Book: Neverfound Land
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨-
Solomon, as a protagonist, grew up and out astonishingly. I liked how the author has worked with the most important part of his influence-able life. His traits are justified and it's your ideal genie heir produced. He's a better Khalil all along, I think.
Also, Darren fans out there would love this book the most. He's an ideal father and a husband. And Soli, the genie king! But he is real, he gets irritated, he lashes out, he makes bad decisions yet he is the smartest of the new gen and he plays hero in traumatic places.
While the alchemy of the king-to-be Solomon remains a confusion to my mind, I'm satisfied with the alleged war between the Ghuls and the Genies because who needs an ancient army now. And logic becomes Solomon's best friend when he is surrounded by bad guys. The folklore and research base is content.
The plot was the catch. For me, there were good twists, great humor, perfect introduction of characters into the story, beautiful depiction of mature relationships between the characters, above all— acceptance; and, courageous and simplistic people. It's more than just a fantasy.
On the downside, I hated how the characters had a monotonous reaction to every problematic situation (From trouble to tragedy and sometimes a general moment), that was crying. I'd love a little less reaction maybe. Also, I felt that some scenes were too plot centric, to be not explained. I love more words.
Apart from everything, the quintessence of friendship truly is Pete and he has been my favorite character all along. And the visits to Egypt were a bonus!
You need to read this after Once Upon A Genie and if you love some fantasy and a new storyline.