره کنم که در اینجا با نویسندهای بهشدت بلندپرواز و پرانرژی مواجه هستیم که حتی اگر از کتابش خوشمان نیاید، نمیتوانیم استعداد و ذوقش را نادیده بگیریم و تحسین نکنیم. شاید مهمترین نکته در مورد مجموعه این باشد که نویسنده از لحظه شروع پروژه، تکلیف خود را روشن کرده و تصمیم گرفته یک چهارجلدی با نقشه راه مشخص بنویسد. این موضوع در مورد مجموعهها برای من اهمیت بسیاری دارد و معمولاً مجموعههایی که به واسطه موفقیت جلد اول به مجموعه تبدیل میشوند، برای من جذاب و پرکشش نیستند. دنیل وارد یک مجموعه چهارجلدی را در ذهنش ساخته، جهانش را طراحی کرده، برای شخصیتها و نیروهای مختلف جایگاه در نظر گرفته و حتی بذر اتفاقاتی را کاشته که احتمالاً قرار است چند کتاب بعد به ثمر برسند. من این مدل سرینویسی را خیلی دوست دارم. اینکه حس کنم نویسنده خودش میداند به کجا میرود و داستان را جلدبهجلد و بداهه جلو نمیبرد.
ایده کتاب هم بهاندازه کافی جذاب است. موجودات انساننمای غولپیکری که تایتان نامیده میشوند (به واسطه یک پروژه مخفی که برای ارتقای بشر و صلح جهانی طراحی شده بود) در نقاط مختلف دنیا ظاهر شدهاند و دست به قتل عام میزنند و دولتها برای مقابله با آنها به پروژهای متوسل میشود که مرز میان انسان و هیولا را از اساس به هم میریزد. اعضای پروژه پانتئون با استفاده از ویروسهای مهندسیشده تواناییهایی فوقانسانی پیدا میکنند، اما هر توانایی هزینه خودش را دارد. بنابراین، در داستان خبری از یک گروه ابرقهرمانی تمیز و بیدردسر نیست. بدن بعضی از شخصیتها از درون نابود میشود، برخی از آنها کنترل کاملی روی نیروی خود ندارند و بعضی هم از نظر روانی بهاندازه دشمنانی که قرار است با آنها بجنگند، خطرناک هستند. همین نکته یکی از جذابترین جنبههای کتاب بود. نویسنده مدام کاری میکند که مرز میان پانتئون و تایتانها مبهمتر شود. انسانها برای شکستدادن هیولاها ناچارند خودشان را به چیزی نزدیک به هیولا تبدیل کنند (یعنی مجبورند به تعبیر نیچه به مغاک خیره شوند و قاعدتاً این خطر را بپذیرند که مغاک هم به آنها خیره شود). حتی تصاویر تکرارشونده، لبخندهای ترسناک، نوع خشونت و شیوه توصیف بدنها هم در خدمت همین ایده هستند. در این بین شکست و نابودی تایتانها یک ضرورت به نظر میرسد، اما نگرانی اصلی این است که بعد از نابودی تایتانها، دولتها قرار است از این توانمندی جدید چه استفادهای بکنند. درست شبیه آنچه در خصوص ساخت و کاربرد بمب اتم پیش آمد.
کتاب شخصیتهای خیلی زیادی دارد و طبیعتاً همه آنها به یک اندازه پرداخت نشدهاند، اما چند نفر از آنها واقعاً در ذهن میمانند. از طرف دیگر، فکر میکنم مهمترین نقطه قوت فکری کتاب، استفاده از اساطیر یونان و فلسفه سیاسی غرب است. اسمهای رمزی اعضای پانتئون صرفاً برای خوشآهنگبودن انتخاب نشدهاند و در بیشتر موارد با شخصیت، قدرت یا نقش آنها ارتباط دارند. طبق توضیحات خود نویسنده تقابل دیدگاه مقید و نامقید، ارجاع به توماس سوئل و پیوند شخصیتها با متفکرانی مثل هابز، روسو، آدام اسمیت و ماکیاولی نشان میدهد او پیش از نوشتن داستان واقعاً برای زیرلایههای فکری آن وقت گذاشته است. بعضی از این ارجاعات شاید کمی مستقیم یا توی چشم باشند، اما در مجموع تزئینی نیستند و روی تصمیمهای شخصیتها و ساختار جهان اثر میگذارند.
حتی فرم نامتعارف کتاب هم برایم جالب بود. داستان در ابتدا تکهتکه و پراکنده به نظر میرسد، میان کشورها، زمانها و شخصیتهای مختلف جابهجا میشود و مدتی طول میکشد تا مشخص شود این خطوط چطور به یکدیگر وصل میشوند. احتمالاً این ساختار برای همه جذاب نیست، اما وقتی اجزای پانتئون کنار هم قرار میگیرند و داستان وارد مأموریت اصلی میشود، بخش زیادی از آن زمینهچینی معنا پیدا میکند. نبرد پایانی هم طولانی، خشن و واقعاً پرتنش است.
یکی از ایدههای خاص کتاب، پیشنهاد موسیقی برای چپترها و میانپردههاست. خود این ایده را خیلی دوست داشتم. اینکه نویسنده برای هر بخش موسیقی خاصی در ذهن داشته و تلاش کرده ریتم، فضای صوتی و حتی متن آهنگها را به مضمون داستان وصل کند، نشاندهنده همان ذوق و شوقی است که در سراسر پروژه دیده میشود. چند بار هم سعی کردم آهنگها را هنگام خواندن پخش کنم، اما متأسفانه برای من نتیجهای نداشت. البته توضیحات سخن پایانی کمک کرد منظورش را بهتر بفهمم، اما اگر برای درک ارتباط موسیقی و متن لازم باشد نویسنده بعداً در چند صفحه آن را توضیح دهد، یعنی خود این ارتباط احتمالاً در دل داستان بهاندازه کافی شکل نگرفته است.
بااینحال، از اشتیاق خود نویسنده واقعاً لذت بردم. سخن پایانی کتاب ممکن است برای بعضی خوانندگان زیادهگویی به نظر برسد، اما برای من دیدن نویسندهای که با این همه هیجان درباره موسیقی، اساطیر، فلسفه، ساختار چپترها و برنامه سه جلد بعدی حرف میزند، دوستداشتنی بود. میشود فهمید این دنیا مدتها در ذهنش پرورش یافته و خودش هنوز از کشف ارتباطات درون آن ذوقزده میشود. این شور شخصی برای من ارزشمند است، حتی اگر تمام انتخابهای حاصل از آن به یک اندازه موفق نباشند. فکر میکنم تمام کسانی که اهل داستان باشند، حداقل یکی دو ایده دارند که سالهاست در ذهن خود با آن بازی میکنند و آرزو دارند روزی بتوانند آن را روی کاغذ بیاورند. حالا دنیل وارد این آرزو را محقق کرده و این بسیار ارزشمند است.
