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The Amber Throne #1
Soleri
Michael Johnston brings you the first in a new epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.
The ruling family of the Soleri Empire has been in power longer than even the calendars that stretch back 2,826 years. Those records tell a history of conquest and domination by a people descended from gods, older than anything in the known world. No living person has seen them for centuries, yet their grip on their four subjugate kingdoms remains tighter than ever.
On the day of the annual eclipse, the Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, sets off on a hunt and shirks his duty rather than bow to the emperor. Ren, his son and heir, is a prisoner in the capital, while his daughters struggle against their own chains. Merit, the eldest, has found a way to stand against imperial law and marry the man she desires, but needs her sister’s help, and Kepi has her own ideas.
Meanwhile, Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of the sun god’s cult, holds the keys to the end of an empire and a past betrayal that could shatter her family.
Detailed and historical, vast in scope and intricate in conception, Soleri bristles with primal magic and unexpected violence. It is a world of ancient and elaborate rites, of unseen power and kingdoms ravaged by war, where victory comes with a price, and every truth conceals a deeper secret.
The ruling family of the Soleri Empire has been in power longer than even the calendars that stretch back 2,826 years. Those records tell a history of conquest and domination by a people descended from gods, older than anything in the known world. No living person has seen them for centuries, yet their grip on their four subjugate kingdoms remains tighter than ever.
On the day of the annual eclipse, the Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, sets off on a hunt and shirks his duty rather than bow to the emperor. Ren, his son and heir, is a prisoner in the capital, while his daughters struggle against their own chains. Merit, the eldest, has found a way to stand against imperial law and marry the man she desires, but needs her sister’s help, and Kepi has her own ideas.
Meanwhile, Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of the sun god’s cult, holds the keys to the end of an empire and a past betrayal that could shatter her family.
Detailed and historical, vast in scope and intricate in conception, Soleri bristles with primal magic and unexpected violence. It is a world of ancient and elaborate rites, of unseen power and kingdoms ravaged by war, where victory comes with a price, and every truth conceals a deeper secret.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published June 13, 2017
31 people are currently reading
3183 people want to read
About the author
Michael Johnston
8 books128 followersMichael Johnston was born in 1973 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a child and a teen he was an avid reader of science fiction and fantasy. He studied architecture and ancient history at Lehigh University and during a lecture on the history of ancient Egypt, the seed of an idea was born. He earned a master’s degree in architecture from Columbia University, graduating at the top of his class. Michael worked as an architect in New York City before moving to Los Angeles. Sparked by the change of locale, a visit to the desert, and his growing dissatisfaction with the architectural industry, he sought a way to merge his interests in architecture and history with his love of fantasy. By day he worked as an architect, but by night he wrote and researched an epic fantasy novel inspired by the history of ancient Egypt and the tragic story of King Lear. After working this way for several years, he shut down his successful architecture practice and resolved to write full time. He now lives and writes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter.
You can find Michael on twitter @mjohnstonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
April 1, 2019
3.66 stars. Final review, first published on Fantasy Literature:
Soleri is the first book in a new epic fantasy series: think Game of Thrones-lite, with an ancient Egypt-like setting. The multifaceted plot abounds in conspiracies, betrayals, cruelties, and flawed characters. There’s commendable loyalty, but it’s mostly overshadowed by the treachery, cruelty and double-crossing. Overseeing it all is the government of the mysterious Soleri, a powerful race said to be descended from gods.
The Soleri are the ruling family of the sprawling, restless Soleri Empire, a dynasty of nearly 3,000 years, though they are never seen by any human except the person who is designated the “First Ray of the Sun,” the prime minister-like mouthpiece of their government. The Soleri hold sway over several neighboring kingdoms by a combination of military might, superstition and a system called ransoming, where the heir of ruling families are kept in a grim dungeon in the capital city of Solus, called the Priory, until the ruler (typically their father) dies and they become the next.
Soleri focuses on the five members of the ruling family of the kingdom of Harkana, one of the four main subject kingdoms. The story alternates between their viewpoints:
• The Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, carries a legacy of guilt from being one of the few heirs to avoid the Priory ransom, due to the battles his father fought to keep from giving him up ― battles that carried a heavy price in Harkan lives lost. Added to that is the guilt from giving up his own son and heir Ren as a ransom at the unusually early age of 3.
• Ren, now age 13, has managed to survive the mercilessly abusive Priory and make a few friends among the other ransoms. On the verge of death from an ordeal by sun (it's worse than it may sound), he’s suddenly freed and sent to Harkan with a scroll ordering his father to appear before the Soleri emperor ― which is invariably a death sentence.
• Merit, Ren’s lovely older sister, chafes at not being named as her father’s heir, and at her politically arranged marriage to a gay man. She’s in an emotional affair with Dagrun Finner, the usurper of the Feren throne, and sees an opportunity to gain power and the man she loves through manipulating events in her favor.
• Kepi, age 16, is still recovering from a brief but abusive marriage with a Feren landholder when she was 13. She has since honed her sword-fighting abilities and is involved in a semi-secret relationship with a young man who’s a commoner, but a surprise, unwelcome marriage proposal from Dagrun may end her dreams of living life on her own terms.
• Sarra Amunet, Arko’s estranged wife, abandoned her family about ten years ago for reasons that are disclosed later in the story, along with some sizable secrets that she has been keeping. Since leaving Harkana, she’s worked her way up to the position of Mother Priestess of the empire’s religion, a position of considerable power. Sarra is now in a no-holds-barred rivalry with Amen Saad, the Protector of the empire who controls its armies, competing to replace the old man who is currently the First Ray of the Sun. But the Ray has his own ideas for his successor.
I found Soleri reminiscent of A Game of Thrones in its frequent brutality, political intriguing and cruel betrayals, and even in some of its subplots. One character’s experiences, for example, ended up reminding me quite strongly of Daenerys’. But Soleri, while it has its merits, is a lesser version of George R.R. Martin’s world of Westeros. Michael Johnston’s prose is more workmanlike; it flows well but rarely inspires awe.
Soleri is also not as engrossing or rich in its world-building or characterization. Merit is a ruthless woman of strength and power, but fairly one-dimensional. Ren’s thoughts and actions seem more appropriate to a boy of 15 or 16 than a 13 year old. The brutality of the Priory toward its young inmates is stunning, but the reasons for the cruel treatment seem shallow, more to shock the reader than because it actually makes sense for the Soleri government to treat its hostages so extremely poorly.
There are some intriguing twists and turns to the story. Politically motivated schemes and machinations abound, and secrets are revealed that cast a new light on events that occurred earlier in the story. For the most part I found it engaging, making it difficult to put down the book. Sarra, forced to leave the capitol for a time, takes off on a quest to find an answer to the failing amaranth crops that sustain this desert empire, assisted by a young priest, Noll, who is suspiciously adept at figuring out clues to dead languages. Sarra finds far more than she bargained for, but the full scope of the mystery of the Soleri is not revealed in this first volume of the series.
Michael Johnston, a trained architect, has incorporated some unusual settings into Soleri. The underground city of Solus, including luxurious but dusty and abandoned royal chambers; chambers inside of mountains that glow with light under certain conditions; secret maps built into the architecture of a ceiling that only become visible at a certain time of day; a forest of stones where a characters experiences a mystical rite. Johnston’s attention to these types of details, echoes of actual places in our world, as he explains in this SFFWorld interview, enriched the story for me.
Soleri is being marketed as an “epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.” Personally I didn’t see much of a King Lear connection, except in the rather vague sense of a family torn apart by internal betrayals as well as external events. Each Hark-Wadi family member has his or her strengths, but most of them have a major flaw or two as well, which may lead to their downfall.
If you’re looking for something to fill in the gap while waiting for the next book in GRRM’s A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE series, you may enjoy Soleri. It’s not the most original fantasy ever, but it definitely has its moments and held my attention through the ending.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for review. Thank you!
Content advisory: Violence, torture, cruelty and a couple of extremely brief but explicit scenes. Not recommended for younger teens or sensitive readers.
Soleri is the first book in a new epic fantasy series: think Game of Thrones-lite, with an ancient Egypt-like setting. The multifaceted plot abounds in conspiracies, betrayals, cruelties, and flawed characters. There’s commendable loyalty, but it’s mostly overshadowed by the treachery, cruelty and double-crossing. Overseeing it all is the government of the mysterious Soleri, a powerful race said to be descended from gods.
The Soleri are the ruling family of the sprawling, restless Soleri Empire, a dynasty of nearly 3,000 years, though they are never seen by any human except the person who is designated the “First Ray of the Sun,” the prime minister-like mouthpiece of their government. The Soleri hold sway over several neighboring kingdoms by a combination of military might, superstition and a system called ransoming, where the heir of ruling families are kept in a grim dungeon in the capital city of Solus, called the Priory, until the ruler (typically their father) dies and they become the next.
Soleri focuses on the five members of the ruling family of the kingdom of Harkana, one of the four main subject kingdoms. The story alternates between their viewpoints:
• The Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, carries a legacy of guilt from being one of the few heirs to avoid the Priory ransom, due to the battles his father fought to keep from giving him up ― battles that carried a heavy price in Harkan lives lost. Added to that is the guilt from giving up his own son and heir Ren as a ransom at the unusually early age of 3.
• Ren, now age 13, has managed to survive the mercilessly abusive Priory and make a few friends among the other ransoms. On the verge of death from an ordeal by sun (it's worse than it may sound), he’s suddenly freed and sent to Harkan with a scroll ordering his father to appear before the Soleri emperor ― which is invariably a death sentence.
• Merit, Ren’s lovely older sister, chafes at not being named as her father’s heir, and at her politically arranged marriage to a gay man. She’s in an emotional affair with Dagrun Finner, the usurper of the Feren throne, and sees an opportunity to gain power and the man she loves through manipulating events in her favor.
