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Elevator Quest
When the elevator cable snaps, they all think they are going to die. Instead, Tasha and her office colleagues find themselves trapped in a fantasy world, the crash only the beginning of their problems as they fight for survival. But the mystery of what happened gnaws at them as they venture deeper into an adventure filled with monsters, mystical weapons, and deadly challenges…
A female-led, action-packed fantasy.
A female-led, action-packed fantasy.
- GenresFantasy
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2018
15 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Emmanuel M. Arriaga
5 books96 followersEmmanuel Arriaga is a sci-fi author trapped in the body of a Product Manager. With a 14+ year background in engineering, cybersecurity, and infrastructure, Emmanuel received education from Pennsylvania State University and Stanford Graduate School of Business. He’s held roles building products for people in emerging markets, creating privacy and security safeguards for users on the Android platform, improving core experiences for creators on YouTube, and is currently at Google Play, ensuring the integrity of developers within the Play Ecosystem in Silicon Valley. When the author occasionally breaks free, he publishes award-winning novels such as Foundra and Elevator Quest.
He is best known for the Foundra Series, a sci-fi space opera and National Indie Excellence Award (NIEA) Finalist. His rich worlds introduce expansive worldbuilding with innovative technologies and concepts. He is a bronze winner of the Readers' Favorite Award for Best Young Adult Action Novel and a TopShelf Book Award winner.
He is best known for the Foundra Series, a sci-fi space opera and National Indie Excellence Award (NIEA) Finalist. His rich worlds introduce expansive worldbuilding with innovative technologies and concepts. He is a bronze winner of the Readers' Favorite Award for Best Young Adult Action Novel and a TopShelf Book Award winner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 19, 2022
A group of people enter an elevator, when they come out, they are in a fantasy world full of monsters and magical weapons. They are forced to fight their way free.
Pretty decent for litrpg.
Pretty decent for litrpg.
January 11, 2018
I’d like to thank Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for an Advanced Read Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t think we’re in the office building anymore, Arnold!
What can I say about this book except, Wow…. just Wow.
An elevator full of people who work together in an office building plummet and find themselves? Where? Is this Hell? Some kind of Game? A part of the building we’ve never seen? They all must work together to fight and escape or die trying.
““Is this hell? Maybe, but who knows for sure? What I do know is that there is a path ahead of us. We can choose to take that path and see where it leads,” Arnold motioned towards the patch, “or we can sit here and die.” Moving back to pick up the crest on the ground before picking it up and tossing it to Jiro, who caught it and slid it into his pocket. “I, for one, refuse to die here.”
They each come across a weapon that calls out to them: the rogue, the black mage, the healer, the monk, the berserker, etc. taking on RPG (role playing game) roles like they are within a live game (with deadly consequences) and acquiring skills they didn’t know that they had. Working through the levels they must defeat the monsters and bosses they meet in this hellish place in which they find themselves.
I had a love hate relationship with this book. While it was an amazing story, it was a little confusing having about 14 characters from the beginning all doing things at once. It was a long time before you really got to know any of the characters with any real depth as well because there were just too many of them. The fight scenes seemed jumbled because there was just too much going on at once to follow everything, and there were SO MANY fight scenes that the book almost became exhausting, BUT WHAT A RIDE!
I will warn you readers now… don’t become too attached to any characters! You may have a rude awakening if you do! This story is definitely for those who can handle things like “The Walking Dead” and “Game of Thrones” There are many twists and turns and it’s definitely not a “And they all lived happily ever after” sort of novel. Which, I actually loved! It is a great thrilling read, I highly recommend it. I would have given it 5 stars if it was just a little better organised and edited!
I don’t think we’re in the office building anymore, Arnold!
What can I say about this book except, Wow…. just Wow.
An elevator full of people who work together in an office building plummet and find themselves? Where? Is this Hell? Some kind of Game? A part of the building we’ve never seen? They all must work together to fight and escape or die trying.
““Is this hell? Maybe, but who knows for sure? What I do know is that there is a path ahead of us. We can choose to take that path and see where it leads,” Arnold motioned towards the patch, “or we can sit here and die.” Moving back to pick up the crest on the ground before picking it up and tossing it to Jiro, who caught it and slid it into his pocket. “I, for one, refuse to die here.”
They each come across a weapon that calls out to them: the rogue, the black mage, the healer, the monk, the berserker, etc. taking on RPG (role playing game) roles like they are within a live game (with deadly consequences) and acquiring skills they didn’t know that they had. Working through the levels they must defeat the monsters and bosses they meet in this hellish place in which they find themselves.
I had a love hate relationship with this book. While it was an amazing story, it was a little confusing having about 14 characters from the beginning all doing things at once. It was a long time before you really got to know any of the characters with any real depth as well because there were just too many of them. The fight scenes seemed jumbled because there was just too much going on at once to follow everything, and there were SO MANY fight scenes that the book almost became exhausting, BUT WHAT A RIDE!
