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Unbroken Truth
Lentsay “Len” Yoriya is a disgraced detective in the Lansfyrd PD hankering out a living in a crumbling city. Falling in love with someone she shouldn’t have means she is shunned by her colleagues, relegated to solving pointless crimes. Disillusioned with her family and with few friends, Len dreams of a chance to change her lot.
When a high-profile murder shakes the city, Len sees a chance to get the promotion she needs to make a better life for herself and her partner. But the leads point to a larger conspiracy affecting the upcoming election, forcing Len to question whether the city she serves is worth protecting, and how much a promotion really is worth.
With time running out, and the future of the city at stake, Len must choose between the career she’s longed for, and the people she loves.
When a high-profile murder shakes the city, Len sees a chance to get the promotion she needs to make a better life for herself and her partner. But the leads point to a larger conspiracy affecting the upcoming election, forcing Len to question whether the city she serves is worth protecting, and how much a promotion really is worth.
With time running out, and the future of the city at stake, Len must choose between the career she’s longed for, and the people she loves.
- GenresFantasy
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2020
6 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 2, 2020
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I thought the story was exciting and creative!
The author wrote the story in a gripping manner. I loved the world-building. It is complex, intricate, and very unique in the city of Lansfyrd. There are various species and concepts, and the author makes the story particularly intriguing with the politics and murder investigations. Also, the author wrote some scenes in a very memorable manner. I specifically liked the Banner riots’ gripping scenes, where we see Len and Vli’s perspective. There are also some mystery elements like who Vli sees in the riots and Odei’s office.
Similarly, I also liked both the leads, Vli and Len. However, Vli stands out in the story as she investigates the mystery. Some of the supporting characters like Song, Dunteil, Tzo, and Tarntsei also add nicely to the book. Significantly, each of them adds their value to the storyline. Also, the author maintains the momentum of the plot right till the climax. What’s more, the climax introduces many questions like light-bringers, which makes you look forward to the next book.
However, it took me a while to get used to the world and the characters. The author introduces many names and concepts like Xetaran, Eninga, Sunlit Road, etc. While I liked some of the innovative terms like “Song under clouded moon” and “Rays through Skyfall,” at times, it felt like the author put in too many details. I started to get the groove of the plot only from the 4th chapter. Apart from that, this was quite entertaining.
Overall, this was a nice science-fiction, futuristic crime mystery novel to read.
November 6, 2020
This is a crime story with a difference. Set in a world where a variety of species mix, not always harmoniously, it mixes a new environment where there is almost constant rust in the air, changing the way the city is viewed, with familiar issues of hatred, fear and dislike of things that are different to our own lived experiences. In this case the differences are the various other species that live and work in the city alongside those who feel anything “foreign” doesn’t belong there.
Into this mixture is brought political issues, impending election and it all begins to boil over when an outspoken and popular person is killed. The familiar themes of political issues and hatred of others make the new species, names and historic timeline easier to understand.
It’s a brilliant story, one which kept m reading as the storyline gave us both Len and Vli’s perspectives on how the societal issues, politics and the murder itself affected them. Both characters were really well written, as were the other main characters, which made them come to life easily. The one thing I think the story would benefit from is a timeline, maybe at the beginning, showing the various historical periods that were discussed, I feel that may have made it a little clearer as to how they fitted with the current time period.
However, that was the only thing I think would improve my understanding band that’s only because Vli is studying the past so it would help add a little more understanding to her side of the story. Having said that not having this, didn’t dent my enjoyment at all, I think it would just enhance it.
I really enjoyed this story, it took a little time to get used to the different setting, language, etc but getting used to that just added to the enjoyment. It’s a really good solid story which is a huge compliment from me. I noticed it’s billed as the first in the Gleam series so I’m really excited to see what the second book brings.
Into this mixture is brought political issues, impending election and it all begins to boil over when an outspoken and popular person is killed. The familiar themes of political issues and hatred of others make the new species, names and historic timeline easier to understand.
It’s a brilliant story, one which kept m reading as the storyline gave us both Len and Vli’s perspectives on how the societal issues, politics and the murder itself affected them. Both characters were really well written, as were the other main characters, which made them come to life easily. The one thing I think the story would benefit from is a timeline, maybe at the beginning, showing the various historical periods that were discussed, I feel that may have made it a little clearer as to how they fitted with the current time period.
