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Rift Cycle #1
Edge of the Breach
We all become monsters at the edge of the breach. In a post-apocalyptic world where season of birth determines power — spring healers, summer mages, fall shapeshifters, and winter shields — a man and a woman emerge from tragic childhoods to lead humanity on opposite sides of an interrealm war.
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There is a hole in the sky. They call it the Rift. A portal to the gods. The scar of a suffering world. Through it, the gods rule the last scraps of civilization, harkening war. As chaos beckons, two leaders emerge from the ashes of a dying planet.
Julian Kyder is the son of an abusive rape victim who compensates for his abandonment through psychopathy. Sira Rune is a cancer survivor who dedicates her life to living free and fearless while experiencing the taboo and the unorthodox. Rune is the only one unafraid of Kyder, and that terrifies him, because he only knows how to function through fear. Even though she gives him more chances than he deserves, how much violence can she forgive? When is a person beyond redemption? While he struggles to control his demons and she struggles to find purpose, the gods drag the ruined world into war.
Amazon #1 Top Free Bestseller LGBT SF
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CONTENT WARNING: The Rift Cycle is a highly graphic series intended for mature audiences.
TAGS: science fiction, fantasy, grimdark, horror, LGBT, mental illness
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READ AN EXCERPT
Chapter 1: Pain Made a Man
Kyder, Age 9 - July 7, 7009
Her body is stone. Her eyes glass. She doesn’t see me. Doesn’t want me. Yet her blood runs through me, a river of pain.
I call her mother, but she calls me nothing. She hopes to forget me. Hopes I will disappear. Conceived in violence, I am a constant reminder of the crime that made me.
“Come,” she orders me. Like a dog. And I jog at her heels, obedient.
She won’t use my name. It’s a reminder I exist. The meaning behind it is empty, anyway. She refused to name me, so the hospital staff did. Julian Kyder — Julian after the doctor who delivered me and Kyder after the hospital. Forever marked by the circumstances of my birth.
She tried to abort, but I survived. She put me up for adoption, but no one took me. She tried to release me into the system, but they were already at overcapacity. We’re trapped. Stuck together as two halves of misery. The doctor told me I am a miracle. She told me I am a curse.
“This way.”
She leads me along the edge of the Shelf toward the market. With each step, my feet crunch along the parched gravel. To our left, cliffs drop hundreds of meters into the Ruined Sea, a toxic cesspool that encircles the island. In the distance, Mount Erebus puffs ash into the blanched sky, a grandfather smoking the last bit of a cigar.
We mutilated our world, bombarded the planet for centuries with nuclear weapons until we ran out of missiles, until Earth flipped upside-down. The only habitable continent is Antarctica, now the North Pole, and even here, the war melted the desolate wasteland into a scorching desert. Humans near extinction, huddled near the top of the planet like exiles. But we deserve it.
Sweat trickles down my back. I pull my robe tight around myself, hoping to block out the sun. It’s summer, so there’s no respite from the heat. The days are endless. They bleed into each other like ink on a page, no distinction between the lines. Night won’t come for another few months, and soon after it does, it won’t leave till winter’s done.
Some call it balance. Day and night. Light and dark. Sun and stars. Birth and death. People look for meaning when it’s only chaos disguised as order…
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WELCOME TO THE BREACH.
514 pages, ebook
First published January 8, 2020
106 people are currently reading
462 people want to read
About the author
Halo Scot
14 books154 followersHalo Scot is a dark fiction author of book monsters, many of which bite. Reviews and press are available on HaloScot.com. Halo has been featured in Publishers Weekly and BookLife. Also, as a founding member of QueerIndie.com, Scot has appeared at Brooklyn Book Festival, TBRCon, and Pop Pride Week, an event hosted by ReedPop, BookCon, and New York Comic Con.
Halo pretends to be cool, dark, and mysterious, when in reality, Scot is a clumsy and awkward creature who eats shadows and harbors a severe distrust of ladybugs. Prone to chaos, this nightmare-dwelling beast aims to achieve galactic domination through a void-screaming expertise, dormant telekinesis, and aggressive cackling. To summon this obscure and skittish writer, one must align the following items in a circle as an offering: three shots of whiskey, two bowls of jelly beans, something shiny or lit on fire, and a printed photo of Nicolas Cage as a duck.
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WEBSITE: haloscot.com
SOCIAL: @halo_scot (Twitter + Instagram)
NEWSLETTER: haloscot.com/news
Subscribe to chaos, and receive a free copy of THE HEARTBEAT OF A MILLION DREAMS.
Halo pretends to be cool, dark, and mysterious, when in reality, Scot is a clumsy and awkward creature who eats shadows and harbors a severe distrust of ladybugs. Prone to chaos, this nightmare-dwelling beast aims to achieve galactic domination through a void-screaming expertise, dormant telekinesis, and aggressive cackling. To summon this obscure and skittish writer, one must align the following items in a circle as an offering: three shots of whiskey, two bowls of jelly beans, something shiny or lit on fire, and a printed photo of Nicolas Cage as a duck.
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WEBSITE: haloscot.com
SOCIAL: @halo_scot (Twitter + Instagram)
NEWSLETTER: haloscot.com/news
Subscribe to chaos, and receive a free copy of THE HEARTBEAT OF A MILLION DREAMS.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
June 21, 2022
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Este libro es muy diferente a todo lo que he leído hasta ahora. Aquí no hay filtros, no hay líneas, no tiene barreras.
Un intenso, muy arriesgado a la par que épico y brutal viaje a través de la psique de nuestros dos personajes principales y los eventos que les darán forma a las personas y monstruos en los que se convertirán. Es lo más gráfico, oscuro, sangriento, retorcido y a su vez fascinante. No pude parar.
Tenemos al personaje más despreciable de toda la literatura y aún así esperaba sus capítulos con un ansia devoradora.
"Solo el Acero" de Richard Morgan ya tiene por fin competencia. Una caracterización impecable de sus personajes, de la violencia y el sexo con toda variedad de estilos, posturas, números y géneros.
Todos nos convertimos en monstruos en el borde de la ruptura. En un mundo post-apocalíptico donde la temporada de nacimiento determina el poder; sanadores primavera, verano magos shapeshifters otoño, invierno escudos.
Un hombre y una mujer emergen así de una infancia muy trágica en lados opuestos de una guerra.
Un agujero en el cielo. Lo llaman el Rift. Es un portal para los dioses. La cicatriz de un mundo que sufre. A través de el, los dioses gobiernan los últimos restos de la civilización.
Julian Kyder es el hijo de una pobre víctima de violación, abusivo, que compensa su abandono a través de la psicopatía. Sira Rune es una fuerte superviviente del cáncer que dedicará su vida a vivirla libre, sin miedo, mientras experimenta.
Mientras él lucha para controlar sus demonios y ella lucha para encontrar un propósito en su vida, los dioses arrastran al mundo en ruinas a la guerra.
"Edge of the Breach", es lo más gráfico, turbulento y la pieza por completo más oscura y compleja en el análisis de la psique que he leído.
Te hace temblar, te pone los pelos de punta, da asco, y sin embargo te cautiva de una manera que no es normal. Julian Kyder, uno de los dos personajes principales, es un caos absoluto.
Y el mayor bastardo cabrón que tendréis la poca fortuna de conocer y sin embargo está escrito como los grandes del género, como el más conocido Sand Dan Glokta pero dejadme que os diga que hasta Glokta se pondría pálido..
No es para todo el mundo. Ni por asomo. Pero si te apetece leer una gran historia intrigante, a través de una escritura fantástica, imágenes muy perturbadoras, con un personaje principal que os va a encantar tanto como lo vais a odiar, entonces libro acertado. Está excepcionalmente bien escrito, adictivo, y diferente a todo lo que he leído. E inolvidable eso os lo aseguro, de esas cosas que no se olvidan. Marca tanto como nos fascina.
En un mundo donde la pérdida es inevitable y el dolor es la vida, Julian Kyder y Sira Rune se van desarrollando todo lo posible, a peor o mejor, y eso lo hacen a través de perspectivas duales en esta distopía. Opiniones muy diferentes con un eje central, la tragedia y el poder.
Con un estilo de diario a través del fluir de las conciencias, nuestros dos personajes principales nos empujan hacia el dolor visceral y horrores psique sin precedentes que experimentan casi constantemente. Imágenes violentas a través de descripciones gráficas en un juego de mucho sufrimiento en la vulnerabilidad del lector y la naturaleza comprensiva posible. Con tensión y enganche por doquier.
