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Finding Humanity #1
The Calling
Humanity’s wake-up call. Answer it or face extinction.
When Bleu’s little sister shows symptoms of the deadly Sickness, a strange vision directs him to leave humanity’s subterranean haven and seek the cure on Earth’s glacial surface. Joining the expedition team, Bleu expects extreme temperatures, not a surface ruled by ingenious predators.
Rana and her fellow star beings have co-existed with Earth’s top carnivores since the humans disappeared. But when her peers transform into Crowned Ones, the final stage of star being development, she fears remaining Uncrowned like her parents. To prove her worth, she undertakes a dangerous mission—contacting the hostile and nearly extinct humans.
But Rana’s plan backfires, and Bleu’s team retaliates. As war with the more advanced star being civilization looms, both Rana and Bleu separately seek a way to save their people.
When Bleu’s little sister shows symptoms of the deadly Sickness, a strange vision directs him to leave humanity’s subterranean haven and seek the cure on Earth’s glacial surface. Joining the expedition team, Bleu expects extreme temperatures, not a surface ruled by ingenious predators.
Rana and her fellow star beings have co-existed with Earth’s top carnivores since the humans disappeared. But when her peers transform into Crowned Ones, the final stage of star being development, she fears remaining Uncrowned like her parents. To prove her worth, she undertakes a dangerous mission—contacting the hostile and nearly extinct humans.
But Rana’s plan backfires, and Bleu’s team retaliates. As war with the more advanced star being civilization looms, both Rana and Bleu separately seek a way to save their people.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2020
10 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Branwen OShea
5 books283 followersAs a young girl, Branwen wanted to become an ambassador for aliens. Since the aliens never hired her, she now writes about them.
Branwen OShea has a Bachelors in Biology from Colgate University, a Bachelors in Psychology, and a Masters in Social Work. She lives in Connecticut with her family and a menagerie of pets, and enjoys hiking, meditating, and star-gazing. Her previously published works include contributing to a nonfiction yoga book, wellness magazines, and her published science fiction novella, Silence of the Song Trees.
Branwen OShea has a Bachelors in Biology from Colgate University, a Bachelors in Psychology, and a Masters in Social Work. She lives in Connecticut with her family and a menagerie of pets, and enjoys hiking, meditating, and star-gazing. Her previously published works include contributing to a nonfiction yoga book, wellness magazines, and her published science fiction novella, Silence of the Song Trees.
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March 10, 2022
"The Calling", Book One in the "Finding Humanity" series, is a YA dystopian sci-fi novel by author Branwen OShea. Additionally, it was the next book on my roster in my #FebruarySheWrote reads. In February 2022, I read exclusively female authors who use the pronouns she/her.
I spent most of one night, early morning & early afternoon the following day reading this book, because I was enraptured. The conclusion? This book is another one of those complete under-the-radar gems that deserves much, much more attention!
What's the book about? In a desolate future, a new Ice Age has dawned, and Earth's surface is arctic-like. This inhospitable landscape has driven humankind underground, to inhabit protected subterranean dwellings. Some humans, called the Undescended, who had been left above-ground to perish, supposedly still live, and have animosity towards their below-ground counterparts. So topside, Earth is not entirely devoid of existence. Star Beings also reside above-ground. But the Star Beings, who are more benevolent, share the planet's surface with Undescended and dangerous creatures who prey on other forms of life.
Still, nothing will stop a particularly intrepid young Star Being, named Rana, from achieving the nominal, all-important final stage of Star Being development, which is known as becoming a "Crowned One". Rana's parents have not become Crowned. Rana fears that she will share their fate, and it is considered a failure among the Star Beings not to achieve Crowning. To demonstrate her value, and hoping to be Crowned in the process, Rana chooses to embark on a perilous quest: to make contact with humans.
Meanwhile below-ground, a youth named Bleu Reinier lives the the Northern Haven section of the humans abode, with his mother, Dr. Cassandra Reinier, and sister, Ayanna. Ayanna falls victim to the fatal Sickness that will first drive her insane before it kills her. The Sickness is not confined to Ayanna. It is a contagion, escalating quickly through the ranks of the subterranean humans, and they are in danger of being wiped out by the disease. At least, those with so-called inferior genetics, will surely be culled by the Sickness.
Bleu starts having weird visions, and becomes convinced that going above is the key to both the visions, and curing Ayanna. Desperate to save his beloved sibling, and everyone he cares about, Bleu risks venturing on a daring mission above-ground. This brings him directly into the path of Rana. Like Rana, Bleu and his comrades have survived savage attacks by other ground dwelling creatures. And though Blue and Rana become allies, ancient hostilities and mistrust threaten to bring war between human and Star Beings. Blue and Rana, mutually attempt to avert nuclear catastrophe, and the end of all life forms, both above and below.