However, that was the only thing I think would improve my understanding band that’s only because Vli is studying the past so it would help add a little more understanding to her side of the story. Having said that not having this, didn’t dent my enjoyment at all, I think it would just enhance it.
I really enjoyed this story, it took a little time to get used to the different setting, language, etc but getting used to that just added to the enjoyment. It’s a really good solid story which is a huge compliment from me. I noticed it’s billed as the first in the Gleam series so I’m really excited to see what the second book brings.
January 1, 2021
First and foremost this needs a glossary at the beginning of the story. It is so complex and intricate the readers who are new to the world-building of Lundh will need an imprint of his mind-map. Species, politics, evolvement of the dystopian world, ergo the pre-history. Heck I want pictures, maps and this could absolutely be a great graphic novel with the right illustrator - just saying. Insectoids - that just has to be a nightmare for some readers out there.
Len is a police detective stuck in a rut and unable to progress in her career, because her choice of personal partner absolutely works against her. When a nasty little shaman is murdered she sees her chance to finally pressure the upper echelon to let her back into the world of homicide.
At the same time her partner becomes involved in a dangerous game of secrets that need to remain buried as the political tensions in the city start to boil over as an election looms. An election that can really change the day-to-day lives of others and the oppressed if it goes a certain way.
Is Steelpunk the new Steampunk? Hmm, good question, but for me there is no comparison. I'm not even sure if I would put this Steelpunk Spy thriller into the genre of Steelpunk per se. It has such a fantastic dystopian feel that it needs its very own sub-genre, especially because of the very species specific premise.
Whilst I am thinking of it, I also thought Lundh drew some interesting tongue-in-cheek comparisons to political and real time realities we are living through and with right now. Simultaneously also for inserting the same kind of discrimination, racism and xenophobia we are still experiencing in the 21st century. Kudos for sneaking a few nice little daggers in there.
Lundh is absolutely an author I would return to and recommend. I do enjoy creative speculative fiction that endeavours to bend and break boundaries. This is the first book in the Gleam series and I am looking forward to seeing where Lundh takes it next.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Len is a police detective stuck in a rut and unable to progress in her career, because her choice of personal partner absolutely works against her. When a nasty little shaman is murdered she sees her chance to finally pressure the upper echelon to let her back into the world of homicide.
At the same time her partner becomes involved in a dangerous game of secrets that need to remain buried as the political tensions in the city start to boil over as an election looms. An election that can really change the day-to-day lives of others and the oppressed if it goes a certain way.
Is Steelpunk the new Steampunk? Hmm, good question, but for me there is no comparison. I'm not even sure if I would put this Steelpunk Spy thriller into the genre of Steelpunk per se. It has such a fantastic dystopian feel that it needs its very own sub-genre, especially because of the very species specific premise.
Whilst I am thinking of it, I also thought Lundh drew some interesting tongue-in-cheek comparisons to political and real time realities we are living through and with right now. Simultaneously also for inserting the same kind of discrimination, racism and xenophobia we are still experiencing in the 21st century. Kudos for sneaking a few nice little daggers in there.
Lundh is absolutely an author I would return to and recommend. I do enjoy creative speculative fiction that endeavours to bend and break boundaries. This is the first book in the Gleam series and I am looking forward to seeing where Lundh takes it next.
*I received a courtesy copy*
November 1, 2020
A fascinating read in a richly different world.
In a city beset by rust and xenophobia, a homicide detective must solve a high-profile murder as her partner delves into dangerously ancient history. As tensions rise and election day looms, they find their paths may not be so separate after all.
It took me a little while to get into this book due to the deep worldbuilding with multiple characters, races, places, and terminology. It made the world rich and the characters vivid but also delayed the plot, so that the inciting murder only occurred about a third of the way through. I think a map, character list, and/or a glossary might have eased this. Don't get me wrong, the author did a great job of avoiding an infodump and putting everything together, but it was a lot to take in.
Once I got stuck in, however, I was caught by the story as many of the undercurrents and themes, while clothed in rusted steelpunk fantasy, mirror our own world. Xenophobia is rampant, the city is divided by political factions with deep ideological differences, and there is an election coming up. It looks very different to the here and now, but in some ways it feels very similar. Into this simmering mix, add a dead body and stir for chaos - in the book, of course.
