What do you think?
Rate this book
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
Imprisoned miles below the surface of the post-apocalyptic Earth he crafted, the first modern-day demigod must come to terms with his failings that led to global annihilation. From the charcoaled ashes of remorse and uncontrollable anger must rise the embodiment of what he was meant to be—a savior for all humankind. However, who he is saving them from and why propels this demigod on a pained journey beyond his home planet, where he must face much more than just an advanced offshoot of humanity. He and the diminutive Bookworm will fight for Earth, but at a cost even a demigod will not be able to rectify.
328 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2018
21 people are currently reading
1713 people want to read
About the author
Shawn H. Phillips
9 books36 followersShawn Phillips wrote his first book, a young-adult fantasy novel titled Dillon’s Dream: Water in Earth (definitely not successul), in 2009 before following it up with his adult paranormal fiction novel, The Doppler Affect (wow, really did great). He will be publishing a new novel Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War on 31 January of 2018.
He spent his younger years living in southern Michigan farming communities before running away to Holland, Michigan to pursue a chemistry degree at Hope College, which he completed in 1992. After migrating to California, he continued his chemistry studies and obtained his doctorate degree in 1997. After a brief yet enjoyable stint at DuPont, he signed on as a civil servant for the United States Air Force. He is currenlty the site director of the AFRL Rocket Lab, having spent nearly twenty years conducting and directing propulsion research for Air Force needs.
He spent his younger years living in southern Michigan farming communities before running away to Holland, Michigan to pursue a chemistry degree at Hope College, which he completed in 1992. After migrating to California, he continued his chemistry studies and obtained his doctorate degree in 1997. After a brief yet enjoyable stint at DuPont, he signed on as a civil servant for the United States Air Force. He is currenlty the site director of the AFRL Rocket Lab, having spent nearly twenty years conducting and directing propulsion research for Air Force needs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 26, 2018
A great science fiction and fantasy story, kept my interest and I was totally intrigued. Recommend this paperback to everyone even if you are not into science fiction you will become a fan of this book and the author. I could not put this book down. I was sad when it ended. I wanted to read more and more. Several of my family members want to read this book after hearing me talk about it. It is worth reading a second or third time. I loved it. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2018
Won in the Goodreads Giveaways
An excellent science fiction / fantasy story, well written and full of intrigue. If this is your genre I highly recommend.
An excellent science fiction / fantasy story, well written and full of intrigue. If this is your genre I highly recommend.
July 7, 2018
Loved it, I loved the ideas behind the Demigod, I like that they started out as human an changed with idol worship, and also loved who the Demigod is, but I ain't telling you must read and find out for yourself. I really enjoyed the banter between the Demigod and Bookworm, Awesome story
The Demigod/Mr. President was in a prison of his own design for many centuries. He has no idea how long he has been held in this cave until he asks bookworm, ( one of the men sent to question him and write down his responses and activities.)Earth is in trouble, Mars and the Martians might be the end of human kind. Now the Demigod must rise and fight to save his world, or parish with it.
The Demigod/Mr. President was in a prison of his own design for many centuries. He has no idea how long he has been held in this cave until he asks bookworm, ( one of the men sent to question him and write down his responses and activities.)Earth is in trouble, Mars and the Martians might be the end of human kind. Now the Demigod must rise and fight to save his world, or parish with it.
March 11, 2018
I won a print copy of Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War by Dr. Shawn Phillips in a Goodreads Giveaway.
Author Dr. Shawn Phillips has created his own genre with this book: fant2sci. A blend of fantasy and science fiction. As the first example of this genre that I have read (I don't know if there even are any others) I have to say he blends the two masterfully here.
Set in the future, far future, this post apocalyptic story recounts the creation and activities of a human created demigod. That is a great story in itself. Techno-geeks will find much here to nerd out over, whilst fantasy fanatics (like me) will dive into the fantasy quest aspects of the story. Our hero (anti-hero?) is a grumpy demigod who is carrying a boatload of anger. The story begins with his imprisonment in a subterranean cell chained to the walls.
The crux of the story is this demigod (there are more than one)(mini-spoiler) is responsible for the global apocalypse and by a twist of the authors creative abilities, he now is the hope of the remaining human population.
Our author is able to speak (or more correctly write) at many levels at once. He easily transitions from discussion on quantum physics to references as mundane as "Where's Waldo?" and all points in between.
Darkened Demigod is as full of twists and turns as any mystery you can name (even though it is not a mystery, that would be a fant2scistery). While reading, it often seemed that I was nearing the end of the story, but would notice that I had a fair amount of book left and then, Bang!, the story would gallop off in another direction. The quest would be recharged and continued. All in all a very exciting read that kept me engaged throughout and finished leaving me well satisfied. A great epilogue.
I found myself considering philosophically oriented questions (I usually hate when that happens). This story lends itself to discussions of philosophy, spirituality, the human condition, good vs evil and such. Though you won't catch me in such a discussion (my days of waxing philosophic are well past me), those who indulge in such esoteric activities will find much here to fuel many a discussion.
No sex, no romance, a fair amount of violence, some graphic most not. Lots of great action, dry humor and of course, fantasy and technology. Darkened Demigod; Weapon Of War by Dr. Shawn Phillips; a great read. Enjoy!
Mike
Author Dr. Shawn Phillips has created his own genre with this book: fant2sci. A blend of fantasy and science fiction. As the first example of this genre that I have read (I don't know if there even are any others) I have to say he blends the two masterfully here.