Let's discuss the characters first, including how many POVs there are in "The Calling." Protagonists Bleu and Rana get the lion's share of the narrative, but Atsushi's, Kern's, and Kahali's voices are also heard. I have read some reviews that note, there were a lot of POVs to absorb in the book. I completely understand that opinion, and I am someone who prefers first-person, single POV books. Yet for me, I did not find it too much at all (compare reading something like ASOIAF - which of course I love - where each book in GRRMs series averages ten POVs per novel!). And, I found the POV switches extremely well-handled by OShea, and I had no issues whatsoever with keeping track of the characters, where they were located, what they were doing, and what their relationships with the other characters were.
Typically in the book, we are given at least a few chapters consecutively of one POV, before it switches to another. Only to increase the dramatic tension, do we get the more abrupt back and forths between POVs, and for me it worked great! The characters are very well drawn, yet Rana was definitely my favourite. Like the rest of the players, she is composed in a realistic fashion by OShea: flawed, but likable. And you know I love my baddies, so OShea tossed in some malevolence in one POV. Having the POV of a threatening character is always completely awesome, and really ramps up the sense of dread.
Compelling themes in "The Calling" include love, prejudice, eugenics, patriarchy, environmentalism, human relationships with nature and animal life, apocalypse, and more. There were some interesting takes on these themes by OShea, and I have the strong feeling she is setting readers up for even deeper exploration of these concepts in future novels. Overall, despite the icy starkness of the world, the violence, the controversial eugenics, the bigotry and mistrust of other cultures, OShea ultimately gives the reader hope for the future of the world she has created, if different factions can overcome their worse instincts, and come together for the common cause of survival.
The book starts off as a slow-burn, setting the scene, with some fantastic world-building, as the reader is introduced to the different cultures above and below Earth's surface. But the plot explodes into plenty of great action pieces in the mid and later parts of the book. The confrontations, including with the various creatures, like wolverine-type menaces, were amazing. Sci-fi fans will be treated to some neat technological aspects, combined with the feeling of primal clashes, which only added to the heart-pounding aspect of the combat scenes. There are some devastating loses in those battles, where the reader will feel sadness, and great triumphs, that the reader will find exhilarating.
And, for YA fans, what YA book would be complete without some teen angst, yearning, and a juicy love triangle? "The Calling" has all that, and driven by OShea's excellent writing, engrossing plot, and intriguing themes, I found this book to be thoroughly enjoyable. It's a thick book, with my version being just under 500 pages, but it read quickly for me.
This book might be my "under-the-radar" book of the year, and I am very glad I decided to read "The Calling". Highly recommended, and I give it a 4.75 star rating out of five.
I spent most of one night, early morning & early afternoon the following day reading this book, because I was enraptured. The conclusion? This book is another one of those complete under-the-radar gems that deserves much, much more attention!
What's the book about? In a desolate future, a new Ice Age has dawned, and Earth's surface is arctic-like. This inhospitable landscape has driven humankind underground, to inhabit protected subterranean dwellings. Some humans, called the Undescended, who had been left above-ground to perish, supposedly still live, and have animosity towards their below-ground counterparts. So topside, Earth is not entirely devoid of existence. Star Beings also reside above-ground. But the Star Beings, who are more benevolent, share the planet's surface with Undescended and dangerous creatures who prey on other forms of life.
Still, nothing will stop a particularly intrepid young Star Being, named Rana, from achieving the nominal, all-important final stage of Star Being development, which is known as becoming a "Crowned One". Rana's parents have not become Crowned. Rana fears that she will share their fate, and it is considered a failure among the Star Beings not to achieve Crowning. To demonstrate her value, and hoping to be Crowned in the process, Rana chooses to embark on a perilous quest: to make contact with humans.
Meanwhile below-ground, a youth named Bleu Reinier lives the the Northern Haven section of the humans abode, with his mother, Dr. Cassandra Reinier, and sister, Ayanna. Ayanna falls victim to the fatal Sickness that will first drive her insane before it kills her. The Sickness is not confined to Ayanna. It is a contagion, escalating quickly through the ranks of the subterranean humans, and they are in danger of being wiped out by the disease. At least, those with so-called inferior genetics, will surely be culled by the Sickness.