I definitely enjoyed this book and would be interested in reading the sequel however will note that there were a lot of plot threads that sprouted here but seemed to be pointed towards future stories. With the worldbuilding at the start and the lack of resolution at the end, this felt more like a taster than a standalone. I think I would've preferred a more self-contained story that didn't leave so much hanging, especially for a introduction to this world and the characters. On the other hand, I'm keen to read what happens next, so perhaps it was intentional!
For fans of steelpunk, thrillers, or something completely different, dive deep into this book. It's an investment, but a worthwhile one.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
In a city beset by rust and xenophobia, a homicide detective must solve a high-profile murder as her partner delves into dangerously ancient history. As tensions rise and election day looms, they find their paths may not be so separate after all.
It took me a little while to get into this book due to the deep worldbuilding with multiple characters, races, places, and terminology. It made the world rich and the characters vivid but also delayed the plot, so that the inciting murder only occurred about a third of the way through. I think a map, character list, and/or a glossary might have eased this. Don't get me wrong, the author did a great job of avoiding an infodump and putting everything together, but it was a lot to take in.
Once I got stuck in, however, I was caught by the story as many of the undercurrents and themes, while clothed in rusted steelpunk fantasy, mirror our own world. Xenophobia is rampant, the city is divided by political factions with deep ideological differences, and there is an election coming up. It looks very different to the here and now, but in some ways it feels very similar. Into this simmering mix, add a dead body and stir for chaos - in the book, of course.
I definitely enjoyed this book and would be interested in reading the sequel however will note that there were a lot of plot threads that sprouted here but seemed to be pointed towards future stories. With the worldbuilding at the start and the lack of resolution at the end, this felt more like a taster than a standalone. I think I would've preferred a more self-contained story that didn't leave so much hanging, especially for a introduction to this world and the characters. On the other hand, I'm keen to read what happens next, so perhaps it was intentional!
For fans of steelpunk, thrillers, or something completely different, dive deep into this book. It's an investment, but a worthwhile one.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
June 7, 2021
"Unbroken Truth" by Lukas Lundh is a unique fantasy novel set in a futuristic world where other species co-exist with humans. What attracted me first to the book, besides the synopsis, was the Steelpunk tag.
Although I usually am very selective of the fantasy books that I read, I must admit I wasn't disappointed at all in the book. On the contrary, the creation of a new world, with its own days, language, culture was novel and really interesting. It reminded me of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series. The book is a successful thriller as the events draw you in and you become more engaged with the characters and the political conflict. I have to say that that book at first was difficult to understand as there were many places, as well as the language used, like "na", "ya", "jhoza", etc. However, I think if the author added a map and a glossary might make it easier for the readers.
Another thing that was really interesting was the use of physics in explaining what the rust is. That was something I never came across in other fantasy books that I read, which made the book more interesting.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and getting to know more about Len and Vli.
Thank you Booktasters for providing me a copy from the author to read and review.
Although I usually am very selective of the fantasy books that I read, I must admit I wasn't disappointed at all in the book. On the contrary, the creation of a new world, with its own days, language, culture was novel and really interesting. It reminded me of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series. The book is a successful thriller as the events draw you in and you become more engaged with the characters and the political conflict. I have to say that that book at first was difficult to understand as there were many places, as well as the language used, like "na", "ya", "jhoza", etc. However, I think if the author added a map and a glossary might make it easier for the readers.
Another thing that was really interesting was the use of physics in explaining what the rust is. That was something I never came across in other fantasy books that I read, which made the book more interesting.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and getting to know more about Len and Vli.
Thank you Booktasters for providing me a copy from the author to read and review.
November 7, 2020
Unbroken Truth is set in the city of Lansfyrd, and follows Detective Lentsay “Len” Yoriya of the Lansfyrd PD. Len is a homocide detective who has been moved to solving burglaries and other petty crimes because of xenophobia against her partner. Vli-Rana Talie works as a lecturer at the Lansfyrd University, studying history. Vli uncovers an artifact that could change the world’s perception of their past, putting herself and those they love in danger.
Unbroken Truth is a truly ambitious first novel! While it is a detective story, it is also a rich fantasy that has an immersive and detailed world.
The first half of the book is quite slow paced, taking time to introduce the characters of Len and Vli as well as the world around them. There is a lot of political factions as well as different species that share the city, including xentarans and eningas. At first I found it difficult to keep track of it all as there is so much that it can be a little overwhelming. However, this made the book completely immersive — the world is so rich and full of so many fascinating details. For example, I loved small details like this: “Through a radio somewhere, violin music was playing in the style of the Iron Wall Republic, the closest enigma state that bordered to the Lanshold to the west, slow and contemplative.”