La autora ha hecho un gran trabajo de creación en un último bastión de la civilización humana. Y añade sutiles detalles poco a poco, dando al lector una sensación fuerte para el mundo, y me encantó la forma en que cada región y cada localidad tenía su propia personalidad. Con una tecnología bien pensada para este mundo, y los poderes que tienen las personas están muy bien desarrollados. Todo sigue un sistema y un ritmo muy interesante.
La caracterización Kyder y de Rune fue lo más magistral del libro, una narrativa que hace que viajes con ellos a través de sus trágicos inicios como niños, su adolescencia y como adultos.
Julian Kyder es un impacto página tras página, si algo tengo claro es que no dejará indiferente a nadie, nos repugnará tanto como nos gustará, y conseguir eso no es nada fácil. Un monstruo, un juguete roto, básicamente un psicópata sin remordimientos, con un don para la tortura, y Rune es una chica que la vida ha moldeado para la pérdida y la superación. Luz y oscuridad en un mundo muy jodido, en el que los Dioses y los poderes marcan las clases.
Las bases de las dos historias se ha tejido con maestría. Impresionante lo que ha conseguido Halo. Y arriesgandose muchísimo por todo lo que toca pero bravo, bravo, bravo..
Este libro es muy diferente a todo lo que he leído hasta ahora. Aquí no hay filtros, no hay líneas, no tiene barreras.
Un intenso, muy arriesgado a la par que épico y brutal viaje a través de la psique de nuestros dos personajes principales y los eventos que les darán forma a las personas y monstruos en los que se convertirán. Es lo más gráfico, oscuro, sangriento, retorcido y a su vez fascinante. No pude parar.
Tenemos al personaje más despreciable de toda la literatura y aún así esperaba sus capítulos con un ansia devoradora.
"Solo el Acero" de Richard Morgan ya tiene por fin competencia. Una caracterización impecable de sus personajes, de la violencia y el sexo con toda variedad de estilos, posturas, números y géneros.
Todos nos convertimos en monstruos en el borde de la ruptura. En un mundo post-apocalíptico donde la temporada de nacimiento determina el poder; sanadores primavera, verano magos shapeshifters otoño, invierno escudos.
Un hombre y una mujer emergen así de una infancia muy trágica en lados opuestos de una guerra.
Un agujero en el cielo. Lo llaman el Rift. Es un portal para los dioses. La cicatriz de un mundo que sufre. A través de el, los dioses gobiernan los últimos restos de la civilización.
Julian Kyder es el hijo de una pobre víctima de violación, abusivo, que compensa su abandono a través de la psicopatía. Sira Rune es una fuerte superviviente del cáncer que dedicará su vida a vivirla libre, sin miedo, mientras experimenta.
Mientras él lucha para controlar sus demonios y ella lucha para encontrar un propósito en su vida, los dioses arrastran al mundo en ruinas a la guerra.
"Edge of the Breach", es lo más gráfico, turbulento y la pieza por completo más oscura y compleja en el análisis de la psique que he leído.
Te hace temblar, te pone los pelos de punta, da asco, y sin embargo te cautiva de una manera que no es normal. Julian Kyder, uno de los dos personajes principales, es un caos absoluto.
Y el mayor bastardo cabrón que tendréis la poca fortuna de conocer y sin embargo está escrito como los grandes del género, como el más conocido Sand Dan Glokta pero dejadme que os diga que hasta Glokta se pondría pálido..
No es para todo el mundo. Ni por asomo. Pero si te apetece leer una gran historia intrigante, a través de una escritura fantástica, imágenes muy perturbadoras, con un personaje principal que os va a encantar tanto como lo vais a odiar, entonces libro acertado. Está excepcionalmente bien escrito, adictivo, y diferente a todo lo que he leído. E inolvidable eso os lo aseguro, de esas cosas que no se olvidan. Marca tanto como nos fascina.
En un mundo donde la pérdida es inevitable y el dolor es la vida, Julian Kyder y Sira Rune se van desarrollando todo lo posible, a peor o mejor, y eso lo hacen a través de perspectivas duales en esta distopía. Opiniones muy diferentes con un eje central, la tragedia y el poder.
Con un estilo de diario a través del fluir de las conciencias, nuestros dos personajes principales nos empujan hacia el dolor visceral y horrores psique sin precedentes que experimentan casi constantemente. Imágenes violentas a través de descripciones gráficas en un juego de mucho sufrimiento en la vulnerabilidad del lector y la naturaleza comprensiva posible. Con tensión y enganche por doquier.
La autora ha hecho un gran trabajo de creación en un último bastión de la civilización humana. Y añade sutiles detalles poco a poco, dando al lector una sensación fuerte para el mundo, y me encantó la forma en que cada región y cada localidad tenía su propia personalidad. Con una tecnología bien pensada para este mundo, y los poderes que tienen las personas están muy bien desarrollados. Todo sigue un sistema y un ritmo muy interesante.
La caracterización Kyder y de Rune fue lo más magistral del libro, una narrativa que hace que viajes con ellos a través de sus trágicos inicios como niños, su adolescencia y como adultos.
Julian Kyder es un impacto página tras página, si algo tengo claro es que no dejará indiferente a nadie, nos repugnará tanto como nos gustará, y conseguir eso no es nada fácil. Un monstruo, un juguete roto, básicamente un psicópata sin remordimientos, con un don para la tortura, y Rune es una chica que la vida ha moldeado para la pérdida y la superación. Luz y oscuridad en un mundo muy jodido, en el que los Dioses y los poderes marcan las clases.
Las bases de las dos historias se ha tejido con maestría. Impresionante lo que ha conseguido Halo. Y arriesgandose muchísimo por todo lo que toca pero bravo, bravo, bravo..
August 26, 2021
I was immediately sucked in by the world-building in THE EDGE OF THE BREACH. The world has been ravaged by nuclear war, and human life only survives at what used to be Antarctica. The nuclear fallout has given humans magical abilities. This was a bleak, savage dystopian post-apocalyptic world that the author built brilliantly, with shapeshifters and mages, and the month/season you were born into determining what sort of power you will have. Our two main characters, Kyder and Rune are very different, and I loved both of them. Rune lost a twin brother when both were very sick with cancer. She was supposed to die as well, but by a miracle, survived. Kyder was raised in an abusive home and has a lot of raw edges. This world was quite brutal, and the writing does not pull back from that in any way, so not a read for the faint of heart. Still, this was very well done, and I loved the complexity of the characters.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
March 21, 2020
Raw, Brilliantly-Written, Gripping Read
I don’t normally read post-apocalyptic literature, however, this book seized my heart and took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. The author magnificently captures the enthralling darkness experienced by the protagonists, within a unique magical biosphere, detailing incredible world-building and beautiful metaphors.
The horrific violence articulated within this novel makes you uncomfortable at first, but it only serves to strip you of any judgement of the characters, to feel empathy and compassion for the human condition. The connection you feel with both of the main characters is gripping even throughout the over-arching conflict.
After all, “light can only be understood with the wisdom of darkness”. Thank you Halo Scot, for making me feel so deeply. Your energy and emotion of the brilliant writing is magnetic and I can’t wait for the next book - a highly recommended read for those who dare to travel down to the pits of Hel.
I don’t normally read post-apocalyptic literature, however, this book seized my heart and took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. The author magnificently captures the enthralling darkness experienced by the protagonists, within a unique magical biosphere, detailing incredible world-building and beautiful metaphors.
The horrific violence articulated within this novel makes you uncomfortable at first, but it only serves to strip you of any judgement of the characters, to feel empathy and compassion for the human condition. The connection you feel with both of the main characters is gripping even throughout the over-arching conflict.
After all, “light can only be understood with the wisdom of darkness”. Thank you Halo Scot, for making me feel so deeply. Your energy and emotion of the brilliant writing is magnetic and I can’t wait for the next book - a highly recommended read for those who dare to travel down to the pits of Hel.
May 12, 2020
What a ride this was!
I don’t normally read post-apocalyptic novels, but this? This was one of the most wonderful books I’ve read in a while. All the characters felt so real. They were well-crafted, had flaws and I loved each one of them. Written like a diary, it makes you feel like you’re actually living the story yourself through the protagonists’ eyes.
A very dark book with great world building that makes you want to read more. Can’t wait for the next one!!