• Kepi, age 16, is still recovering from a brief but abusive marriage with a Feren landholder when she was 13. She has since honed her sword-fighting abilities and is involved in a semi-secret relationship with a young man who’s a commoner, but a surprise, unwelcome marriage proposal from Dagrun may end her dreams of living life on her own terms.
• Sarra Amunet, Arko’s estranged wife, abandoned her family about ten years ago for reasons that are disclosed later in the story, along with some sizable secrets that she has been keeping. Since leaving Harkana, she’s worked her way up to the position of Mother Priestess of the empire’s religion, a position of considerable power. Sarra is now in a no-holds-barred rivalry with Amen Saad, the Protector of the empire who controls its armies, competing to replace the old man who is currently the First Ray of the Sun. But the Ray has his own ideas for his successor.
I found Soleri reminiscent of A Game of Thrones in its frequent brutality, political intriguing and cruel betrayals, and even in some of its subplots. One character’s experiences, for example, ended up reminding me quite strongly of Daenerys’. But Soleri, while it has its merits, is a lesser version of George R.R. Martin’s world of Westeros. Michael Johnston’s prose is more workmanlike; it flows well but rarely inspires awe.
Soleri is also not as engrossing or rich in its world-building or characterization. Merit is a ruthless woman of strength and power, but fairly one-dimensional. Ren’s thoughts and actions seem more appropriate to a boy of 15 or 16 than a 13 year old. The brutality of the Priory toward its young inmates is stunning, but the reasons for the cruel treatment seem shallow, more to shock the reader than because it actually makes sense for the Soleri government to treat its hostages so extremely poorly.
There are some intriguing twists and turns to the story. Politically motivated schemes and machinations abound, and secrets are revealed that cast a new light on events that occurred earlier in the story. For the most part I found it engaging, making it difficult to put down the book. Sarra, forced to leave the capitol for a time, takes off on a quest to find an answer to the failing amaranth crops that sustain this desert empire, assisted by a young priest, Noll, who is suspiciously adept at figuring out clues to dead languages. Sarra finds far more than she bargained for, but the full scope of the mystery of the Soleri is not revealed in this first volume of the series.
Michael Johnston, a trained architect, has incorporated some unusual settings into Soleri. The underground city of Solus, including luxurious but dusty and abandoned royal chambers; chambers inside of mountains that glow with light under certain conditions; secret maps built into the architecture of a ceiling that only become visible at a certain time of day; a forest of stones where a characters experiences a mystical rite. Johnston’s attention to these types of details, echoes of actual places in our world, as he explains in this SFFWorld interview, enriched the story for me.
Soleri is being marketed as an “epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.” Personally I didn’t see much of a King Lear connection, except in the rather vague sense of a family torn apart by internal betrayals as well as external events. Each Hark-Wadi family member has his or her strengths, but most of them have a major flaw or two as well, which may lead to their downfall.
If you’re looking for something to fill in the gap while waiting for the next book in GRRM’s A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE series, you may enjoy Soleri. It’s not the most original fantasy ever, but it definitely has its moments and held my attention through the ending.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for review. Thank you!
Content advisory: Violence, torture, cruelty and a couple of extremely brief but explicit scenes. Not recommended for younger teens or sensitive readers.
June 21, 2016
Prepare to be ensnared in a web of ruthless politics and unbridled ambition, where even the authority of the emperor may be based on an ancient deception. Johnston builds an immersive world with elements of Egyptian and Roman history, myth, and religion. This story seethes with twists and turns, betrayals and secrets, and will keep you guessing until the very last page.
February 7, 2017
Unparalleled, fascinating, and intriguing. Soleri by Michael Johnston is a story imbued with creativity, mythology, and ancient history.
Soleri is told from the point of view of five main, unique, and interconnected individuals, who each have their own goals, motivations, and agendas. No one can be entirely trusted or relied upon, and for some characters, they will have to learn this sad truth the hard way. Each character’s point of view used in the novel is heavily developed, and is seamlessly alternated from one to another without any major disruptions, something that is seldom found in literature today. The five major point of views follow the linked lives of King Arko Hark-Wadi of Harkana, a desert kingdom subservient to the Soleri Empire; Arko’s older daughter, Merit, who is forced to manage her family’s affairs; Arko’s younger daughter, Kepina (Kepi), who wants to focus on her future by erasing her past; Arko’s imprisoned son and heir, Ren, a hostage held by the Soleri who stands against injustice; and Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of Desouk who seeks answers that have been hidden for centuries. These five individuals will fight and lie to save their own lives, as they struggle to uncover secrets and understand the underlying purpose of what they are fighting for, and why their visions for the future are the most righteous. It is not easy to fight or ignore fate on your own, and sometimes, it is better to just follow your heart and listen to your gut, and see what and whom the rays of Mithra-Sol will burn and smolder next.
Michael Johnston’s Soleri is a vast, unrivaled world where everyone seeks a higher purpose by understanding, solving, or protecting the mysteries of the universe that surround them. As of right now, Soleri appears to be the first installment in a duology, with no scheduled release date information for the second installment, as of yet.
Soleri is my favorite book from 2017 so far, and is in my “top ten” fantasy books of all time, without a doubt. Please prepare yourself for its arrival at a book depository near you in June of 2017. Recommended for historical, mythological, and fantastical connoisseurs who enjoy a sprinkle of intrigue and a dash of revenge.
Soleri is told from the point of view of five main, unique, and interconnected individuals, who each have their own goals, motivations, and agendas. No one can be entirely trusted or relied upon, and for some characters, they will have to learn this sad truth the hard way. Each character’s point of view used in the novel is heavily developed, and is seamlessly alternated from one to another without any major disruptions, something that is seldom found in literature today. The five major point of views follow the linked lives of King Arko Hark-Wadi of Harkana, a desert kingdom subservient to the Soleri Empire; Arko’s older daughter, Merit, who is forced to manage her family’s affairs; Arko’s younger daughter, Kepina (Kepi), who wants to focus on her future by erasing her past; Arko’s imprisoned son and heir, Ren, a hostage held by the Soleri who stands against injustice; and Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of Desouk who seeks answers that have been hidden for centuries. These five individuals will fight and lie to save their own lives, as they struggle to uncover secrets and understand the underlying purpose of what they are fighting for, and why their visions for the future are the most righteous. It is not easy to fight or ignore fate on your own, and sometimes, it is better to just follow your heart and listen to your gut, and see what and whom the rays of Mithra-Sol will burn and smolder next.
Michael Johnston’s Soleri is a vast, unrivaled world where everyone seeks a higher purpose by understanding, solving, or protecting the mysteries of the universe that surround them. As of right now, Soleri appears to be the first installment in a duology, with no scheduled release date information for the second installment, as of yet.
Soleri is my favorite book from 2017 so far, and is in my “top ten” fantasy books of all time, without a doubt. Please prepare yourself for its arrival at a book depository near you in June of 2017. Recommended for historical, mythological, and fantastical connoisseurs who enjoy a sprinkle of intrigue and a dash of revenge.
July 14, 2017
I am a big fan of anything Ancient Egyptian and of King Lear, so when I heard this book described as inspired by both of those things, I knew I had to give it a try. The environment and the architecture were definitely reminiscent of Ancient Egypt, as were the names and some of the religious observances, but the author definitely gave his world its own traditions and quirks.
I didn’t really see the King Lear comparison—unlike Shakespearean tragedy, there were survivors! I guess the Harkan king, Arko Hark-Wadi could have been somewhat equivalent to Lear, but he is not nearly passionate enough to truly do justice to that monarch. However, that does not mean that it was a disappointing book.
All the members of Arko’s family, in fact, seem rather cold and calculating, even when they are supposedly in love with someone. There are manipulations and misunderstandings galore! If you enjoy back-stabbing and elaborate plots to sabotage rivals, this is the book for you.
I suspect there will be a sequel—there were enough loose ends left hanging to justify one. Probably sales of this volume will determine whether the sequel sees the light of day. I, for one, like messy endings, so I am okay with Soleri’s final pages, but if you need things wrapped up neatly, you may find it frustrating.
I didn’t really see the King Lear comparison—unlike Shakespearean tragedy, there were survivors! I guess the Harkan king, Arko Hark-Wadi could have been somewhat equivalent to Lear, but he is not nearly passionate enough to truly do justice to that monarch. However, that does not mean that it was a disappointing book.
All the members of Arko’s family, in fact, seem rather cold and calculating, even when they are supposedly in love with someone. There are manipulations and misunderstandings galore! If you enjoy back-stabbing and elaborate plots to sabotage rivals, this is the book for you.
I suspect there will be a sequel—there were enough loose ends left hanging to justify one. Probably sales of this volume will determine whether the sequel sees the light of day. I, for one, like messy endings, so I am okay with Soleri’s final pages, but if you need things wrapped up neatly, you may find it frustrating.
June 24, 2017
I'm the author so I'm a bit biased, but I am here to listen to your thoughts. Soleri is an important book for me and I want to know what the community thinks about my work. It's my debut epic fantasy novel. And I spent countless years researching and rewriting it. So, if you choose to review Soleri I hope you also choose to read the entire novel before you write a review and I hope you put that same amount of care into your review.
If you're interested in learning more about why I wrote Soleri, go to my website where I've put up all of my blog posts. Here's one of them:
I got my big idea for my novel, Soleri, back when I was an undergraduate, sitting in an art history class. The professor was talking about ancient Egypt and how the people of the New Kingdom visited the pyramids, which were constructed during the Old Kingdom (thousands of years earlier) as tourists. Those giant pyramids in the sand carried as much mystery and wonder for the Egyptians of 10 BCE as they do for any tourist today.