The world feels incredibly bleak, with large amounts of pollution in the world meaning that goggles and filter masks must be worn outside. While the city has many different races living together, things are definitely not peaceful and harmonious. Through Len and Vli’s eyes we get to see the casual racism and xenophobia that both characters have to live with — Len has even been moved departments because of her boss’s view of her partner’s race. This just added to the realism and depth of the world. They are also a lesbian couple, and again, Vli is pleased that one of her more conservative friends hasn’t said anything about their relationship.
The story itself was really interesting, though it’s only towards the second half of the book that it starts to speed up and become more central to the plot. I also really liked Len and Vli’s relationship — it feels very genuine and loving.
Overall, this is a really strong first novel — I was blown away by the Tolkein-levels of detail included about the world and its lore. While I read this initially because it was described as a ‘steelpunk spy thriller’, there is so much more to it. Despite the slow start I really enjoyed it and felt incredibly immersed in this new world. I really look forward to reading the second book in the series!
Unbroken Truth is a truly ambitious first novel! While it is a detective story, it is also a rich fantasy that has an immersive and detailed world.
The first half of the book is quite slow paced, taking time to introduce the characters of Len and Vli as well as the world around them. There is a lot of political factions as well as different species that share the city, including xentarans and eningas. At first I found it difficult to keep track of it all as there is so much that it can be a little overwhelming. However, this made the book completely immersive — the world is so rich and full of so many fascinating details. For example, I loved small details like this: “Through a radio somewhere, violin music was playing in the style of the Iron Wall Republic, the closest enigma state that bordered to the Lanshold to the west, slow and contemplative.”
The world feels incredibly bleak, with large amounts of pollution in the world meaning that goggles and filter masks must be worn outside. While the city has many different races living together, things are definitely not peaceful and harmonious. Through Len and Vli’s eyes we get to see the casual racism and xenophobia that both characters have to live with — Len has even been moved departments because of her boss’s view of her partner’s race. This just added to the realism and depth of the world. They are also a lesbian couple, and again, Vli is pleased that one of her more conservative friends hasn’t said anything about their relationship.
The story itself was really interesting, though it’s only towards the second half of the book that it starts to speed up and become more central to the plot. I also really liked Len and Vli’s relationship — it feels very genuine and loving.
Overall, this is a really strong first novel — I was blown away by the Tolkein-levels of detail included about the world and its lore. While I read this initially because it was described as a ‘steelpunk spy thriller’, there is so much more to it. Despite the slow start I really enjoyed it and felt incredibly immersed in this new world. I really look forward to reading the second book in the series!
March 2, 2021
(Disclaimer: I know the author in person, which is the reason I bought this book. I really wanted to like it, but for transparency’s sake, we don’t get along, so if you’re under the assumption that that will indubitably affect my perception of the book in a negative manner, that’s your prerogative. But I’d rather read a great book written by my worst enemy than a bad one written by my blood-brother. I take no pleasure whatsoever in this review, and I only hope the [admittedly “harsh”] constructive criticism will serve as a tool for Lukas to enhance his craft.)
The world in Unbroken Truth is meticulously thought-out. It’s clear that its past, present, and future were already fully envisioned before the final draft was written, and other reviewers have compared the attention to detail to Tolkien. From what (little) I know of his works, I’d agree.
Also, Lukas has great practical knowledge of text, even more impressing considering that he’s not a native English-speaker, and without the aid of a professional editor (though for the next book I believe a professional editor with an objective lens is absolutely paramount for the below reasons). The entire book has a very “legitimate” feel to it and blurs the line between self-/published. At least on the surface.
Because what the book possesses in “professional rhythm”, it lacks in storytelling.
I feel as if the main focus aims at UT being an “argumentative” text instead of a “narrative” one. This makes all the aforementioned details feel unimportant, shallow like ripples on a puddle.
The allusions to our world/politics are so apparent it creates a passive-aggressive tone, where one thing is written but the book’s body-language is clearly talking about something else.
And because the writing is incredibly sterile, possibly the most I’ve ever come across [in fiction]. There’s no charm or personality in the text. There’s no humor, no metaphors, no depth in emotion or thoughts, no word-choice that makes you think, no dramatic tension — whether interpersonal or in action-events— despite numerous scenes.