Bleu starts having weird visions, and becomes convinced that going above is the key to both the visions, and curing Ayanna. Desperate to save his beloved sibling, and everyone he cares about, Bleu risks venturing on a daring mission above-ground. This brings him directly into the path of Rana. Like Rana, Bleu and his comrades have survived savage attacks by other ground dwelling creatures. And though Blue and Rana become allies, ancient hostilities and mistrust threaten to bring war between human and Star Beings. Blue and Rana, mutually attempt to avert nuclear catastrophe, and the end of all life forms, both above and below.
Let's discuss the characters first, including how many POVs there are in "The Calling." Protagonists Bleu and Rana get the lion's share of the narrative, but Atsushi's, Kern's, and Kahali's voices are also heard. I have read some reviews that note, there were a lot of POVs to absorb in the book. I completely understand that opinion, and I am someone who prefers first-person, single POV books. Yet for me, I did not find it too much at all (compare reading something like ASOIAF - which of course I love - where each book in GRRMs series averages ten POVs per novel!). And, I found the POV switches extremely well-handled by OShea, and I had no issues whatsoever with keeping track of the characters, where they were located, what they were doing, and what their relationships with the other characters were.
Typically in the book, we are given at least a few chapters consecutively of one POV, before it switches to another. Only to increase the dramatic tension, do we get the more abrupt back and forths between POVs, and for me it worked great! The characters are very well drawn, yet Rana was definitely my favourite. Like the rest of the players, she is composed in a realistic fashion by OShea: flawed, but likable. And you know I love my baddies, so OShea tossed in some malevolence in one POV. Having the POV of a threatening character is always completely awesome, and really ramps up the sense of dread.
Compelling themes in "The Calling" include love, prejudice, eugenics, patriarchy, environmentalism, human relationships with nature and animal life, apocalypse, and more. There were some interesting takes on these themes by OShea, and I have the strong feeling she is setting readers up for even deeper exploration of these concepts in future novels. Overall, despite the icy starkness of the world, the violence, the controversial eugenics, the bigotry and mistrust of other cultures, OShea ultimately gives the reader hope for the future of the world she has created, if different factions can overcome their worse instincts, and come together for the common cause of survival.
The book starts off as a slow-burn, setting the scene, with some fantastic world-building, as the reader is introduced to the different cultures above and below Earth's surface. But the plot explodes into plenty of great action pieces in the mid and later parts of the book. The confrontations, including with the various creatures, like wolverine-type menaces, were amazing. Sci-fi fans will be treated to some neat technological aspects, combined with the feeling of primal clashes, which only added to the heart-pounding aspect of the combat scenes. There are some devastating loses in those battles, where the reader will feel sadness, and great triumphs, that the reader will find exhilarating.
And, for YA fans, what YA book would be complete without some teen angst, yearning, and a juicy love triangle? "The Calling" has all that, and driven by OShea's excellent writing, engrossing plot, and intriguing themes, I found this book to be thoroughly enjoyable. It's a thick book, with my version being just under 500 pages, but it read quickly for me.
This book might be my "under-the-radar" book of the year, and I am very glad I decided to read "The Calling". Highly recommended, and I give it a 4.75 star rating out of five.
July 28, 2022
(Actual rating: 4.5 stars)
OShea is a new to me author and The Calling made an excellent first impression!
Featuring a futuristic world in which the Earth has frozen over and the last bit of humanity has moved underground, this story is told through multiple point of views, allowing the reader a wide understanding of both the main protagonists as well as one of the antagonists.
Although a bit slow to start, The Calling soon dug its way into my brain until it became hard to put this story down. I loved the uniqueness of the star beings, and the author did a great job of portraying humanity accurately even if it was in a not so flattering light.
Reminiscent of The Giver with a sci-fi twist, I truly enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to the next one in the series!
*I was given a free copy of this book from the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
OShea is a new to me author and The Calling made an excellent first impression!
Featuring a futuristic world in which the Earth has frozen over and the last bit of humanity has moved underground, this story is told through multiple point of views, allowing the reader a wide understanding of both the main protagonists as well as one of the antagonists.
Although a bit slow to start, The Calling soon dug its way into my brain until it became hard to put this story down. I loved the uniqueness of the star beings, and the author did a great job of portraying humanity accurately even if it was in a not so flattering light.
Reminiscent of The Giver with a sci-fi twist, I truly enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to the next one in the series!
*I was given a free copy of this book from the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
February 16, 2024
I picked up a copy of this book after being intrigued by a brief description of it on Twitter, and I certainly wasn't disappointed. Interesting from the start with plenty of mystery this thought provoking sci-fi is a highly worthwhile read.
Set many years after an apocalyptic event rendered the world uninhabitable and forced humanity to live underground, it begins with an expedition team being assembled. The mission goal is to return to Earth's surface, locate other survivor bases and find a way to live above ground once more. But upon reaching their destination the volunteers quickly realise that the world is no longer the empty place it was when their ancestors left it. Strange animals and an entirely new dominant species have moved in to claim the planet. Now the remnants of the human race must find a way to coexist with these mysterious other beings or perish for good.