Egyptian society was ancient in a way that we can’t even imagine. For roughly three thousand years they built a civilization in and around the Nile river. Academics theorize that the Egyptians could not imagine the possibility of their civilization ever coming to an end. The Persians had come and gone and when the Greeks appeared, they simply integrated themselves into the fabric of Egypt. Cleopatra was of Greek origin. There was something potent about Egypt. It simply could not be dominated. Of course Julius Caesar put an end to that notion, but it had a good run. Three thousand years is nothing to sneeze at! So I think it’s worth standing back and considering the idea of a civilization that had always existed and believes that it always will. That idea stuck with me.
In fact, it stuck with me for fifteen years. I grew up in rural Ohio and was a constant reader of science fiction and history, and I loved architecture as well. I never thought I could be an author, so I went with the practical choice and studied architecture. I’ve taught architecture and practiced in New York and Los Angeles. I did a lot things between that art history lecture and the time when I started writing speculative fiction.
But I wouldn’t call it a break. Soleri is as much about history as it is about architecture (although I did have to tone down the descriptions of ancient buildings. They went on for pages in the early drafts). See, my big idea was to take what I knew about architecture and history and to meld it with everything I loved about speculative fiction. To do that, I went back to that idea about ancient Egypt. Suddenly that old idea had a fresh meaning, I saw it as the bridge between my old profession and my new one.
Skeptical? Hold on for a moment. Here’s how it worked.
I wanted to write about architecture and history, but I didn’t want to write non-fiction. I wanted to use my imagination and besides, there are already many wonderful histories of Egypt and Rome on the shelves. So I decided to look at ancient Egypt as a concept, a speculation, and not a place in history. Egypt represented the eternal civilization. Even the Roman Empire was short by comparison. So I decided to write about a civilization that was so ancient, that every part of its history had been obscured by time, that its origin had been written and rewritten so many times that the truth behind it had been lost a hundred times over.
My novel is about a civilization ruled by a family of gods, but no one has seen these gods, the Soleri, in centuries. They are shrouded like their history–the wall they live behind is even called the Shroud Wall. In Soleri, the empire is so old that its people have stopped questioning its legitimacy. Everything is ritual, but no one recalls the purpose behind these rituals. The empire of the Soleri is still going through the motions, pretending it is virulent and strong when all the life has already poured out of it (if you are starting to think the Soleri empire might be a metaphor for our own, you are on the right track but that’s a different essay).
There is a place in the novel when one of my characters thinks: This city (the Soleri capital) has forgotten more history than I can recall. It has witnessed the lives of more men, great and small, than I could ever hold in my head.
That lines sums up a lot of the book. Everything we first learn about the Soleri and their empire is inverted as the novel progresses. Like peeling away the skin of an onion, we have to strip away all the layers of history, all the lies that were placed one on top of the other to form the empire we encounter in the prologue. One of the lines in that piece sums up the idea perfectly, Before time was the Soleri, and after time the Soleri will be. They are eternal, their existence unquestionable, or so the story goes.
In Soleri, we learn the secrets behind each of those lies. We take apart the history and find something entirely unexpected inside, which takes me back to my big idea. The eternal civilization. It doesn’t exist. It is itself a fiction. Soleri is about a society that has become its own fiction, a civilization that has come to believe their own lies. At least until a few people start to find out the truth behind the empire. That’s what happens in the novel. That’s the moment when things get interesting, but I’ll leave it to the reader to discover what actually hides behind the Shroud Wall and what secrets lie behind the history of the Soleri.
If you're interested in learning more about why I wrote Soleri, go to my website where I've put up all of my blog posts. Here's one of them:
I got my big idea for my novel, Soleri, back when I was an undergraduate, sitting in an art history class. The professor was talking about ancient Egypt and how the people of the New Kingdom visited the pyramids, which were constructed during the Old Kingdom (thousands of years earlier) as tourists. Those giant pyramids in the sand carried as much mystery and wonder for the Egyptians of 10 BCE as they do for any tourist today.
Egyptian society was ancient in a way that we can’t even imagine. For roughly three thousand years they built a civilization in and around the Nile river. Academics theorize that the Egyptians could not imagine the possibility of their civilization ever coming to an end. The Persians had come and gone and when the Greeks appeared, they simply integrated themselves into the fabric of Egypt. Cleopatra was of Greek origin. There was something potent about Egypt. It simply could not be dominated. Of course Julius Caesar put an end to that notion, but it had a good run. Three thousand years is nothing to sneeze at! So I think it’s worth standing back and considering the idea of a civilization that had always existed and believes that it always will. That idea stuck with me.
In fact, it stuck with me for fifteen years. I grew up in rural Ohio and was a constant reader of science fiction and history, and I loved architecture as well. I never thought I could be an author, so I went with the practical choice and studied architecture. I’ve taught architecture and practiced in New York and Los Angeles. I did a lot things between that art history lecture and the time when I started writing speculative fiction.
But I wouldn’t call it a break. Soleri is as much about history as it is about architecture (although I did have to tone down the descriptions of ancient buildings. They went on for pages in the early drafts). See, my big idea was to take what I knew about architecture and history and to meld it with everything I loved about speculative fiction. To do that, I went back to that idea about ancient Egypt. Suddenly that old idea had a fresh meaning, I saw it as the bridge between my old profession and my new one.
Skeptical? Hold on for a moment. Here’s how it worked.
I wanted to write about architecture and history, but I didn’t want to write non-fiction. I wanted to use my imagination and besides, there are already many wonderful histories of Egypt and Rome on the shelves. So I decided to look at ancient Egypt as a concept, a speculation, and not a place in history. Egypt represented the eternal civilization. Even the Roman Empire was short by comparison. So I decided to write about a civilization that was so ancient, that every part of its history had been obscured by time, that its origin had been written and rewritten so many times that the truth behind it had been lost a hundred times over.
My novel is about a civilization ruled by a family of gods, but no one has seen these gods, the Soleri, in centuries. They are shrouded like their history–the wall they live behind is even called the Shroud Wall. In Soleri, the empire is so old that its people have stopped questioning its legitimacy. Everything is ritual, but no one recalls the purpose behind these rituals. The empire of the Soleri is still going through the motions, pretending it is virulent and strong when all the life has already poured out of it (if you are starting to think the Soleri empire might be a metaphor for our own, you are on the right track but that’s a different essay).
There is a place in the novel when one of my characters thinks: This city (the Soleri capital) has forgotten more history than I can recall. It has witnessed the lives of more men, great and small, than I could ever hold in my head.
That lines sums up a lot of the book. Everything we first learn about the Soleri and their empire is inverted as the novel progresses. Like peeling away the skin of an onion, we have to strip away all the layers of history, all the lies that were placed one on top of the other to form the empire we encounter in the prologue. One of the lines in that piece sums up the idea perfectly, Before time was the Soleri, and after time the Soleri will be. They are eternal, their existence unquestionable, or so the story goes.
In Soleri, we learn the secrets behind each of those lies. We take apart the history and find something entirely unexpected inside, which takes me back to my big idea. The eternal civilization. It doesn’t exist. It is itself a fiction. Soleri is about a society that has become its own fiction, a civilization that has come to believe their own lies. At least until a few people start to find out the truth behind the empire. That’s what happens in the novel. That’s the moment when things get interesting, but I’ll leave it to the reader to discover what actually hides behind the Shroud Wall and what secrets lie behind the history of the Soleri.
August 4, 2017
I liked this book and the second half was definitely better but it definitely had some issues. Having 61 chapters plus a prologue and epilogue the switch from scene to scene was quick. Within the chapters sometimes it blurred with no line of demarcation between one perspective another. Early in the book with this rapid fire it was hard to get a feel for the characters and in the end I really don't feel an affinity to any of them.
Next I would say this book is 99% historical fiction and 1% fantasy and that 1% all came at the end. I like historical fiction so that's fine for me but if you're expecting a high dose of fantasy this probably isn't the book for you.
The writer also seem to repeat something he had just said in a former paragraph which added to a pacing issue which existed for most of the book. I do think however those who like old school fantasy will like his style more than those who don't and I'm generally a fan of contemporary pieces.
Overall I'd say give this series a shot and I will read book #2 when it comes out. However at the current $14.99 price for the Kindle edition I wouldn't rush out to do so.
Next I would say this book is 99% historical fiction and 1% fantasy and that 1% all came at the end. I like historical fiction so that's fine for me but if you're expecting a high dose of fantasy this probably isn't the book for you.
The writer also seem to repeat something he had just said in a former paragraph which added to a pacing issue which existed for most of the book. I do think however those who like old school fantasy will like his style more than those who don't and I'm generally a fan of contemporary pieces.
Overall I'd say give this series a shot and I will read book #2 when it comes out. However at the current $14.99 price for the Kindle edition I wouldn't rush out to do so.
June 21, 2017
Outstanding Fantasy with old traditions, this world created and ruled by the Gods Soleri, will captivate your soul and seduce you on an adventure you will never forget.
This story revolves around the Hark Wadi family, Royals of Harkana. Five members of the family are scattered in different directions, each with a specific agenda, a few not by choice.
This is by far, one of the most amazing reads I have absorbed. This creative world and strong characters will make you crave more. There is so much going on, following five people at once, you might feel overpowered, but you don't. It works. It's necessary for the story to build, as each member slowly gravitates to their end game.
There are moments of brutality, darkness, and deception. Two twists, MAJOR twists that left me in awe....awe of the author's creative mind because I NEVER saw it coming. I'm talking totally floored. Characters that you love, love to hate, and just plain hate, are strong, passionate and frustrating.
I want to shout out to the world to read this book. I want to talk about it, but not here. Stories like this, truly makes it challenging to write a review....you don't want to reveal any spoilers because it demands you to jump right in to fully capture the brilliance of the journey.
This story revolves around the Hark Wadi family, Royals of Harkana. Five members of the family are scattered in different directions, each with a specific agenda, a few not by choice.