اما ضعف اصلی کتاب از نظر من جایی آشکار میشود که نویسنده از فرهنگ غربی و اساطیر یونان فاصله میگیرد. تسلط او بر حوزههایی که دربارهشان مطالعه کرده کاملاً محسوس است، اما در بازنمایی فرهنگهای دیگر گاهی به اطلاعات سطحی، نامگذاری نامعتبر یا میانبُرهای فرهنگی متوسل میشود. مثلاً اندرو و آچوس آتاناس قرار است برادرانی ترک باشند، درحالیکه نه نامهایشان و نه نام خانوادگیشان برای کسی که در همسایگی ترکیه زندگی میکند، نماینده طبیعی نامگذاری ترکی نیست. اندرو که یک نام انگلیسی است و آچوس و آتاناس بیشتر ریشه و تداعی یونانی یا بالکانی دارد. ممکن است برای تکتک این نامها توجیهی خانوادگی پیدا شود، اما کتاب چنین توضیحی ارائه نمیدهد و در نتیجه شخصیتها بیشتر شبیه تصور یک نویسنده آمریکایی از دو مرد ترک به نظر میرسند تا شخصیتهایی برخاسته از آن فرهنگ. همین مشکل در بخش مربوط به مصر نیز دیده میشود. متن از چیزی با عنوان زبان مصری حرف میزند، درحالیکه مشخصاً از اصلاحات عربی استفاده میکند. انتخاب بعضی نامها و ترکیب نشانههای مصر باستان با مصر معاصر هم نشان میدهد نویسنده احتمالاً این دو را بدون دقت کافی در هم آمیخته است. البته مشکل فقط چند اسم یا اصطلاح اشتباه نیست. مسئله این است که کتاب ادعای روایتی جهانی دارد و شخصیتهایی را از کشورهای مختلف کنار هم میگذارد. وقتی نویسنده چنین مقیاسی را انتخاب میکند، طبیعتاً انتظار میرود همان دقتی را که برای اساطیر یونان و فیلسوفان غربی صرف کرده، برای زبانها و فرهنگهای دیگر هم به خرج دهد. وگرنه جهان داستان بهجای آنکه واقعاً بینالمللی باشد، گاهی شبیه جهانی دیده میشود که همه فرهنگهایش از پشت عینک یک نویسنده آمریکایی تعریف شدهاند.
با تمام این ایرادها، تجربه کلی من از کتاب مثبت بود. کتاب بینقص نیست. گاهی بیشازحد توضیح میدهد، بعضی خطوط داستانی را دیر به هم متصل میکند، موسیقیهای پیشنهادی آن تأثیری را که نویسنده انتظار داشته روی من نگذاشتند و بازنمایی چند فرهنگ نیز به تحقیق بسیار بیشتری نیاز داشت. اما در مقابل، با داستانی بلندپروازانه، خشن و پر از ایده روبهرو هستیم که پشت آن یک برنامه واقعی برای مجموعهای بزرگتر وجود دارد. مهمتر از همه اینکه جلد اول صرفاً نقش مقدمهای چهارصد صفحهای برای ادامههایش را ندارد. داستان خودش یک مسیر کامل، یک نبرد اصلی و یک پایان رضایتبخش دارد، اما همزمان رازهای کافی باقی میگذارد. بنابراین هم از چیزی که در همین جلد دریافت کردم راضیام و هم کنجکاوم ببینم نویسنده این پروژه چهارجلدی را در ادامه به کجا میبرد.
ایده کتاب هم بهاندازه کافی جذاب است. موجودات انساننمای غولپیکری که تایتان نامیده میشوند (به واسطه یک پروژه مخفی که برای ارتقای بشر و صلح جهانی طراحی شده بود) در نقاط مختلف دنیا ظاهر شدهاند و دست به قتل عام میزنند و دولتها برای مقابله با آنها به پروژهای متوسل میشود که مرز میان انسان و هیولا را از اساس به هم میریزد. اعضای پروژه پانتئون با استفاده از ویروسهای مهندسیشده تواناییهایی فوقانسانی پیدا میکنند، اما هر توانایی هزینه خودش را دارد. بنابراین، در داستان خبری از یک گروه ابرقهرمانی تمیز و بیدردسر نیست. بدن بعضی از شخصیتها از درون نابود میشود، برخی از آنها کنترل کاملی روی نیروی خود ندارند و بعضی هم از نظر روانی بهاندازه دشمنانی که قرار است با آنها بجنگند، خطرناک هستند. همین نکته یکی از جذابترین جنبههای کتاب بود. نویسنده مدام کاری میکند که مرز میان پانتئون و تایتانها مبهمتر شود. انسانها برای شکستدادن هیولاها ناچارند خودشان را به چیزی نزدیک به هیولا تبدیل کنند (یعنی مجبورند به تعبیر نیچه به مغاک خیره شوند و قاعدتاً این خطر را بپذیرند که مغاک هم به آنها خیره شود). حتی تصاویر تکرارشونده، لبخندهای ترسناک، نوع خشونت و شیوه توصیف بدنها هم در خدمت همین ایده هستند. در این بین شکست و نابودی تایتانها یک ضرورت به نظر میرسد، اما نگرانی اصلی این است که بعد از نابودی تایتانها، دولتها قرار است از این توانمندی جدید چه استفادهای بکنند. درست شبیه آنچه در خصوص ساخت و کاربرد بمب اتم پیش آمد.
کتاب شخصیتهای خیلی زیادی دارد و طبیعتاً همه آنها به یک اندازه پرداخت نشدهاند، اما چند نفر از آنها واقعاً در ذهن میمانند. از طرف دیگر، فکر میکنم مهمترین نقطه قوت فکری کتاب، استفاده از اساطیر یونان و فلسفه سیاسی غرب است. اسمهای رمزی اعضای پانتئون صرفاً برای خوشآهنگبودن انتخاب نشدهاند و در بیشتر موارد با شخصیت، قدرت یا نقش آنها ارتباط دارند. طبق توضیحات خود نویسنده تقابل دیدگاه مقید و نامقید، ارجاع به توماس سوئل و پیوند شخصیتها با متفکرانی مثل هابز، روسو، آدام اسمیت و ماکیاولی نشان میدهد او پیش از نوشتن داستان واقعاً برای زیرلایههای فکری آن وقت گذاشته است. بعضی از این ارجاعات شاید کمی مستقیم یا توی چشم باشند، اما در مجموع تزئینی نیستند و روی تصمیمهای شخصیتها و ساختار جهان اثر میگذارند.
حتی فرم نامتعارف کتاب هم برایم جالب بود. داستان در ابتدا تکهتکه و پراکنده به نظر میرسد، میان کشورها، زمانها و شخصیتهای مختلف جابهجا میشود و مدتی طول میکشد تا مشخص شود این خطوط چطور به یکدیگر وصل میشوند. احتمالاً این ساختار برای همه جذاب نیست، اما وقتی اجزای پانتئون کنار هم قرار میگیرند و داستان وارد مأموریت اصلی میشود، بخش زیادی از آن زمینهچینی معنا پیدا میکند. نبرد پایانی هم طولانی، خشن و واقعاً پرتنش است.
یکی از ایدههای خاص کتاب، پیشنهاد موسیقی برای چپترها و میانپردههاست. خود این ایده را خیلی دوست داشتم. اینکه نویسنده برای هر بخش موسیقی خاصی در ذهن داشته و تلاش کرده ریتم، فضای صوتی و حتی متن آهنگها را به مضمون داستان وصل کند، نشاندهنده همان ذوق و شوقی است که در سراسر پروژه دیده میشود. چند بار هم سعی کردم آهنگها را هنگام خواندن پخش کنم، اما متأسفانه برای من نتیجهای نداشت. البته توضیحات سخن پایانی کمک کرد منظورش را بهتر بفهمم، اما اگر برای درک ارتباط موسیقی و متن لازم باشد نویسنده بعداً در چند صفحه آن را توضیح دهد، یعنی خود این ارتباط احتمالاً در دل داستان بهاندازه کافی شکل نگرفته است.