The story is told from a multiple POV perspective. While this isn't a narration style I'm usually a fan of it works very well here and completely avoids coming across as confusing or overwhelming. Instead the author uses it very skillfully to create moments of suspense which had me eagerly turning more pages. The further I got into this book the harder it became to put down.
The characters are both likeable and unpredictable, a few times taking the story in surprising directions I didn't expect. Gradually learning about the otherworldly Star Beings, their ways and backgrounds, was a lot of fun.
There were one or two small plot details which didn't feel entirely convincing to me, but overall this is a beautifully told story. I definitely look forward to reading part 2
Set many years after an apocalyptic event rendered the world uninhabitable and forced humanity to live underground, it begins with an expedition team being assembled. The mission goal is to return to Earth's surface, locate other survivor bases and find a way to live above ground once more. But upon reaching their destination the volunteers quickly realise that the world is no longer the empty place it was when their ancestors left it. Strange animals and an entirely new dominant species have moved in to claim the planet. Now the remnants of the human race must find a way to coexist with these mysterious other beings or perish for good.
The story is told from a multiple POV perspective. While this isn't a narration style I'm usually a fan of it works very well here and completely avoids coming across as confusing or overwhelming. Instead the author uses it very skillfully to create moments of suspense which had me eagerly turning more pages. The further I got into this book the harder it became to put down.
The characters are both likeable and unpredictable, a few times taking the story in surprising directions I didn't expect. Gradually learning about the otherworldly Star Beings, their ways and backgrounds, was a lot of fun.
There were one or two small plot details which didn't feel entirely convincing to me, but overall this is a beautifully told story. I definitely look forward to reading part 2
October 4, 2021
Branwen O'Shea has created what many would love to see, a book that shows cooperation between people from different places. The characters, world, and situations are well built. With a little imagination you could see the similarities between this story and real life.
November 8, 2021
My thanks to Backlit PR, and Branwen OShea. I loved these characters. I mean an astounding, deep love. Both Earth humans, and Stars. I'm angry I guess because this series is named after humanity. I've often thought it odd that our species talks of humanity. But, as much as we speak of it, we will never live up to it. We, me and you are human. Humanity is an ideal. I love this story. I wish to read the next book. But, I'm not sure how much further I can go. Humans. Humanity. Bummer dude.
May 13, 2022
An Uplifting Tale
TL;DR: The Calling is a post-apocalyptic YA hopepunk tale with an earnestness to its emotions that instantly captured me. Humans are trapped and afraid; star beings are mystical and empathetic, and the multiple characters’ viewpoints blend wonderfully into a joint triumph of love over hate. Beautifully written, and a must read for anyone needing a refreshed perspective. Avatar x A Swiftly Tilting Planet
*** Possible Light Spoilers From Here On ***
In the ever-expanding collection of post-apocalyptic fiction, it’s rare and refreshing to find a story that counterbalances the bitter with the sweet. Branwen O’Shea’s novel, The Calling, accomplishes this in sincere, moving fashion, at points leaving me with the sense that the end of her humans’ world was merely the birth pang of a brighter future. The only question is whether the surviving humans can relax enough to reintegrate with it, or if they will plunge that bright future back into a destructive past.
This story is told through multiple perspectives, each a vital piece of the whole. Bleu Reinier is a restless, ambitious teen straight out of a Jack London book, someone who’d already been desperately eager to see the mysterious frozen Surface even before his sister Ayanna’s illness compels him to go. Atsushi Collins is a hopeless dork struggling to understand his own identity—and to get Ayanna’s attention. Kern Savas carries a backbreaking sense of responsibility with no humility, so focused on enemies that he creates them from the natural world without even trying. Rana fears being left behind as her peers grow up, and she has to resist the urge to resent her parents for her own slow development. Kahali’s biggest problem is getting Rana to realize how much he likes her—at least, until the disastrous first contact with the emerging humans. And, while her inner thoughts are hidden from us, Kalakanya sifts through time streams in the hope of guiding everyone through the difficult days ahead. She’s probably my favorite character, if not Diggory Girak, the humans’ philosophical educator.
If that sounds like a lot of perspectives, it is. But Ms. O’Shea weaves them all with excellent pacing and balance: not once did I feel that a particular character had overstayed their welcome or been kept away too long. The only real complaint I can muster about the story is that sometimes the characters get especially naive in terms of romance and will-they/won’t-they, but given the YA nature of the book, I can easily forgive that.