This is by far, one of the most amazing reads I have absorbed. This creative world and strong characters will make you crave more. There is so much going on, following five people at once, you might feel overpowered, but you don't. It works. It's necessary for the story to build, as each member slowly gravitates to their end game.
There are moments of brutality, darkness, and deception. Two twists, MAJOR twists that left me in awe....awe of the author's creative mind because I NEVER saw it coming. I'm talking totally floored. Characters that you love, love to hate, and just plain hate, are strong, passionate and frustrating.
I want to shout out to the world to read this book. I want to talk about it, but not here. Stories like this, truly makes it challenging to write a review....you don't want to reveal any spoilers because it demands you to jump right in to fully capture the brilliance of the journey.
February 9, 2017
I received an advanced reader copy of Soleri by Michael Johnston and was truly amazed by the depth and scope of this story. I loved the characters and descriptions of this world, especially the interactions of the different groups and what you learn of the secrets and plots surrounding these families. Even months later, I still think of this story and cannot wait for everyone to read it this summer - I will definitely be reading it again!
September 13, 2017
4.5*s I Loved this story and all the characters but Kepi and Rend are my top favorite, Can't wait for the next installment.
Review: https://chapterswelove.com/2017/08/29...
Review: https://chapterswelove.com/2017/08/29...
Read
June 5, 2017The author notes in the introductory copy that this book is inspired by "King Lear."
No pressure.
Author Michael Johnston has constructed a science-fiction "Dune"-style epic, shooting for the moon with a huge cast and a sprawling history, with courtly intrigue and political goings-on.
The character names even seem Dune-inspired, with my daughter's favorite being "Arko Hark-Wadi." Yes, it's my favorite, too.
The glossary at the end is helpful, but I found myself flipping back and forth frequently as I read.
A book like this under a less-talented writer would be a thousand pages, single-spaced.
The author, however, gets the first book done in an impressive 350 pages. Boom, he's done. Then you can unwind by reading through the glossary.
Consider this a virtual high-five to author Michael Johnston for his ability to get stuff done. I can't wait for the next one.
(review from an advance copy.)
No pressure.
Author Michael Johnston has constructed a science-fiction "Dune"-style epic, shooting for the moon with a huge cast and a sprawling history, with courtly intrigue and political goings-on.
The character names even seem Dune-inspired, with my daughter's favorite being "Arko Hark-Wadi." Yes, it's my favorite, too.
The glossary at the end is helpful, but I found myself flipping back and forth frequently as I read.
A book like this under a less-talented writer would be a thousand pages, single-spaced.
The author, however, gets the first book done in an impressive 350 pages. Boom, he's done. Then you can unwind by reading through the glossary.
Consider this a virtual high-five to author Michael Johnston for his ability to get stuff done. I can't wait for the next one.
(review from an advance copy.)
June 22, 2017
'Soleri' is a mesmerizing first book in what promises to be an epic fantasy series - and it definitely one that fans of the genre should pick up. I enjoy reading fantasy, but I haven't read much in the high fantasy category. It always seems a bit intimidating, but I thought I'd give it a shot. I'm so glad I did! This was a fantastic novel full of history, myth, magic, politics, family, and so much more. Every aspect of the story was incredibly well crafted - no exceptions. The setting was amazing - full of vivid imagery and detailed descriptions that brought this world to life. I loved all the Egyptian-esque qualities built in. Each location was richly imagined and I enjoyed learning about each place and their inhabitants. I hope the next book allows us even more insight into this world - it's operation, history, politics, and all its secrets.
The story has a unique narration - it's told from the viewpoints of five different characters, all from the ruling family. Each one has their own personal story lines that intersect with the overarching plot of the novel. I really liked getting to know each of these characters - their lives, problems, dreams, secrets, and everything in between. The only small issue I had with the writing style was the use of the third person POV. I'm a huge fan of the first person and almost always prefer it over any other style. I completely understand why the author chose to use the third person - due to the many main characters, it would've been confusing for them all to be told in the first person. I know this makes sense for many reasons, but I guess I'm pretty stubborn when it comes to this opinion. Please remember that this is exactly that - my own personal opinion - and has absolutely nothing to do with the story or writing itself. It's just a personal preference and I thought I'd share it because it had an impact on my reading experience. Overall, this was a wonderful first book in a promising new fantasy series, and I'm excited to see where the author will take us next. Definitely recommended for fans of fantasy, historical, and paranormal fiction.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion.
The story has a unique narration - it's told from the viewpoints of five different characters, all from the ruling family. Each one has their own personal story lines that intersect with the overarching plot of the novel. I really liked getting to know each of these characters - their lives, problems, dreams, secrets, and everything in between. The only small issue I had with the writing style was the use of the third person POV. I'm a huge fan of the first person and almost always prefer it over any other style. I completely understand why the author chose to use the third person - due to the many main characters, it would've been confusing for them all to be told in the first person. I know this makes sense for many reasons, but I guess I'm pretty stubborn when it comes to this opinion. Please remember that this is exactly that - my own personal opinion - and has absolutely nothing to do with the story or writing itself. It's just a personal preference and I thought I'd share it because it had an impact on my reading experience. Overall, this was a wonderful first book in a promising new fantasy series, and I'm excited to see where the author will take us next. Definitely recommended for fans of fantasy, historical, and paranormal fiction.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 19, 2017
Just as good as I thought this book was going to be. The only disappointing factor was that it's book one of a series, and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
~*~
Now for a more updated review, seeing as I've read this twice since getting it.
Michael Johnston brings you the first in a new epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.
That's the line that caught my eye when signing up for the giveaway of this book. Primarily: Egyptian history and King Lear. The two don't have hardly anything in common, so how could the author pull this off? Well, he does pull it off. Granted, King Lear isn't a Shakespeare that I know well (Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet), but it's still one that I'm vaguely familiar with.
The story follows at a brisk pace, setting up the action within the first few chapters. But then it starts actually getting into the action, and it hits you where you don't expect it too. The characters are all very real, very there as you read along. It's like you get submersed into the world, and don't come up for air until the world-or rather the book-is over.
This is filled with manipulations, escapes from authority, girls disguised as boys, and loads of fighting for survival throughout. It was enthralling, and I really loved it. The only thing I hated was that horrible cliffhanger.
Michael Johnston is a fabulous writer, and I definitely look forward to reading more of his work. I am really pleased that I won this book through a giveaway, and will definitely search out for his next book in the future.
If you haven't read Soleri yet, you should definitely give it a try!
~*~
Now for a more updated review, seeing as I've read this twice since getting it.
Michael Johnston brings you the first in a new epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.
That's the line that caught my eye when signing up for the giveaway of this book. Primarily: Egyptian history and King Lear. The two don't have hardly anything in common, so how could the author pull this off? Well, he does pull it off. Granted, King Lear isn't a Shakespeare that I know well (Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet), but it's still one that I'm vaguely familiar with.
The story follows at a brisk pace, setting up the action within the first few chapters. But then it starts actually getting into the action, and it hits you where you don't expect it too. The characters are all very real, very there as you read along. It's like you get submersed into the world, and don't come up for air until the world-or rather the book-is over.
This is filled with manipulations, escapes from authority, girls disguised as boys, and loads of fighting for survival throughout. It was enthralling, and I really loved it. The only thing I hated was that horrible cliffhanger.
Michael Johnston is a fabulous writer, and I definitely look forward to reading more of his work. I am really pleased that I won this book through a giveaway, and will definitely search out for his next book in the future.
If you haven't read Soleri yet, you should definitely give it a try!
February 7, 2017
This book has months to go before its release, so I don't want to spoil anything even with vagueness.
I'm glad to have read this, glad to have a new author to follow in fantasy, glad to have met Kepi and Ren and the world of the Soleri.
I am
Sadly I don't think this is a standalone based on the ending. If that ending IS meant to reference the end of the story, hella lot of questions right there.
I'm glad to have read this, glad to have a new author to follow in fantasy, glad to have met Kepi and Ren and the world of the Soleri.
I am
Sadly I don't think this is a standalone based on the ending. If that ending IS meant to reference the end of the story, hella lot of questions right there.
February 10, 2021
I loved this reimagining of ancient Egyptian myths in a fantasy world setting. Just as much intrigue and complication as George R. R. Martin, but without the rampant death of favored characters. Reminded me in a lot of ways of The Emperor's Blades trilogy at it's very best. Highly recommended if you're into epic fantasy.
June 14, 2017
Probs more like 3 mostly, but the story's foundation was strong enough to get a 4. Review'll be up on B&N soon.
July 27, 2017
For anyone who likes the fantasy genre, I highly recommend Soleri. A surprising find!
Here is my complete review with San Francisco Book Review...
"For 3000 years, the Soleri sun-god cult has ruled the empire through myth and magic. Demanding a ransom from each of the four kingdoms, the 1st born male must be given to the Soleri to live in tortured darkness until the reigning king dies and the son is released to assume sovereignty. This year is different. The annual eclipse doesn’t transpire and the empire is thrown into chaos. The Mother Priestess of the Soleri escapes the riots only to discover a secret that will destroy the peace and all traditions. Only the children of the Hark Wadi ruling family have a chance to hold together the kingdoms. But Ren must escape from being ransomed and survive the final test to gain his birthright. Merit and Kepi, the two daughters of the Hark Wadi, are fighting each other as well as rival kingdoms in order to secure their own futures.
Michael Johnston successfully blends ancient Egyptian history, empire building ,and myth to the beginning of an exciting addition to the fantasy genre. Soleri has plot twists and turns that will fascinate readers to the very end. Recommended for readers who like Frank Herbert, Pauline Gedge, or Dan Simmons."
Here is my complete review with San Francisco Book Review...