Set in the future, far future, this post apocalyptic story recounts the creation and activities of a human created demigod. That is a great story in itself. Techno-geeks will find much here to nerd out over, whilst fantasy fanatics (like me) will dive into the fantasy quest aspects of the story. Our hero (anti-hero?) is a grumpy demigod who is carrying a boatload of anger. The story begins with his imprisonment in a subterranean cell chained to the walls.
The crux of the story is this demigod (there are more than one)(mini-spoiler) is responsible for the global apocalypse and by a twist of the authors creative abilities, he now is the hope of the remaining human population.
Our author is able to speak (or more correctly write) at many levels at once. He easily transitions from discussion on quantum physics to references as mundane as "Where's Waldo?" and all points in between.
Darkened Demigod is as full of twists and turns as any mystery you can name (even though it is not a mystery, that would be a fant2scistery). While reading, it often seemed that I was nearing the end of the story, but would notice that I had a fair amount of book left and then, Bang!, the story would gallop off in another direction. The quest would be recharged and continued. All in all a very exciting read that kept me engaged throughout and finished leaving me well satisfied. A great epilogue.
I found myself considering philosophically oriented questions (I usually hate when that happens). This story lends itself to discussions of philosophy, spirituality, the human condition, good vs evil and such. Though you won't catch me in such a discussion (my days of waxing philosophic are well past me), those who indulge in such esoteric activities will find much here to fuel many a discussion.
No sex, no romance, a fair amount of violence, some graphic most not. Lots of great action, dry humor and of course, fantasy and technology. Darkened Demigod; Weapon Of War by Dr. Shawn Phillips; a great read. Enjoy!
Mike
September 28, 2018
This was an exciting mix of science and fantasy. The demigod seemed like a natural extension of cultural idolatry of celebrities. The ePET technology was interesting, and it was not just a cool background tech, but something that had several key influences on the how events started and evolved. The journey progresses at a good pace and has some interesting twists along the way. The relationship between the Earth and its Marsian colony was fascinating, especially once we, the reader, learn more about it through the demigod’s eyes and experience.
One fact that the story captures exceptionally well is the inherent arrogance of a semi-supreme being. Because they are more powerful than humans, live longer, can regenerate and transform, etc, there is a natural tendency to look down on people who lack such powers. This starts out with the demigod thinking of popping off Bookworm’s head with his thumb. Furthermore, the demigod never calls people by their names. Instead, he simply calls them names like “bookworm”, “boy”, “Magnate”, or “Lanky.” The inner dialog is brilliant throughout the text and in many places really carries the story.
There are also some interesting tie-ins with current space exploration ventures, but I’ll abstain from spoiling that.
The text is easy to read, including the techy parts, which by the way were really well articulated. It was almost like having Data, from Star Trek, explaining it to you, after which you’ll nod and admit that it makes perfect sense. An excellent read!
One fact that the story captures exceptionally well is the inherent arrogance of a semi-supreme being. Because they are more powerful than humans, live longer, can regenerate and transform, etc, there is a natural tendency to look down on people who lack such powers. This starts out with the demigod thinking of popping off Bookworm’s head with his thumb. Furthermore, the demigod never calls people by their names. Instead, he simply calls them names like “bookworm”, “boy”, “Magnate”, or “Lanky.” The inner dialog is brilliant throughout the text and in many places really carries the story.
There are also some interesting tie-ins with current space exploration ventures, but I’ll abstain from spoiling that.
The text is easy to read, including the techy parts, which by the way were really well articulated. It was almost like having Data, from Star Trek, explaining it to you, after which you’ll nod and admit that it makes perfect sense. An excellent read!
December 26, 2017
First, I'm the author. So why read my newest novel?
- It's his story, the first and last, modern-day demigod. Recounting a life and choices that lead to the Global World War, which tranforms into a journey to save what's left of humankind.
- It's not the norm and not what you expect. The storyline is unique, with many plot twists and right turns that will surprise the reader without leaving one feeling betrayed or misguided.
- It's written by the author of The Doppler Affect (4/5 stars on Amazon & Goodreads, Amazon Best Seller).
- Because I write to entertain others, to pull one into a different world with characters that you'll love or love to hate.
- It's his story, the first and last, modern-day demigod. Recounting a life and choices that lead to the Global World War, which tranforms into a journey to save what's left of humankind.
- It's not the norm and not what you expect. The storyline is unique, with many plot twists and right turns that will surprise the reader without leaving one feeling betrayed or misguided.
- It's written by the author of The Doppler Affect (4/5 stars on Amazon & Goodreads, Amazon Best Seller).
- Because I write to entertain others, to pull one into a different world with characters that you'll love or love to hate.
May 21, 2018
This is a Goodreads Win--I actually enjoyed this book. I think that it was well written-no one character over powered another. You become immersed in the story. If you are into sci fi then this is the book for you. I would recommend this book and this one will be reread later this year.
Want to read
February 27, 2018Placeholder
I won this book via Goodreads Giveaways.
I won this book via Goodreads Giveaways.
June 17, 2023
* I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway in 2018 and it was signed by the author. I DNF’d this book after reading the first 19 chapters. *
I started reading this book because the synopsis sounded interesting. It’s about a Demigod who wants to save the world. I was bored when I was reading this book. I didn’t really care about what was going on and I didn’t connect with any of the characters. I wanted to like this book. I tried to read it but I just couldn’t get interested in it.
I started reading this book because the synopsis sounded interesting. It’s about a Demigod who wants to save the world. I was bored when I was reading this book. I didn’t really care about what was going on and I didn’t connect with any of the characters. I wanted to like this book. I tried to read it but I just couldn’t get interested in it.