The lack of anything that makes reading about the story or the world engaging creates the impression that the world is make-believe, thus impossible to connect to.
Half of the book is over before the murder on the cover takes place. Before that, it’s basically one of two things. Either you’re reading huge dumps of information about the world, or you’re treated to yet another conversation that basically boils down to showing off how virtuous and non-racist the main characters are. One for each character had been enough to establish the characters, but I’m not exaggerating when I say that this is the gist of almost *every* conversation in the book.
The force-feeding of facts is as uncomfortable as it is overwhelming. Far more information than I could ever ask for (or want) litter the pages. There’s no gradual tempo, and names, customs, “alien”-characteristics, countries, (political) groups, mob-families are all thrown at you like you’re the sole nerd in a Dodgeball-league filled of jocks.
I truly, honestly, seriously do not need to know why an elevator-attendant is dressed in a specific manner. What I need is a narrative that easily guides me through a complicated world. I need Chekhov’s gun. I need time to process (proper pacing).
Now, don’t get me wrong: I have no problem with a slow start, but a story like that needs to compensate for what it lacks in a “dramatic hook” by e.g. interesting characters or exciting foreshadowing. And once the story gets going, nothing really happens anyway. We already know from the start who the bad guys are. Unfortunately, I was thoroughly bored throughout, and the only reason I kept reading was out of respect, hoping that something would finally engage me.
I feel as if Len and Vli could just as easily have been named Mary and Sue. Neither the good or bad characters — yes, unfortunately, it’s that simple— are anything but two-dimensional caricatures, and the sterile narrative is as previously mentioned just as prevalent when it comes to their own thoughts. They have no depth or [real] flaws, and the bad guys are only left with enough room to say something racist before literally leaving the room, which is instantly dismissed in the MCs’ thoughts.
The book’s completely unable to empathize with characters that think differently than Mary and Sue, and the aforementioned room doesn’t actually have space for other opinions, whether it’s giving the bad guys a chance to “justify” themselves, or simply character-studies designed to explore the psyche of these people.
Hell, they aren’t even allowed a platform to speak long enough to make you [love to] hate them. You’re just supposed to take Mary and Sue’s word for it.
“They’re wrong!” - uno dos tres, no mas discourse. The end. I don’t mind the morals of the story; I mind the execution of it. At the moment, it honestly feels more like a text written by a rusting Banner (?) in its fanatical one-sidedness.
Re: the future — I’d like to see a more focused pacing and story/plot-structure. I’d like to be “lured” into pondering about the book and its message instead of being told what to think. I’d like good guys to root for and bad guys to hate; I’d like to react viscerally, not to mention be amused and entertained. I’d also like more enticing foreshadowing, like if the statue/”hard-drive” (??) had had a more promising hook that I wanted answers to in future books.
(As a somewhat silly sidenote possibly a few years late than I promised, I’d really recommend “The only way to stop smoking permanently [Allen Carr]” to the main characters and/or Lukas, to stop them from giving nicotine that illusionary power and undeserved praise and live a longer, healthier life. Keep living, and keep writing, Lukas! Most of us “authors” around the world, myself included, have yet to complete a first draft, let alone something ready for publishing. You’re well on your way to making it.)
/Marcus
The world in Unbroken Truth is meticulously thought-out. It’s clear that its past, present, and future were already fully envisioned before the final draft was written, and other reviewers have compared the attention to detail to Tolkien. From what (little) I know of his works, I’d agree.
Also, Lukas has great practical knowledge of text, even more impressing considering that he’s not a native English-speaker, and without the aid of a professional editor (though for the next book I believe a professional editor with an objective lens is absolutely paramount for the below reasons). The entire book has a very “legitimate” feel to it and blurs the line between self-/published. At least on the surface.
Because what the book possesses in “professional rhythm”, it lacks in storytelling.
I feel as if the main focus aims at UT being an “argumentative” text instead of a “narrative” one. This makes all the aforementioned details feel unimportant, shallow like ripples on a puddle.
The allusions to our world/politics are so apparent it creates a passive-aggressive tone, where one thing is written but the book’s body-language is clearly talking about something else.