بااینحال، از اشتیاق خود نویسنده واقعاً لذت بردم. سخن پایانی کتاب ممکن است برای بعضی خوانندگان زیادهگویی به نظر برسد، اما برای من دیدن نویسندهای که با این همه هیجان درباره موسیقی، اساطیر، فلسفه، ساختار چپترها و برنامه سه جلد بعدی حرف میزند، دوستداشتنی بود. میشود فهمید این دنیا مدتها در ذهنش پرورش یافته و خودش هنوز از کشف ارتباطات درون آن ذوقزده میشود. این شور شخصی برای من ارزشمند است، حتی اگر تمام انتخابهای حاصل از آن به یک اندازه موفق نباشند. فکر میکنم تمام کسانی که اهل داستان باشند، حداقل یکی دو ایده دارند که سالهاست در ذهن خود با آن بازی میکنند و آرزو دارند روزی بتوانند آن را روی کاغذ بیاورند. حالا دنیل وارد این آرزو را محقق کرده و این بسیار ارزشمند است.
اما ضعف اصلی کتاب از نظر من جایی آشکار میشود که نویسنده از فرهنگ غربی و اساطیر یونان فاصله میگیرد. تسلط او بر حوزههایی که دربارهشان مطالعه کرده کاملاً محسوس است، اما در بازنمایی فرهنگهای دیگر گاهی به اطلاعات سطحی، نامگذاری نامعتبر یا میانبُرهای فرهنگی متوسل میشود. مثلاً اندرو و آچوس آتاناس قرار است برادرانی ترک باشند، درحالیکه نه نامهایشان و نه نام خانوادگیشان برای کسی که در همسایگی ترکیه زندگی میکند، نماینده طبیعی نامگذاری ترکی نیست. اندرو که یک نام انگلیسی است و آچوس و آتاناس بیشتر ریشه و تداعی یونانی یا بالکانی دارد. ممکن است برای تکتک این نامها توجیهی خانوادگی پیدا شود، اما کتاب چنین توضیحی ارائه نمیدهد و در نتیجه شخصیتها بیشتر شبیه تصور یک نویسنده آمریکایی از دو مرد ترک به نظر میرسند تا شخصیتهایی برخاسته از آن فرهنگ. همین مشکل در بخش مربوط به مصر نیز دیده میشود. متن از چیزی با عنوان زبان مصری حرف میزند، درحالیکه مشخصاً از اصلاحات عربی استفاده میکند. انتخاب بعضی نامها و ترکیب نشانههای مصر باستان با مصر معاصر هم نشان میدهد نویسنده احتمالاً این دو را بدون دقت کافی در هم آمیخته است. البته مشکل فقط چند اسم یا اصطلاح اشتباه نیست. مسئله این است که کتاب ادعای روایتی جهانی دارد و شخصیتهایی را از کشورهای مختلف کنار هم میگذارد. وقتی نویسنده چنین مقیاسی را انتخاب میکند، طبیعتاً انتظار میرود همان دقتی را که برای اساطیر یونان و فیلسوفان غربی صرف کرده، برای زبانها و فرهنگهای دیگر هم به خرج دهد. وگرنه جهان داستان بهجای آنکه واقعاً بینالمللی باشد، گاهی شبیه جهانی دیده میشود که همه فرهنگهایش از پشت عینک یک نویسنده آمریکایی تعریف شدهاند.
با تمام این ایرادها، تجربه کلی من از کتاب مثبت بود. کتاب بینقص نیست. گاهی بیشازحد توضیح میدهد، بعضی خطوط داستانی را دیر به هم متصل میکند، موسیقیهای پیشنهادی آن تأثیری را که نویسنده انتظار داشته روی من نگذاشتند و بازنمایی چند فرهنگ نیز به تحقیق بسیار بیشتری نیاز داشت. اما در مقابل، با داستانی بلندپروازانه، خشن و پر از ایده روبهرو هستیم که پشت آن یک برنامه واقعی برای مجموعهای بزرگتر وجود دارد. مهمتر از همه اینکه جلد اول صرفاً نقش مقدمهای چهارصد صفحهای برای ادامههایش را ندارد. داستان خودش یک مسیر کامل، یک نبرد اصلی و یک پایان رضایتبخش دارد، اما همزمان رازهای کافی باقی میگذارد. بنابراین هم از چیزی که در همین جلد دریافت کردم راضیام و هم کنجکاوم ببینم نویسنده این پروژه چهارجلدی را در ادامه به کجا میبرد.
January 21, 2025
Note: I received an e-book for an honest review.
This book absolutely blew me away. This is a dark sci-fi, Greek mythology based thriller, a fast-paced storyline that sinks its teeth into you and doesn’t let go.
The author has a clear vision for what he wants to create with this series (planned 4 books), and although this first book has a heavy load of world building and storyline creation, it never felt too drawn-out or tiresome. There’s also central struggle in this book is humanity’s survival in the face of a threat like no other: bio-engineered Titans with the ability to heal themselves. As the threat worsens, a mystery starts to unravel and the rebellion starts to mount. Perhaps the only saviors are also the perpetrators?
There’s also a really unique element of this novel that includes the use of an auditory experience that pairs with the literary one. I’ve never seen anything like this, and it was very interesting to pair scenes of the book with certain musical numbers that the author handpicked. Marvelous concept and expertly executed.
I’m so excited to see what is in store for this series. Highly recommend for sci-fi and epic fantasy lovers. I’m so impressed with the authors writing ability, as well as the scientific and historic research that went into much of the details here. Well done!!
This book absolutely blew me away. This is a dark sci-fi, Greek mythology based thriller, a fast-paced storyline that sinks its teeth into you and doesn’t let go.
The author has a clear vision for what he wants to create with this series (planned 4 books), and although this first book has a heavy load of world building and storyline creation, it never felt too drawn-out or tiresome. There’s also central struggle in this book is humanity’s survival in the face of a threat like no other: bio-engineered Titans with the ability to heal themselves. As the threat worsens, a mystery starts to unravel and the rebellion starts to mount. Perhaps the only saviors are also the perpetrators?
There’s also a really unique element of this novel that includes the use of an auditory experience that pairs with the literary one. I’ve never seen anything like this, and it was very interesting to pair scenes of the book with certain musical numbers that the author handpicked. Marvelous concept and expertly executed.
I’m so excited to see what is in store for this series. Highly recommend for sci-fi and epic fantasy lovers. I’m so impressed with the authors writing ability, as well as the scientific and historic research that went into much of the details here. Well done!!
August 6, 2025
Every war has soldiers… but in this one, they’re not all human.
This was my FIRST official sci‑fi book that I’ve ever finished and let me tell YOUUUU… I LOVED IT 😳
It opens with a tense, unforgettable scene that instantly makes you ask, “WHO is this guy, WTF is that creature, and what the hell is going on?” From there, we meet Grace, who is investigating a string of strange and devastating nighttime attacks. Her work quickly pulls her into the orbit of her uncle Tobias, whose position gives him access to answers about the creatures behind these incidents, and the truth is nothing short of terrifying.
Then comes The Pantheon, an elite group of individuals with superhuman abilities who are humanity’s best shot at stopping the threat. The team is far from united. There is friction, power struggles, and far more going on beneath the surface than anyone wants to admit, which makes their mission just as dangerous from the inside as it is from the outside.
As the story moves across continents, the scale of the danger becomes impossible to ignore. The more Grace digs, the clearer it becomes that this is not just about monsters. It is about a much bigger and much darker game being played by forces far beyond what anyone realizes. The final chapter delivers an unexpected introduction that ties back to the opening scene in a way that will send your mind spiraling with theories. I turned the last page already wishing I had the next book in my hands.
Thank you the author for sending me a copy of this book. This was an amazing read and I cannot wait for book 2!