"For 3000 years, the Soleri sun-god cult has ruled the empire through myth and magic. Demanding a ransom from each of the four kingdoms, the 1st born male must be given to the Soleri to live in tortured darkness until the reigning king dies and the son is released to assume sovereignty. This year is different. The annual eclipse doesn’t transpire and the empire is thrown into chaos. The Mother Priestess of the Soleri escapes the riots only to discover a secret that will destroy the peace and all traditions. Only the children of the Hark Wadi ruling family have a chance to hold together the kingdoms. But Ren must escape from being ransomed and survive the final test to gain his birthright. Merit and Kepi, the two daughters of the Hark Wadi, are fighting each other as well as rival kingdoms in order to secure their own futures.
Michael Johnston successfully blends ancient Egyptian history, empire building ,and myth to the beginning of an exciting addition to the fantasy genre. Soleri has plot twists and turns that will fascinate readers to the very end. Recommended for readers who like Frank Herbert, Pauline Gedge, or Dan Simmons."
June 13, 2017
As soon as I saw Egyptian history had inspired this book I knew I had to read it. I am so glad I did. Michael does not disappoint with this book. It is a great start to a new series that has not only Egyptian but Roman myth and history added to it. There is ruthless politics with so many twists and turns that I couldn't stop reading this book. I am completely hooked on it and I am waiting for the next book impatiently. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
August 22, 2017
It was just good for me until I read the ending, then it leaped to being fantastic. I mean... the screaming? The image and what it meant for the whole novel stayed with me the whole night. Quick! Please come out with the sequel soon or I can't sleep!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2017
To start, I did receive this as an advanced copy
Overall, I enjoyed the book very much, and I will definitely be reading the sequel.
My non-spoilery thoughts: I thought the world was very interesting, it's refreshing to get a non medieval England-esque setting in a fantasy book. The different regions and sub cultures you're introduced to were unique and the ones that were hinted at made me want to know more about them. I thought the writing was good, I didn't find myself getting bored. There was a few predictable moments, but even then there were things that I expected to happen that didn't. Character development overall I thought was good, but I thought Kepi and Dagrun's characters went through some changes a bit quickly (although there wasn't a POV for Dagrun, so we can't really know what was going through his head the whole time). I found myself caring about more than a few characters as I read, even one's I thought I wouldn't care about - and progressively stopped caring about one the more I read.
Magic of any sort doesn't play a large role, there are hints of it, but nothing overt (yet). I have a feeling there may be magic in some form in the sequel(s).
On the whole, a solid read, and I can't wait for more :)
Overall, I enjoyed the book very much, and I will definitely be reading the sequel.
My non-spoilery thoughts: I thought the world was very interesting, it's refreshing to get a non medieval England-esque setting in a fantasy book. The different regions and sub cultures you're introduced to were unique and the ones that were hinted at made me want to know more about them. I thought the writing was good, I didn't find myself getting bored. There was a few predictable moments, but even then there were things that I expected to happen that didn't. Character development overall I thought was good, but I thought Kepi and Dagrun's characters went through some changes a bit quickly (although there wasn't a POV for Dagrun, so we can't really know what was going through his head the whole time). I found myself caring about more than a few characters as I read, even one's I thought I wouldn't care about - and progressively stopped caring about one the more I read.
Magic of any sort doesn't play a large role, there are hints of it, but nothing overt (yet). I have a feeling there may be magic in some form in the sequel(s).
On the whole, a solid read, and I can't wait for more :)
June 20, 2017
Terrific fantasy that for ONCE is not a typical fantasy setting, many elements of Egyptian and Roman society bring a freshness to this tale that I greatly admire. Interesting world building and characters, it was like a story you had heard before, but every so often things changed and you were like "huh?"
That's a good thing..trust me. Things in the story do go the predictable route once or twice, but the freshness of the setting and the energy in Mr. Johnston's telling makes up for it.
Definite worth your time, check it out.
That's a good thing..trust me. Things in the story do go the predictable route once or twice, but the freshness of the setting and the energy in Mr. Johnston's telling makes up for it.
Definite worth your time, check it out.
June 25, 2017
Rating: 3.75/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
July 12, 2017
3.5 out of 5 stars -- see this review and others at The Speculative Shelf.
Soleri follows five characters who must negotiate an ever-changing web of deceit and conflict as they each vie for power in the sprawling Soleri empire. The story and setting were reminiscent of Game of Thrones but with tighter pacing and an Egyptian flair.
This marks author Michael Johnston’s first solo novel and it’s certainly an impressive debut — it’s equal parts epic and intimate, as we’re dealing with a small set of characters with political ambitions on a large scale. The writing is clear, concise, and moves the narrative along at a nice pace.
I sped through the first half of this novel before encountering a ~100 page stretch in the second half that really felt stagnate and lost my interest. Johnston employs an unsustainable barrage of fun plot twists in the first half that probably should have been spread more evenly throughout the book. It was not until the final few chapters that I was brought back to what was so good about the novel to begin with — twisty, intriguing family dynamics against the backdrop of an interesting world with a rich history.
Soleri follows five characters who must negotiate an ever-changing web of deceit and conflict as they each vie for power in the sprawling Soleri empire. The story and setting were reminiscent of Game of Thrones but with tighter pacing and an Egyptian flair.
This marks author Michael Johnston’s first solo novel and it’s certainly an impressive debut — it’s equal parts epic and intimate, as we’re dealing with a small set of characters with political ambitions on a large scale. The writing is clear, concise, and moves the narrative along at a nice pace.
I sped through the first half of this novel before encountering a ~100 page stretch in the second half that really felt stagnate and lost my interest. Johnston employs an unsustainable barrage of fun plot twists in the first half that probably should have been spread more evenly throughout the book. It was not until the final few chapters that I was brought back to what was so good about the novel to begin with — twisty, intriguing family dynamics against the backdrop of an interesting world with a rich history.
February 17, 2021
Ruthless Politics
Betrayal At Every Turn
Unbridled Ambition
Oh my goodness! I started reading this series and I am blown away by the vast detail and the scope of the world building in this historical saga series. I was completely lost in this story and has consumed me in the best way possible. I absolutely enjoyed this action packed and uber epic fantasy read!
SFF fans cannot miss this one.
Betrayal At Every Turn
Unbridled Ambition
Oh my goodness! I started reading this series and I am blown away by the vast detail and the scope of the world building in this historical saga series. I was completely lost in this story and has consumed me in the best way possible. I absolutely enjoyed this action packed and uber epic fantasy read!
SFF fans cannot miss this one.
July 26, 2017
a MONSTER OF A BOOK.
November 8, 2018
https://delivreenlivres.blogspot.com/...
Malgré un début un peu difficile j'ai fini par bien rentrer dans le livre et j'ai dévoré la seconde moitié.
L'Empire des Soleri existe depuis plus de 2500 ans dans ce monde aride ou le soleil peut tuer. Les Soleri eux même se sont retirés du monde derrière des murs et laissent leur favori, le Premier Rayon, faire le lien avec les humains.
Cet empire a conquit le monde et les différents peuples, qui ont gardés leur gouvernement, tremblent sous son joug. Ses méthodes de gouvernement incluent tout un panel de décisions qui ne sont la que pour déstabiliser les différents royaumes et les empêcher de devenir plus fort ou de se rassembler. Les principales mesures sont des mariages forcés entre peuples rivaux et antagonistes ou le confinement des héritiers dés leur plus jeune age dans un monastère où on leur lave le cerveau et leur mène la vie très dure, ...
Mais les choses sont toujours en mouvement, et l'empire n'est finalement pas aussi solide qu'il semble l'être. Chaque année a lieu une cérémonie marquant la fin d'une année et le début d'une nouvelle, marquée par une éclipse de soleil. Mais il arrive une année où l'éclipse n'a pas lieu, et tout commence à aller de travers. Nous suivons ici cinq personnes d'une même famille dysfonctionnelle qui va se déliter alors que le chaos menace de tout emporter sur son passage ...
****
La première chose que je tiens à dire c'est que ce tome ci est vraiment un tome d'introduction et de mise en place des événements. Nous avons une énorme révélation au milieu du livre qui donne vraiment le ton et qui va conditionner toute la suite.
En fait une fois terminé il m'a fait penser au premier tome du Trône de fer, quand on ne savait encore pas grand chose du monde finalement mais ou on suivait déjà plein de personnages pris dans des intrigues autour du pouvoir.
Dans ce monde tout tourne autour des Soleri mais en fait on ne sait pas du tout ce qu'ils sont. Des dieux? des aliens? Un peu des deux? Ça reste un grand mystère pour l'instant. De leur fonctionnement on n'a aussi que des miettes au compte goute tout au long du récit, au travers des légendes, des écrits ...
J'ai bien aimé cette façon d'éparpiller l'information qui nous pousse à toujours vouloir en savoir plus. On retrouve un peu l'ambiance qu'on avait dans le second tome de la première trilogie Fils-des-brumes (bien sur en plus simple pour l'instant vu que ce n'est qu'une petite composante de ce livre et pas le sujet d'un tome entier, mais dans le même esprit).
On est dans un monde qui s’apparente visuellement à l’Égypte antique. Entre les zones d'oasis, le désert, le langage imagé peint ou gravé sur les pierres ou la chaleur omniprésente, tout est bien présent et fait que je n'ai pas pu m’empêcher de me représenter l'action en plein dans l'imaginaire lié à cette période.
****
Dans ce monde décidément très mystérieux nous suivons donc une famille dont les membres dans l'ensemble sont plus intéressée par leurs problèmes terre à terre que ce mystère la.
Le père, Arko, est porté par sa culpabilité, en effet son propre père a résisté à l'empire et a mené une guerre pour qu'on l'autorise à garder Arko avec lui. Du coup il sent encore le sang de ses compatriotes morts pour lui sur ses mains même si il n'est pas directement coupable.
De plus il a été obligé d'épouser une femme qu'il n'a jamais aimé et qui a toujours joué les choses plus politique que lui, homme simple. Il a lui même du confier son fils au monastère et il se sent aussi lâche d'avoir laisser faire ça alors qu'il aime tant ses enfants.
