Lightbringer

by Victor Defnas

“God’s gone. I was his firstborn. I am your master now.”There’s something very wrong with Lily Wright. On top of her mysterious illness that can’t be diagnosed, people have a habit of trying to kill themselves rather than speak to her. Plants die at her touch, and a series of increasingly disturbing incidences convince her that she’s been demonically possessed. Yet the truth is far darker than Lily imagines, and she discovers a world that is haunted by a past that won’t stay dead. Trapped with an inescapable new identity, Lily finds herself at the heart of a ten thousand year old love story, an apocalyptical war between Heaven and Hell, and a rivalry that dates back to the dawn of time.

462 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 21, 2018

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

Victor Defnas’ debut novel is certainly the culmination of careful research and a wealth of creative scope. As a first novel, Defnas should be praised for sustaining a compelling storyline that borrows from both Judaic folklore and Christian scripture. Lily’s sharp-tongued humour should sit well with a disenchanted generation of young people. There are also themes that are accessible to readers of all ages: the exploration of identity, friendships, adventure, disobeying parents (yeah, we’ve all been there), and the grief that accompanies loss. I was particularly pleased to see that Defnas has embraced same-sex relationships within his novel: surely a sign of the times?

As a first novel however, there are areas for improvement. The plot, whilst laudable in its ambition, does vary in terms of pace. This does not necessarily detract from Defnas’ writing, but there is room for revision on this front. And as entertaining as Lily’s and her companions’ witticisms were, I felt that sometimes these were too forced and a little distracting from the overall plot. Although, Lily’s meditations on the seaside town of Tor Regis hit the mark (if you know its real-life inspiration, then you’ll find Defnas’ descriptions of it hilarious).

Nonetheless, Defnas has done well to build convincing characters.

All in all, an enjoyable read.

[shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a debut novel, this book is extremely impressive. It’s face paced and funny with characters and lore that are dynamic and interesting. This book combines religion with an interesting conversation about morality and self which remaining sarcastic and witty. I very much enjoyed.