June 13, 2018
I received this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
-----
((I'm not particularly good at reviews, so my review might look really mixed. Here's my TLTR review: Not a bad book, I really enjoyed it. I wouldn't highlight a book unless I really loved it. There's something I can't pinpoint about what that lacking 5th star is and this book was a little hard to finish...I did skip a good maybe 5 or 4 chapters near the end, but I did finish the book with almost a tear in my eye. Great characters, vivid fight scenes (something that I as a casual writer find very hard to write), and so much character growth and development that I've grown attached to them. Great book and lots of wisdom. 4.3/5.))
Actual Review:
I am FINALLY finished. This book was a bit long and almost impossible to finish. I can't decipher between whether it was the genre that I'm not used to, the final hurdle of schooling (finals month), or the writing style but this book took forever to finish.
I kept debating between 3 and 4 stars and ultimately settled on 4 stars maybe a 4.3 actually. Because any book that gives me feels of any kind deserves an entire star alone for it and the ending ALMOST made me tear up (almost).
I usually can pinpoint what I like and dislike about a book. I don't know why, for some odd reason, I can't put a finger on why it was so hard to read. I think that the biggest factor was the writing style and (towards the end) the actual alien stuff. I might not have read the blurb too closely when choosing books. It's been a LONG while since I've dabbled in sci-fi.
The characters, my favorite character and my favorite character development must be bookworm. Though it's too complicated for my tiny brain to wrap around the concept that the watch is bookworm...but a programmed version of him, but it's not actually him, but a machine/halo-graph, but it also is human, but also is like superhuman in his own non-demigod way, and going from a cold program to a very distinct human thing...I don't know. I'm just so attached to this little guy. Maybe I just have a thing for little nerd sidekicks, who knows. I enjoy his dry humor and sarcastic personality and his development as a character that is separate from the original bookworm and his development with the protagonist.
The demi-god. The last time I dabbled with a demi-god it was watching Moana. I know that they are amazing and him being the first ever demigod gives him an advantage and makes him different and so much stronger than other demi-gods, let alone the mortal beings around him. I don't like him, but also don't dislike him. He too grows a lot. He always maintains this shred of humanity to him and it's that human side that ultimately saves him. I just have a small thing that irks me. I know that he is all mighty and whatever he needs, his followers (try to) provides. I just have this weird feeling (and correct this bad memory reviewer here) because he seems to find a solution to every situation. The gills....the claws....make his skin into steel....Granted, to move on, most protagonists can do this. He just feels like superman. though I guess as a demi-god...he kind of...is....Maybe it's just, I'm SO used to seeing a character with a set list of abilities and not a list of strengths that are temporary. He gets a normal appearance back after transforming, his gills leave, he can learn to cope without oxygen by turning off the human side of him, etc. I must say though, he had a (Ton) of fair share of pain. He does not go through this book without pain and certainly does not OP and power through. He fails and has to resort to plan b and imperfect plans are what makes the world go round no? Cause...it's reality!
My last favorite character is probably that cocky boy. Don't know, I just like him.
So in the end, I love the characters. Everyone has a start, a personality, huge growths, has strengths and weaknesses. The writing style is very descriptive. I must admit there was a chunk I skipped in order for me to continue reading without being bored. Maybe it's too technical? I haven't read sci-fi in a long time, but glad that this book is my first one back. It truely shows an amazing world and in the end, I really enjoyed the book. Maybe there was a major block in the middle of the book I had to skip, but everything else was fantastic. The characters were written so well. I need a bookworm of my own...
If you really like a sci-fi alien invasion kind of book with lots of philosophy thrown in, (I haven't highlighted a physical book in so long! This one has tons of flags of wisdom!) this is the book for you. This concept of how demi-gods work is really intriguing too.
"The demigod creates the ripple, and they follow behind but with a ferocity that I would even fear." Human kinds' greatest talent is the ability to be nearly annihilated and brought to its knees and somehow, no matter what, they always manage to get back up and conquer what was there to kill them...and thrive too.
Thanks for any great read! And thanks for all the words of wisdom in this book!
-----
((I'm not particularly good at reviews, so my review might look really mixed. Here's my TLTR review: Not a bad book, I really enjoyed it. I wouldn't highlight a book unless I really loved it. There's something I can't pinpoint about what that lacking 5th star is and this book was a little hard to finish...I did skip a good maybe 5 or 4 chapters near the end, but I did finish the book with almost a tear in my eye. Great characters, vivid fight scenes (something that I as a casual writer find very hard to write), and so much character growth and development that I've grown attached to them. Great book and lots of wisdom. 4.3/5.))
Actual Review:
I am FINALLY finished. This book was a bit long and almost impossible to finish. I can't decipher between whether it was the genre that I'm not used to, the final hurdle of schooling (finals month), or the writing style but this book took forever to finish.
I kept debating between 3 and 4 stars and ultimately settled on 4 stars maybe a 4.3 actually. Because any book that gives me feels of any kind deserves an entire star alone for it and the ending ALMOST made me tear up (almost).
I usually can pinpoint what I like and dislike about a book. I don't know why, for some odd reason, I can't put a finger on why it was so hard to read. I think that the biggest factor was the writing style and (towards the end) the actual alien stuff. I might not have read the blurb too closely when choosing books. It's been a LONG while since I've dabbled in sci-fi.