Sa femme, Sarra, a abandonné sa famille après qu'on lui ai prit son fils, et comme le divorce n'existe pas elle est rentrée dans le clergé. Même sans avoir la foi sa facilité en politique lui a permis de rapidement monté les échelons et elle est devenu la mère supérieur. Et évidemment quand sa position lui permet d'en faire baver à son mari qui a osé ne pas l'aimer comme elle le méritait, elle ne se gêne pas. C'est une femme amère, qui aime le pouvoir et n'hésite pas à mettre la vie d’innocents ou d'inconnu en péril pour se venger ou arriver à ses fins.
La fille ainée, Merit, a beaucoup de traits de sa mère. Elle aime le pouvoir et elle fera tout pour avoir le pouvoir ET l'amour. Même si elle est loin d'être aussi retorse que sa mère elle a une capacité de nuisible aussi élevé à certains moments. Le mariage forcé lui a donné un mari homosexuel qui ne l'a jamais touché et même si ils sont devenu amis et alliés elle ne se souci pas vraiment de lui. Secrètement elle le déteste car certaines personnes la prennent en pitié de ne pas avoir réussi à attirer son mari. Elle est très auto centrée et ne prend jamais en compte les avis et les sentiments des autres personnes. Elle est aussi persuadé qu'elle est la seule à avoir la légitimité pour être à la tête de son peuple.
Sa cadette, Kepi, est sans doute le personnage le plus sympathique du lot. Elle a été marié mais son mari était tellement bourré qu'il c'est fracturé le crane pendant leur nuit de noce. Le peu de temps qu'a duré ce mariage a quand même réussi à la traumatiser et à la rendre méfiance envers tout les hommes. Trois ans se sont écoulés depuis et elle a prit ce temps pour devenir une guerrière. Du coup quand les manigances de sa sœur ainée l'obligent à retrouver le chemin de l'union, elle pense devenir folle et ferra tout pour être libéré, même de force.
Il nous reste donc le tout dernier, Ren. Celui ci a vécu toute sa vie au monastère. Comme tout les autres héritiers on lui a venté les mérites des Soleri. Maintenus dans la faim en permanence, les punitions s’apparentant facilement à de la torture, le tout sans jamais voir le soleil, leur vie n'a jamais été facile. Mais Ren a su se faire des amis, et quoi qu'on leur fasse subir, leur petit groupe n'a pas pu être séparé. Du coup quand on lui annonce qu'il doit partir pour prendre la place de son père à la tête de son peuple, il se retrouve seul, en devant compter en plus sur les manigances de Merit qui n'a pas l'intention de lui céder la place aussi facilement ...
Quand je parlais de ressemblance avec le premier tome du Trône de fer c'est vrai que c'est marqué sur les personnages. Il facile de trouver un lien entre Arko et Ned Stark, entre Sarra et Merit et Cersei ou entre Kepi et Arya. Pour autant ce n'est qu'une ressemblance de façade, un type de personnage. Chacun arrive à se démarquer, chaque situation et contexte sont vraiment très différent et finalement pour chacun je pourrais citer autant de dissemblance que de points communs.
****
J'ai eu un peu de mal avec le début. Il faut dire on nous propulse directement dans un des passages les plus noirs de tout le livre, nous faisant redouter que la suite soit du même genre (voir pire). Mais en fait non, une fois ce passage la passé, le reste semblait moins sombre en comparaison.
Finalement il me fallait juste un moment d'adaptation et la suite est passé vraiment sans aucun souci.
J'ai aussi bien aimé le rythme avec des chapitres courts et qui s'enchaînent rapidement ce qui donne à l'ensemble une bonne fluidité. Je peux même dire que j'ai dévoré la seconde moitié, j'aurais bien voulu en lire plus.
Je me suis attaché à ce monde et aux personnes, même ceux qui me faisaient grincer des dents.
C'est sur que je voulais en savoir plus sur les Soleri et que le peu d'indices qu'on grappille dans ce tome peut être un peu frustrant car finalement on ne sait pas encore grand chose. Mais en partant du principe que ce n'est que un premier tome ce n'est pas pour moi un défaut, c'est normal. A condition que la suite soit à la hauteur, bien sur.
Et au contraire ça a très bien marché parce que je pense que je ne traînerai pas après la sortie du suivant pour satisfaire pour envie d'en savoir plus !
Malgré un début un peu difficile j'ai fini par bien rentrer dans le livre et j'ai dévoré la seconde moitié.
L'Empire des Soleri existe depuis plus de 2500 ans dans ce monde aride ou le soleil peut tuer. Les Soleri eux même se sont retirés du monde derrière des murs et laissent leur favori, le Premier Rayon, faire le lien avec les humains.
Cet empire a conquit le monde et les différents peuples, qui ont gardés leur gouvernement, tremblent sous son joug. Ses méthodes de gouvernement incluent tout un panel de décisions qui ne sont la que pour déstabiliser les différents royaumes et les empêcher de devenir plus fort ou de se rassembler. Les principales mesures sont des mariages forcés entre peuples rivaux et antagonistes ou le confinement des héritiers dés leur plus jeune age dans un monastère où on leur lave le cerveau et leur mène la vie très dure, ...
Mais les choses sont toujours en mouvement, et l'empire n'est finalement pas aussi solide qu'il semble l'être. Chaque année a lieu une cérémonie marquant la fin d'une année et le début d'une nouvelle, marquée par une éclipse de soleil. Mais il arrive une année où l'éclipse n'a pas lieu, et tout commence à aller de travers. Nous suivons ici cinq personnes d'une même famille dysfonctionnelle qui va se déliter alors que le chaos menace de tout emporter sur son passage ...
****
La première chose que je tiens à dire c'est que ce tome ci est vraiment un tome d'introduction et de mise en place des événements. Nous avons une énorme révélation au milieu du livre qui donne vraiment le ton et qui va conditionner toute la suite.
En fait une fois terminé il m'a fait penser au premier tome du Trône de fer, quand on ne savait encore pas grand chose du monde finalement mais ou on suivait déjà plein de personnages pris dans des intrigues autour du pouvoir.
Dans ce monde tout tourne autour des Soleri mais en fait on ne sait pas du tout ce qu'ils sont. Des dieux? des aliens? Un peu des deux? Ça reste un grand mystère pour l'instant. De leur fonctionnement on n'a aussi que des miettes au compte goute tout au long du récit, au travers des légendes, des écrits ...
J'ai bien aimé cette façon d'éparpiller l'information qui nous pousse à toujours vouloir en savoir plus. On retrouve un peu l'ambiance qu'on avait dans le second tome de la première trilogie Fils-des-brumes (bien sur en plus simple pour l'instant vu que ce n'est qu'une petite composante de ce livre et pas le sujet d'un tome entier, mais dans le même esprit).
On est dans un monde qui s’apparente visuellement à l’Égypte antique. Entre les zones d'oasis, le désert, le langage imagé peint ou gravé sur les pierres ou la chaleur omniprésente, tout est bien présent et fait que je n'ai pas pu m’empêcher de me représenter l'action en plein dans l'imaginaire lié à cette période.
****
Dans ce monde décidément très mystérieux nous suivons donc une famille dont les membres dans l'ensemble sont plus intéressée par leurs problèmes terre à terre que ce mystère la.
Le père, Arko, est porté par sa culpabilité, en effet son propre père a résisté à l'empire et a mené une guerre pour qu'on l'autorise à garder Arko avec lui. Du coup il sent encore le sang de ses compatriotes morts pour lui sur ses mains même si il n'est pas directement coupable.
De plus il a été obligé d'épouser une femme qu'il n'a jamais aimé et qui a toujours joué les choses plus politique que lui, homme simple. Il a lui même du confier son fils au monastère et il se sent aussi lâche d'avoir laisser faire ça alors qu'il aime tant ses enfants.
Sa femme, Sarra, a abandonné sa famille après qu'on lui ai prit son fils, et comme le divorce n'existe pas elle est rentrée dans le clergé. Même sans avoir la foi sa facilité en politique lui a permis de rapidement monté les échelons et elle est devenu la mère supérieur. Et évidemment quand sa position lui permet d'en faire baver à son mari qui a osé ne pas l'aimer comme elle le méritait, elle ne se gêne pas. C'est une femme amère, qui aime le pouvoir et n'hésite pas à mettre la vie d’innocents ou d'inconnu en péril pour se venger ou arriver à ses fins.
La fille ainée, Merit, a beaucoup de traits de sa mère. Elle aime le pouvoir et elle fera tout pour avoir le pouvoir ET l'amour. Même si elle est loin d'être aussi retorse que sa mère elle a une capacité de nuisible aussi élevé à certains moments. Le mariage forcé lui a donné un mari homosexuel qui ne l'a jamais touché et même si ils sont devenu amis et alliés elle ne se souci pas vraiment de lui. Secrètement elle le déteste car certaines personnes la prennent en pitié de ne pas avoir réussi à attirer son mari. Elle est très auto centrée et ne prend jamais en compte les avis et les sentiments des autres personnes. Elle est aussi persuadé qu'elle est la seule à avoir la légitimité pour être à la tête de son peuple.
Sa cadette, Kepi, est sans doute le personnage le plus sympathique du lot. Elle a été marié mais son mari était tellement bourré qu'il c'est fracturé le crane pendant leur nuit de noce. Le peu de temps qu'a duré ce mariage a quand même réussi à la traumatiser et à la rendre méfiance envers tout les hommes. Trois ans se sont écoulés depuis et elle a prit ce temps pour devenir une guerrière. Du coup quand les manigances de sa sœur ainée l'obligent à retrouver le chemin de l'union, elle pense devenir folle et ferra tout pour être libéré, même de force.