June 18, 2020
If you are the type to turn away during the intense/scary scenes of a movie, then steer clear of this book. For the rest of us, this is an amazing, compelling must-read! (Yes, those other rave reviews are correct!) The author's gift for writing is apparent from the first lines and immersed me into a demented, mystical, scary world that I was thankful to only be visiting.
January 13, 2020
I am BLOWN AWAY!
This book was sooooo amazing. The writing style was clean and delved into 4th wall, which was very original. The world building was perfectly explained throughout the story, keeping me both informed and entertained without too much at once.
Told from dual alternating POV's, Rune and Kyder were both easy to develop an attachment to from the start. Each with vastly different childhoods, they both held mage powers and were meant to meet, fulfilling a wordly need.
My absolute favorite part of this book was the author's ability to get me to hate a character, yet absolutely sympathize and wish good things for by the end. That takes a lot of skill and intense character development. It was brilliant.
I'm amazed to know that this is the first book by this author. It definitely will NOT be the last that I read. It gripped me and wouldn't let go!
This book was sooooo amazing. The writing style was clean and delved into 4th wall, which was very original. The world building was perfectly explained throughout the story, keeping me both informed and entertained without too much at once.
Told from dual alternating POV's, Rune and Kyder were both easy to develop an attachment to from the start. Each with vastly different childhoods, they both held mage powers and were meant to meet, fulfilling a wordly need.
My absolute favorite part of this book was the author's ability to get me to hate a character, yet absolutely sympathize and wish good things for by the end. That takes a lot of skill and intense character development. It was brilliant.
I'm amazed to know that this is the first book by this author. It definitely will NOT be the last that I read. It gripped me and wouldn't let go!
April 20, 2020
I decided to read this book after seeing a lot of praise for it on Twitter and I am so glad that I did. It was one of those books that I didn't want to end - Halo Scott has written a novel that is both captivating and disturbing and, for me, that is a rare combination. The only other author I've found who can deliver extreme violence on such a roller coaster ride of emotion is Clive Barker. Scott explores the very darkest side of the human psyche and, at the same time, presents his characters as vulnerable and almost fragile at times. The author is extremely talented and their work is highly original but, more than that, the care and skill with which they sculpted this story comes through on every page, from beginning to end. I would highly recommend this book.
June 11, 2021
A mind blowing debut, daring, confident, and gruesome.
I was left knowing too much and wanting more all at once.
I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author, who pushes their characters to the edge and breaks conventions to tell a fascinating and compelling story.
I was left knowing too much and wanting more all at once.
I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author, who pushes their characters to the edge and breaks conventions to tell a fascinating and compelling story.
March 4, 2020
Wow. What an astounding book. Great debut novel. Breaks some the 4th wall (interesting); great writing style. The world building was well done.
The characters are easy to form a connection with (whether in good or bad emotions).
A fantastic read. Very much recommend this!
The characters are easy to form a connection with (whether in good or bad emotions).
A fantastic read. Very much recommend this!
May 5, 2022
Okay, so I actually had to think about this for a little while before writing the review. The reason for that is Edge of the Breach is by for the most disturbing, graphic, and altogether dark piece of literature I have ever read. And I read a lot.
This book made me cringe, it grossed me out, and it disturbed me to my core. Kyder, one of the two main characters, was an absolute mess and I despised him. I understand that he had a terrible childhood and never received a hug or kind word from his mother, but my gosh he was so broken. Broken and horrific. I don't think I've ever disliked a main character as much as I disliked him.
Now... you'd think based on all that I'd hate the book. But that couldn't be more false. While Edge of the Breach was dark and gruesome, it was also incredibly addictive. I may not have been able to read more than two or three chapters a night, but I ALWAYS looked forward to picking it up again.
That was due in part to Halo Scot's superb writing skills. The words danced on the page and although the graphic descriptions of torture, gore, and even diarrhea were gross, they were just that...descriptive. Scot is an amazingly talented writer and I could perfectly visualize everything that was happening (although sometimes I wished I couldn't). But it wasn't just the writing style that had me hooked. It was also Rune. Because as much as I disliked Kyder, I enjoyed Rune's character with equal measure. Like Kyder, she has been through so much. She's just as powerful and has lost so much, yet she never faltered in her morality and goodness. The fact that she saw anything good in Kyder (especially after the horrific act he did with Vinny's body) speaks volumes about her. I will say though, thanks to Rune's influence and love, Kyder has some tremendous potential for character growth in the rest of the series. Will he become the good person Rune believes he can be or will he remain a monster? I'm certainly curious to find out.
Edge of the Breach isn't for everyone. Not by a longshot. But if you're in the mood for an intriguing story, fantastic writing, disturbing images, and a main character you'll love to hate, then Edge of the Breach might just be for you. I'm giving it five stars because it's exceptionally well-written, addictive, and unlike anything I've ever read in my life.
This book made me cringe, it grossed me out, and it disturbed me to my core. Kyder, one of the two main characters, was an absolute mess and I despised him. I understand that he had a terrible childhood and never received a hug or kind word from his mother, but my gosh he was so broken. Broken and horrific. I don't think I've ever disliked a main character as much as I disliked him.
Now... you'd think based on all that I'd hate the book. But that couldn't be more false. While Edge of the Breach was dark and gruesome, it was also incredibly addictive. I may not have been able to read more than two or three chapters a night, but I ALWAYS looked forward to picking it up again.
That was due in part to Halo Scot's superb writing skills. The words danced on the page and although the graphic descriptions of torture, gore, and even diarrhea were gross, they were just that...descriptive. Scot is an amazingly talented writer and I could perfectly visualize everything that was happening (although sometimes I wished I couldn't). But it wasn't just the writing style that had me hooked. It was also Rune. Because as much as I disliked Kyder, I enjoyed Rune's character with equal measure. Like Kyder, she has been through so much. She's just as powerful and has lost so much, yet she never faltered in her morality and goodness. The fact that she saw anything good in Kyder (especially after the horrific act he did with Vinny's body) speaks volumes about her. I will say though, thanks to Rune's influence and love, Kyder has some tremendous potential for character growth in the rest of the series. Will he become the good person Rune believes he can be or will he remain a monster? I'm certainly curious to find out.
Edge of the Breach isn't for everyone. Not by a longshot. But if you're in the mood for an intriguing story, fantastic writing, disturbing images, and a main character you'll love to hate, then Edge of the Breach might just be for you. I'm giving it five stars because it's exceptionally well-written, addictive, and unlike anything I've ever read in my life.
December 31, 2020
Okay seriously, where has this book been all my life? I freakin' LOOOOOVVVVEEEEEDDDDD it. So. Damn. Much.
Three reasons for that:
1.Julian
2.Kyder
3.Kyrian
Don't worry, they're all the same person.
So this book is not for everyone. Possible stuff people might not like: FMC is in a polyamorous relationship with people who aren't the main characters. Like they play an important role but aren't the MMC. And the actual MMC doesn't know the concept of a moral compass. I'm not kidding. And then there is the violence. Lots of it. Graphic stuff. So not for kids. I could go on but if any of the above puts you off, you probably shouldn't read the book.
World War III has completely changed Earth. A rift has opened up in the sky, one that leads to other realms. After the nuclear war ended, the fallout radiation mutated human DNA. Everyone born since is connected with Earth’s cycles and harbors a power linked with their season of birth — spring healers, summer mages, fall shapeshifters, and winter shields. Our OTP, Rune and Kyder, are possible the most powerful people on the planet. Kyder was born at noon on the Summer Solstice and Rune at midnight of the Winter Solstice. The date and time of their birth has blessed them both with an unbelievably great genetic gift, one which's potential had not yet been fully explored. Circumstances force Rune to become a Roofer and Kyder the leader of the Apolli, a criminal organization. As much as the two try to stay away from each other, Fate seems to be dragging them closer at every opportunity, and they can only hope that they don't finally give in only to be torn apart.
Julian Kyder ( My head keeps calling him Kyrian though) : Progeny of rape. Heir to violence. Drunk with power. Forged from fire. The sun-made child. Summer-born. Proud. Cocky. Asshole. Afraid to ask for help. Afraid to owe people. Afraid it will chain him to a conscience. He wants to be free to live on his own terms. Sometimes, he wishes to be ordinary. It would be easier if he was normal. Easier, but far less fun.
I think I can safely say that I'm in love with him. Like honey, why do you exist? It would be easier for me if I'd never met you. Now I'm gonna be distracted for atleast half a year obsessing about him. As if I already didn't have enough men on my plate. But this guy's like... top three for me. I literally don't have words for him. He's so damn smart I feel like a frog.