The characters, my favorite character and my favorite character development must be bookworm. Though it's too complicated for my tiny brain to wrap around the concept that the watch is bookworm...but a programmed version of him, but it's not actually him, but a machine/halo-graph, but it also is human, but also is like superhuman in his own non-demigod way, and going from a cold program to a very distinct human thing...I don't know. I'm just so attached to this little guy. Maybe I just have a thing for little nerd sidekicks, who knows. I enjoy his dry humor and sarcastic personality and his development as a character that is separate from the original bookworm and his development with the protagonist.
The demi-god. The last time I dabbled with a demi-god it was watching Moana. I know that they are amazing and him being the first ever demigod gives him an advantage and makes him different and so much stronger than other demi-gods, let alone the mortal beings around him. I don't like him, but also don't dislike him. He too grows a lot. He always maintains this shred of humanity to him and it's that human side that ultimately saves him. I just have a small thing that irks me. I know that he is all mighty and whatever he needs, his followers (try to) provides. I just have this weird feeling (and correct this bad memory reviewer here) because he seems to find a solution to every situation. The gills....the claws....make his skin into steel....Granted, to move on, most protagonists can do this. He just feels like superman. though I guess as a demi-god...he kind of...is....Maybe it's just, I'm SO used to seeing a character with a set list of abilities and not a list of strengths that are temporary. He gets a normal appearance back after transforming, his gills leave, he can learn to cope without oxygen by turning off the human side of him, etc. I must say though, he had a (Ton) of fair share of pain. He does not go through this book without pain and certainly does not OP and power through. He fails and has to resort to plan b and imperfect plans are what makes the world go round no? Cause...it's reality!
My last favorite character is probably that cocky boy. Don't know, I just like him.
So in the end, I love the characters. Everyone has a start, a personality, huge growths, has strengths and weaknesses. The writing style is very descriptive. I must admit there was a chunk I skipped in order for me to continue reading without being bored. Maybe it's too technical? I haven't read sci-fi in a long time, but glad that this book is my first one back. It truely shows an amazing world and in the end, I really enjoyed the book. Maybe there was a major block in the middle of the book I had to skip, but everything else was fantastic. The characters were written so well. I need a bookworm of my own...
If you really like a sci-fi alien invasion kind of book with lots of philosophy thrown in, (I haven't highlighted a physical book in so long! This one has tons of flags of wisdom!) this is the book for you. This concept of how demi-gods work is really intriguing too.
"The demigod creates the ripple, and they follow behind but with a ferocity that I would even fear." Human kinds' greatest talent is the ability to be nearly annihilated and brought to its knees and somehow, no matter what, they always manage to get back up and conquer what was there to kill them...and thrive too.
Thanks for any great read! And thanks for all the words of wisdom in this book!
April 7, 2018
An exciting find
I won a copy of Darkened Demigod from Goodreads to read and review. And very happy that I did.
Shawn Phillips has written a novel that amazed and beguiled me with fine writing, awesome world -or worlds- building and a stunning concept. It deserves to be on everyone's list, whether sci-fi/ fantasy is your usual metier or not.
While the story is such that I can only give a brief plot synopsis for fear of dropping too many spoilers, I will give a taste of what
lies between the covers.
He was one the president of The United Americas, a nation made of many nations, a super-conglomerate grown rich and powerful . As president he grew ever more in strength, power and perception ,loved by his people. They were prosperous , their skills led the world. They worshipped their president, who feasted on their worship.
The demigod had succeeded in setting up a colony on Mars , called Marsia, for expansion. But then , as other smaller rival nation conglomerates grew envious and fearful, small Wars broke out on earth until the world was shattered by the The Last World War.
Ninety-seven percent of the world population was destroyed in nuke strikes or in the lingering radiation.
The president, grown into a demigod a dozen feet tall, immensely strong and powerfully perceptive awakes in shackled , deep in a mine shaft when he can no longer control anything or anyone. How long has he been there-he has no idea. His only contact is with an occasional interrogator. Then a new voice in the darkness, a voice he names The Bookworm, tells him that he is needed. He is told that the survivors on earth of the holocaust have been enslaved by the Marsian colonists to provide what Mars needs to grow; they cry for freedom to the man they made a demigod.
That is only a hint of the direction the story is to move. The reader is placed in in almost unimaginable world where the unimaginable happens-except the author imagined it and composed it in a fascinating, exciting and compelling way. The Darkened Demigod never goes in quite the direction one might expect, neither space opera nor demon- driven hyperbole. Mr. Phillips , though it may be hard to beleive, gives his demon-man depth of character and emotion with which the reader sympathizes. It is that and the pure imagination that make the book so worth the reader's time.
Ok- this review has grown too long, so I will end it by recommended The Darkened Demigod for your enjoyment.
I won a copy of Darkened Demigod from Goodreads to read and review. And very happy that I did.
Shawn Phillips has written a novel that amazed and beguiled me with fine writing, awesome world -or worlds- building and a stunning concept. It deserves to be on everyone's list, whether sci-fi/ fantasy is your usual metier or not.
While the story is such that I can only give a brief plot synopsis for fear of dropping too many spoilers, I will give a taste of what
lies between the covers.
He was one the president of The United Americas, a nation made of many nations, a super-conglomerate grown rich and powerful . As president he grew ever more in strength, power and perception ,loved by his people. They were prosperous , their skills led the world. They worshipped their president, who feasted on their worship.
The demigod had succeeded in setting up a colony on Mars , called Marsia, for expansion. But then , as other smaller rival nation conglomerates grew envious and fearful, small Wars broke out on earth until the world was shattered by the The Last World War.