And because the writing is incredibly sterile, possibly the most I’ve ever come across [in fiction]. There’s no charm or personality in the text. There’s no humor, no metaphors, no depth in emotion or thoughts, no word-choice that makes you think, no dramatic tension — whether interpersonal or in action-events— despite numerous scenes.
The lack of anything that makes reading about the story or the world engaging creates the impression that the world is make-believe, thus impossible to connect to.
Half of the book is over before the murder on the cover takes place. Before that, it’s basically one of two things. Either you’re reading huge dumps of information about the world, or you’re treated to yet another conversation that basically boils down to showing off how virtuous and non-racist the main characters are. One for each character had been enough to establish the characters, but I’m not exaggerating when I say that this is the gist of almost *every* conversation in the book.
The force-feeding of facts is as uncomfortable as it is overwhelming. Far more information than I could ever ask for (or want) litter the pages. There’s no gradual tempo, and names, customs, “alien”-characteristics, countries, (political) groups, mob-families are all thrown at you like you’re the sole nerd in a Dodgeball-league filled of jocks.
I truly, honestly, seriously do not need to know why an elevator-attendant is dressed in a specific manner. What I need is a narrative that easily guides me through a complicated world. I need Chekhov’s gun. I need time to process (proper pacing).
Now, don’t get me wrong: I have no problem with a slow start, but a story like that needs to compensate for what it lacks in a “dramatic hook” by e.g. interesting characters or exciting foreshadowing. And once the story gets going, nothing really happens anyway. We already know from the start who the bad guys are. Unfortunately, I was thoroughly bored throughout, and the only reason I kept reading was out of respect, hoping that something would finally engage me.
I feel as if Len and Vli could just as easily have been named Mary and Sue. Neither the good or bad characters — yes, unfortunately, it’s that simple— are anything but two-dimensional caricatures, and the sterile narrative is as previously mentioned just as prevalent when it comes to their own thoughts. They have no depth or [real] flaws, and the bad guys are only left with enough room to say something racist before literally leaving the room, which is instantly dismissed in the MCs’ thoughts.
The book’s completely unable to empathize with characters that think differently than Mary and Sue, and the aforementioned room doesn’t actually have space for other opinions, whether it’s giving the bad guys a chance to “justify” themselves, or simply character-studies designed to explore the psyche of these people.
Hell, they aren’t even allowed a platform to speak long enough to make you [love to] hate them. You’re just supposed to take Mary and Sue’s word for it.
“They’re wrong!” - uno dos tres, no mas discourse. The end. I don’t mind the morals of the story; I mind the execution of it. At the moment, it honestly feels more like a text written by a rusting Banner (?) in its fanatical one-sidedness.
Re: the future — I’d like to see a more focused pacing and story/plot-structure. I’d like to be “lured” into pondering about the book and its message instead of being told what to think. I’d like good guys to root for and bad guys to hate; I’d like to react viscerally, not to mention be amused and entertained. I’d also like more enticing foreshadowing, like if the statue/”hard-drive” (??) had had a more promising hook that I wanted answers to in future books.
(As a somewhat silly sidenote possibly a few years late than I promised, I’d really recommend “The only way to stop smoking permanently [Allen Carr]” to the main characters and/or Lukas, to stop them from giving nicotine that illusionary power and undeserved praise and live a longer, healthier life. Keep living, and keep writing, Lukas! Most of us “authors” around the world, myself included, have yet to complete a first draft, let alone something ready for publishing. You’re well on your way to making it.)
/Marcus
January 19, 2021
A different kind of Spy Thriller.
The story follows Detective “Len” Yoriya of the Lansfyrd PD. Len is given pointless crimes to solve by her colleagues—discriminated against because of her choice of partner. Her partner, Vli-Rana Talie is a lecturer at the university though she is subjected to xenophobia at work. When Len and Vli end up involved in a high profile murder case, will things work out for better or for worse?
A sensational debut from Lundh here as he introduces us to his dystopian almost inhabitable world where rust lingers in the air. Firstly, I commend Lundh’s world building skills and his Tolkienesque attention to detail. At first, the different names and colloquialisms of the world may seem a tad confusing but once you get the hang of it, you’re in for a fantastical thrill ride, trust me.
I love the political tension running throughout. I found myself searching for the satirical and ironic links between the fictional world I was immersed in and the real one we exist in. A sense of the familiar in the unfamiliar. It seems no matter what world we live in we’re never too far away from an election, a riot, discrimination or gangs!