And the style in which the book is written also plays a major part. It's such excellence and eloquence but at the same time, grounding. The way the words flow were so damn beautiful I got lost. So the way in which the characters spoke to me was different and damn, I loved it.
Rune is... a great girl. She is stronger than she knows and a really relatable character, actually. Like she makes mistakes and has to suffer before she sees sense, experiences a lot of grief and doesn't get over it in a day or anything. Relatable, I guess. I don't have much to say about her or anything else, really. The whole book, my attention was focused solely on Kyder. That big manipulative, stupid, psychotic, cold, ruthless idiot. Ahhhh... Why is he so good? I'll let you guys read about him by yourselves. Don't want to give too much away.
The plot was good. The world-building was good. Both were great, actually. I didn't find any plot holes or anything. I was only paying half-attention but still, I know it was really good.
So... Yeah. That was this amazing book. Give it a try. I highly recommend it. I loved it. I hope you love it too. Why isn't the second book out yet? 😭😭 I'll just be here re-reading this until the next book comes out.
Happy Reading!!
Reread 1:
My. Heart. Someone teach Kyder some morals. He is becoming, no, he has literally become someone I look up to now. I can't even think of him without this huge smile tugging at my lips and I'm afraid people would think that I'm insane. Which I might actually become soon. I have this really, really unhealthy obsession with him. Someone take him away from me. Or don't, 'cause I won't let you. Wouldn't give him up for the world. I'll just go now, I know I'm not making sense. If you guys haven't read the book yet, I don't know what you're waiting for. I probably will never recommend a book as highly as I would recommend this one atleast in the next ten years. I've official, I'm never gonna get over this man. RIP my heart.
Till next time.
Three reasons for that:
1.Julian
2.Kyder
3.Kyrian
Don't worry, they're all the same person.
So this book is not for everyone. Possible stuff people might not like: FMC is in a polyamorous relationship with people who aren't the main characters. Like they play an important role but aren't the MMC. And the actual MMC doesn't know the concept of a moral compass. I'm not kidding. And then there is the violence. Lots of it. Graphic stuff. So not for kids. I could go on but if any of the above puts you off, you probably shouldn't read the book.
World War III has completely changed Earth. A rift has opened up in the sky, one that leads to other realms. After the nuclear war ended, the fallout radiation mutated human DNA. Everyone born since is connected with Earth’s cycles and harbors a power linked with their season of birth — spring healers, summer mages, fall shapeshifters, and winter shields. Our OTP, Rune and Kyder, are possible the most powerful people on the planet. Kyder was born at noon on the Summer Solstice and Rune at midnight of the Winter Solstice. The date and time of their birth has blessed them both with an unbelievably great genetic gift, one which's potential had not yet been fully explored. Circumstances force Rune to become a Roofer and Kyder the leader of the Apolli, a criminal organization. As much as the two try to stay away from each other, Fate seems to be dragging them closer at every opportunity, and they can only hope that they don't finally give in only to be torn apart.
Julian Kyder ( My head keeps calling him Kyrian though) : Progeny of rape. Heir to violence. Drunk with power. Forged from fire. The sun-made child. Summer-born. Proud. Cocky. Asshole. Afraid to ask for help. Afraid to owe people. Afraid it will chain him to a conscience. He wants to be free to live on his own terms. Sometimes, he wishes to be ordinary. It would be easier if he was normal. Easier, but far less fun.
I think I can safely say that I'm in love with him. Like honey, why do you exist? It would be easier for me if I'd never met you. Now I'm gonna be distracted for atleast half a year obsessing about him. As if I already didn't have enough men on my plate. But this guy's like... top three for me. I literally don't have words for him. He's so damn smart I feel like a frog.
And the style in which the book is written also plays a major part. It's such excellence and eloquence but at the same time, grounding. The way the words flow were so damn beautiful I got lost. So the way in which the characters spoke to me was different and damn, I loved it.
Rune is... a great girl. She is stronger than she knows and a really relatable character, actually. Like she makes mistakes and has to suffer before she sees sense, experiences a lot of grief and doesn't get over it in a day or anything. Relatable, I guess. I don't have much to say about her or anything else, really. The whole book, my attention was focused solely on Kyder. That big manipulative, stupid, psychotic, cold, ruthless idiot. Ahhhh... Why is he so good? I'll let you guys read about him by yourselves. Don't want to give too much away.
The plot was good. The world-building was good. Both were great, actually. I didn't find any plot holes or anything. I was only paying half-attention but still, I know it was really good.
So... Yeah. That was this amazing book. Give it a try. I highly recommend it. I loved it. I hope you love it too. Why isn't the second book out yet? 😭😭 I'll just be here re-reading this until the next book comes out.
Happy Reading!!
Reread 1:
My. Heart. Someone teach Kyder some morals. He is becoming, no, he has literally become someone I look up to now. I can't even think of him without this huge smile tugging at my lips and I'm afraid people would think that I'm insane. Which I might actually become soon. I have this really, really unhealthy obsession with him. Someone take him away from me. Or don't, 'cause I won't let you. Wouldn't give him up for the world. I'll just go now, I know I'm not making sense. If you guys haven't read the book yet, I don't know what you're waiting for. I probably will never recommend a book as highly as I would recommend this one atleast in the next ten years. I've official, I'm never gonna get over this man. RIP my heart.
Till next time.
September 9, 2021
Disturbing, sickening, disgusting—what a load of fun!
In a world where loss is inevitable and pain is life, Julian Kyder and Sira Rune try their best, or worst, to make it through. Dual perspectives of this dystopia present vastly different views with a common thread: how do you handle tragedy?
Through a journaled stream-of-consciousness style, our two main characters push us toward the visceral pain and psyche-breaking horrors they experience almost constantly. Violent imagery and graphic descriptions of their suffering play into the reader’s vulnerability and sympathetic nature in the best way. While you can’t save these characters, you certainly wish you could step in and shield them, even for just a moment. But sadly, we aren’t given the chance before they are beaten into oblivion. It’s an excellent tension that Scot builds, anchoring our fears in a surreal vicariousness.
I must admit, before Edge of the Breach, I had limited grimdark experience. The first few chapters evoked some wild facial expressions. Once I got into the groove of the darkness—and the humor—I found myself wanting to see how much further Scot would push readers’ boundaries. For me, that was the driving force of the book. We know things aren’t going to end well for, well, anyone. We know the world is harsh and broken. But what we don’t know is how messed up it will get. A metaphor for real life, perhaps.
Scot doesn’t just twist the knife, but breaks it clean off. I don’t know if I’ve ever read something quite like Edge of the Breach. After finishing the book and checking out other grimdark stories, Scot’s unique voice stands apart from the subgenre. The brand of humor and authorial nudging provide comic relief and serve as a reminder that things would be okay when I finished reading—that I could have a nice cuddle and life would be good again.
If you’re a fan of sick, hyperviolent, future dystopian societies (and an even sicker sense of humor), I think you’ll love this book as much as I did. Can’t wait to check out the rest of the series.
Recommended playlist while reading:
funeral marches, 80s death metal, “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
In a world where loss is inevitable and pain is life, Julian Kyder and Sira Rune try their best, or worst, to make it through. Dual perspectives of this dystopia present vastly different views with a common thread: how do you handle tragedy?
Through a journaled stream-of-consciousness style, our two main characters push us toward the visceral pain and psyche-breaking horrors they experience almost constantly. Violent imagery and graphic descriptions of their suffering play into the reader’s vulnerability and sympathetic nature in the best way. While you can’t save these characters, you certainly wish you could step in and shield them, even for just a moment. But sadly, we aren’t given the chance before they are beaten into oblivion. It’s an excellent tension that Scot builds, anchoring our fears in a surreal vicariousness.
I must admit, before Edge of the Breach, I had limited grimdark experience. The first few chapters evoked some wild facial expressions. Once I got into the groove of the darkness—and the humor—I found myself wanting to see how much further Scot would push readers’ boundaries. For me, that was the driving force of the book. We know things aren’t going to end well for, well, anyone. We know the world is harsh and broken. But what we don’t know is how messed up it will get. A metaphor for real life, perhaps.
Scot doesn’t just twist the knife, but breaks it clean off. I don’t know if I’ve ever read something quite like Edge of the Breach. After finishing the book and checking out other grimdark stories, Scot’s unique voice stands apart from the subgenre. The brand of humor and authorial nudging provide comic relief and serve as a reminder that things would be okay when I finished reading—that I could have a nice cuddle and life would be good again.