Ninety-seven percent of the world population was destroyed in nuke strikes or in the lingering radiation.
The president, grown into a demigod a dozen feet tall, immensely strong and powerfully perceptive awakes in shackled , deep in a mine shaft when he can no longer control anything or anyone. How long has he been there-he has no idea. His only contact is with an occasional interrogator. Then a new voice in the darkness, a voice he names The Bookworm, tells him that he is needed. He is told that the survivors on earth of the holocaust have been enslaved by the Marsian colonists to provide what Mars needs to grow; they cry for freedom to the man they made a demigod.
That is only a hint of the direction the story is to move. The reader is placed in in almost unimaginable world where the unimaginable happens-except the author imagined it and composed it in a fascinating, exciting and compelling way. The Darkened Demigod never goes in quite the direction one might expect, neither space opera nor demon- driven hyperbole. Mr. Phillips , though it may be hard to beleive, gives his demon-man depth of character and emotion with which the reader sympathizes. It is that and the pure imagination that make the book so worth the reader's time.
Ok- this review has grown too long, so I will end it by recommended The Darkened Demigod for your enjoyment.
March 12, 2018
This book is crazy good.
This is a book that just takes you all over the place! This book starts out with a chained up demigod in a mine being questioned by a lone figure he calls Bookworm. As the demigod begins to unravel the mystery about his life and why exactly he's chained up, some major stuff happens. However, you'll need to read the book to find it all out. I'm not going to tell you. That would be cheating. I will tell you that you get to go on an interplanetary bumpy (to say the least) trip where a whole cast of characters are waiting to play with your mind.
The characters in this book are all very complex and so much more than they appear on the surface. The author did a terrific job in making sure that they were all completely different from each other. A lot of time is taken to fully develop the main character so that you feel as if you know all there is about him. Over the course of the book, sometimes through little 'clips' here and there, you are given all the information there is about him. It's refreshing to know a character so well. He sticks with you well after you have put the book down. The side characters, especially the one that is with him the most, is as developed as needed for the story. Also, the descriptions of the places and things going on are described to where you can visualized most in your mind clearly as you read.
There were times I got confused while reading the book but that was only because the author knows his stuff! All the science and astronomy and so on was so fully developed and thought out I found I had to stop and really think about what I was reading a few times. In other words, the book at times was well over my head! That however was the fault of my own brain which only made the book that much better. It's a very good book with just so much in it!
I didn't want to give away the story as I think if you were to read the synopsis you would probably have enough to jump into the book. There are a few things that happen that are fun not to know about beforehand so I wanted to make sure not to spoil them. This is a good book so if you are even curious about it I'd say give it a shot. You may find a new favorite!
This is a book that just takes you all over the place! This book starts out with a chained up demigod in a mine being questioned by a lone figure he calls Bookworm. As the demigod begins to unravel the mystery about his life and why exactly he's chained up, some major stuff happens. However, you'll need to read the book to find it all out. I'm not going to tell you. That would be cheating. I will tell you that you get to go on an interplanetary bumpy (to say the least) trip where a whole cast of characters are waiting to play with your mind.
The characters in this book are all very complex and so much more than they appear on the surface. The author did a terrific job in making sure that they were all completely different from each other. A lot of time is taken to fully develop the main character so that you feel as if you know all there is about him. Over the course of the book, sometimes through little 'clips' here and there, you are given all the information there is about him. It's refreshing to know a character so well. He sticks with you well after you have put the book down. The side characters, especially the one that is with him the most, is as developed as needed for the story. Also, the descriptions of the places and things going on are described to where you can visualized most in your mind clearly as you read.
There were times I got confused while reading the book but that was only because the author knows his stuff! All the science and astronomy and so on was so fully developed and thought out I found I had to stop and really think about what I was reading a few times. In other words, the book at times was well over my head! That however was the fault of my own brain which only made the book that much better. It's a very good book with just so much in it!
I didn't want to give away the story as I think if you were to read the synopsis you would probably have enough to jump into the book. There are a few things that happen that are fun not to know about beforehand so I wanted to make sure not to spoil them. This is a good book so if you are even curious about it I'd say give it a shot. You may find a new favorite!
May 23, 2018
Imprisoned, observed, goaded. This was the life the Demigod had endured for over a decade. The people who held him sent a new observer, the others had met their end, more often by his hand, or more precisely, his thumb. This one he named Bookworm, and to him he finally begins to divulge his secrets. He whispers of how a demigod is created, of sacrifice and of worship. This demigod had failed his people, failed to uphold the values they had expected of him, and he brought about the end. It had started so innocently, a desire to better the country, create a sustainable life, but allies became enemies, robbing him of his family, his motivations, but this had been his beginning, the time his power awoke. They need to understand him, to understand their kind. This demigod was the cause of the apocalypse, and now it seems he is the sole hope of the survivors.
There is a hint of American Gods within the pages of Dr Shawn Phillips’ Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War, specifically how worship creates power, although the mechanics take on a slightly different twist making their own miracle interventions via a petition for prayer. The characters are well-developed and their little mysteries and histories are slowly revealed as the characters gain depth and grow throughout the involved plot. Despite a steady paced start you'll soon see a rise of momentum to create a super powered, dystopian, science fiction. There are some fascinating ideas, and many the scientific aspects are well explained, especially for those who know their stuff; clearly a lot of time, thought, and research was spent perfecting this aspect. This book has a bit of everything from comedy to involved science and philosophy, not forgetting the occasional twist or surprise to keep the reader on their toes. If you enjoy a science fiction space drama, then this will certainly appeal, and as a bonus it also gives the reader a little something to think about themselves.