Taken together, these perspectives reveal a world that is in parts depressing and terrifying as well as fragile and beautiful, but most of all plausible. While the reason is never given for how our current superheated trajectory gets reversed into an ice age, the humans’ reaction to it is grounded in real history: save the lucky, privileged few, and leave the rest to die. The guilt of that weighs heavily on the minds of the Northern Haveners, but after centuries of underground sheltering, they’ve become terrified of the Undescended coming to attack them—even though it’s never happened, at least not since the descent. But even more terrifying is the Sickness, a violent madness that takes more teens each generation. With their numbers dwindling, the Northern Haveners are forced to explore the frozen, deadly surface in hopes of finding the remaining havens and more genetic diversity.
But that same frozen world, filled with predators both familiar and new, is now the home of the star beings: creatures with humanoid bodies and mystical abilities based on empathy, love, and awareness. These are people who see the beauty in Earth’s icy hues and paint images in the sky with their thoughts, people who aspire to being Crowned in a culmination of awareness, capability, and sentience. They have no weapons, only energetic shields fueled by their connection to the One in All. They could easily fit in Madeleine L’Engle’s worlds, having chats with Mrs. Whatsit, Who, and Which. And they’re totally unprepared for the sheer violence of human thinking.
I won’t spoil the plot here; the setup itself takes about half the book. Ms. O’Shea adeptly plays into these diametrically opposed worldviews, turning tropes like alien abduction on their head and giving every character something to do, whether hurling the two cultures toward war or averting it. Some even contribute to both sides, and are better characters for it. The climax reinforces the theme of cooperation, in that no one character or group saves the day—or delays the inevitable, as last-chapter reveals tease for the sequel.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Calling: as a reader, as a writer of post-apocalyptic fiction, as a dreamer, and as a man who still tries to look at the world with eyes of wonder. This book reassured me that, like Bleu and Rana and the rest, I’m not alone.
TL;DR: The Calling is a post-apocalyptic YA hopepunk tale with an earnestness to its emotions that instantly captured me. Humans are trapped and afraid; star beings are mystical and empathetic, and the multiple characters’ viewpoints blend wonderfully into a joint triumph of love over hate. Beautifully written, and a must read for anyone needing a refreshed perspective. Avatar x A Swiftly Tilting Planet
*** Possible Light Spoilers From Here On ***
In the ever-expanding collection of post-apocalyptic fiction, it’s rare and refreshing to find a story that counterbalances the bitter with the sweet. Branwen O’Shea’s novel, The Calling, accomplishes this in sincere, moving fashion, at points leaving me with the sense that the end of her humans’ world was merely the birth pang of a brighter future. The only question is whether the surviving humans can relax enough to reintegrate with it, or if they will plunge that bright future back into a destructive past.
This story is told through multiple perspectives, each a vital piece of the whole. Bleu Reinier is a restless, ambitious teen straight out of a Jack London book, someone who’d already been desperately eager to see the mysterious frozen Surface even before his sister Ayanna’s illness compels him to go. Atsushi Collins is a hopeless dork struggling to understand his own identity—and to get Ayanna’s attention. Kern Savas carries a backbreaking sense of responsibility with no humility, so focused on enemies that he creates them from the natural world without even trying. Rana fears being left behind as her peers grow up, and she has to resist the urge to resent her parents for her own slow development. Kahali’s biggest problem is getting Rana to realize how much he likes her—at least, until the disastrous first contact with the emerging humans. And, while her inner thoughts are hidden from us, Kalakanya sifts through time streams in the hope of guiding everyone through the difficult days ahead. She’s probably my favorite character, if not Diggory Girak, the humans’ philosophical educator.
If that sounds like a lot of perspectives, it is. But Ms. O’Shea weaves them all with excellent pacing and balance: not once did I feel that a particular character had overstayed their welcome or been kept away too long. The only real complaint I can muster about the story is that sometimes the characters get especially naive in terms of romance and will-they/won’t-they, but given the YA nature of the book, I can easily forgive that.
Taken together, these perspectives reveal a world that is in parts depressing and terrifying as well as fragile and beautiful, but most of all plausible. While the reason is never given for how our current superheated trajectory gets reversed into an ice age, the humans’ reaction to it is grounded in real history: save the lucky, privileged few, and leave the rest to die. The guilt of that weighs heavily on the minds of the Northern Haveners, but after centuries of underground sheltering, they’ve become terrified of the Undescended coming to attack them—even though it’s never happened, at least not since the descent. But even more terrifying is the Sickness, a violent madness that takes more teens each generation. With their numbers dwindling, the Northern Haveners are forced to explore the frozen, deadly surface in hopes of finding the remaining havens and more genetic diversity.