If you’re a fan of sick, hyperviolent, future dystopian societies (and an even sicker sense of humor), I think you’ll love this book as much as I did. Can’t wait to check out the rest of the series.
Recommended playlist while reading:
funeral marches, 80s death metal, “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
March 18, 2020
Dark...Grim Dark
This book was really something different. It's an intense journey into the psyche of the two main characters and the events which forge them into the people they become. The world building is detailed but never in your face as things evolve throughout the novel. Dark and riveting.
This book was really something different. It's an intense journey into the psyche of the two main characters and the events which forge them into the people they become. The world building is detailed but never in your face as things evolve throughout the novel. Dark and riveting.
March 6, 2021
Simply amazing.
“We all become monsters at the edge of the breach.”
Couldn’t say that any better, even if I spent a hundred years on it.
So, where do I start? This book is dark. Extremely so. It’s wild, graphical, distressing. Really take this warning to heart; it’s not for the faint of heart. But while it’s all that, it’s also captivating. One of the most ingenious things I’ve read.
I felt emotionally invested in the characters and found them very real, flaws and all. The quality of writing was obvious from the first lines. This is a grimdark SFF tale taking place in a future of some 5000 years away, in where Earth is barely more than a desert wasteland. The story and characters are exceptional, but the tale is indeed full of violence and vile acts, gore, and torture. But… despite this, there’s still something in this book, in its very heart, that keeps you reading.
It’s… powerful. Terrible… but brilliant.
This book is a fascinating study of its two opposing protagonists, Kyder and Rune, from such different circumstances, finding themselves the mirror to each other. I both pity them and am scared by them.
And lastly, can I just say – those chapter titles are pure brilliance.
Till next time, indeed.
“We all become monsters at the edge of the breach.”
Couldn’t say that any better, even if I spent a hundred years on it.
So, where do I start? This book is dark. Extremely so. It’s wild, graphical, distressing. Really take this warning to heart; it’s not for the faint of heart. But while it’s all that, it’s also captivating. One of the most ingenious things I’ve read.
I felt emotionally invested in the characters and found them very real, flaws and all. The quality of writing was obvious from the first lines. This is a grimdark SFF tale taking place in a future of some 5000 years away, in where Earth is barely more than a desert wasteland. The story and characters are exceptional, but the tale is indeed full of violence and vile acts, gore, and torture. But… despite this, there’s still something in this book, in its very heart, that keeps you reading.
It’s… powerful. Terrible… but brilliant.
This book is a fascinating study of its two opposing protagonists, Kyder and Rune, from such different circumstances, finding themselves the mirror to each other. I both pity them and am scared by them.
And lastly, can I just say – those chapter titles are pure brilliance.
Till next time, indeed.
April 6, 2020
Edge of the Breach is a science fiction novel set on Earth nearly five thousand years in the future. Most of the planet is destroyed, other than the Antarctica, which is now a barely habitable desert wasteland. The story alternates between two characters; Kyder and Rune, who are gifted with enormous powers because they were both born on the solstice. Every person on the planet is born with ‘magical’ powers. The closer to the solstice they are born, the more powerful they are. The world is harsh and unforgiving. Torture and violence is commonplace, seemingly in part due to the ability to use healers to recover from your wounds.
The author has done an amazing job of creating this last bastion of human civilization. He adds subtle details gradually, giving the reader a strong feel for the world, and I absolutely loved the way that each region/location had its own ‘personality’. Technology in the world is also subtly pulled in as required without overburdening the reader in detail.
I enjoyed all of the characters greatly. Kyder and Rune are the true stars, but even the side characters have their own distinct personality which the author brings out through conversation and speech patterns. I found both Kyder’s and Rune’s mothers to be particularly well done.
There is a fair amount of graphic sex and violence in the novel. It did not seem out of place in this grim world although there were two torture scenes that crossed the line for me in such a way that they were no longer horror, but rather became absurd, and I almost wanted to laugh. I expect this is just a matter of taste as I’m sure many readers would have been completely horrified.
The writing is spectacular. Seriously, for me, it felt nearly flawless. Both the world and characters were wonderful and I looked forward to reading this novel every night.
Easy five stars. I highly recommend this book…though it is not for the faint of heart.
The author has done an amazing job of creating this last bastion of human civilization. He adds subtle details gradually, giving the reader a strong feel for the world, and I absolutely loved the way that each region/location had its own ‘personality’. Technology in the world is also subtly pulled in as required without overburdening the reader in detail.
I enjoyed all of the characters greatly. Kyder and Rune are the true stars, but even the side characters have their own distinct personality which the author brings out through conversation and speech patterns. I found both Kyder’s and Rune’s mothers to be particularly well done.
There is a fair amount of graphic sex and violence in the novel. It did not seem out of place in this grim world although there were two torture scenes that crossed the line for me in such a way that they were no longer horror, but rather became absurd, and I almost wanted to laugh. I expect this is just a matter of taste as I’m sure many readers would have been completely horrified.
The writing is spectacular. Seriously, for me, it felt nearly flawless. Both the world and characters were wonderful and I looked forward to reading this novel every night.
Easy five stars. I highly recommend this book…though it is not for the faint of heart.
July 1, 2020
If I could give this book 100 stars, I would.
I don't really have the words to describe just how good this book is. Entrancing. Visceral. Profound. Disturbing. Heart wrenching. Raw. Unashamedly brutal. Honest. Controversial. Confronting.
The sheer volume of emotions it evoked in me was extraordinary. I think I took my first deep breath once I finished it.
I can't believe this is the author's debut novel. That is extraordinary in itself.
Kyder and Rune's characterisation was masterful. Told in a duel narrative we journey with them through their tragic beginnings as children, to adolescence and then the adults they became. Kyder is an an unashamed psychopath, with a perchant for torture, and Rune is a girl who's life has been shaped by loss, who is irrevocably lost, searching for something that can put the pieces of her back together again.
The weaving of the dual narratives is masterfully done. It is not until mid way through the book that the two characters meet, and not really until the last third where they appear regularly in each other's narratives, but the themes and experiences of both characters mirror and reflect the other. A lesser author couldn't do this so effectively as it is done here.
I also don't have words to describe Kyder and Rune's relationship. It's not even necessarily romantic, in fact, I'm pretty sure it isn't at all. But it's somehow deeper than that. It's not about physical or sexual attraction. It's a recognition and alignment of souls that has nothing to do with the urges of the body. Whilst the romance fan in me might be slightly disappointed if this doesn't go down the romance root, I don't even care because they are MORE than that to each other.
The world building is also wonderfully original and complex and more complex than I have the brain capacity to write about at almost 1 in the morning, as I knew I had to finish this book tonight.
I would urge everyone to read this book, but it is very dark. Rape references (although none on page) physical and emotional abuse from a parent, drug abuse, self harm, mental illness, suicide, death and graphic scenes of torture and mutilation are prevalent throughout. If any of these trigger you, particularly the torture scenes, because they are graphic, then you should possibly think twice, but I can't recommend this book highly enough.
I am now going to obsessively stalk the writer online for news of book 2!
I don't really have the words to describe just how good this book is. Entrancing. Visceral. Profound. Disturbing. Heart wrenching. Raw. Unashamedly brutal. Honest. Controversial. Confronting.
The sheer volume of emotions it evoked in me was extraordinary. I think I took my first deep breath once I finished it.
I can't believe this is the author's debut novel. That is extraordinary in itself.
Kyder and Rune's characterisation was masterful. Told in a duel narrative we journey with them through their tragic beginnings as children, to adolescence and then the adults they became. Kyder is an an unashamed psychopath, with a perchant for torture, and Rune is a girl who's life has been shaped by loss, who is irrevocably lost, searching for something that can put the pieces of her back together again.
The weaving of the dual narratives is masterfully done. It is not until mid way through the book that the two characters meet, and not really until the last third where they appear regularly in each other's narratives, but the themes and experiences of both characters mirror and reflect the other. A lesser author couldn't do this so effectively as it is done here.
I also don't have words to describe Kyder and Rune's relationship. It's not even necessarily romantic, in fact, I'm pretty sure it isn't at all. But it's somehow deeper than that. It's not about physical or sexual attraction. It's a recognition and alignment of souls that has nothing to do with the urges of the body. Whilst the romance fan in me might be slightly disappointed if this doesn't go down the romance root, I don't even care because they are MORE than that to each other.