There is a hint of American Gods within the pages of Dr Shawn Phillips’ Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War, specifically how worship creates power, although the mechanics take on a slightly different twist making their own miracle interventions via a petition for prayer. The characters are well-developed and their little mysteries and histories are slowly revealed as the characters gain depth and grow throughout the involved plot. Despite a steady paced start you'll soon see a rise of momentum to create a super powered, dystopian, science fiction. There are some fascinating ideas, and many the scientific aspects are well explained, especially for those who know their stuff; clearly a lot of time, thought, and research was spent perfecting this aspect. This book has a bit of everything from comedy to involved science and philosophy, not forgetting the occasional twist or surprise to keep the reader on their toes. If you enjoy a science fiction space drama, then this will certainly appeal, and as a bonus it also gives the reader a little something to think about themselves.
February 19, 2018
The Marsians rule the planet now.
All the collars around my neck, arms, & legs are unbreakable.
Bookworm tells Mr. President (creature) there is no food for me today.
He heads out the cavern entrance into the mine shaft.
Bookworm seems to take a fancy to Mr. President, & Mr. President to him.
Mr. President clues him in on the history of America.
Bookworm was once a F/T educator at the 1st. University.
Stanley was warning Magnate Palmer about the incoming spaceship on a collision course.
Sergeant Rinch confirmed that also.
Will the crew survive & continue on to a new mission?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written outer space book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sci-fi movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me so I will only ratee it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; YBCoyote Press; 1 edition; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
All the collars around my neck, arms, & legs are unbreakable.
Bookworm tells Mr. President (creature) there is no food for me today.
He heads out the cavern entrance into the mine shaft.
Bookworm seems to take a fancy to Mr. President, & Mr. President to him.
Mr. President clues him in on the history of America.
Bookworm was once a F/T educator at the 1st. University.
Stanley was warning Magnate Palmer about the incoming spaceship on a collision course.
Sergeant Rinch confirmed that also.
Will the crew survive & continue on to a new mission?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written outer space book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great sci-fi movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me so I will only ratee it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; YBCoyote Press; 1 edition; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
March 15, 2018
Book: Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War by Shawn Phillips
Characters: The characters in the story are interesting. The main story characters have a chance to develop. Some of the changes are interesting and unexpected; others you are just waiting for the characters to arrive at. Even many of the minor characters are given enough of a backstory to make them interesting and memorable.
Theme: The author seems to be going for a scifi-fantasy anchored with religion and a dystopian future.
Plot: The plot is definitely interesting. It was written well enough to keep me reading the book day after day. My biggest gripe was with certain mechanics happening with no explanation except for "just because." I don't think it is necessary to explain scifi or fantasy ideas to the point that they would actually work in the real world, but a little more depth for how things 'work' would have been a nice addition. The flip side of this is that the story mechanics don't get so confusing that you have to reference earlier parts of the story to understand what is going on.
Similar books I've read: The Coldfire Trilogy by C.S. Friedman is the set of books that come to mind after reading this story.
Recommendation: I would recommend giving this book a read, it is definitely worth the time invested. If my favorite books and my favorite authors were an A rating, then this book lives up to a B.
Characters: The characters in the story are interesting. The main story characters have a chance to develop. Some of the changes are interesting and unexpected; others you are just waiting for the characters to arrive at. Even many of the minor characters are given enough of a backstory to make them interesting and memorable.
Theme: The author seems to be going for a scifi-fantasy anchored with religion and a dystopian future.
Plot: The plot is definitely interesting. It was written well enough to keep me reading the book day after day. My biggest gripe was with certain mechanics happening with no explanation except for "just because." I don't think it is necessary to explain scifi or fantasy ideas to the point that they would actually work in the real world, but a little more depth for how things 'work' would have been a nice addition. The flip side of this is that the story mechanics don't get so confusing that you have to reference earlier parts of the story to understand what is going on.
Similar books I've read: The Coldfire Trilogy by C.S. Friedman is the set of books that come to mind after reading this story.
Recommendation: I would recommend giving this book a read, it is definitely worth the time invested. If my favorite books and my favorite authors were an A rating, then this book lives up to a B.
September 30, 2018
An unpredictable tale that pleasantly keeps you guessing
I won a copy of Darkened Demigod in a Goodreads giveaway. I'm so glad I did. The book was amazing and had everything I like. It's a mix of dystopia and superhero powers. There's much more. If you like banter, personal growth, and action, then read this. It would make a great anime series. The rest of my review will contain spoilers.
The Good.
I loved the concept of literal powers from worship, especially once Bookworm used instant relay to worshippers.
Both The President and Bookworm are fantastic characters. Their banter is fun and witty.
Using alligators as throwable objects in a fight is simply genius.
I had fun imagining the Wyndelace fight on Mars. Pillowcase lawn dart attacks were fun. Again, make this an anime!
The way the Wyndelace "beat" The President was a surprise. I'm glad he overcame it, but a part of me wondered if the book would end in his defeat.
The Bad.
I found it too coincidental that Arthuren was one of two demigods on Mars. I understand it was for closure, but we don't always get it.
The Wyndelaces monologue too much. It makes sense that The President does this. His hubris forces him to, but the aliens were supposed to be less emotional.
The Technical.
This book is written in first person present tense.