This was my FIRST official sci‑fi book that I’ve ever finished and let me tell YOUUUU… I LOVED IT 😳
It opens with a tense, unforgettable scene that instantly makes you ask, “WHO is this guy, WTF is that creature, and what the hell is going on?” From there, we meet Grace, who is investigating a string of strange and devastating nighttime attacks. Her work quickly pulls her into the orbit of her uncle Tobias, whose position gives him access to answers about the creatures behind these incidents, and the truth is nothing short of terrifying.
Then comes The Pantheon, an elite group of individuals with superhuman abilities who are humanity’s best shot at stopping the threat. The team is far from united. There is friction, power struggles, and far more going on beneath the surface than anyone wants to admit, which makes their mission just as dangerous from the inside as it is from the outside.
As the story moves across continents, the scale of the danger becomes impossible to ignore. The more Grace digs, the clearer it becomes that this is not just about monsters. It is about a much bigger and much darker game being played by forces far beyond what anyone realizes. The final chapter delivers an unexpected introduction that ties back to the opening scene in a way that will send your mind spiraling with theories. I turned the last page already wishing I had the next book in my hands.
Thank you the author for sending me a copy of this book. This was an amazing read and I cannot wait for book 2!
December 28, 2025
All I can say is amazing!
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐫, 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 , 𝐬𝐜𝐢-𝐟𝐲, 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲/ 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐲. 𝐓𝐨𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲’𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞. 𝐎𝐡 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐈 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝟎’𝐬?
Suddenly there are attacks across the world. No one knows why but they know the beings that are attacking are not human. Some people have taken to calling them monsters, but we all know monsters don’t exist right ? There has to be a way to stop them. Against all odds the powers that be do just that there is a way to fight the monsters but at what cost?
I love the characters in the book and the emotional death Ward took the time to build. I did love the banter and shocking truths that were revealed throughout the story. There were quite a bit of things occurring behind the scenes within the book that’ll keep anyone invested. I’m not sure how but Ward has written a book that’ll definitely keep anyone at night reading. I recommend this book to all.
DD, thank you so much for proving me a copy of this book and allowing me to read it.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐫, 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 , 𝐬𝐜𝐢-𝐟𝐲, 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲/ 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐲. 𝐓𝐨𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲’𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞. 𝐎𝐡 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐈 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝟎’𝐬?
Suddenly there are attacks across the world. No one knows why but they know the beings that are attacking are not human. Some people have taken to calling them monsters, but we all know monsters don’t exist right ? There has to be a way to stop them. Against all odds the powers that be do just that there is a way to fight the monsters but at what cost?
I love the characters in the book and the emotional death Ward took the time to build. I did love the banter and shocking truths that were revealed throughout the story. There were quite a bit of things occurring behind the scenes within the book that’ll keep anyone invested. I’m not sure how but Ward has written a book that’ll definitely keep anyone at night reading. I recommend this book to all.
DD, thank you so much for proving me a copy of this book and allowing me to read it.
February 1, 2026
Note: I received an ebook for an honest review.
I want to start off by saying based on the genre's tagged for this book, I went in wary as horror doesn't tend to be my go to genre. That being said, this was an ambitious debut and I enjoyed my time with it. I really like that the author included QR codes to set the tone of the story with music. I did find the book took a minute to get off its feet in the beginning, but overall I had fun with it.
I want to start off by saying based on the genre's tagged for this book, I went in wary as horror doesn't tend to be my go to genre. That being said, this was an ambitious debut and I enjoyed my time with it. I really like that the author included QR codes to set the tone of the story with music. I did find the book took a minute to get off its feet in the beginning, but overall I had fun with it.
July 1, 2025
3.25!!! Thank you so much to D.D Ward for sending me a copy to review!
I just want to say that the idea of adding the music via QR codes to set the mood was perfection and really worked well to pull me more into the story!
Also I loved how some art work was included.
The way this opened up was fantastic and gritty. loved it!
Just to note these are just my pure preferences of not being the biggest sci-fi reader however the writing is really fantastic but I just got lost with keeping track of people and not being able to just get used to who they were/letting them become more of a charter to me before moving onto something else or another character.
I just want to say that the idea of adding the music via QR codes to set the mood was perfection and really worked well to pull me more into the story!
Also I loved how some art work was included.
The way this opened up was fantastic and gritty. loved it!
Just to note these are just my pure preferences of not being the biggest sci-fi reader however the writing is really fantastic but I just got lost with keeping track of people and not being able to just get used to who they were/letting them become more of a charter to me before moving onto something else or another character.
November 7, 2025
Date : 5th November 2025
Book : Toy Soldiers : Of Monsters & Men (Vol.1)
Author : D. D Ward
Genre : Dark Sci-Fi
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Okay, so this book was a freaking good slow burn. I wasn’t totally sure what to expect going in but holy smokes! This book is definitely a dark sci-fi with mythology and has a bit of horror all wrapped up in a Cold War vibe. The world-building is 🤯 and honestly one of the coolest parts of the book. You can tell the author put A LOT of thought into it. It’s not a quick light read as I’ve mentioned up there, it’s a real slow burn and there’s a lot happening. The more you read, the more it really pulls you in.
I also thought the idea of having QR codes for music in some chapters was sooooo cool! Definitely helped set the mood and made it feel more immersive like one of those fancy whimsical gastronomical dinners..except this had nothing to do with eating (unless you’re snacking) but more to do with your ears, eyes and imagination. Well that is until I started getting ads on my damn Spotify. I guess it was a fun tease to find out my subscription had ended. ( I was like why is it talking to me?? Is it a cryptic message? What do I need to decipher?😂) - Nope, just an ad🫠
But anyhoo, I guess what really hooked me in is how the story keeps you guessing about who the real “monsters” are. You know..the creatures? Or the people trying to control them?
It’s a slower start because it’s setting up a huge world but once it clicks, it clicks. But heyyy, if you like dystopian reads with a twist of meaning in science, politics and Greek Mythology, then this book delivers. 🙌🏽✨
#toysoldiersofmonstersandmen #ddward #darkscifi #horror #greekmythology #bookrec #bookrecommendations #books #book #bookish #bookworm #bookstagrammer #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookswithmusic #fyp
Book : Toy Soldiers : Of Monsters & Men (Vol.1)
Author : D. D Ward
Genre : Dark Sci-Fi
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Okay, so this book was a freaking good slow burn. I wasn’t totally sure what to expect going in but holy smokes! This book is definitely a dark sci-fi with mythology and has a bit of horror all wrapped up in a Cold War vibe. The world-building is 🤯 and honestly one of the coolest parts of the book. You can tell the author put A LOT of thought into it. It’s not a quick light read as I’ve mentioned up there, it’s a real slow burn and there’s a lot happening. The more you read, the more it really pulls you in.
I also thought the idea of having QR codes for music in some chapters was sooooo cool! Definitely helped set the mood and made it feel more immersive like one of those fancy whimsical gastronomical dinners..except this had nothing to do with eating (unless you’re snacking) but more to do with your ears, eyes and imagination. Well that is until I started getting ads on my damn Spotify. I guess it was a fun tease to find out my subscription had ended. ( I was like why is it talking to me?? Is it a cryptic message? What do I need to decipher?😂) - Nope, just an ad🫠
But anyhoo, I guess what really hooked me in is how the story keeps you guessing about who the real “monsters” are. You know..the creatures? Or the people trying to control them?
It’s a slower start because it’s setting up a huge world but once it clicks, it clicks. But heyyy, if you like dystopian reads with a twist of meaning in science, politics and Greek Mythology, then this book delivers. 🙌🏽✨
#toysoldiersofmonstersandmen #ddward #darkscifi #horror #greekmythology #bookrec #bookrecommendations #books #book #bookish #bookworm #bookstagrammer #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookswithmusic #fyp
November 30, 2025
Thank you to D.D Ward for sending me a copy of your novel for an honest review.