The world building is also wonderfully original and complex and more complex than I have the brain capacity to write about at almost 1 in the morning, as I knew I had to finish this book tonight.
I would urge everyone to read this book, but it is very dark. Rape references (although none on page) physical and emotional abuse from a parent, drug abuse, self harm, mental illness, suicide, death and graphic scenes of torture and mutilation are prevalent throughout. If any of these trigger you, particularly the torture scenes, because they are graphic, then you should possibly think twice, but I can't recommend this book highly enough.
I am now going to obsessively stalk the writer online for news of book 2!
January 29, 2020
Amazing
One of the best books I have read in years. The characters were well written. It was easy to step into their lives and feel their joy, pain, and other emotions. I will be waiting for the next book to come out. This is an author to keep an eye on.
One of the best books I have read in years. The characters were well written. It was easy to step into their lives and feel their joy, pain, and other emotions. I will be waiting for the next book to come out. This is an author to keep an eye on.
June 13, 2020
It may be odd to say that a post-apocalyptic novel had touched me deeply, however, Edge of the Breach by Halo Scot did just that. It is rife with fast-moving action, warring gangs, and factions. The world she created is corrupt and its ultimate end is uncertain. But what struck me most was Halo's treatment of good versus evil. She does this through her character development and their reaction to the world around them and the people who touch their lives. He's an iconoclast who crushes class system, sexuality, and power. Halo calls into question the age-old argument of nature vs. nurture. Do we become evil by virtue of our horrid circumstances? Can we be transformed into agents of good? Or are we born good or evil? The ethical question remains: is the individual evil or simply the actions of the individual? I was struck by the deeper meaning that lay just below the action-packed story. Anger, love, loss, and grief are painted across the world that Halo created and each of his characters chooses to respond in their own ways. Unlikely bonds are formed and compassion appears when reason dictates against it. Edge of the Breach is a story about human nature set in a dystopian world. A must-read!
March 19, 2020
Demon meets Angel
Psychopathic boy meets powerful manic pixie dream girl in a realm where gods seek immortality. Not for the tender hearted.
Psychopathic boy meets powerful manic pixie dream girl in a realm where gods seek immortality. Not for the tender hearted.
January 11, 2020
Devoured this book. Warning! it is not for the faint of heart. That said it manages to retain its own heart amidst some very vile acts. Characters will get under your skin and you will want the next book ASAP!
March 1, 2020
I'm speechless, this was so good! It was very dark at times but I like it when the author pushes boundaries and isn't afraid to show more than tell. I immediately got sucked into the story and I hope there will be a sequel because I want more of this!
February 23, 2020
I don’t really know where to begin with this review. I suppose I should say straight away that this horror/post-apocalyptic/grimdark fantasy book is absolutely superb! Yeah, that’s a good start.
Set in the very distant future, the 7000s to be exact, this is the tale of two people with special powers that are drawn to each other in desperate times.
The story starts with Julian Kyder, a kid with a mom who hates him, no dad, and a very unhappy life in a desolate part of the world, The Shelf. Following nuclear war the planet has changed, with most places being reduced to boiling hot deserts where life is tough; and that’s an understatement.
After only the first few pages I was hooked. Kyder had my sympathies immediately. A polite kid with a terrible upbringing and a strange power. But those thoughts were quickly vanished when I really got to know him.
More on that later.
Sira Rune, on the other hand, is a young girl who’s dying of cancer. Her twin brother is also afflicted and the pair don’t have much time left. Their parents are loving and the family is one of warmth and togetherness. But Rune’s brother succumbs to his illness and Rune is left in a state of total desperation. Suddenly her cancer disappears. Surely her life must have a purpose then?
These two characters cement the story. Told through alternate chapters we follow both their lives as they come to terms with their powers. You see, in this future, kids are born with different powers depending on their season of birth (what a cool idea).
But those born at midnight on the solstices have almost God-like powers. I should add here that I was born on the winter solstice, yet my powers have yet to materialise. Hopefully soon, eh?
Anyway, you can guess when our two protagonists were born, right?
As I said, my opinion of Kyder changed rapidly. After the first couple of his chapters I wondered whether I’d be able to really side with this guy; he’s an arrogant, pompous, psychopathic dick. But you know what? He actually began to grow on me. Credit to the writing here, as his actions are sickening and deplorable, but somehow I came to be on his side. Sort of like a futuristic Patrick Bateman of sorts.
Tragedy strikes Rune and she soon begins a new life with a new ‘family’, a gang of youths who prowl the roofs of the city of Zawad. These Roofers were great, the banter between them was genuine and really funny. I liked all of them.
So Kyder moves from The Shelf to begin a new life of crime, violence, and murder in Zawad. He becomes the head of a futuristic mob and is certainly a boss to be feared. Those who wrong him, or even those that don’t pull their weight; well, it ends bad for them.
Here in Zawad, Kyder and Rune meet and immediately realise that somehow they have a connection. But they’re unsure the exact details to begin with.
As the story unfolds they begin to understand each other, even though they’re from completely opposite backgrounds and hold completely opposite morals.
Kyder is one evil bastard. Some of his actions are beyond disgusting, but it takes a lot to turn my stomach. Scot doesn’t hold back with him, and I’m so glad of this because having this kind of evil anti-hero really gave the book something else. There’s one scene in particular towards the end where you think Kyder won’t go there, but indeed he does. Oh, and then some!
For a futuristic dark fantasy novel in a completely different world you’d expect some portions to drag, where details of life and location are described. But this isn’t the case. Without telling the reader about specifics of the world, you just really ‘feel’ the place while reading. It’s a hard thing to pull off, but was done here expertly.
This book made me laugh, sneer, and pull quite a few ‘ewww’ faces while reading, but I loved every moment of it.
There’s so much more I could say about this novel, but let’s not turn this into an essay. I haven’t even mentioned The Rift and The Gods who are very much a reality.
If you enjoy blood, horrible deaths, a few racy scenes, excellent and well-rounded characters, a likeable ‘villain’, and your fantasy dark (what other way is there to have it?) then close down this review right now and get spending your wonga on this absolute gem.
Set in the very distant future, the 7000s to be exact, this is the tale of two people with special powers that are drawn to each other in desperate times.
The story starts with Julian Kyder, a kid with a mom who hates him, no dad, and a very unhappy life in a desolate part of the world, The Shelf. Following nuclear war the planet has changed, with most places being reduced to boiling hot deserts where life is tough; and that’s an understatement.
After only the first few pages I was hooked. Kyder had my sympathies immediately. A polite kid with a terrible upbringing and a strange power. But those thoughts were quickly vanished when I really got to know him.
More on that later.
Sira Rune, on the other hand, is a young girl who’s dying of cancer. Her twin brother is also afflicted and the pair don’t have much time left. Their parents are loving and the family is one of warmth and togetherness. But Rune’s brother succumbs to his illness and Rune is left in a state of total desperation. Suddenly her cancer disappears. Surely her life must have a purpose then?
These two characters cement the story. Told through alternate chapters we follow both their lives as they come to terms with their powers. You see, in this future, kids are born with different powers depending on their season of birth (what a cool idea).
But those born at midnight on the solstices have almost God-like powers. I should add here that I was born on the winter solstice, yet my powers have yet to materialise. Hopefully soon, eh?
Anyway, you can guess when our two protagonists were born, right?
As I said, my opinion of Kyder changed rapidly. After the first couple of his chapters I wondered whether I’d be able to really side with this guy; he’s an arrogant, pompous, psychopathic dick. But you know what? He actually began to grow on me. Credit to the writing here, as his actions are sickening and deplorable, but somehow I came to be on his side. Sort of like a futuristic Patrick Bateman of sorts.
Tragedy strikes Rune and she soon begins a new life with a new ‘family’, a gang of youths who prowl the roofs of the city of Zawad. These Roofers were great, the banter between them was genuine and really funny. I liked all of them.
So Kyder moves from The Shelf to begin a new life of crime, violence, and murder in Zawad. He becomes the head of a futuristic mob and is certainly a boss to be feared. Those who wrong him, or even those that don’t pull their weight; well, it ends bad for them.
Here in Zawad, Kyder and Rune meet and immediately realise that somehow they have a connection. But they’re unsure the exact details to begin with.
As the story unfolds they begin to understand each other, even though they’re from completely opposite backgrounds and hold completely opposite morals.