The characters Len and Vli are well developed and I found myself growing more fond of them as The book progressed admiring their courage and resilience. Also, both Len and Vli happen to be strong, badass women which in a sucker for! So brownie points for that!
This is the first book in the Gleam series and we have barely scratched the surface of this rusty world yet so I for one am excited to see what adventures are to be had in the Rustpeaks!
The story follows Detective “Len” Yoriya of the Lansfyrd PD. Len is given pointless crimes to solve by her colleagues—discriminated against because of her choice of partner. Her partner, Vli-Rana Talie is a lecturer at the university though she is subjected to xenophobia at work. When Len and Vli end up involved in a high profile murder case, will things work out for better or for worse?
A sensational debut from Lundh here as he introduces us to his dystopian almost inhabitable world where rust lingers in the air. Firstly, I commend Lundh’s world building skills and his Tolkienesque attention to detail. At first, the different names and colloquialisms of the world may seem a tad confusing but once you get the hang of it, you’re in for a fantastical thrill ride, trust me.
I love the political tension running throughout. I found myself searching for the satirical and ironic links between the fictional world I was immersed in and the real one we exist in. A sense of the familiar in the unfamiliar. It seems no matter what world we live in we’re never too far away from an election, a riot, discrimination or gangs!
The characters Len and Vli are well developed and I found myself growing more fond of them as The book progressed admiring their courage and resilience. Also, both Len and Vli happen to be strong, badass women which in a sucker for! So brownie points for that!
This is the first book in the Gleam series and we have barely scratched the surface of this rusty world yet so I for one am excited to see what adventures are to be had in the Rustpeaks!
June 29, 2021
*Impressive*
A crime mystery with a dash of political thriller, a book so well written it keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Personally I think the author did a phenomenal job with this, the characters are intriguing, the terminology is interesting and the plot is just well thought out however I'm stuck between having enjoyed the detail in the book but at some points feeling as though it may have been a little too much.
Len is a detective that's unable to progress in her workplace/career and who is constantly discriminated against by her colleagues all because of her personal choice of a personal partner. Her partner (Vli) who has to deal with xenophobia on a regular works at a university as a lecturer. With a murder case and political tension as the elections are coming, things get interesting.
The author really did an amazing job with this novel, it's beautifully written, from the diversity, the places etc. The creation of this world kept me interested. Thank you to the author and BookTasters for providing me with a copy to read and review.
A crime mystery with a dash of political thriller, a book so well written it keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Personally I think the author did a phenomenal job with this, the characters are intriguing, the terminology is interesting and the plot is just well thought out however I'm stuck between having enjoyed the detail in the book but at some points feeling as though it may have been a little too much.
Len is a detective that's unable to progress in her workplace/career and who is constantly discriminated against by her colleagues all because of her personal choice of a personal partner. Her partner (Vli) who has to deal with xenophobia on a regular works at a university as a lecturer. With a murder case and political tension as the elections are coming, things get interesting.
The author really did an amazing job with this novel, it's beautifully written, from the diversity, the places etc. The creation of this world kept me interested. Thank you to the author and BookTasters for providing me with a copy to read and review.
May 22, 2021
A dystopian sci-fi with a story revolving around modern politics.
It is way different than any of the dystopian novels I have ever read.
Len, the protagonist is a member of the police department. The events that occur before the upcoming election and the mystery behind it puts Len and her friends into action.
There is so much more to this book than that meets the eyes. The view on the politics is something any politicophile would love. The futuristic imagination on water scarcity, dust in air are food for our thoughts and I find it thought provoking.
A thrilling read is awaiting..
Happy reading!
It is way different than any of the dystopian novels I have ever read.
Len, the protagonist is a member of the police department. The events that occur before the upcoming election and the mystery behind it puts Len and her friends into action.
There is so much more to this book than that meets the eyes. The view on the politics is something any politicophile would love. The futuristic imagination on water scarcity, dust in air are food for our thoughts and I find it thought provoking.
A thrilling read is awaiting..
Happy reading!
May 31, 2021
Unbroken Truth deals with modern politics,xenophobia. With Len and Vli as the lead characters.Len is a detective who found love where she was not supposed to and lost everything. As if that was not enough,her partner is a lecturer at a university who has to deal with xenophobia on a regular basis.
A riot breaks out in the city,the couple gets to work together in a murder mystery,elections are underway.It really gets interesting in the city with so much chaos and mayhem.