But that same frozen world, filled with predators both familiar and new, is now the home of the star beings: creatures with humanoid bodies and mystical abilities based on empathy, love, and awareness. These are people who see the beauty in Earth’s icy hues and paint images in the sky with their thoughts, people who aspire to being Crowned in a culmination of awareness, capability, and sentience. They have no weapons, only energetic shields fueled by their connection to the One in All. They could easily fit in Madeleine L’Engle’s worlds, having chats with Mrs. Whatsit, Who, and Which. And they’re totally unprepared for the sheer violence of human thinking.
I won’t spoil the plot here; the setup itself takes about half the book. Ms. O’Shea adeptly plays into these diametrically opposed worldviews, turning tropes like alien abduction on their head and giving every character something to do, whether hurling the two cultures toward war or averting it. Some even contribute to both sides, and are better characters for it. The climax reinforces the theme of cooperation, in that no one character or group saves the day—or delays the inevitable, as last-chapter reveals tease for the sequel.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Calling: as a reader, as a writer of post-apocalyptic fiction, as a dreamer, and as a man who still tries to look at the world with eyes of wonder. This book reassured me that, like Bleu and Rana and the rest, I’m not alone.
March 2, 2023
The Calling is a hefty adventure. It takes place after the Earth has fallen to ice and humanity has had to hide in underground havens to survive, which, by itself, sounds simple enough. But there's a lot more to it; from humanity's struggle in their haven (the Sickness, a dwindling gene pool, politics) to the mystery that surrounds the star beings who have lived in harmony with Earth's remaining wildlife in the human's absence on the surface.
And gosh, I adored the world-building on both ends: the star beings and their abilities, their culture, and how humanity has managed to survive, as well as what's driving them to reclaim the surface. It all comes together to shape a great backdrop to the character's adventures.
Oh! Yeah! The characters.
I think the book has two main characters, of a sort. Bleu and Rana. Most of the story centres around them, but we get to know a cast of different POV characters who provide us with a view of the story from different angles. They all bring a different flavour and show us more of the world from their unique perspective. Plus, their personalities are varied, which makes switching back and forth entertaining since it keeps it fresh. OH! AND! We get villain POV! And okay, okay, hear me out: the arguable, air quotes open, villain, air quotes closed, of the story? I am not about to spoil a thing, but I got so dang mad at him. Furious. I wanted to grab the guy by the ankles and feed him to the book's (adorably murderous) cave diggers. And that's a compliment because that dude worked. He's not evil as much as he's committed to humanity and the survival of the species and it shows.
The book also doesn't pull its punches: characters will die. And they're characters that get introduced to us in ways that give us plenty of time to care for them. More importantly though, their deaths aren't only there to have us go "Oh no!" and then move on, nope. They have consequences and they move the story forward, adding tension and conflict and I think that's really neat.
Anyway, so, our main characters: Bleu is a young and adventurous soul who yearns for being up there. To breathe something else than recycled air. To be rid of the constricting walls. He's also an exceptionally good brother and loves his sister dearly. The same sister who is struck by the mysterious Sickness, which threatens to kill humanity's future: their children. Soon after, a mysterious vision strikes him, convincing him that his sister's survival depends on him going out there and locating the cure. Rana's, our second central character, has her own yearning to contend with. She fears she'll never crown, a fear which preoccupied her. A lot. Seriously. She's on about it so often I sometimes felt the urge to sit her down and tell her to take a deep breath. But it's an understandable worry, all things considered. It's also that fear that drives her to want to set out on a dangerous mission and to eventually be directly tied up in the disastrous first meeting between the star beings and the frightened and hostile humans. Though on a lighter note: she gets to be wooed by two young men. And it's adorable. And the way she handles it towards the end had me enjoy her as a character even more.
And that's it, really? I recommend The Calling to anyone who enjoys post-apocalypse stories with a cast of younger heroes who get wrapped up in a high-stakes conflict. There's action. Gunfights. Fascinating magic. An adorable cave digger baby named Digga. Tragic world-building on humanity's side and what they've got to do in order to survive. And, yeah, if you like well-fleshed-out characters and villains who all come with their individual wants and needs and goals.
And gosh, I adored the world-building on both ends: the star beings and their abilities, their culture, and how humanity has managed to survive, as well as what's driving them to reclaim the surface. It all comes together to shape a great backdrop to the character's adventures.
Oh! Yeah! The characters.