Kyder is one evil bastard. Some of his actions are beyond disgusting, but it takes a lot to turn my stomach. Scot doesn’t hold back with him, and I’m so glad of this because having this kind of evil anti-hero really gave the book something else. There’s one scene in particular towards the end where you think Kyder won’t go there, but indeed he does. Oh, and then some!
For a futuristic dark fantasy novel in a completely different world you’d expect some portions to drag, where details of life and location are described. But this isn’t the case. Without telling the reader about specifics of the world, you just really ‘feel’ the place while reading. It’s a hard thing to pull off, but was done here expertly.
This book made me laugh, sneer, and pull quite a few ‘ewww’ faces while reading, but I loved every moment of it.
There’s so much more I could say about this novel, but let’s not turn this into an essay. I haven’t even mentioned The Rift and The Gods who are very much a reality.
If you enjoy blood, horrible deaths, a few racy scenes, excellent and well-rounded characters, a likeable ‘villain’, and your fantasy dark (what other way is there to have it?) then close down this review right now and get spending your wonga on this absolute gem.
July 16, 2020
Intriguing grimdark adventure
It is without a doubt one of the best books I have ever read. The world building was fascinating, character building solid and the plot has been set up nicely for book 2. There are so many points I want to touch on but I can't because that would be spoilers.
Shields, mages, healers and shapeshifters. The moment I read that in the book description, I was hooked. I jumped in expecting the worst evil imaginable because the author does continuously warn about it but I was still shocked by what I saw.
I went through so many emotions as I saw the antagonist growing up from child to adult. Here is where I give special credit to the author. Most often writers give solid character building to the heroes of the story but they only lightly touch upon the history of the villain, about why they became who they are. But Halo did the good job showing the story from both sides, so even if you were horrified by what you saw, a part of you felt something near pity for this wrecked soul.
The story goes at a steady pace from childhood to teenager but suddenly shifted gears to adulthood. I would have loved to see how both our main characters became so powerful in their world. Like an act or a particular mission which causes people to take notice of these two. But that's not a major issue. Perhaps it could be a side story for the author to write about later.
It did get a bit confusing for me when Gods entered the picture. I should probably re-read that particular part of history mentioned in the book.
The writing style was fluid and easy to read as well. Hence I give it a 4 star.
It is without a doubt one of the best books I have ever read. The world building was fascinating, character building solid and the plot has been set up nicely for book 2. There are so many points I want to touch on but I can't because that would be spoilers.
Shields, mages, healers and shapeshifters. The moment I read that in the book description, I was hooked. I jumped in expecting the worst evil imaginable because the author does continuously warn about it but I was still shocked by what I saw.
I went through so many emotions as I saw the antagonist growing up from child to adult. Here is where I give special credit to the author. Most often writers give solid character building to the heroes of the story but they only lightly touch upon the history of the villain, about why they became who they are. But Halo did the good job showing the story from both sides, so even if you were horrified by what you saw, a part of you felt something near pity for this wrecked soul.
The story goes at a steady pace from childhood to teenager but suddenly shifted gears to adulthood. I would have loved to see how both our main characters became so powerful in their world. Like an act or a particular mission which causes people to take notice of these two. But that's not a major issue. Perhaps it could be a side story for the author to write about later.
It did get a bit confusing for me when Gods entered the picture. I should probably re-read that particular part of history mentioned in the book.
The writing style was fluid and easy to read as well. Hence I give it a 4 star.
March 28, 2023
Despite the two star rating I’m still glad I read this. There was a lot to enjoy. The world building was especially well done and the characters were fun to read about. I can’t understand why this can I have such a high reading on Goodreads, and why other people would thoroughly enjoy this story.
But unfortunately, there was some other things that brought this story down for me. The constantly throwing sex anywhere that I could fit and even spots which it didn’t what is overkill. Sex can be an interesting way to show the past or intensity of a scene or characters. But that’s not what I got here brother that was trying to be border edgy, but it just brought the story down. The cost and jumping in time overtime seem to be over done for me as well. It made this really feel less grounded and the story less enjoyable because it.
But unfortunately, there was some other things that brought this story down for me. The constantly throwing sex anywhere that I could fit and even spots which it didn’t what is overkill. Sex can be an interesting way to show the past or intensity of a scene or characters. But that’s not what I got here brother that was trying to be border edgy, but it just brought the story down. The cost and jumping in time overtime seem to be over done for me as well. It made this really feel less grounded and the story less enjoyable because it.
July 1, 2020
Like nothing else you've read before!
This is a very dark, gruesome, story. One of the msin characters is a brilliantly written realistic psychopath who does atrocious things. There is quite a bit of gore and torture. The other character is his foil, who is good deep down despite not really wanting to be. This story is extremely well-written and the characters are haunting. If you're not afraid of gore and dark stories give this one a try.
This is a very dark, gruesome, story. One of the msin characters is a brilliantly written realistic psychopath who does atrocious things. There is quite a bit of gore and torture. The other character is his foil, who is good deep down despite not really wanting to be. This story is extremely well-written and the characters are haunting. If you're not afraid of gore and dark stories give this one a try.
March 12, 2020
Such an amazing book; one of the most brilliant I've read in a while!
Great, interesting characters that felt real to me when reading.
Great, interesting characters that felt real to me when reading.
March 8, 2020
Damn. What a story.
This story is a work of art. A rollercoaster of emotional prose that had me laughing out loud and quietly sobbing.
It's not for the faint of heart and certainly earned the subgenre of grimdark with its two deeply flawed main characters. While it's hard to like either one of them, you'll fall for them nonetheless.
Despite being a sci-fi fantasy set 5,000 years in the future, the issues are more than relevant to the world we live in today. The Rift Cycle is destined to be a modern classic and I will be eagerly waiting for Book 2.
This story is a work of art. A rollercoaster of emotional prose that had me laughing out loud and quietly sobbing.
It's not for the faint of heart and certainly earned the subgenre of grimdark with its two deeply flawed main characters. While it's hard to like either one of them, you'll fall for them nonetheless.
Despite being a sci-fi fantasy set 5,000 years in the future, the issues are more than relevant to the world we live in today. The Rift Cycle is destined to be a modern classic and I will be eagerly waiting for Book 2.
June 12, 2024
4.5 / 5 🌟
* This review contains major spoilers toward the end *
First of all, the content warning is very important for potential readers: this book is extremely graphic and covers a number of sinister topics that should only be consumed by those who are comfortable with these mature themes.
With that out of the way, wow. This book is like nothing else I have ever read before. A story of darkness and light. Horrifying but beautiful. Devastating yet inspiring. The prose, flow and vocabulary used throughout the story was nothing short of fantastic. I was constantly immersed in vivid descriptions of every scene, every thought and every detail.
The graphic violence is sincerely grisly, but it doesn’t feel gratuitous. I believe it is supposed to evoke disgust because the acts committed are truly disgusting. It is supposed to make you wince, flinch, grimace, and everything else in between.
The book feels very character driven rather than plot driven, and honestly this was a nice change for me. The plot, where it has its importance, pales in comparison to the story told of the characters within the book. Rune is powerful and headstrong without being arrogant, and her rag-tag band of misfits are just the same. Though I enjoyed the camaraderie between the Roofers, I found some of the dialogue a little cringe-worthy. I never in my life thought I’d complain about too much swearing in a book, but by God, Ela, shut the fuck up (if you’ve read the book, you know I say this in jest). I know this was probably intentional, but it came across juvenile (which I suppose they are). Nonetheless, I had love for them all.
The same cannot be said for our resident edge-lord Julian Kyder. I loved to hate this man. When I first started the book, I wondered how I would continue listening to his rancid inner thoughts, but as I continued, I grew to look forward to his POV. It is a testament to how well the book is written that I felt so strongly about the characters, whether it was love or hate. Make no mistake, my dislike of certain characters made the book better, in my opinion.
Now to move onto something slightly more story focussed—the last 20% of the story had me a little confused. Julian is, to me (and I am sure many), absolutely irredeemable. It did not make sense to me that, even in the end, Rune saw through this and tried to evoke the good in him. Although this wasn’t achieved, I wondered why she even tried. Maybe there’s something important I’m missing, maybe I interpreted it wrong, but it seemed so out of character for Rune to try to absolve what he’d done. Their dynamic was as puzzling as it was frustrating. Julian loves Rune, but he hardly knows her. She’s alluring, but their interactions are minimal. Is he searching for understanding? Is that tiny shred of good in him reaching out for a saviour? I don’t know. He’s evil incarnate, and she forgives him. I don’t buy it. But, the fact this book made me so mad, so emotional, and so excited is actually a good thing. I’m glad I was annoyed, because it meant the author really touched me. I connected with it deeply enough to feel strong emotions about it, and that, for me, is a huge win.