I won a copy of Darkened Demigod in a Goodreads giveaway. I'm so glad I did. The book was amazing and had everything I like. It's a mix of dystopia and superhero powers. There's much more. If you like banter, personal growth, and action, then read this. It would make a great anime series. The rest of my review will contain spoilers.
The Good.
I loved the concept of literal powers from worship, especially once Bookworm used instant relay to worshippers.
Both The President and Bookworm are fantastic characters. Their banter is fun and witty.
Using alligators as throwable objects in a fight is simply genius.
I had fun imagining the Wyndelace fight on Mars. Pillowcase lawn dart attacks were fun. Again, make this an anime!
The way the Wyndelace "beat" The President was a surprise. I'm glad he overcame it, but a part of me wondered if the book would end in his defeat.
The Bad.
I found it too coincidental that Arthuren was one of two demigods on Mars. I understand it was for closure, but we don't always get it.
The Wyndelaces monologue too much. It makes sense that The President does this. His hubris forces him to, but the aliens were supposed to be less emotional.
The Technical.
This book is written in first person present tense.
March 10, 2018
This book is a bit science fiction and fantasy, tossed with demigods and aliens, and a pinch of dystopian. If this sounds intriguing to you then read on my friend! I'll admit it, this sounds like a crazy mixture but the author totally makes it work.
The idea of human worship/prayers powering the demigods was such a unique concept. The followers could help them with whatever they needed at the time just by praying! It made for a really fun story.
My favorite character BY FAR was Bookworm, he totally made the story. He was wise and witty but was also Mr. President's voice of reason and helped guide him on his journey. I loved the relationship they developed throughout the story. It was fun watching them grow and evolve as the book progresses.
The only thing I could possibly see as a negative would be how much detail the author went into explaining how things worked etc. But some of that helps you understand things better as most of us don't have a degree in chemistry!
In the end, this story was action-packed and unpredictable with surprises around every corner. I love not being able to guess the ending and this definitely delivered in that aspect. Darkened Demigods was very well written and held my interest throughout. If this sounds like the type of book you would read, I would definitely recommend it!
February 21, 2018
I really liked the whole idea behind this book and it didn't disappoint. I read it in a couple of reading sessions and I would have given it 5 stars but I tend not to go full stars.
I finished it before I went to bed and I fell asleep pretty happy as I felt the ending was perfect although a tiny bit sad. It might even be leading up to a second book which I wouldn't mind but all of the main questions were answered within this book and I didn't think there was a cliffhanger.
I did enjoy the writing style and the story was very original although at times it was easy to miss certain key points. As I was reading quickly and skipped over a couple of important sentences. I also did enjoy the characters and I liked how both the demigod president and also Bookworm changed for the better throughout the story. The genre of the book was actually quite interesting as well and I liked the whole space thing with the demigod and semi apocalypse thing going on too.
Overall it was really great and I didn't get annoyed by any wrong information, it also had a couple of plot twists keeping the story alive too.
This is my first review so sorry if it's bad and also I got this as a giveaway but the opinions are my own.
I finished it before I went to bed and I fell asleep pretty happy as I felt the ending was perfect although a tiny bit sad. It might even be leading up to a second book which I wouldn't mind but all of the main questions were answered within this book and I didn't think there was a cliffhanger.
I did enjoy the writing style and the story was very original although at times it was easy to miss certain key points. As I was reading quickly and skipped over a couple of important sentences. I also did enjoy the characters and I liked how both the demigod president and also Bookworm changed for the better throughout the story. The genre of the book was actually quite interesting as well and I liked the whole space thing with the demigod and semi apocalypse thing going on too.
Overall it was really great and I didn't get annoyed by any wrong information, it also had a couple of plot twists keeping the story alive too.
This is my first review so sorry if it's bad and also I got this as a giveaway but the opinions are my own.
January 13, 2019
This story is about a President of the United States who is transformed into a demigod, he has super human strength and can heal quickly from any kind of injury, even regrowing an appendage that has been severed.. I pictured him as the incredible Hulk just not green.. He has a side kick that is a hologram on his watch that helps him navigate through certain situations, his name is bookworm. At times their relationship is comical.
Mr President is sent on a mission to Mars to save the human race. The aliens are slowly colonizing planet Earth and nobody knows it. Mr President figures out how they are doing it and sets out to destroy their plans of a take over.
This story was ok for me, Im sure if your into the sci Fi Alien sort of thing you would love it. I for one am not an alien fan so I lost interest when they were introduced.. I did finish the story though because it held my interest enough that I wanted to see if Mr President would succeed in his mission.
Mr President is sent on a mission to Mars to save the human race. The aliens are slowly colonizing planet Earth and nobody knows it. Mr President figures out how they are doing it and sets out to destroy their plans of a take over.
This story was ok for me, Im sure if your into the sci Fi Alien sort of thing you would love it. I for one am not an alien fan so I lost interest when they were introduced.. I did finish the story though because it held my interest enough that I wanted to see if Mr President would succeed in his mission.
March 5, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised at the thought put into this book as well as the thought provoking internal dialogue it prompted as I read it. The notion of warring nations creating their own demigods with strengths and weaknesses reflective of that nation's characteristics is certainly entertaining. As the story develops, the reader is pulled into "Mr. President's" psyche as he copes with guilt over his family's demise and the fall of his nation. I was drawn to the Bookworm as he provides a guiding light, voice of reason, and laughter-provoking quips.
From the time I opened this book, I had a difficult time putting it down. "The second strongest word in the human dictionary is hope." To find out the first - you'll have to read this story.
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this text as I received it through a Goodreads Giveaway.