Toy Soldiers kicks off with a bold concept; war and monsters, both literal and personal, and a world that blurs the line between survival and morality. It’s gritty, imaginative, and doesn’t shy away from darker themes. There were moments that genuinely hit hard, and I appreciated that Ward didn’t try to soften the emotional weight of the story. It's an ambitious and creative debut.
However, while the worldbuilding is rich, it sometimes felt dense and at some points, I couldn't settle into it. There were scenes that I wanted more space to breathe, more time with the characters, more clarity in motivations, more emotional development before the next heavy moment arrived. This first volume packs a lot in, and depending on the reader, that can feel either gripping or slightly overwhelming.
The action is sharp and cinematic, but occasionally the pacing jumped so quickly between moments that I found myself flipping back to make sure I didn’t miss something. The characters have strong potential, but I’m hoping future volumes slow down enough to let their personal arcs feel more lived-in and less rushed.
Vol. 1 is a compelling start. Ambitious in scope, and clearly building toward something bigger. If you enjoy dark, militaristic fantasy with young protagonists facing impossible realities, this might be one to keep watching. I’m curious to see where Ward takes it next, especially if the world and characters get a little more room to expand.
Toy Soldiers kicks off with a bold concept; war and monsters, both literal and personal, and a world that blurs the line between survival and morality. It’s gritty, imaginative, and doesn’t shy away from darker themes. There were moments that genuinely hit hard, and I appreciated that Ward didn’t try to soften the emotional weight of the story. It's an ambitious and creative debut.
However, while the worldbuilding is rich, it sometimes felt dense and at some points, I couldn't settle into it. There were scenes that I wanted more space to breathe, more time with the characters, more clarity in motivations, more emotional development before the next heavy moment arrived. This first volume packs a lot in, and depending on the reader, that can feel either gripping or slightly overwhelming.
The action is sharp and cinematic, but occasionally the pacing jumped so quickly between moments that I found myself flipping back to make sure I didn’t miss something. The characters have strong potential, but I’m hoping future volumes slow down enough to let their personal arcs feel more lived-in and less rushed.
Vol. 1 is a compelling start. Ambitious in scope, and clearly building toward something bigger. If you enjoy dark, militaristic fantasy with young protagonists facing impossible realities, this might be one to keep watching. I’m curious to see where Ward takes it next, especially if the world and characters get a little more room to expand.
July 12, 2025
3/5 Stars
Format: E-book (provided by the author for an honest review)
Spoilers: No
This book is an ambitious undertaking by an independent author. A sci-fi story about genetic experiments gone wrong during the Cold War and heavily rooted in Greek mythology, I was impressed at the overall creativity and the amount of work that went into the production of this book. You can tell the author has a vision for the project, this being the first of four volumes. There are some cool illustrations, and there are even QR codes to link to songs that the author feels are a part of the story.
There were some things for me that did not fully land. As with any independent book, it would benefit from some editing. There were certainly periods of dialogue or elements of the story that were drawn out, and some where big things happened "off camera" that I would have liked to read more about. There are some interesting formatting choices that were a bit jolting (one character always speaks in bold/italics, for example), and the songs themselves did not always feel appropriate for the mood of the scenes (although the author explains the song choices in an afterword). I would have liked more development and time with the characters who were involved in the boss battle, but that could be coming in future volumes.
However, the concept is really cool, and you can tell that this book is all about building the world on which subsequent volumes will elaborate. You get a fun climactic "boss fight," and are left with a lot of interesting questions to ponder that will likely be addressed going forward. This also explores some really interesting themes, ranging from the sociopolitical to the moral/ethical.
Overall, D. D. Ward should be praised for an ambitious, creative book that is different than anything I've read. If you like sci-fi, 80's nostalgia, and Greek mythology, this is definitely right up your alley.
Format: E-book (provided by the author for an honest review)
Spoilers: No
This book is an ambitious undertaking by an independent author. A sci-fi story about genetic experiments gone wrong during the Cold War and heavily rooted in Greek mythology, I was impressed at the overall creativity and the amount of work that went into the production of this book. You can tell the author has a vision for the project, this being the first of four volumes. There are some cool illustrations, and there are even QR codes to link to songs that the author feels are a part of the story.
There were some things for me that did not fully land. As with any independent book, it would benefit from some editing. There were certainly periods of dialogue or elements of the story that were drawn out, and some where big things happened "off camera" that I would have liked to read more about. There are some interesting formatting choices that were a bit jolting (one character always speaks in bold/italics, for example), and the songs themselves did not always feel appropriate for the mood of the scenes (although the author explains the song choices in an afterword). I would have liked more development and time with the characters who were involved in the boss battle, but that could be coming in future volumes.
However, the concept is really cool, and you can tell that this book is all about building the world on which subsequent volumes will elaborate. You get a fun climactic "boss fight," and are left with a lot of interesting questions to ponder that will likely be addressed going forward. This also explores some really interesting themes, ranging from the sociopolitical to the moral/ethical.
Overall, D. D. Ward should be praised for an ambitious, creative book that is different than anything I've read. If you like sci-fi, 80's nostalgia, and Greek mythology, this is definitely right up your alley.
August 1, 2025
This was a full-on experience. Cinematic, gruesome, rich with lore, and larger than life. D.D. Ward delivers a wildly ambitious debut; an atmospheric, gritty military sci-fi horror that absolutely goes for it.
Honestly, this plot is too dense to sum up in a neat little paragraph, but here’s the gist:
During the Cold War, bio-engineered creatures known as Titans break loose and begin wreaking havoc. In response, rival nations are forced to work together to survive. Mistrust spreads, stakes skyrocket, and the world descends into bloody chaos.
This book is packed with dense worldbuilding, militaristic strategy, scientific jargon, Cold War politics, and a heavy dose of Greek mythology. If that combination doesn’t appeal to you, this may not be your read but if it does, you’re in for something big.
That’s not to say it’s without flaws. The pacing lagged for me in places (particularly Chapter 3), which dragged given its length. I also struggled with character clarity: names, titles, and later monikers were used interchangeably within paragraphs, making it hard to keep track.. especially when many are introduced at once. The prose occasionally leaned into over-description, slowing down moments that could’ve hit harder.
But even with those critiques, I was absolutely hooked. Titans? Greek mythology? Global military alliances? Science gone feral? Yes, please. The writing was immersive and atmospheric, the fight scenes vivid and visceral, and the cast (sprawling across countries) felt distinct and alive.
The QR-coded songs were a cool addition, though I could take or leave them. The story stands strongly on its own. I especially loved the epilogue and insight into the creative choices.
This is an ambitious story and an even more ambitious series. With a bit of fine-tuning, it could become something incredible. I’ll definitely be continuing.
Thank you so much to the author for the copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Honestly, this plot is too dense to sum up in a neat little paragraph, but here’s the gist:
During the Cold War, bio-engineered creatures known as Titans break loose and begin wreaking havoc. In response, rival nations are forced to work together to survive. Mistrust spreads, stakes skyrocket, and the world descends into bloody chaos.
This book is packed with dense worldbuilding, militaristic strategy, scientific jargon, Cold War politics, and a heavy dose of Greek mythology. If that combination doesn’t appeal to you, this may not be your read but if it does, you’re in for something big.
That’s not to say it’s without flaws. The pacing lagged for me in places (particularly Chapter 3), which dragged given its length. I also struggled with character clarity: names, titles, and later monikers were used interchangeably within paragraphs, making it hard to keep track.. especially when many are introduced at once. The prose occasionally leaned into over-description, slowing down moments that could’ve hit harder.