Il nous reste donc le tout dernier, Ren. Celui ci a vécu toute sa vie au monastère. Comme tout les autres héritiers on lui a venté les mérites des Soleri. Maintenus dans la faim en permanence, les punitions s’apparentant facilement à de la torture, le tout sans jamais voir le soleil, leur vie n'a jamais été facile. Mais Ren a su se faire des amis, et quoi qu'on leur fasse subir, leur petit groupe n'a pas pu être séparé. Du coup quand on lui annonce qu'il doit partir pour prendre la place de son père à la tête de son peuple, il se retrouve seul, en devant compter en plus sur les manigances de Merit qui n'a pas l'intention de lui céder la place aussi facilement ...
Quand je parlais de ressemblance avec le premier tome du Trône de fer c'est vrai que c'est marqué sur les personnages. Il facile de trouver un lien entre Arko et Ned Stark, entre Sarra et Merit et Cersei ou entre Kepi et Arya. Pour autant ce n'est qu'une ressemblance de façade, un type de personnage. Chacun arrive à se démarquer, chaque situation et contexte sont vraiment très différent et finalement pour chacun je pourrais citer autant de dissemblance que de points communs.
****
J'ai eu un peu de mal avec le début. Il faut dire on nous propulse directement dans un des passages les plus noirs de tout le livre, nous faisant redouter que la suite soit du même genre (voir pire). Mais en fait non, une fois ce passage la passé, le reste semblait moins sombre en comparaison.
Finalement il me fallait juste un moment d'adaptation et la suite est passé vraiment sans aucun souci.
J'ai aussi bien aimé le rythme avec des chapitres courts et qui s'enchaînent rapidement ce qui donne à l'ensemble une bonne fluidité. Je peux même dire que j'ai dévoré la seconde moitié, j'aurais bien voulu en lire plus.
Je me suis attaché à ce monde et aux personnes, même ceux qui me faisaient grincer des dents.
C'est sur que je voulais en savoir plus sur les Soleri et que le peu d'indices qu'on grappille dans ce tome peut être un peu frustrant car finalement on ne sait pas encore grand chose. Mais en partant du principe que ce n'est que un premier tome ce n'est pas pour moi un défaut, c'est normal. A condition que la suite soit à la hauteur, bien sur.
Et au contraire ça a très bien marché parce que je pense que je ne traînerai pas après la sortie du suivant pour satisfaire pour envie d'en savoir plus !
July 20, 2019
3.5/5 stars
This was a really cool world and premise and I liked all the political intrigue. Ren was kinda boring, but I really liked Kepi's storyline and the mystery of the Soleri.
This was a really cool world and premise and I liked all the political intrigue. Ren was kinda boring, but I really liked Kepi's storyline and the mystery of the Soleri.
February 17, 2021
More reviews at undertheradarsffbooks.com
With the sequel set to be released this month, I thought now would be a good time to share my reading experience of Soleri by Michael Johnston. I first read Soleri when it was first published in 2017 and I was intrigued to see what Michael Johnston had up his sleeve and what he could add to the ever evolving fantasy genre. What I got was a highly original story about politics, a royal family descended from the gods, betrayal, and a slow buildup to a smashing conclusion that left me wanting more. After 4 years of waiting, the sequel is reedy to be release and I encourage everyone to give this story a go.
What had me interested in this story from the beginning was that Soleri takes its influence from Ancient Egypt where the King is said to be a living god on earth. Soleri is similar in that regard, but instead of an emperor we have a ruling family. The Soleri Empire has been in power for close to 3,000 years when the ruling family conquered the known world and has ruled with an iron fist. No one has laid eyes upon the ruling family in centuries, but their power remains as strong as ever across the 4 kingdoms. As you can probably tell by the title, the religion and worship of Gods in this novel revolves around the sun and it plays a big part in the plot. You may be surprised to discover how much!
In Soleri, we follow 5 POV characters all told in the third person. It should be mentioned that 4 of the 5 characters are all from the same family. Arko Hark-Wadi is the king of Harkan where he rules with his two daughters: Merit and Kepi. When the time comes for Arko to declare his duty for the empire, he refuses to obey and is taken to the capital to face judgement. When Arko reaches the capital, nothing is what it seems and he is involved in a plot to shift the political power of the Soleri Empire. Merit is the eldest daughter of Arko and will do everything in her power to marry the man of her choice and not the one she is betrothed too. The problem is that she can’t accomplish this task alone and needs the help of her younger sister Kepi. Merit is a smart, cunning, and often times backstabbing in her endeavors and she does annoy the hell out of me from time to time. Merit often reminded me of Sansa Stark while Kepi reminded me of Arya Stark. Kepi is adventurous and never one to back down from a challenge as her story arc will take you far beyond the Harkan kingdom. The final character I wish to discuss is Ren, the only son of Arko and he is being held prisoner by the Soleri Empire. In order to ensure the surrounding Kingdoms do not cause an uprising, the eldest son of the kingdoms is sent to the Priory of Tolemy as a prisoner of war until the King or Queen of those Kingdoms die. Ren is by far my favorite character in Soleri and he goes though a lot of pain, suffering, but growth as well into the leader he is destined to become.
What makes Soleri an interesting read is the amount of history, religion and lore Michael Johnston introduces to his Amber Throne series. When you combine that with political tension and different groups seeking power in the capital, you are in for many twists and turns. Michael Johnston’s writing style can be more on the descriptive side, making sure you understand the surrounding buildings, landscape of the forest, and even the intricate details of the several creatures we are introduced too. This was a great choice for a shorter book with the tension building up on every page, it made the shocking moments that much more impactful. One final note on Soleri is that Michael Johnston is not one to be nice to his characters and in fact he puts several of them through hell. There is a “torture” scene in Soleri but not in the traditional sense. This showed me that the author doesn’t pull any punches and he has many interesting ideas to bring to the table.
It is very hard for me to come up with a comparison for Soleri because I haven’t read another book quite like it. If you are a fan of family drama, political and royal tension, and history shrouded in secrecy than Soleri may be the book for you. I cant wait to dive into the sequel and see how Michael Johnston continues this series.
Cheers!
With the sequel set to be released this month, I thought now would be a good time to share my reading experience of Soleri by Michael Johnston. I first read Soleri when it was first published in 2017 and I was intrigued to see what Michael Johnston had up his sleeve and what he could add to the ever evolving fantasy genre. What I got was a highly original story about politics, a royal family descended from the gods, betrayal, and a slow buildup to a smashing conclusion that left me wanting more. After 4 years of waiting, the sequel is reedy to be release and I encourage everyone to give this story a go.
What had me interested in this story from the beginning was that Soleri takes its influence from Ancient Egypt where the King is said to be a living god on earth. Soleri is similar in that regard, but instead of an emperor we have a ruling family. The Soleri Empire has been in power for close to 3,000 years when the ruling family conquered the known world and has ruled with an iron fist. No one has laid eyes upon the ruling family in centuries, but their power remains as strong as ever across the 4 kingdoms. As you can probably tell by the title, the religion and worship of Gods in this novel revolves around the sun and it plays a big part in the plot. You may be surprised to discover how much!
In Soleri, we follow 5 POV characters all told in the third person. It should be mentioned that 4 of the 5 characters are all from the same family. Arko Hark-Wadi is the king of Harkan where he rules with his two daughters: Merit and Kepi. When the time comes for Arko to declare his duty for the empire, he refuses to obey and is taken to the capital to face judgement. When Arko reaches the capital, nothing is what it seems and he is involved in a plot to shift the political power of the Soleri Empire. Merit is the eldest daughter of Arko and will do everything in her power to marry the man of her choice and not the one she is betrothed too. The problem is that she can’t accomplish this task alone and needs the help of her younger sister Kepi. Merit is a smart, cunning, and often times backstabbing in her endeavors and she does annoy the hell out of me from time to time. Merit often reminded me of Sansa Stark while Kepi reminded me of Arya Stark. Kepi is adventurous and never one to back down from a challenge as her story arc will take you far beyond the Harkan kingdom. The final character I wish to discuss is Ren, the only son of Arko and he is being held prisoner by the Soleri Empire. In order to ensure the surrounding Kingdoms do not cause an uprising, the eldest son of the kingdoms is sent to the Priory of Tolemy as a prisoner of war until the King or Queen of those Kingdoms die. Ren is by far my favorite character in Soleri and he goes though a lot of pain, suffering, but growth as well into the leader he is destined to become.
What makes Soleri an interesting read is the amount of history, religion and lore Michael Johnston introduces to his Amber Throne series. When you combine that with political tension and different groups seeking power in the capital, you are in for many twists and turns. Michael Johnston’s writing style can be more on the descriptive side, making sure you understand the surrounding buildings, landscape of the forest, and even the intricate details of the several creatures we are introduced too. This was a great choice for a shorter book with the tension building up on every page, it made the shocking moments that much more impactful. One final note on Soleri is that Michael Johnston is not one to be nice to his characters and in fact he puts several of them through hell. There is a “torture” scene in Soleri but not in the traditional sense. This showed me that the author doesn’t pull any punches and he has many interesting ideas to bring to the table.
It is very hard for me to come up with a comparison for Soleri because I haven’t read another book quite like it. If you are a fan of family drama, political and royal tension, and history shrouded in secrecy than Soleri may be the book for you. I cant wait to dive into the sequel and see how Michael Johnston continues this series.
Cheers!
August 13, 2017
I received an early copy of this novel in return for an honest review. I really really like this one. If you like the world of ancient Egypt (it doesn't say that outright, but you get the feeling pretty easily) then this is one for you. The world building in this novel is phenomenal. You switch between characters that are tied to one another, a family. The son was given over to the priory when he was only a small child, there to live a life far different than his sisters. He had to submit to the pain inflicted there and when he is able to come out, it is because his father, the king, is called to his own death. That's the only way you can leave the priory. You leave when your father dies. These boys are the sons of kings and Ren is finding out that once he is out, someone is after him and wants him dead.