I will warn you readers now… don’t become too attached to any characters! You may have a rude awakening if you do! This story is definitely for those who can handle things like “The Walking Dead” and “Game of Thrones” There are many twists and turns and it’s definitely not a “And they all lived happily ever after” sort of novel. Which, I actually loved! It is a great thrilling read, I highly recommend it. I would have given it 5 stars if it was just a little better organised and edited!
January 2, 2018
It was a normal day, people doing their every day things. Twelve everyday people, with nothing in common other than their need to use the elevator in that particular building at that particular time, are about to find a connection beyond the courteous 'hello'. None of them had imagined that fate had a different destination in store for them than that they had planned. Fear had gripped them as the elevator began its unexpected, rapid descent, and yet somehow they survived, only when the doors were opened they weren't in any place known to the building they were in. What's more, it seemed they weren't alone. Join Tasha, Jiro and the crew in a game of deadly survival as they are pitted against horrors they had never thought to be real in Emmanuel M Arriaga's Elevator Quest.
Elevator Quest makes me think of a number of survival games available on today's market. Plunged into perilous and confusing situations the heroes use everything at their disposal to survive. It will hold a certain appeal to game lovers, and perhaps even fans of the fighting fantasy game books as it has aspects which remind me of both. Written in parts made up from bite sized chapters the adventure's progression is easy to follow. The characters learn to cooperate, and come together, mostly, despite their differences. Some surprise revelations will keep the reader guessing what is afoot, and you'll find yourself turning page after age of magical weaponry as well as dangerous traps, and difficult challenges they must overcome if they have any hope of escape. Emmanuel M Arriaga writes in a straight-forward manner, telling the reader only what they need to know to advance the plot.
Elevator Quest makes me think of a number of survival games available on today's market. Plunged into perilous and confusing situations the heroes use everything at their disposal to survive. It will hold a certain appeal to game lovers, and perhaps even fans of the fighting fantasy game books as it has aspects which remind me of both. Written in parts made up from bite sized chapters the adventure's progression is easy to follow. The characters learn to cooperate, and come together, mostly, despite their differences. Some surprise revelations will keep the reader guessing what is afoot, and you'll find yourself turning page after age of magical weaponry as well as dangerous traps, and difficult challenges they must overcome if they have any hope of escape. Emmanuel M Arriaga writes in a straight-forward manner, telling the reader only what they need to know to advance the plot.
December 11, 2017
This was like being on a roller coaster ride. As crazy as this is, every chapter had something unexpected. The premise caught my interest right away since I enjoy reading books with a unique concept. There is plenty of action in this book, and I do mean plenty.
The author crafted this world where unlikely office workers become heroes and come together to fight fantastical creatures from another dimension. You never know what will be around the next corner. The characters take on a life of their own. I would have liked a little more background on each of them, but I think this was meant to jump right into the thick of it all. Anything goes in this world. The question is, will they make it out alive? This will appeal to fantasy readers and those who love great fighting scenarios.
The author crafted this world where unlikely office workers become heroes and come together to fight fantastical creatures from another dimension. You never know what will be around the next corner. The characters take on a life of their own. I would have liked a little more background on each of them, but I think this was meant to jump right into the thick of it all. Anything goes in this world. The question is, will they make it out alive? This will appeal to fantasy readers and those who love great fighting scenarios.
October 17, 2018
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
A roller coaster of a ride.
A wonderful fantasy story with plenty of action, although far fetched even for me in places.
Let down by a slightly poor ending.
A roller coaster of a ride.
A wonderful fantasy story with plenty of action, although far fetched even for me in places.
Let down by a slightly poor ending.
November 28, 2021
I like a good science fiction /fantasy story as much as anyone else. I also am interested in helping out local authors and writers from my area of the country. (Philadelphia ,Pa) However I have to be honest here with other readers and fellow like minded enthusiast. ELEVATOR QUEST is a major disappointment and a very hard read. I could not keep myself interested in the book for more than 15 minutes at a time. I would get bored with all of the fight scenes in nearly every chapter and the descriptions became soooo repetitive that it hurt.
I am sorry to say such a thing about the work of a fellow Philly guy, but this book did nothing for me whatsoever. I stuck with it because I kept hoping for some kind of a change or breakthrough in the storyline that never came. The first and last chapters were the two best in the book.
The story started out well enough and I imagined a tale of discovery and fantastic descriptions of magical lands under the Earth's surface, instead I got a comic book with constant fight scenes where the elevator passengers fought every kind of conceivable horror creatures the author could think of.(and there were a lot of them) The Devil was interesting I must admit, but when they defeated the devil (an almost impossible task), I knew the book was a total goner. The ending wasn't a total surprise, but it did come on suddenly. I did not expect it at that moment. It is almost like the author ran out of ideas or finally got bored with the story himself.
Unless you love battle scenes and constant comic book type fights, stay away from Elevator Quest.
2 stars out of 5 for this book. One of my bottom 5 of all time that I've read.
dnf
February 24, 2018I received this via Goodreads Giveaways in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own:).
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Lovely concept but couldn't get into it :( I do appreciate winning the book but unfortunately it wasn't for me.
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Lovely concept but couldn't get into it :( I do appreciate winning the book but unfortunately it wasn't for me.
November 26, 2018
I won the book through Goodreads Giveaways, so had to read it! LOL I don't believe I will look for another like it. If you are into super powers and non-stop battles it is your kind of book!
March 11, 2018
“Are you saying this is some kind of terrorist attack?”
California author Emmanuel M Arriaga spent his early years in the inner city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, obsessed with fantasy and science fiction. Stepping out of low-income life, Emmanuel developed an interest in science, technology and engineering. He went on to graduate from Pennsylvania State University with a Master’s in Information Science, spent time in the financial industry before landing a job with Google in Silicon Valley. His debut novel was the 2015 FOUNDRA: THE RIFT WAR and now he publishes his second novel ELEVATOR QUEST. With a solid foundation of this sort it is no surprise that he is able to create integral science fiction and fantasy in the manner of the current infatuation with IT instant adventure.
Emmanuel kicks off his tale with the incident that proves to be the driver – and we meet Tasha, the finely painted lead character in this complex and satisfying novel. ‘Autumn sunshine painted the floor of the large lobby, the décor old but impressive. Crowds of people were hurrying to elevators, ready to start a day’s work. Arnold sighed as he walked through the double doors of the office building that had become his second home. His muscles were still sore from his heavy workout the night prior. Arnold subconsciously rubbed his arm, his gaze coming up to meet that of his personal assistant, Ann Richards. The older, brown-haired European woman was waiting for him at the entrance to the elevators. Without a word, she fell into step beside him. They hurried into a waiting, packed elevator. He buttoned the top button of his exquisite black suit as he glanced around at the other people, many of whom eyed the large African American curiously. He returned their stares with a broad smile. A young Brazilian woman looked up at him from near the elevator control panel. “What floor?” Her expectant gray eyes immediately caught Arnold’s attention. “Twenty-seventh floor please,” he said. Arnold presented her with a dashing smile, which she returned, blushing slightly. Pressing the button, she looked down toward the floor as the elevator doors closed. Tasha watched the whole scene from the back of the elevator, a low sigh escaping her lips. She glanced from Arnold to the Brazilian woman, her stomach tightening. Shaking her head, she muttered under her breath. The words weren’t clearly audible, but if someone had listened closely enough, they would have heard a short rant about black men and light-skinned women. Tasha glanced at her own reflection in the elevator wall. There was insecurity in her gaze. Her gaze lingered on her own dark brown skin. Tasha noticed a Japanese American man watching her from the other side of the elevator. Suddenly caught, he glanced toward the ceiling, feigning innocence. Letting out another sigh, Tasha pulled out her smartphone and turned up the volume to her earbuds. The elevator started to rapidly ascend. Arnold leaned back against the wall. Thoughts of his busy schedule filled his mind. He would be giving a presentation to the CEO in an hour, and he felt that he was just steps away from being appointed the next managing director of his firm. A crackle of electricity could be heard from above. A few people glanced around, seeking reassurance. The lights in the elevator began to flicker. Gasps went up from throughout the packed metal box. “What in the world?” Glances of concern were exchanged. Arnold pushed through the crowd toward the control panel. The elevator began to slow before eventually coming to a stop. Arnold glanced up at the ceiling. The sounds of creaking cables caused his heart to skip a beat. Looking around with a controlled calm, his years of service in Iraq rushing back to the forefront of his mind, Arnold went into emergency mode. “Everyone remain still!” he shouted. His booming voice pulled the attention of everyone in the elevator. Tasha hit pause on her smartphone.’
And it is just that degree of characterization and creation of intrigue that fills ever page. The synopsis outline the story well – ‘When the elevator cable snaps, they all think they are going to die. Instead, Tasha and her office colleagues find themselves trapped in a fantasy world, the crash only the beginning of their problems as they fight for survival. But the mystery of what happened gnaws at them as they venture deeper into an adventure filled with monsters, mystical weapons, and deadly challenges.’
Strong writing with a subtle commentary on racial conflicts make this a successful novel.
California author Emmanuel M Arriaga spent his early years in the inner city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, obsessed with fantasy and science fiction. Stepping out of low-income life, Emmanuel developed an interest in science, technology and engineering. He went on to graduate from Pennsylvania State University with a Master’s in Information Science, spent time in the financial industry before landing a job with Google in Silicon Valley. His debut novel was the 2015 FOUNDRA: THE RIFT WAR and now he publishes his second novel ELEVATOR QUEST. With a solid foundation of this sort it is no surprise that he is able to create integral science fiction and fantasy in the manner of the current infatuation with IT instant adventure.
Emmanuel kicks off his tale with the incident that proves to be the driver – and we meet Tasha, the finely painted lead character in this complex and satisfying novel. ‘Autumn sunshine painted the floor of the large lobby, the décor old but impressive. Crowds of people were hurrying to elevators, ready to start a day’s work. Arnold sighed as he walked through the double doors of the office building that had become his second home. His muscles were still sore from his heavy workout the night prior. Arnold subconsciously rubbed his arm, his gaze coming up to meet that of his personal assistant, Ann Richards. The older, brown-haired European woman was waiting for him at the entrance to the elevators. Without a word, she fell into step beside him. They hurried into a waiting, packed elevator. He buttoned the top button of his exquisite black suit as he glanced around at the other people, many of whom eyed the large African American curiously. He returned their stares with a broad smile. A young Brazilian woman looked up at him from near the elevator control panel. “What floor?” Her expectant gray eyes immediately caught Arnold’s attention. “Twenty-seventh floor please,” he said. Arnold presented her with a dashing smile, which she returned, blushing slightly. Pressing the button, she looked down toward the floor as the elevator doors closed. Tasha watched the whole scene from the back of the elevator, a low sigh escaping her lips. She glanced from Arnold to the Brazilian woman, her stomach tightening. Shaking her head, she muttered under her breath. The words weren’t clearly audible, but if someone had listened closely enough, they would have heard a short rant about black men and light-skinned women. Tasha glanced at her own reflection in the elevator wall. There was insecurity in her gaze. Her gaze lingered on her own dark brown skin. Tasha noticed a Japanese American man watching her from the other side of the elevator. Suddenly caught, he glanced toward the ceiling, feigning innocence. Letting out another sigh, Tasha pulled out her smartphone and turned up the volume to her earbuds. The elevator started to rapidly ascend. Arnold leaned back against the wall. Thoughts of his busy schedule filled his mind. He would be giving a presentation to the CEO in an hour, and he felt that he was just steps away from being appointed the next managing director of his firm. A crackle of electricity could be heard from above. A few people glanced around, seeking reassurance. The lights in the elevator began to flicker. Gasps went up from throughout the packed metal box. “What in the world?” Glances of concern were exchanged. Arnold pushed through the crowd toward the control panel. The elevator began to slow before eventually coming to a stop. Arnold glanced up at the ceiling. The sounds of creaking cables caused his heart to skip a beat. Looking around with a controlled calm, his years of service in Iraq rushing back to the forefront of his mind, Arnold went into emergency mode. “Everyone remain still!” he shouted. His booming voice pulled the attention of everyone in the elevator. Tasha hit pause on her smartphone.’
And it is just that degree of characterization and creation of intrigue that fills ever page. The synopsis outline the story well – ‘When the elevator cable snaps, they all think they are going to die. Instead, Tasha and her office colleagues find themselves trapped in a fantasy world, the crash only the beginning of their problems as they fight for survival. But the mystery of what happened gnaws at them as they venture deeper into an adventure filled with monsters, mystical weapons, and deadly challenges.’
Strong writing with a subtle commentary on racial conflicts make this a successful novel.
January 20, 2018
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Elevator Quest by Emmanuel M Arriaga is an interesting fantasy tale for young adult readers and fans of adventure. The elevator cable snaps and everyone in it is frightened, thinking they will end up dead. But something unusual happens: Tasha and the others who survive the accident find themselves in an alternate, strange world. The group composed of office workers finds themselves catapulted into an adventure no one asked for, discovering new weapons and facing vicious and dangerous creatures. Do they have what it takes to survive these challenges and ultimately return to their own world? Or, could it be that they are actually dead and on the path to another form of life? That is for the reader to find out.
I loved this book right from its very opening. Readers are introduced to characters who are going through their normal day until something suddenly goes wrong with the elevator. The humor is injected into the narrative right off the bat and I couldn’t help smiling and laughing at characters like Tasha and Arnold. Right in the heart of danger, instead of thinking about survival, Tasha shouts: “Oh Lord, I’m going to die a virgin.” The chapters are short and well-crafted with endings that literally compel the reader to turn to the next page. Emmanuel M Arriaga is good with dialogues and the writing features a compelling blend of well-crafted prose and intelligently written dialogues. The setting is the work of a great imagination. Elevator Quest is well-plotted and beautifully written, a fast-paced, pulsating story that is as suspenseful as it is entertaining.
Elevator Quest by Emmanuel M Arriaga is an interesting fantasy tale for young adult readers and fans of adventure. The elevator cable snaps and everyone in it is frightened, thinking they will end up dead. But something unusual happens: Tasha and the others who survive the accident find themselves in an alternate, strange world. The group composed of office workers finds themselves catapulted into an adventure no one asked for, discovering new weapons and facing vicious and dangerous creatures. Do they have what it takes to survive these challenges and ultimately return to their own world? Or, could it be that they are actually dead and on the path to another form of life? That is for the reader to find out.
I loved this book right from its very opening. Readers are introduced to characters who are going through their normal day until something suddenly goes wrong with the elevator. The humor is injected into the narrative right off the bat and I couldn’t help smiling and laughing at characters like Tasha and Arnold. Right in the heart of danger, instead of thinking about survival, Tasha shouts: “Oh Lord, I’m going to die a virgin.” The chapters are short and well-crafted with endings that literally compel the reader to turn to the next page. Emmanuel M Arriaga is good with dialogues and the writing features a compelling blend of well-crafted prose and intelligently written dialogues. The setting is the work of a great imagination. Elevator Quest is well-plotted and beautifully written, a fast-paced, pulsating story that is as suspenseful as it is entertaining.
March 7, 2018
Elevator Quest is a fantasy novel written by Emmanuel M. Arriaga. The novel revolves around several people who get trapped in an elevator, not knowing what caused the stop and that something extraordinary is about to happen in each of their lives.
Immediately when we start reading the novel we can see at least two things. First: the novel is written in a simple, reader-friendly manner and language. This is a good thing because every reader, fan or not, will be able to easily understand what is going on and thus easily follow the story. Second: the author jumps right into the matter of the story. We do not see long introductions into the characters, how they got into the situation in which they are. What we see (or read) is a short intro and then jump right into the story. My opinion is that this is another trait of this novel and a reason for thumb up for the author (because we want the story, the events, the mystery and not wasting pages on too long introductions).
Elevator Quest is a bit unusual and strange story about people got stuck in an elevator for, what appears to be no reason at all. Several times the novel kind of reminded me of a movie The Cube (several people got stuck in a confined space, each of them has “unique’’ set of skills necessary for the survival of the entire group and the mystery that surrounded them), which is another good thing about this novel. However, regardless of that Elevator Quest has a unique story, something that I recommend reading to both fans and non-fantasy novel fans. Amazing work. I love it.
Immediately when we start reading the novel we can see at least two things. First: the novel is written in a simple, reader-friendly manner and language. This is a good thing because every reader, fan or not, will be able to easily understand what is going on and thus easily follow the story. Second: the author jumps right into the matter of the story. We do not see long introductions into the characters, how they got into the situation in which they are. What we see (or read) is a short intro and then jump right into the story. My opinion is that this is another trait of this novel and a reason for thumb up for the author (because we want the story, the events, the mystery and not wasting pages on too long introductions).
Elevator Quest is a bit unusual and strange story about people got stuck in an elevator for, what appears to be no reason at all. Several times the novel kind of reminded me of a movie The Cube (several people got stuck in a confined space, each of them has “unique’’ set of skills necessary for the survival of the entire group and the mystery that surrounded them), which is another good thing about this novel. However, regardless of that Elevator Quest has a unique story, something that I recommend reading to both fans and non-fantasy novel fans. Amazing work. I love it.
March 1, 2018
Nothing happens by accident, so every event in this book happens by a godly coincidence, and you know what? It’s amazing.
Despite this story being focused mostly on fantasy, it also possess other elements that are welcome to this kind of story, and that trait often caught me off guard sometimes while I was reading the story, it was such a fresh twist that comes along really with another thing that I won’t mentioned because of spoilers.
The characters are well written, in frantic situations such as the beginning is interesting to read the different reactions and it was a nice feel of evolution that later they all alienate to their unique features, it is important to keep a ‘link’ that also help us to connect with this new setting, and the way the author manages that it’s exceptional. There is no more left for me to say but to give this book a chance, it’s an excellent blend between fantasy and survival.
Despite this story being focused mostly on fantasy, it also possess other elements that are welcome to this kind of story, and that trait often caught me off guard sometimes while I was reading the story, it was such a fresh twist that comes along really with another thing that I won’t mentioned because of spoilers.
The characters are well written, in frantic situations such as the beginning is interesting to read the different reactions and it was a nice feel of evolution that later they all alienate to their unique features, it is important to keep a ‘link’ that also help us to connect with this new setting, and the way the author manages that it’s exceptional. There is no more left for me to say but to give this book a chance, it’s an excellent blend between fantasy and survival.
March 4, 2018
I was drawn in by the caption of a female led fantasy as I think there are way too many of them out there, however, I found something much better. The cast of characters that find themselves in the elevator that day are wide ranging in age and race. This is perhaps the most diverse cast of characters I have come across. The clichés (selfie taking during a crisis) were not limited to one person and there were no tired tropes (except for some linguistical ones) bandied about. This was a very interesting and refreshing read. If you ever played a MMORPG, this will seem familiar to you as the storyline follows along the same plot as the quests within those games.
A group of people get in an elevator and after an accident are trapped in a fantasy world full of wonder and violence and only quick wits, bravery and teamwork will help them survive. Jumping from dimension to dimension, will they succeed in returning to their own world? Or are they forever trapped?
A group of people get in an elevator and after an accident are trapped in a fantasy world full of wonder and violence and only quick wits, bravery and teamwork will help them survive. Jumping from dimension to dimension, will they succeed in returning to their own world? Or are they forever trapped?
March 6, 2018
Oh my! I did not expect to like this book as much as I did! I was immediately attracted to it solely by the description of a female lead story but I got a lot more than what I could possibly have imagined.
Let me start by saying that I really dislike riding elevators. They make me nervous and uncomfortable and every time there’s a strange noise or some kind of a bump, I immediately assume the worst. So, the story of co-workers who got themselves trapped in a crashing elevator immediately made my stress levels go through the roof. The story is great, well-written with a fascinating plot. But the characters are só much better than your traditional characters in fantasy books. It’s not that it’s centered around a kick-ass female that leads the entire group. Their interactions are great. The descriptions of their feelings and mental state are on point. And the world they find themselves into and all the quests they have to go through make this book awesome.
Let me start by saying that I really dislike riding elevators. They make me nervous and uncomfortable and every time there’s a strange noise or some kind of a bump, I immediately assume the worst. So, the story of co-workers who got themselves trapped in a crashing elevator immediately made my stress levels go through the roof. The story is great, well-written with a fascinating plot. But the characters are só much better than your traditional characters in fantasy books. It’s not that it’s centered around a kick-ass female that leads the entire group. Their interactions are great. The descriptions of their feelings and mental state are on point. And the world they find themselves into and all the quests they have to go through make this book awesome.
March 12, 2018
Elevator Quest written by Emmanuel M Arriaga is a an amazing fantasy story that starts off with the reader being introduced to the most terrifying experience anyone who has used an elevator can imagine, the elevator cable snaps with 13 people inside. When the elevator doors scrape open, the people in the elevator are unsure of where they are and do not recognize the area. The leaders are quickly identified by taking control of the situation and ensure their authority is expressed. This book takes the reader along with the 13 people in a fight to survive and figure out how to get home and what exactly happened. I found the writing to be terrific in flow and description, which made it very easy to immerse myself in. This book quickly became a page turner and was a very enjoyable read. I recommend this book to any lover of fantasy and who wants something unique with a story line they haven’t read before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2018
A unique storyline
Elevator Quest by Emmanuel M Arriaga follows several different characters from different walks in life as they find themselves dealing with an elevator mishap and they plunge into the depths of a new world filled with monsters and otherworldly weapons. I liked the characters. Arriaga took a lot of time to make sure each character was clearly defined and that the different personalities were easily followed. I am torn between liking the book for the characters and the unique plot and not particularly loving it because it reminded me of a video game in how it read. But overall it wasn’t a bad book. It moved steadily and really wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s a classic example of not judging a book by its cover… or name. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the plot as much as I did. I’m interested to see what else Emmanuel Arriaga has to offer in other writings.
Elevator Quest by Emmanuel M Arriaga follows several different characters from different walks in life as they find themselves dealing with an elevator mishap and they plunge into the depths of a new world filled with monsters and otherworldly weapons. I liked the characters. Arriaga took a lot of time to make sure each character was clearly defined and that the different personalities were easily followed. I am torn between liking the book for the characters and the unique plot and not particularly loving it because it reminded me of a video game in how it read. But overall it wasn’t a bad book. It moved steadily and really wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s a classic example of not judging a book by its cover… or name. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the plot as much as I did. I’m interested to see what else Emmanuel Arriaga has to offer in other writings.
December 28, 2017
This was like being on a roller coaster ride. As crazy as this is, every chapter had something unexpected. The premise caught my interest right away since I enjoy reading books with a unique concept. There is plenty of action in this book, and I do mean plenty.
The author crafted this world where unlikely office workers become heroes and come together to fight fantastical creatures from another dimension. You never know what will be around the next corner. The characters take on a life of their own. I would have liked a little more background on each of them, but I think this was meant to jump right into the thick of it all. Anything goes in this world. The question is, will they make it out alive? This will appeal to fantasy readers and those who love great fighting scenarios.