But even with those critiques, I was absolutely hooked. Titans? Greek mythology? Global military alliances? Science gone feral? Yes, please. The writing was immersive and atmospheric, the fight scenes vivid and visceral, and the cast (sprawling across countries) felt distinct and alive.
The QR-coded songs were a cool addition, though I could take or leave them. The story stands strongly on its own. I especially loved the epilogue and insight into the creative choices.
This is an ambitious story and an even more ambitious series. With a bit of fine-tuning, it could become something incredible. I’ll definitely be continuing.
Thank you so much to the author for the copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
June 30, 2025
Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters and Men Vol. 1 is a slow, but powerful and engaging read with a blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and horror. The story takes place in a post-Cold War world and explores themes of mythology and politics.
Ward blends historical details with fantasy to create a world that feels both real and strange. The diverse characters come together in this setting, each facing personal struggles while grappling with a society shaped by its history. They literally confront monsters (titans) that their governments have created by becoming these titans themselves. The story goes beyond a simple good vs evil or hero vs villain; it explores the complexities of humanity, the recurring patterns of conflict and the inner demons we all face.
Initially, I planned to rate this a 4-star book. I was rushing through it and not fully appreciating the world-building, emotional depth, and complex history in each chapter. Once I stopped pressuring myself to finish and review it, I slowed down and started over, completely succumbing to the charms of D.D. Ward's writing. You can tell he poured his heart, soul, and knowledge into this novel, and I truly appreciate that. I might have been his target audience because I was completely engaged and now eagerly awaiting Volume 2! Might I add... this story also comes with QR codes to songs that fit each chapter or scene. If you know me, you know I love a curated playlist—a man after my own heart! All in all, I highly recommend it for anyone looking to explore the darker sides of fantasy and the shadows of human nature.
Thank you, D.D. Ward, for this free ebook in exchange for my honest review! Looking forward to more of your writing in the near future.
Ward blends historical details with fantasy to create a world that feels both real and strange. The diverse characters come together in this setting, each facing personal struggles while grappling with a society shaped by its history. They literally confront monsters (titans) that their governments have created by becoming these titans themselves. The story goes beyond a simple good vs evil or hero vs villain; it explores the complexities of humanity, the recurring patterns of conflict and the inner demons we all face.
Initially, I planned to rate this a 4-star book. I was rushing through it and not fully appreciating the world-building, emotional depth, and complex history in each chapter. Once I stopped pressuring myself to finish and review it, I slowed down and started over, completely succumbing to the charms of D.D. Ward's writing. You can tell he poured his heart, soul, and knowledge into this novel, and I truly appreciate that. I might have been his target audience because I was completely engaged and now eagerly awaiting Volume 2! Might I add... this story also comes with QR codes to songs that fit each chapter or scene. If you know me, you know I love a curated playlist—a man after my own heart! All in all, I highly recommend it for anyone looking to explore the darker sides of fantasy and the shadows of human nature.
Thank you, D.D. Ward, for this free ebook in exchange for my honest review! Looking forward to more of your writing in the near future.
August 27, 2026
Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters and Men, Vol. 1 is a thrillingly dark and horrific SciFi novel. Obviously, it's the first installment in an upcoming series by D.D. Ward, so buckle up and keep your bedside lamps switched on. Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review this honestly! Now, to get started, the strange and unusual has always been in my wheelhouse; this book is for those who contemplate the bumps in the night (no, the house is not settling). This novel highlights the depravity that mankind can take behind the cover of shadows; realistically horrifying. It shows the actions of sin, the unspoken, and the overall progression within. But what if we're just monsters? The monsters are men, women, HUMANS? And the apparitions at night… are the holy or the even more despicable wretch? Oh my GOODNESS, why did I wake up at 3 a.m. to read this IN THE DARK? The illustrations are going to haunt me forever. What would you do if your nighttime horrors came to life? Please check the trigger warnings going into this upcoming series though; the writing style is raw in its descriptions to ensure the point gets across. My only qualm was I wanted more monsters (POV, scenes, discussion) 4 ⭐
March 2, 2025
Finished Toy Soldiers by D.D. Ward!
Recommend: Yes! Especially for urban fantasy fans
Received my digital copy from the author himself for the purpose of this review, and what an honor and joy that was! An action packed giant monster joyride, Ward has built an immersive and, more importantly, interesting world to get lost in. As a big (pun-intended) fan of any and all Kaiju/giant monster media, the Titans both frightened and intrigued me, and I found myself more and more interested in them as the book went on.
Through the Titans themselves along with our characters and the Pantheon, Ward sets up a plethora of concepts that I'm excited to see tackled in the future books, from teamwork to genetic engineering to power and more.
As book one, it has the unglamorous task of both engaging a reader and setting up for the future at the same time. While there is a lot of lore and world building in this, in my opinion it never felt like it dragged on. In fact, Ward managed to maintain my interest throughout the entire read, and I found myself devouring it in two days!
I will definitely be keeping my eye out for book two, and I 100% recommend giving this a shot!
Recommend: Yes! Especially for urban fantasy fans
Received my digital copy from the author himself for the purpose of this review, and what an honor and joy that was! An action packed giant monster joyride, Ward has built an immersive and, more importantly, interesting world to get lost in. As a big (pun-intended) fan of any and all Kaiju/giant monster media, the Titans both frightened and intrigued me, and I found myself more and more interested in them as the book went on.
Through the Titans themselves along with our characters and the Pantheon, Ward sets up a plethora of concepts that I'm excited to see tackled in the future books, from teamwork to genetic engineering to power and more.
As book one, it has the unglamorous task of both engaging a reader and setting up for the future at the same time. While there is a lot of lore and world building in this, in my opinion it never felt like it dragged on. In fact, Ward managed to maintain my interest throughout the entire read, and I found myself devouring it in two days!
I will definitely be keeping my eye out for book two, and I 100% recommend giving this a shot!
August 10, 2025
Firstly, I want to thank D.D Ward for giving me this book for an honest review. While not my usual genre, I did enjoy this book.
This book features:
🕵- secret government investigations and conspiracy
🦠- mutations
🌏- A global apocalypse
🪖- super soldiers
This sci-fi/horror novel details the rise of colossal titans and the creation of super soldiers to stop them, as well as being full of rich world building and cinematic scenes.
The cool thing about this book is that it has QR codes that you can scan to access songs for certain scenes in the book. I have never seen that before and really enjoyed that quirk. I also really enjoyed the art work and would of loved to have seen more of it as well because it just added to the whole experience where it felt like it was pushing the boundaries of being a normal book and I loved that.
I do have to warn you though if you are a chapter to chapter reader, the chapters in this book are quite long which pays off considering the book provided such a cinematic experience however, sometimes I was grateful for an Interlude scene but I still like this book 📖😊
Thank you again D.D Ward! Happy Reading bookworms! 📚
This book features:
🕵- secret government investigations and conspiracy
🦠- mutations
🌏- A global apocalypse
🪖- super soldiers
This sci-fi/horror novel details the rise of colossal titans and the creation of super soldiers to stop them, as well as being full of rich world building and cinematic scenes.
The cool thing about this book is that it has QR codes that you can scan to access songs for certain scenes in the book. I have never seen that before and really enjoyed that quirk. I also really enjoyed the art work and would of loved to have seen more of it as well because it just added to the whole experience where it felt like it was pushing the boundaries of being a normal book and I loved that.
I do have to warn you though if you are a chapter to chapter reader, the chapters in this book are quite long which pays off considering the book provided such a cinematic experience however, sometimes I was grateful for an Interlude scene but I still like this book 📖😊
Thank you again D.D Ward! Happy Reading bookworms! 📚
June 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters and Men
by Daniel Ward
What do you get when you mix Attack on Titan, Godzilla, Cold War conspiracy, and a trauma-fueled bioengineering project?