Characters are as well done as the world building is. You get a flavor of Egypt and of times long past. The sun is worshipped and there is intrigue as well as warfare. Kepi and Merit, sisters to Ren, have lives that tie in with the history of Soleri very well. I like that you are given much of that history as you turn the pages and it adds to the understanding of current plots and actions.
Soleri is well worth the read. If you like action, a good storyline and a well done world that is easy to see in your mind, this is the one you want to pick up next. Will Ren become king? Will someone succeed in killing him? Will Kepi avoid a disastrous marriage? Will their mother, Sarra, the high priestess of the sun god cult, help or hinder? Pages will turn. Sleep may be lost. But you are going to want the answers.
Characters are as well done as the world building is. You get a flavor of Egypt and of times long past. The sun is worshipped and there is intrigue as well as warfare. Kepi and Merit, sisters to Ren, have lives that tie in with the history of Soleri very well. I like that you are given much of that history as you turn the pages and it adds to the understanding of current plots and actions.
Soleri is well worth the read. If you like action, a good storyline and a well done world that is easy to see in your mind, this is the one you want to pick up next. Will Ren become king? Will someone succeed in killing him? Will Kepi avoid a disastrous marriage? Will their mother, Sarra, the high priestess of the sun god cult, help or hinder? Pages will turn. Sleep may be lost. But you are going to want the answers.
February 2, 2022
When I received an email from Michael Johnston's publicist asking me if I'd like an early read of Silence of the Soleri, sequel to his epic fantasy debut, Soleri, it dawned upon me that I had never heard of the author or his novel. I thought that it had perhaps been published during the first wave of the pandemic, a veritable black hole for many a title released during 2020. So imagine my surprise when I discovered that the book was published in 2017. Checking around, I realized that, though Soleri garnered some good reviews, it seems that it flew so low under the radar that very few people actually read it.
Judging from the cover blurb, it's obvious that Lev Grossman loved it. And thought Grossman and I don't always see eye to eye when it comes to novels/series, my interest was piqued. So I requested copies of both installments and elected to give the first one a shot.
Here's the blurb:
Michael Johnston brings you the first in a new epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.
The ruling family of the Soleri Empire has been in power longer than even the calendars that stretch back 2,826 years. Those records tell a history of conquest and domination by a people descended from gods, older than anything in the known world. No living person has seen them for centuries, yet their grip on their four subjugate kingdoms remains tighter than ever.
On the day of the annual eclipse, the Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, sets off on a hunt and shirks his duty rather than bow to the emperor. Ren, his son and heir, is a prisoner in the capital, while his daughters struggle against their own chains. Merit, the eldest, has found a way to stand against imperial law and marry the man she desires, but needs her sister’s help, and Kepi has her own ideas.
Meanwhile, Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of the sun god’s cult, holds the keys to the end of an empire and a past betrayal that could shatter her family.
Detailed and historical, vast in scope and intricate in conception, Soleri bristles with primal magic and unexpected violence. It is a world of ancient and elaborate rites, of unseen power and kingdoms ravaged by war, where victory comes with a price, and every truth conceals a deeper secret.
I must say that it's the fact that Soleri is supposed to be inspired by ancient Egyptian history that truly made me want to read it. Trouble is, it has very little to do with anything Egyptian. Other than the grandeur of the Soleri Empire, that is. Which was more than a little disappointing as far as I'm concerned. The worldbuilding is an important aspect of the novel, yet I couldn't help but feel that Johnston didn't quite manage to capture the scope and the vision of the tale he meant to tell. There's always a little something that's missing, something that could have been elaborated on a little more. Weighing in at only 364 pages, which is a little short for an epic fantasy title, there is no reason why the author couldn't give more depth to his creation. Still, the end result is impressive. But it could have been so much more.
Michael Johnston definitely has an eye for detail, especially for anything that has to do with architecture. Given his background as an architect, this is no surprise. His evocative prose creates an imagery that is akin to that of Stephen R. Donaldson, which is high praise indeed. This is by far my favorite aspect of the book. It's with the history and the political intrigue at the heart of Soleri that Johnston is maybe not as gifted. Things don't always make a whole lot of sense and make you question many of the protagonists' motivations.
In my opinion, the characterization is the aspect that leaves the most to be desired. Similar to the Starks in A Song of Ice and Fire, an entire family takes center stage in this series. But unlike the Starks, all of whom benefit from lots of character development in A Game of Thrones, the Hark-Wadi family is never fleshed out enough to truly carry this story on their shoulders. It's not that they are two-dimensional cardboard cutouts, mind you. It's just that they're never really fleshed out in a way that makes you want to feel for them and their plights. As was the case with the worldbuilding, there's always a little something that's missing. Although I must admit that most reviews I've read opined differently, so your mileage may vary in that regard. Be that as it may, I found King Arko to be a poor man's version of Ned Stark, while his ambitious daughter Merit is a poor man's version of Cersei Lannister. Kepi is an analog of Arya Stark and in many ways the most interesting protagonist of the bunch. I had high hopes for the king's son, Ren, held hostage in the Priory, and his estranged wife, now high priestess, Sarra. But it was not to be. Though revelations near the end come as a shock and elevate this one to another level, it was a case of too little, too late. Giving each character more depth would have worked wonders, methink.
The pace is uneven throughout the novel. It's quite evident from the get-go that all is not well within the Soleri Empire and armies are ravaging its outskirts. And while the overall story arc is quite compelling, it can be a bit of slog at times to go through each of the Hark-Wadi family's plotlines. It starts well and ends on a high note, yet there are too many chapters in the middle portion of the book where the rhythm slows to a crawl.
For all of its faults, there is still a lot to like about Michael Johnston's debut. And Soleri does set the stage for what could be a better and more ambitious sequel. So you may want to check it out.
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
Judging from the cover blurb, it's obvious that Lev Grossman loved it. And thought Grossman and I don't always see eye to eye when it comes to novels/series, my interest was piqued. So I requested copies of both installments and elected to give the first one a shot.
Here's the blurb:
Michael Johnston brings you the first in a new epic fantasy series inspired by ancient Egyptian history and King Lear.
The ruling family of the Soleri Empire has been in power longer than even the calendars that stretch back 2,826 years. Those records tell a history of conquest and domination by a people descended from gods, older than anything in the known world. No living person has seen them for centuries, yet their grip on their four subjugate kingdoms remains tighter than ever.
On the day of the annual eclipse, the Harkan king, Arko-Hark Wadi, sets off on a hunt and shirks his duty rather than bow to the emperor. Ren, his son and heir, is a prisoner in the capital, while his daughters struggle against their own chains. Merit, the eldest, has found a way to stand against imperial law and marry the man she desires, but needs her sister’s help, and Kepi has her own ideas.
Meanwhile, Sarra Amunet, Mother Priestess of the sun god’s cult, holds the keys to the end of an empire and a past betrayal that could shatter her family.
Detailed and historical, vast in scope and intricate in conception, Soleri bristles with primal magic and unexpected violence. It is a world of ancient and elaborate rites, of unseen power and kingdoms ravaged by war, where victory comes with a price, and every truth conceals a deeper secret.
I must say that it's the fact that Soleri is supposed to be inspired by ancient Egyptian history that truly made me want to read it. Trouble is, it has very little to do with anything Egyptian. Other than the grandeur of the Soleri Empire, that is. Which was more than a little disappointing as far as I'm concerned. The worldbuilding is an important aspect of the novel, yet I couldn't help but feel that Johnston didn't quite manage to capture the scope and the vision of the tale he meant to tell. There's always a little something that's missing, something that could have been elaborated on a little more. Weighing in at only 364 pages, which is a little short for an epic fantasy title, there is no reason why the author couldn't give more depth to his creation. Still, the end result is impressive. But it could have been so much more.
Michael Johnston definitely has an eye for detail, especially for anything that has to do with architecture. Given his background as an architect, this is no surprise. His evocative prose creates an imagery that is akin to that of Stephen R. Donaldson, which is high praise indeed. This is by far my favorite aspect of the book. It's with the history and the political intrigue at the heart of Soleri that Johnston is maybe not as gifted. Things don't always make a whole lot of sense and make you question many of the protagonists' motivations.
In my opinion, the characterization is the aspect that leaves the most to be desired. Similar to the Starks in A Song of Ice and Fire, an entire family takes center stage in this series. But unlike the Starks, all of whom benefit from lots of character development in A Game of Thrones, the Hark-Wadi family is never fleshed out enough to truly carry this story on their shoulders. It's not that they are two-dimensional cardboard cutouts, mind you. It's just that they're never really fleshed out in a way that makes you want to feel for them and their plights. As was the case with the worldbuilding, there's always a little something that's missing. Although I must admit that most reviews I've read opined differently, so your mileage may vary in that regard. Be that as it may, I found King Arko to be a poor man's version of Ned Stark, while his ambitious daughter Merit is a poor man's version of Cersei Lannister. Kepi is an analog of Arya Stark and in many ways the most interesting protagonist of the bunch. I had high hopes for the king's son, Ren, held hostage in the Priory, and his estranged wife, now high priestess, Sarra. But it was not to be. Though revelations near the end come as a shock and elevate this one to another level, it was a case of too little, too late. Giving each character more depth would have worked wonders, methink.
The pace is uneven throughout the novel. It's quite evident from the get-go that all is not well within the Soleri Empire and armies are ravaging its outskirts. And while the overall story arc is quite compelling, it can be a bit of slog at times to go through each of the Hark-Wadi family's plotlines. It starts well and ends on a high note, yet there are too many chapters in the middle portion of the book where the rhythm slows to a crawl.
For all of its faults, there is still a lot to like about Michael Johnston's debut. And Soleri does set the stage for what could be a better and more ambitious sequel. So you may want to check it out.
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
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