Although Maman and Syh were significantly less developed, their death impacted me far more than the Roofers. The depictions of grief are deep and visceral, and there is something in that that I relate too, so perhaps that’s why.
The last 10% of the book left me with more questions. Again, this is somewhat a good thing, especially to open up for additional books, but I didn’t understand enough about the Gods or what happened. Why were they chosen? Why couldn’t they have come and killed whoever they liked whenever they liked? To some extent, I don’t need it explained to me, because my interpretation of the events maybe shouldn’t be 100% clear or ‘correct’, but some more context would have improved my enjoyment.
Lastly, the 4th wall break. At first I hated it, and then, I kinda hated it some more. But in the best way possible, like Julian was actually inside my head. It fitted with the themes of the book. It impacted the end of the story in a good way. The madness. The despair.
In conclusion, I will definitely be reading more books from Halo Scot. I love this author.
* This review contains major spoilers toward the end *
First of all, the content warning is very important for potential readers: this book is extremely graphic and covers a number of sinister topics that should only be consumed by those who are comfortable with these mature themes.
With that out of the way, wow. This book is like nothing else I have ever read before. A story of darkness and light. Horrifying but beautiful. Devastating yet inspiring. The prose, flow and vocabulary used throughout the story was nothing short of fantastic. I was constantly immersed in vivid descriptions of every scene, every thought and every detail.
The graphic violence is sincerely grisly, but it doesn’t feel gratuitous. I believe it is supposed to evoke disgust because the acts committed are truly disgusting. It is supposed to make you wince, flinch, grimace, and everything else in between.
The book feels very character driven rather than plot driven, and honestly this was a nice change for me. The plot, where it has its importance, pales in comparison to the story told of the characters within the book. Rune is powerful and headstrong without being arrogant, and her rag-tag band of misfits are just the same. Though I enjoyed the camaraderie between the Roofers, I found some of the dialogue a little cringe-worthy. I never in my life thought I’d complain about too much swearing in a book, but by God, Ela, shut the fuck up (if you’ve read the book, you know I say this in jest). I know this was probably intentional, but it came across juvenile (which I suppose they are). Nonetheless, I had love for them all.
The same cannot be said for our resident edge-lord Julian Kyder. I loved to hate this man. When I first started the book, I wondered how I would continue listening to his rancid inner thoughts, but as I continued, I grew to look forward to his POV. It is a testament to how well the book is written that I felt so strongly about the characters, whether it was love or hate. Make no mistake, my dislike of certain characters made the book better, in my opinion.
Now to move onto something slightly more story focussed—the last 20% of the story had me a little confused. Julian is, to me (and I am sure many), absolutely irredeemable. It did not make sense to me that, even in the end, Rune saw through this and tried to evoke the good in him. Although this wasn’t achieved, I wondered why she even tried. Maybe there’s something important I’m missing, maybe I interpreted it wrong, but it seemed so out of character for Rune to try to absolve what he’d done. Their dynamic was as puzzling as it was frustrating. Julian loves Rune, but he hardly knows her. She’s alluring, but their interactions are minimal. Is he searching for understanding? Is that tiny shred of good in him reaching out for a saviour? I don’t know. He’s evil incarnate, and she forgives him. I don’t buy it. But, the fact this book made me so mad, so emotional, and so excited is actually a good thing. I’m glad I was annoyed, because it meant the author really touched me. I connected with it deeply enough to feel strong emotions about it, and that, for me, is a huge win.
Although Maman and Syh were significantly less developed, their death impacted me far more than the Roofers. The depictions of grief are deep and visceral, and there is something in that that I relate too, so perhaps that’s why.
The last 10% of the book left me with more questions. Again, this is somewhat a good thing, especially to open up for additional books, but I didn’t understand enough about the Gods or what happened. Why were they chosen? Why couldn’t they have come and killed whoever they liked whenever they liked? To some extent, I don’t need it explained to me, because my interpretation of the events maybe shouldn’t be 100% clear or ‘correct’, but some more context would have improved my enjoyment.
Lastly, the 4th wall break. At first I hated it, and then, I kinda hated it some more. But in the best way possible, like Julian was actually inside my head. It fitted with the themes of the book. It impacted the end of the story in a good way. The madness. The despair.
In conclusion, I will definitely be reading more books from Halo Scot. I love this author.
April 3, 2020
This book was so fabulous! I could hardly put it down long enough to do necessary things like eating.
April 15, 2021
Before I start, let me first draw your attention to the 5 Stars above.
I LOVED this book. Yes, LOVED is all in capitals.
I’d recommend this book to the ends of the earth, but…this book does have a warning on the back, and it’s a well-deserved warning. This is Grimdark fiction with the emphasis on the DARK.
Right out of the box, the book is unrelentingly bleak and singularly uncompromising in its vision.. Both the main characters – Kyder and Rune – are born of pain and anguish and that fact is never forgotten throughout. The Kyder character especially is hard to love…but that’s kind of the point. And it doesn’t make him any less compelling as a character even when you want to turn your eyes away from the page as something horrific unfolds.
The book deals with deep rooted psychological issues as how people react to grief or suffer from survivor guilt. Some of these I personally related to, some I have no experience in. All of them I found compelling though, and I was eager to keep turning each page.
And the prose…
Wow. Some of the writing in here is simply beautiful. Scot has a gift for breathtakingly elegant description, and some of the lines I would read over and over again shaking my head and wishing I could write something so poetic. Not only that, but some of this book is really quite funny too, in a dark humored way, especially some of the asides that kind of subtly break the fourth wall.
The world building is also superb. There’s no need for overcomplicated diagrams and org charts at the head of the book like I’ve seen in some author’s work. Scot just slowly gives you the pieces of the world that you need to understand as you progress through. After a few chapters you understand the geography, the powers, the political landscape etc. Which is great, because while the books have enough in them to be relatable from a language and societal point of view (i.e. there’s no made up language to have to decipher) the world that the characters inhabit is a very different and unique creation.
Finally, I’d just like to say a word about the physical books themselves. If you buy the kindle versions you won’t see these, but if you like a physical copy in your hand, these are beautiful. The design is striking, and the formatting is excellent. Indie books sometimes get a poor rep for their design, but these really do set the benchmark. I bought all 4 of the series (I’m about to start on book 2!) and they look gorgeous on my bookshelf.
I LOVED this book. Yes, LOVED is all in capitals.
I’d recommend this book to the ends of the earth, but…this book does have a warning on the back, and it’s a well-deserved warning. This is Grimdark fiction with the emphasis on the DARK.
Right out of the box, the book is unrelentingly bleak and singularly uncompromising in its vision.. Both the main characters – Kyder and Rune – are born of pain and anguish and that fact is never forgotten throughout. The Kyder character especially is hard to love…but that’s kind of the point. And it doesn’t make him any less compelling as a character even when you want to turn your eyes away from the page as something horrific unfolds.
The book deals with deep rooted psychological issues as how people react to grief or suffer from survivor guilt. Some of these I personally related to, some I have no experience in. All of them I found compelling though, and I was eager to keep turning each page.
And the prose…
Wow. Some of the writing in here is simply beautiful. Scot has a gift for breathtakingly elegant description, and some of the lines I would read over and over again shaking my head and wishing I could write something so poetic. Not only that, but some of this book is really quite funny too, in a dark humored way, especially some of the asides that kind of subtly break the fourth wall.
The world building is also superb. There’s no need for overcomplicated diagrams and org charts at the head of the book like I’ve seen in some author’s work. Scot just slowly gives you the pieces of the world that you need to understand as you progress through. After a few chapters you understand the geography, the powers, the political landscape etc. Which is great, because while the books have enough in them to be relatable from a language and societal point of view (i.e. there’s no made up language to have to decipher) the world that the characters inhabit is a very different and unique creation.
Finally, I’d just like to say a word about the physical books themselves. If you buy the kindle versions you won’t see these, but if you like a physical copy in your hand, these are beautiful. The design is striking, and the formatting is excellent. Indie books sometimes get a poor rep for their design, but these really do set the benchmark. I bought all 4 of the series (I’m about to start on book 2!) and they look gorgeous on my bookshelf.
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