When he finds a hidden map and a scripture washed up with an unusual body at the Galunda Bay, Daimeh’s idyllic life changes forever. After an autopsy has been conducted, he decides to follow the map and go on a journey with his aunt to the impassable lands to the north, where it is rumoured a great civilisation lives. In their path are giant worms, mysterious technology and a gargantuan. When they reach their destination, at first the Amunisari appear very welcoming... But after facing deception, mystery and brutality, Daimeh has to face his final fear... Being alone...
Daimeh finds a body washed ashore and a tablet with strange glyphs. He doesn’t know that this discovery will change his life forever. With his aunt Cresadir, he sets off on a journey through lands that the people of Alkoryn thought unreachable, meeting strange creatures on the way.
C.J. Gleave depicts vividly the way of life on the islands, peaceful, in harmony with nature. It’s like watching colours applied on a blank canvas. The way the author describes the personality traits of the characters makes them realistic.
The second part of the novel is completely different and is also reflected in the description of the people and places. The ending is intriguing and I can’t wait to read the sequel of this great debut novel.
There is a glossary with the correct pronunciation of some words, as well as the description of various elements — animals, food, objects.
If you like fantasy stories with an interesting twist, this novel is for you.
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down once I had started reading.
A compelling story that takes you on a journey through a wonderful well thought out world introduced at a comfortable pace as you follow the characters through it.
While revealing it's true sci-fi nature as the book progresses, this is not a hard sci-fi novel and with implications relating to Arthur C. Clarke's quote: "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."
The fictional setting is creative and vivid with plenty of depth and scope, I was regularly left with a desire to explore more of the world. I was left wanting more and to continue the exploration of the larger world and it's inhabitants, I'm greatly looking forward to part 2.
The beginning of a detailed adventure in a fantastical world
My previous attempts at reading books in the Fantasy genre were highly unsuccessful (don’t even get me started on singing hobbits!) but this book did keep me interested enough to read the entire book and even want to read the next!!
The main character, Daimeh, lacks detail into his personality and as a result, at points in the book, I found him difficult to relate to. Despite this the adventure flowed well and was enjoyably fast-paced, with an interesting and somewhat unexpected ending.
I would like to read the next book to find out where this story leads and what fate awaits Daimeh and Cresidar!
This is a great blend of fantasy and sci-fi, with a gripping storyline and characters you come to care about. The ending leaves you wanting to mine what happens next. Good start to what looks like an intriguing trilogy. Young and young at heart fantasy fans should love this book.