I think the book has two main characters, of a sort. Bleu and Rana. Most of the story centres around them, but we get to know a cast of different POV characters who provide us with a view of the story from different angles. They all bring a different flavour and show us more of the world from their unique perspective. Plus, their personalities are varied, which makes switching back and forth entertaining since it keeps it fresh. OH! AND! We get villain POV! And okay, okay, hear me out: the arguable, air quotes open, villain, air quotes closed, of the story? I am not about to spoil a thing, but I got so dang mad at him. Furious. I wanted to grab the guy by the ankles and feed him to the book's (adorably murderous) cave diggers. And that's a compliment because that dude worked. He's not evil as much as he's committed to humanity and the survival of the species and it shows.
The book also doesn't pull its punches: characters will die. And they're characters that get introduced to us in ways that give us plenty of time to care for them. More importantly though, their deaths aren't only there to have us go "Oh no!" and then move on, nope. They have consequences and they move the story forward, adding tension and conflict and I think that's really neat.
Anyway, so, our main characters: Bleu is a young and adventurous soul who yearns for being up there. To breathe something else than recycled air. To be rid of the constricting walls. He's also an exceptionally good brother and loves his sister dearly. The same sister who is struck by the mysterious Sickness, which threatens to kill humanity's future: their children. Soon after, a mysterious vision strikes him, convincing him that his sister's survival depends on him going out there and locating the cure. Rana's, our second central character, has her own yearning to contend with. She fears she'll never crown, a fear which preoccupied her. A lot. Seriously. She's on about it so often I sometimes felt the urge to sit her down and tell her to take a deep breath. But it's an understandable worry, all things considered. It's also that fear that drives her to want to set out on a dangerous mission and to eventually be directly tied up in the disastrous first meeting between the star beings and the frightened and hostile humans. Though on a lighter note: she gets to be wooed by two young men. And it's adorable. And the way she handles it towards the end had me enjoy her as a character even more.
And that's it, really? I recommend The Calling to anyone who enjoys post-apocalypse stories with a cast of younger heroes who get wrapped up in a high-stakes conflict. There's action. Gunfights. Fascinating magic. An adorable cave digger baby named Digga. Tragic world-building on humanity's side and what they've got to do in order to survive. And, yeah, if you like well-fleshed-out characters and villains who all come with their individual wants and needs and goals.
April 8, 2021
I was both granted complimentary access to The Calling as part of my participation in a blog tour for this title with Goddess Fish Promotions and also approved for a review copy through NetGalley. Thank you to everyone involved in both places who decided I would be a good choice for this book! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
Blog tour stop: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
The Calling is set in the future when humanity was forced underground in order to survive and has since lived a very controlled, The Giver style utopian/dystopan life where the quality of your genetics determines everything about your future. A sickness that plagues these underground people is being purged from the gene pool as cases appear. Meanwhile, when a team of young scientists goes to the surface they encounter other humanoid beings. Are they dangerous? Is life as they know it about to end?
I actually had the opportunity to feature this book on my blog a few months before my scheduled review stop and I was so disappointed not to have room in my schedule for a review back then. Look at this gorgeous cover! And it's listed as YA Sci-Fi! How could I not take the opportunity to check it out?
What I loved:
This version of the future is so interesting! This book is full of rich world-building that probably calls for a second read just to appreciate everything, and yet none of it gets in the way of the plot or any character development. I'm fascinated by all of the species living in this bleak future, both below and above ground, and I can't wait to read on and find out more. Although the eugenics type system going on is an atrocious thought for reality, it's a sci-fi trope I love to read, and OShea has put an interesting spin on it.
What I didn't like:
Too many POVs! Honestly, a lot of characters started to blend together simply because my mind gave up on keeping the POVs straight. I'm not a fan of 4+ POV systems to begin with, but since this book is advertised as YA I really didn't expect to juggle quite so many brains. I also personally felt like this book ran a little long for a YA title and there were definitely much earlier points where the "to be continued" moment could have happened. I do love the point it cuts off on, so I guess it's worth it. Maybe fewer POVs but keeping the same cut-off point might have shaved off 50-100 pages without losing too much. I also really didn't like how extremely heteronormative and patriarchal the book's underground society is. I understand this society is all about perpetuating the species, but there were definitely multiple passages that made it clear husbands are above and in charge of their wives, and with so many different POVs I'm dubious about the lack of hints about anyone having non-het feelings toward anyone else.
Overall this is a strong start to what sounds like a great sci-fi series, and this sci-fi nerd is here for it! Bring on book two! I recommend this book to all fans of science fiction, not just the YA subcategory, and I actually wouldn't recommend this to particularly young or low-level YA readers as it felt more mature than I expected a YA title to be.