Apparently… this. 😅🧬🧍♂️💣
The premise? Amazing. The vibes? Immaculate. The pacing? Slower than a kaiju crawling through red tape. 😅 But there’s something magnetic about it all—huge existential dread, global tension, and a deeply weird scientific solution to an even weirder threat.
🧠 What I liked:
• A gritty ‘80s setting full of paranoia
• Intense atmosphere that creeps up on you
• Just the right amount of “what the hell is going on??”
• A story that’s dark, smart, and more interested in why than just what
😬 What kept it from 5 stars:
• A lot of setup with only a glimpse of what’s to come
• Feels like the first act of something huge—but we’re not quite there yet
• Heavy on the political/scientific layers, light on pure chaos (for now)
If you like slow-burn global horror, bioengineered nightmares, and morally gray decisions disguised as heroism… this one’s for you. Just maybe don’t read it expecting non-stop monster battles (yet). 👀🧪
Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters and Men
by Daniel Ward
What do you get when you mix Attack on Titan, Godzilla, Cold War conspiracy, and a trauma-fueled bioengineering project?
Apparently… this. 😅🧬🧍♂️💣
The premise? Amazing. The vibes? Immaculate. The pacing? Slower than a kaiju crawling through red tape. 😅 But there’s something magnetic about it all—huge existential dread, global tension, and a deeply weird scientific solution to an even weirder threat.
🧠 What I liked:
• A gritty ‘80s setting full of paranoia
• Intense atmosphere that creeps up on you
• Just the right amount of “what the hell is going on??”
• A story that’s dark, smart, and more interested in why than just what
😬 What kept it from 5 stars:
• A lot of setup with only a glimpse of what’s to come
• Feels like the first act of something huge—but we’re not quite there yet
• Heavy on the political/scientific layers, light on pure chaos (for now)
If you like slow-burn global horror, bioengineered nightmares, and morally gray decisions disguised as heroism… this one’s for you. Just maybe don’t read it expecting non-stop monster battles (yet). 👀🧪
July 31, 2025
✨️ I was provided with a copy of this book by the author, but this does not affect my review in any way ✨️
Toy Soldiers has a very interesting premise, and I genuinely believe it could have been a great read, but unfortunately, it was just too dense.
We're barraged with an endless onslaught of information, character dialogues that drag on far longer than necessary, and an overall structure that stretches 410 pages without delivering much action in comparison to the amount of setup.
I found it difficult to stay focused, as the dialogue often felt unrealistic; characters spoke in long-winded tangents that didn’t always feel relevant to the matter at hand. I also struggled to connect with the characters, and honestly, I just didn’t care for any of them all that much.
I don’t mind the occasional info-dump when it’s relevant to the plot, but Toy Soldiers felt like one massive info-dump from start to finish. I ended up skim-reading the final 30% and still didn’t feel like I’d missed anything critical.
Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me.
Toy Soldiers has a very interesting premise, and I genuinely believe it could have been a great read, but unfortunately, it was just too dense.
We're barraged with an endless onslaught of information, character dialogues that drag on far longer than necessary, and an overall structure that stretches 410 pages without delivering much action in comparison to the amount of setup.
I found it difficult to stay focused, as the dialogue often felt unrealistic; characters spoke in long-winded tangents that didn’t always feel relevant to the matter at hand. I also struggled to connect with the characters, and honestly, I just didn’t care for any of them all that much.
I don’t mind the occasional info-dump when it’s relevant to the plot, but Toy Soldiers felt like one massive info-dump from start to finish. I ended up skim-reading the final 30% and still didn’t feel like I’d missed anything critical.
Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me.
October 21, 2025
Wow! Toy Soldiers: Of Monsters & Men absolutely blew me away!! D.D. Ward delivers a story that feels larger than life being part sci-fi thriller, mythological epic, and the emotional character drama, all wrapped in an atmosphere thick with Cold War tension and apocalyptic dread.
From the first Titan attack, I was hooked. The sheer scale of this world is breathtaking, ancient myths colliding with modern science, soldiers being remade into gods, and a planet on the brink of collapse. The attention to detail makes everything feel real and terrifyingly possible.
What impressed me most, though, wasn’t just the monsters, it was the humanity. Every character, no matter how brief their appearance, carries weight. With multiple POVs, Ward gives us glimpses of fear, courage, and moral grayness that linger long after the last page.
And when talking about presentation: Next level! The artwork and QR code music links are such an amazing touch, turning the book into an immersive experience. It’s like watching a movie and reading a novel at once, the kind of creativity I wish more authors dared to attempt. For someone who attaches music to emotions or specific situations, this touch made this a very memorable adventure.
If you love:
⚡️Monsters vs. soldiers
⚡️Greek mythology with a modern twist
⚡️Science meets legend
⚡️Big, cinematic storytelling
From the first Titan attack, I was hooked. The sheer scale of this world is breathtaking, ancient myths colliding with modern science, soldiers being remade into gods, and a planet on the brink of collapse. The attention to detail makes everything feel real and terrifyingly possible.
What impressed me most, though, wasn’t just the monsters, it was the humanity. Every character, no matter how brief their appearance, carries weight. With multiple POVs, Ward gives us glimpses of fear, courage, and moral grayness that linger long after the last page.
And when talking about presentation: Next level! The artwork and QR code music links are such an amazing touch, turning the book into an immersive experience. It’s like watching a movie and reading a novel at once, the kind of creativity I wish more authors dared to attempt. For someone who attaches music to emotions or specific situations, this touch made this a very memorable adventure.
If you love:
⚡️Monsters vs. soldiers
⚡️Greek mythology with a modern twist
⚡️Science meets legend
⚡️Big, cinematic storytelling
October 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I really loved the premise of this book. I thought it was well thought out and brings a lot of commentary about warfare and human nature.
The pacing was at times a little slow at some points, but the action scenes made up for it! I think the thing that prevented it from being a 5 star read (it’s a very compelling story and I am giving it a 4.5) is that it felt disjointed at times. I also wanted to understand more about the Titans in real time. We get to meet one in battle at the end, which was very cool. The questions asked about humanity is something I appreciated and think it was done so masterfully.
I could also tell Ward really cares about his work and wanted to make something unique and profound. I think he can definitely be proud of this story.
The pacing was at times a little slow at some points, but the action scenes made up for it! I think the thing that prevented it from being a 5 star read (it’s a very compelling story and I am giving it a 4.5) is that it felt disjointed at times. I also wanted to understand more about the Titans in real time. We get to meet one in battle at the end, which was very cool. The questions asked about humanity is something I appreciated and think it was done so masterfully.
I could also tell Ward really cares about his work and wanted to make something unique and profound. I think he can definitely be proud of this story.
June 22, 2026
Based in the 80s, the world has been plagued with giants (Titans), bloodthirsty monsters with an agenda against humans. As they wreak devastation against military and civilians, military forces from around the world come together to work on a way to bring them to an end, but with them being much like gods of death, that may present quite the challenge.
This book was exhilarating, I was immediately engrossed in the writing and the story. There were many tense moments that kept me on the edge of my seat, with so much on the line for the characters. If you like Attack On Titan or Greek mythology, you would most likely enjoy this book.
This book was exhilarating, I was immediately engrossed in the writing and the story. There were many tense moments that kept me on the edge of my seat, with so much on the line for the characters. If you like Attack On Titan or Greek mythology, you would most likely enjoy this book.
February 4, 2025
Toy Soldiers did not disappoint! The world building is very immersive and as someone who loves music, I love the unique addition of QR codes that adds an auditory dimension to the storytelling that really compliments the narrative. If you’re into an action packed, thought provoking narrative with a good innovative take on human extinction level threats that involves titans, a good 1980s nostalgia vibe, good character development, then this is definitely a must read.
I also loved how the story masterfully intertwines elements of science fiction and mythology, exploring themes of unity, power, and the ethical implications of genetic manipulation. I love a good conflict but finding the right solution is just as important and the pantheon project was a great countermeasure for the extinction level threats in this story. It really satisfied my natural thirst for sci-fi and innovative taste for biological manipulation. I’m definitely looking forward to volume 2.
I also loved how the story masterfully intertwines elements of science fiction and mythology, exploring themes of unity, power, and the ethical implications of genetic manipulation. I love a good conflict but finding the right solution is just as important and the pantheon project was a great countermeasure for the extinction level threats in this story. It really satisfied my natural thirst for sci-fi and innovative taste for biological manipulation. I’m definitely looking forward to volume 2.
June 3, 2025
Ward totally took me by surprise! I picked it up thinking it would be another classic sci-fi adventure, but it turned out to be so much more than that. The story mixes a tense, Cold War atmosphere with monstrous Titans and a touch of Greek mythology, all set in the 1980s.
September 11, 2025
Huge thanks to @toysoldiersmm for sharing a copy with me ❤️ I was a bit skeptical, but let’s be honest I just don’t read enough horror by authors with legit quality. Every paragraph felt intentional and layered. It was darker than my usual reads, but brilliantly done. 100% recommend.
August 16, 2026
I don't normally read science fiction, but I love horror, and this promised to be a mix of both, so I was excited going in. The opening scene really caught my attention, and I loved the picture that went with it. There are a few pictures in the book, but my favorite was definitely the first one with the grinning monster. The writing is excellent and confident throughout, and the story is ambitious and imaginative. There was plenty of gore and death to keep my horror loving self happy, but the story also asked a lot of questions about the nature of humanity and war. The ties to Greek mythology was a nice touch, and I also thought the QR codes leading to songs was interesting. Some of the writing was a little hard for me to follow, and the beginning drags a little, but this is altogether a very unique and exciting read. Thanks to the author for giving me a copy to read!
August 19, 2026
Lot of world building and lots of characters introduced. My only biggest issue is that it got a little hard to keep track of, especially towards the end, especially with the code names. But the end was intense. Definitely can this going places though. Loved the addition of the QR codes
January 22, 2026
don't trust the silence. at first I was a bit worried I wouldn't like it when I was told it was a scifi, but Im so glad I took the dive. this was an insane read leaving each page wanting more and more. this is one that creeps up and collapses down. im so glad I took a chance to read this
January 17, 2025
I won this book (Kindle version) for an honest review.
I really loved the cover of this book, it gives you the creepies. This is a rich and complex book that was a pleasure to read and I believe this author has the beginnings to something very special and therefore, I look forward to future stories from this great story teller.
I really loved the cover of this book, it gives you the creepies. This is a rich and complex book that was a pleasure to read and I believe this author has the beginnings to something very special and therefore, I look forward to future stories from this great story teller.
July 25, 2025
In full transparency, this author provided me a free copy for an HONEST review of his work.
I am typically a thriller/mystery/dark romance fan so sci-fi isn’t my typical wheelhouse.
BUT- this book blew me away.
The attention to detail, the carefully picked verbage- the research he must have gone through to talk about Greek mythology, to create a world based off the 1980’s, it’s truly staggering.
There is a great deal of suspense in this novel as the creatures are learned more about- how humanity must save itself before it can save the world; it definitely gives current superhero Avenger’s vibes but I am so here for it.
One of the strongest parts? The addition of songs through a QR code in this book, meant to be listened to as you read the scenes and move through the book. They provide a depth to the book that I haven’t seen before. Each one is unique as it depicts the current happenings in the book (no spoilers here!)
Through humanity learning of a threat, through reading the “first hand accounts” of this creatures disturbances, you feel the threat, the fear, the uncertainty that you could be next. Throughout the story, I found myself unable to pull away, needing to know what happened next and I think the fact that he was able to pull you in from the gate and keep attention throughout the story is a great feat in itself.
All of this to say, I don’t typically read or like sci-fi, old mythological-esque books but I LOVED this one.
From the prologue, I was immediately reeled in and I have found myself wanting more as I finished the last pages.
Really looking forward to what he has to say next.
I am typically a thriller/mystery/dark romance fan so sci-fi isn’t my typical wheelhouse.
BUT- this book blew me away.
The attention to detail, the carefully picked verbage- the research he must have gone through to talk about Greek mythology, to create a world based off the 1980’s, it’s truly staggering.
There is a great deal of suspense in this novel as the creatures are learned more about- how humanity must save itself before it can save the world; it definitely gives current superhero Avenger’s vibes but I am so here for it.
One of the strongest parts? The addition of songs through a QR code in this book, meant to be listened to as you read the scenes and move through the book. They provide a depth to the book that I haven’t seen before. Each one is unique as it depicts the current happenings in the book (no spoilers here!)
Through humanity learning of a threat, through reading the “first hand accounts” of this creatures disturbances, you feel the threat, the fear, the uncertainty that you could be next. Throughout the story, I found myself unable to pull away, needing to know what happened next and I think the fact that he was able to pull you in from the gate and keep attention throughout the story is a great feat in itself.
All of this to say, I don’t typically read or like sci-fi, old mythological-esque books but I LOVED this one.
From the prologue, I was immediately reeled in and I have found myself wanting more as I finished the last pages.
Really looking forward to what he has to say next.
May 2, 2026
Disclaimer: The author sent me an ebook copy for an honest review.
4.5!!
I really had a great time with this story! This first book in a planned series is a dark sci-fi that brings in elements of horror and Greek mythology. I was completely blown away by the story. I loved the characters, and really liked that we were jumping not only to different pov's, but also different countries, trying to survive. I think Grace was my favorite character.
I really look forward to the next book in the series. Well done D.D. Ward!
4.5!!
I really had a great time with this story! This first book in a planned series is a dark sci-fi that brings in elements of horror and Greek mythology. I was completely blown away by the story. I loved the characters, and really liked that we were jumping not only to different pov's, but also different countries, trying to survive. I think Grace was my favorite character.
I really look forward to the next book in the series. Well done D.D. Ward!
December 2, 2025
This book was such an incredible break from my usual genre in the best possible way. It’s not something you breeze through,…you want to take your time with it so you can fully absorb everything D.D. Ward poured into these pages. The blend of sci-fi, mythology, action, and war is woven together so seamlessly that I’m still not sure how Ward managed it, but he absolutely nailed it.
The immersive elements music through QR codes and stunning illustrations pulled me even deeper into the world. More than once, I caught myself thinking, “This would make an amazing video game or movie.” Seth quickly became a character I genuinely cared about, and following him through the span of his entire life was gripping. There are many characters and shifting timelines and locations, but instead of feeling overwhelming, it added richness and challenge in a way I enjoyed. The writing itself has a surprising eloquence that elevates the entire story. I also appreciate the way the book wraps up the characters. I love not being left hanging.
The immersive elements music through QR codes and stunning illustrations pulled me even deeper into the world. More than once, I caught myself thinking, “This would make an amazing video game or movie.” Seth quickly became a character I genuinely cared about, and following him through the span of his entire life was gripping. There are many characters and shifting timelines and locations, but instead of feeling overwhelming, it added richness and challenge in a way I enjoyed. The writing itself has a surprising eloquence that elevates the entire story. I also appreciate the way the book wraps up the characters. I love not being left hanging.
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