From the time I opened this book, I had a difficult time putting it down. "The second strongest word in the human dictionary is hope." To find out the first - you'll have to read this story.
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this text as I received it through a Goodreads Giveaway.
March 12, 2018
I won a copy of Darkened Demigod from a Goodreads giveaway. It is such an amazing Fantasy/Sci Fi story that you connect with from the first page. Dr Shawn Phillips creates a picture for you with his precise yet descriptive words of an exciting story that has some undertones of real truth. It was exciting to read, picking out comparisons from the real world. You are drawn into an story that has many twists and turns that keep you intrigued and actively awaiting the next page. I enjoyed not knowing which direction the plot was going to go and it was very difficult to put down. I loved the story and hope to read more like this. I like to thank author's when they give me a reading experience that is so enjoyable that I am grateful that I read it...so thank you Dr, Phillips, it was a great adventure!
February 27, 2018
This book was pretty interesting it had a perfect blend of science and fantasy that had me turning the page just to see what happens next. This book has a excellent story line, character, plot, setting, events, issues, and choices. Plus the book is fast paced and it takes you to at least several different places. The story is about a struggling post-apocalyptic world where humans and demigods interact for the future of Earth and humanity itself and you can tell not everything goes the way you planned in this book. Not to mention this book is a complete unpredictable tale keep me interested for the beginning to the very end. This science fiction / fantasy story is a must read for nay and all book lovers everywhere.
March 7, 2018
LOVED this book! The idea of technology turning normal humans into demigods is genius! In fact, the entire story is full of unique ideas and twists on popular subjects! The characters were fun and well developed. The story was well written and imaginative. At times, there was just a little too much technical writing about how various devices were made and functioned, but in most places it was welcome too keep the idea of technology being the reason for everything. I might have enjoyed it less as chemistry was my worst subject. I can't wait to read more books by Shawn Phillips!
March 12, 2018
I found this book browsing through the giveaways awhile back and the plot sounded interesting so I entered and ended up winning a copy. I'm sad to say however that I only read to about 50% though and gave up on it. I admit the plot was still interesting and different, however I just could not get past the author's writing style. I don't know what it was about it, I just couldn't get into the writing. I was and am still curious as to how the 2nd half of the book goes, but I found myself skimming over paragraphs rather than actually reading them and decided to just give up near half way. I may come back to this in the future, in which case I will revise this review though. Again, my 2 stars is not for the plot itself, as it was interesting, I just couldn't get into the way it was written.
March 16, 2018
I got this book through Goodreads Giveaways. There are a lot of interesting ideas in this book, perhaps too many. If you enjoy an everything, including the kitchen sink approach to soft science fiction, you might like this, but even apart from that, there were some serious editing issues in spelling, word choice, and some rather stilted dialogue. I generally found the characters rather unlikable, and it was a book I found myself tempted not to finish. It changed tone frequently, which helped to move the book along, particularly since the beginning was not very engaging.
January 18, 2019
I received Darkened Demigod as a Goodreads give away. I really enjoyed this book. I will say at time it was slow or I did not like the direction I thought it was going but I loved how it turned out. This book has a lot of twists and turns. As the first modern-day DemiGod this antihero lives with remorse and uncontrolled anger but must overcome Ashe is called on to become the savior of all mankind. He will be joined by a diminutive Bookworm as they must travel beyond earth to fight an unknown enemy. Great book.
March 15, 2018
I received a Kindle edition of this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
This book started out rather slow, but had a unique concept. It then became The Host meets Armageddon. I did not hate the book, but I did not love it either. I struggled to get through it. I do not think this genre is for me.
I read this book as part of the PopSugar Reading Challenge 2018 - A book set on a different planet.
This book started out rather slow, but had a unique concept. It then became The Host meets Armageddon. I did not hate the book, but I did not love it either. I struggled to get through it. I do not think this genre is for me.
I read this book as part of the PopSugar Reading Challenge 2018 - A book set on a different planet.
April 19, 2018
Captivating From Beginning to End!
I was intrigued at first by this book because it focused on demigod which is a keyword for mythology and I am a huge mythology fan! This book has action, drama, conflict and is uniquely different. I was intrigued from start to finish and I could not stop reading. I always rave about books like this . Kudos Shawn Phillips for writing such an enticing book! 5 stars!
I was intrigued at first by this book because it focused on demigod which is a keyword for mythology and I am a huge mythology fan! This book has action, drama, conflict and is uniquely different. I was intrigued from start to finish and I could not stop reading. I always rave about books like this . Kudos Shawn Phillips for writing such an enticing book! 5 stars!
February 27, 2018
This is not the kind of book I normally read - I won a copy through Goodreads - but I've discovered that I like a book that combines science, fantasy and superheros! I will be sharing this book with my best friend, since this is exactly the kind of reading she loves -and stays up all night for! Lots of twists and turns. I highly recommend it!
July 31, 2018
Interesting
This is a hard book to even begin to describe. I'll start by saying that I did enjoy it. It almost seemed as if I had read 3 books, though it did all come together cohesively.
This book will appeal to those who enjoy science fiction and post-apocalyptic tales.
*I won this book from a Goodreads . The review is my own, honest and unsolicited.
This is a hard book to even begin to describe. I'll start by saying that I did enjoy it. It almost seemed as if I had read 3 books, though it did all come together cohesively.
This book will appeal to those who enjoy science fiction and post-apocalyptic tales.
*I won this book from a Goodreads . The review is my own, honest and unsolicited.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews