EXODUS IN BLUSH: A Modern Fantasy Epic

by Nicholas Rem

Eight isolated nomads with matter altering powers - the Cardinals - battle the accusation suggesting they are byproducts of a man responsible for the death of thousands.

One man alone, titled the Hummingbird, kept an entire nomadic civilization clinging to shadows with the power to burn any material, including their own bodies, into a rosy vapor capable of shifting into any element - Blush.

Following the protection of the eight Cardinals and their remote Colonies, the Hummingbird unexpectedly disappears.

Although they outnumber him, it becomes evident to the Cardinals that the Hummingbird's ability to create Blush far exceeds their own, and soon humanity begins to question why they are so similar to begin with.

With every passing day, the Hummingbird's absence makes less and less sense, and soon the Cardinals begin to oppose each other with their own interpretations as to why he chooses to remain hidden when he is so much stronger than them.

As Michael and Ira gain a rapid following of fanatics, their assaults on each other begin to force the rest of the Cardinals to choose sides, until one of the two makes a sacrifice to resolve their conflict for good.

357 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2017

Reviews

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Rating: 3.5/5

Publication Date: November 13, 2017

Genre: Urban Paranormal

Recommended Age: 15+ (powers and civilization)

Publisher: n/a

Pages: 357

Amazon Link

Synopsis: Eight isolated nomads with matter altering powers - the Cardinals - battle the accusation suggesting they are byproducts of a man responsible for the death of thousands.

One man alone, titled the Hummingbird, kept an entire nomadic civilization clinging to shadows with the power to burn any material, including their own bodies, into a rosy vapor capable of shifting into any element - Blush.

Following the protection of the eight Cardinals and their remote Colonies, the Hummingbird unexpectedly disappears.

Although they outnumber him, it becomes evident to the Cardinals that the Hummingbird's ability to create Blush far exceeds their own, and soon humanity begins to question why they are so similar to begin with.

With every passing day, the Hummingbird's absence makes less and less sense, and soon the Cardinals begin to oppose each other with their own interpretations as to why he chooses to remain hidden when he is so much stronger than them.

As Michael and Ira gain a rapid following of fanatics, their assaults on each other begin to force the rest of the Cardinals to choose sides, until one of the two makes a sacrifice to resolve their conflict for good.

Review: I didn’t think this book was going to be as great as it was, but I’m shocked! The book was really well written and enjoyable. The book is a nice urban paranormal book and the setting was absolutely amazing. The world building was done well and the cast of characters were diverse.

However, I do feel that the pacing was really slow in parts and I feel the characters could have been more developed and I feel we could have spent more time with them if the book was a bit longer.

Verdict: An enjoyable read!

[K.J. Simmill · Rating 5 out of 5]

It had only been four years since the Hummingbird's last slaughter, and now rumours of his return are circling, cutting through the communities just as his own Blush does through those he wishes to destroy. There was another rumour too, one that states the Hummingbird mutated a select few, turning them into Cardinals, but this is not a rumour everyone agrees with. Just as 'the truth' is to be revealed news spreads of the Hummingbird's return, a return marked by a massacre. Davlacé had been almost peaceful, until the accusation of the Cardinal origin emerges, then one turns rouge massacring all in his path, and starting a change in the people's view on these gifted ones, that, in line with the Hummingbird return spells trouble, and people will need to unite, even if their short-term objectives differ, they need to uncover the truth, and it may not be what it seems.

Exodus in Blush is Nicholas Rem's epic fantasy, perhaps with a touch of anime inspiration. It is filled with manipulation, questions, subplots as well as world and character building. It is easy to lose yourself in the world created, where detail is paid to things from commerce to social status and fickle minded opinions. Colourful writing with vivid details help you envision every scene as they unfold and you'll find yourself eager to unravel the truth behind everything. There are characters you'll love, motives you'll question, surprising twists, and enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages. There are many layers and much depth to the book making it bound to satisfy lovers of the genre.

[Philip Hume · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thoroughly well-written and striking epic (reminiscent of Final Fantasy). The author presents us with a novel and richly articulated vision of humanity in a world of ephemeral wonders that is endangered by insidious threats. A world whose people believe as much in heroes and watchmen as they do in the menaces and fiends that dwell in the twilight. We find magic, mystery and misfortune tempered with an insightful exploration of feelings, fears and ambitions that unite the tale's protagonists, anti-heroes and villains. This book would certainly suit any reader that seeks escapism and engagement in a vivid and involving realm.

I read this book over several weeks during my daily commute. However, whether you are looking for something to read on the Tube to work, a good book for an evening read or something new for the Kindle for holiday, it is a recommended read!