Reviewed by Janet of the GothicMoms Review Team
The author crafted this world where unlikely office workers become heroes and come together to fight fantastical creatures from another dimension. You never know what will be around the next corner. The characters take on a life of their own. I would have liked a little more background on each of them, but I think this was meant to jump right into the thick of it all. Anything goes in this world. The question is, will they make it out alive? This will appeal to fantasy readers and those who love great fighting scenarios.
Reviewed by Janet of the GothicMoms Review Team
March 14, 2018
Such a unique take! An elevator crash? Truly interesting beginning and far more creative then someone stumbling upon a door. So I loved the beginning. Although I have to admit I will probably think about this book every time I get on an elevator. Slightly freaked out.
And of course the characters. I feel like the author really understood the importance of the audience being able to connect with the characters and made a point of making that possible. Insanely important in a book like this where they leap into so much action, you almost forget whether you should care about this character in the first place.
The groups quest leaves you with everything you would hope for from a YA novel and life lessons like heroism, that you just want to share with the world. Totally worth the read.
And of course the characters. I feel like the author really understood the importance of the audience being able to connect with the characters and made a point of making that possible. Insanely important in a book like this where they leap into so much action, you almost forget whether you should care about this character in the first place.
The groups quest leaves you with everything you would hope for from a YA novel and life lessons like heroism, that you just want to share with the world. Totally worth the read.
January 28, 2026
Elevator Quest starts with a concept that feels both fun and ambitious, and it promises more than it delivers. I loved the concept and the energy, but the execution bucked under its own ambition, tossing about 14 characters into the mixer right from the start and never giving any of them the care they deserved. The fight scenes are thrilling in theory, yet they feel tangled and exhausting because so much is happening at once, making it hard to follow who’s who. Still, the ride is undeniably entertaining, and the book has a fierce, can’t-look-away pace that carries you along even as it stumbles. It’s a fun idea that would have benefited from sharper editing and a tighter hand on the reins, so don’t get too attached to the happily ever after you might expect.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. #NetGalley #arcreview #ElevatorQuest
3⭐️ story | 4 ⭐️ narration
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. #NetGalley #arcreview #ElevatorQuest
3⭐️ story | 4 ⭐️ narration
March 6, 2018
Talk about action-packed, non-stop drama and thrills! This book started fast and remained that way throughout the entire plot. With MANY characters it was at times confusing and hard to keep up with what was going on but that is why the action never ceased. A group of co-workers are in an elevator that falls and somehow ends up in another universe. The must join forces to battle the elements (like fantastical creatures) and figure out where home is and how they are going to get back. I thought it was a great plot idea and it did keep me intrigued. As the story continues, the reader becomes more familiar with the characters and it becomes less confusing. I like that it was female-led and overall a good read.
March 6, 2018
Creative and fun quest involving office staff from all levels. I loved that each person’s background helped out with the task at hand and that the author, Emmanuel Arriaga, provided plenty of diversity in this book. The details were fantastic and I really enjoyed reading this book. I found it hard to put down. The fun starts right from the very first chapter and you continue with a group of interesting characters. I really enjoyed the details that were put into this story and yet you were still able to add in a bit of your own ideas on how things looked. This is a great book that I’m sure teens will love to read and even us adults really can enjoy it. This book made working in the office fun and exciting. I really looked forward to each chapter and what excitement would happen next!
March 13, 2018
I have many many feelings abut this book. I'm going to immediately say that I love and hated this story for many reasons.
Love:
- The back stories to some of the characters were written very well and were pretty interesting.
- I enjoyed how the romance was written. Not obvious, but there. It's expected.
- Not a "happily ever after" type of book. It's more on the "yeah, that IS how it's going to end."
- Action was non-stop, and I loved it. Intense and at times, couldn't put it down!
- Each character had its own action and what not (not spoiling THAT for you!) and it was pretty cool. Loved the idea!
Hate:
- It needed another round of editing. At times it was a bit disorganized, then at times, it wasn't. It was hard to read at times.
- Felt like too many characters and hard to keep track, but it gets easier later on (you'll see why).
- Some of the characters had some sayings that didn't need to be there. It was beginning to get annoying, and I think that's because I wouldn't even say those things or have heard people say those things. That's also just me.
Love:
- The back stories to some of the characters were written very well and were pretty interesting.
- I enjoyed how the romance was written. Not obvious, but there. It's expected.
- Not a "happily ever after" type of book. It's more on the "yeah, that IS how it's going to end."
- Action was non-stop, and I loved it. Intense and at times, couldn't put it down!
- Each character had its own action and what not (not spoiling THAT for you!) and it was pretty cool. Loved the idea!
Hate:
- It needed another round of editing. At times it was a bit disorganized, then at times, it wasn't. It was hard to read at times.
- Felt like too many characters and hard to keep track, but it gets easier later on (you'll see why).
- Some of the characters had some sayings that didn't need to be there. It was beginning to get annoying, and I think that's because I wouldn't even say those things or have heard people say those things. That's also just me.