The author was really creative,the characters,the intrigue,the intensity and depth of the story.
A riot breaks out in the city,the couple gets to work together in a murder mystery,elections are underway.It really gets interesting in the city with so much chaos and mayhem.
The author was really creative,the characters,the intrigue,the intensity and depth of the story.
August 10, 2021
This is a thrilling crime story set in an immersive world. The characters are engaging, the plot hooks you immediately, and the world is obviously well thought out in loving detail. It's a great read for fans of fantasy and and mystery. Len and Vli are definitely one of my favorite couples.
November 12, 2023
First, it's hard to understand the characters and the background, though in the end there is glossary. Second, for the mystery fantasy genre, it's rather hard to remember many names in one go, and the name all sound unfamiliar.
June 23, 2022
I really enjoyed the combination of science-fiction, steampunk and mystery in Unbroken Truth. I find myself saying it every time I review a sci-fi novel – but I really do need to read them more!
Unbroken Truth has a complex, in-depth universe in which the main storyline is set. Lansfyrd is home to a number of different peoples and species, and simmering tension between them is coming to a head at the start of the narrative. Each societal group is well-thought-out and defined, so it’s easy to follow. The novel does have some of its own unique terminologies, but I feel this is introduced slowly and explained where necessary so it isn’t overwhelming or confusing to read.
Many of the main characters within the novel come from each of these different backgrounds. I love how well they as individuals interact with each other despite the overall tension between groups. They prove that being different doesn’t mean you can’t get along. Len, a police officer, is in a relationship with Vli, a lector at the university. Their cross-racial relationship doesn’t meet with everyone’s approval, however, and Len is prevented from promotion for it.
I enjoyed Vli's interest in the history of the world and her position as a lector gives us access to learning about it as and when she discovers new things. I enjoyed what was explored already in the narrative as it shows that the setting of the novel has been thoroughly developed.
There are a lot of political conflicts in the narrative, which are the basis for the story. It’s funny, because I’m not one for politics at all, with the exception of reading it in books. Most of my top reads have political undercurrents and I enjoy the tension and action that causes. The same was the case for Unbroken Truth. The murder of Yolban Tördek stinks of eninga involvement, but the blatancy of the clues leaves Len and the team to think the murder had been committed to framing them. So then, who is responsible? As the plot unravels to a gripping ending, I couldn’t put the book down!
Unbroken Truth is, I hope, an introduction to a series. Whilst it reads perfectly well standalone, there is a lot of potential in the characters and world for a series. I hope this is explored further, and if it is, I’m interested to see where the narrative takes us next. I'm also interested in learning more about the history of the universe created - what more could there be to discover?
Unbroken Truth has a complex, in-depth universe in which the main storyline is set. Lansfyrd is home to a number of different peoples and species, and simmering tension between them is coming to a head at the start of the narrative. Each societal group is well-thought-out and defined, so it’s easy to follow. The novel does have some of its own unique terminologies, but I feel this is introduced slowly and explained where necessary so it isn’t overwhelming or confusing to read.
Many of the main characters within the novel come from each of these different backgrounds. I love how well they as individuals interact with each other despite the overall tension between groups. They prove that being different doesn’t mean you can’t get along. Len, a police officer, is in a relationship with Vli, a lector at the university. Their cross-racial relationship doesn’t meet with everyone’s approval, however, and Len is prevented from promotion for it.
I enjoyed Vli's interest in the history of the world and her position as a lector gives us access to learning about it as and when she discovers new things. I enjoyed what was explored already in the narrative as it shows that the setting of the novel has been thoroughly developed.
There are a lot of political conflicts in the narrative, which are the basis for the story. It’s funny, because I’m not one for politics at all, with the exception of reading it in books. Most of my top reads have political undercurrents and I enjoy the tension and action that causes. The same was the case for Unbroken Truth. The murder of Yolban Tördek stinks of eninga involvement, but the blatancy of the clues leaves Len and the team to think the murder had been committed to framing them. So then, who is responsible? As the plot unravels to a gripping ending, I couldn’t put the book down!
Unbroken Truth is, I hope, an introduction to a series. Whilst it reads perfectly well standalone, there is a lot of potential in the characters and world for a series. I hope this is explored further, and if it is, I’m interested to see where the narrative takes us next. I'm also interested in learning more about the history of the universe created - what more could there be to discover?
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