August 27, 2018
Elevator Quest follows the challenges faced by strangers trapped in a crashing elevator as they maneuver through a very hostile environment. The narrative reads like a very bloody fantasy game script as the protagonists move from one challenge worthy of Jason and the Argonauts to another. Arriaga's second fantasy novel is a great story with good character development and an unanticipated twist at the end. A perfect beach read.
July 15, 2018
An action-packed adventure from beginning to end, the plot kept me reading. The writing, however, was difficult to follow. Every scene was over-described and excessively explained to the point of making it difficult to understand what was happening.
I received a Kindle copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
I received a Kindle copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
December 6, 2017
This engaging novel provided a never ending narrative of action and gore, with an abundance of strategy and suspense, as this random group of diverse characters fight to survive!
March 7, 2018
This book was original, interesting and highly entertaining. I would recommend it.
March 30, 2018
This was a very original, non stop adrenaline ride. Loved this concept and really loved the ending. I would definitely read a sequel.
February 18, 2018
Interesting
The book was good in general. However, some of the fighting seemed unnecessary. Perhaps it was me being inundated with this type of book.
The book was good in general. However, some of the fighting seemed unnecessary. Perhaps it was me being inundated with this type of book.
January 11, 2018
I don’t think we’re in the office building anymore, Arnold!
What can I say about this book except, Wow…. just Wow.
An elevator full of people who work together in an office building plummet and find themselves? Where? Is this Hell? Some kind of Game? A part of the building we’ve never seen? They all must work together to fight and escape or die trying.
““Is this hell? Maybe, but who knows for sure? What I do know is that there is a path ahead of us. We can choose to take that path and see where it leads,” Arnold motioned towards the patch, “or we can sit here and die.” Moving back to pick up the crest on the ground before picking it up and tossing it to Jiro, who caught it and slid it into his pocket. “I, for one, refuse to die here.”
They each come across a weapon that calls out to them: the rogue, the black mage, the healer, the monk, the berserker, etc. taking on RPG (role playing game) roles like they are within a live game (with deadly consequences) and acquiring skills they didn’t know that they had. Working through the levels they must defeat the monsters and bosses they meet in this hellish place in which they find themselves.
I had a love hate relationship with this book. While it was an amazing story, it was a little confusing having about 14 characters from the beginning all doing things at once. It was a long time before you really got to know any of the characters with any real depth as well because there were just too many of them. The fight scenes seemed jumbled because there was just too much going on at once to follow everything, and there were SO MANY fight scenes that the book almost became exhausting, BUT WHAT A RIDE!
I will warn you readers now… don’t become too attached to any characters! You may have a rude awakening if you do! This story is definitely for those who can handle things like “The Walking Dead” and “Game of Thrones” There are many twists and turns and it’s definitely not a “And they all lived happily ever after” sort of novel. Which, I actually loved! It is a great thrilling read, I highly recommend it. I would have given it 5 stars if it was just a little better organised and edited!
What can I say about this book except, Wow…. just Wow.
An elevator full of people who work together in an office building plummet and find themselves? Where? Is this Hell? Some kind of Game? A part of the building we’ve never seen? They all must work together to fight and escape or die trying.
““Is this hell? Maybe, but who knows for sure? What I do know is that there is a path ahead of us. We can choose to take that path and see where it leads,” Arnold motioned towards the patch, “or we can sit here and die.” Moving back to pick up the crest on the ground before picking it up and tossing it to Jiro, who caught it and slid it into his pocket. “I, for one, refuse to die here.”
They each come across a weapon that calls out to them: the rogue, the black mage, the healer, the monk, the berserker, etc. taking on RPG (role playing game) roles like they are within a live game (with deadly consequences) and acquiring skills they didn’t know that they had. Working through the levels they must defeat the monsters and bosses they meet in this hellish place in which they find themselves.
I had a love hate relationship with this book. While it was an amazing story, it was a little confusing having about 14 characters from the beginning all doing things at once. It was a long time before you really got to know any of the characters with any real depth as well because there were just too many of them. The fight scenes seemed jumbled because there was just too much going on at once to follow everything, and there were SO MANY fight scenes that the book almost became exhausting, BUT WHAT A RIDE!
I will warn you readers now… don’t become too attached to any characters! You may have a rude awakening if you do! This story is definitely for those who can handle things like “The Walking Dead” and “Game of Thrones” There are many twists and turns and it’s definitely not a “And they all lived happily ever after” sort of novel. Which, I actually loved! It is a great thrilling read, I highly recommend it. I would have given it 5 stars if it was just a little better organised and edited!
February 4, 2018
This book hits the ground running and doesn’t stop. The descriptive detail allows the reader to get immersed in the story & travel along with this motley crew as another adventurer. This is a LARPing D&D Quest gone awry!
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