Blog tour stop: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
The Calling is set in the future when humanity was forced underground in order to survive and has since lived a very controlled, The Giver style utopian/dystopan life where the quality of your genetics determines everything about your future. A sickness that plagues these underground people is being purged from the gene pool as cases appear. Meanwhile, when a team of young scientists goes to the surface they encounter other humanoid beings. Are they dangerous? Is life as they know it about to end?
I actually had the opportunity to feature this book on my blog a few months before my scheduled review stop and I was so disappointed not to have room in my schedule for a review back then. Look at this gorgeous cover! And it's listed as YA Sci-Fi! How could I not take the opportunity to check it out?
What I loved:
This version of the future is so interesting! This book is full of rich world-building that probably calls for a second read just to appreciate everything, and yet none of it gets in the way of the plot or any character development. I'm fascinated by all of the species living in this bleak future, both below and above ground, and I can't wait to read on and find out more. Although the eugenics type system going on is an atrocious thought for reality, it's a sci-fi trope I love to read, and OShea has put an interesting spin on it.
What I didn't like:
Too many POVs! Honestly, a lot of characters started to blend together simply because my mind gave up on keeping the POVs straight. I'm not a fan of 4+ POV systems to begin with, but since this book is advertised as YA I really didn't expect to juggle quite so many brains. I also personally felt like this book ran a little long for a YA title and there were definitely much earlier points where the "to be continued" moment could have happened. I do love the point it cuts off on, so I guess it's worth it. Maybe fewer POVs but keeping the same cut-off point might have shaved off 50-100 pages without losing too much. I also really didn't like how extremely heteronormative and patriarchal the book's underground society is. I understand this society is all about perpetuating the species, but there were definitely multiple passages that made it clear husbands are above and in charge of their wives, and with so many different POVs I'm dubious about the lack of hints about anyone having non-het feelings toward anyone else.
Overall this is a strong start to what sounds like a great sci-fi series, and this sci-fi nerd is here for it! Bring on book two! I recommend this book to all fans of science fiction, not just the YA subcategory, and I actually wouldn't recommend this to particularly young or low-level YA readers as it felt more mature than I expected a YA title to be.
September 17, 2021
Characters
There are a lot of characters and a lot of POVs (points of view) in the book. I consider it a testimony of Branwen OShea's skill that I had no trouble distinguishing between them and remembering who was who. The characters include both humans living in an undeground haven and star beings living on the surface of the planet. All of them felt like real and flawed people that I could relate to. Most of them were likeable, but there was one violent and destructive POV character, and reading about his thoughts, beliefs and motivations was interesting.
World-building
The story takes place in the far future on Earth, during an ice age. I liked this premise and enjoyed watching the characters interact with the setting, both on the surface and below. The author has given a lot of thought to various aspects of the star beings' culture as well as living underground.
Plot
The plot was straightforward and adventurous. The second half of the book was filled with dramatic action that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Impressions
I loved 'The Calling'! The first chapter immediately drew me in, igniting my curiosity. I've just gotten used to the characters and the setting of the underground haven where humans had descended to survive the ice age, when the POV switched to Rana — the star being living on the surface. It took me some time to readjust and regain the same level of immersion while the POVs kept switching. The pace slowed down, allowing for a deeper understanding of both cultures, which, in retrospect, was quite essential. The tension kept building up, leading to spectacular action scenes, epic adventures, painful losses, personal tragedies and drastic changes for everyone.
Despite some people's violence and cruelty, it is a hopeful story. It explores the relationships that humans have with each other, the environment and the animals, questioning the status quo and offering a glimpse into how things could be done differently. It clearly demonstrates how aggression is born out of fear and invites the reader to reexamine their understanding of their place in the world. Ultimately, it is a story about love.
I liked the fresh angle on the classical YA trope of a love triangle and appreciated that even though it's the first book in a planned series, it wrapped up nicely, providing closure even for those readers who will decide not to continue with the sequel. I am personally looking forward to the next book!
You might enjoy the book if you like sci-fi YA adventures and hopeful narratives.
This review was first published on my website about sci-fi where you can find more reviews, interviews, lists, short stories and more.
There are a lot of characters and a lot of POVs (points of view) in the book. I consider it a testimony of Branwen OShea's skill that I had no trouble distinguishing between them and remembering who was who. The characters include both humans living in an undeground haven and star beings living on the surface of the planet. All of them felt like real and flawed people that I could relate to. Most of them were likeable, but there was one violent and destructive POV character, and reading about his thoughts, beliefs and motivations was interesting.
World-building
The story takes place in the far future on Earth, during an ice age. I liked this premise and enjoyed watching the characters interact with the setting, both on the surface and below. The author has given a lot of thought to various aspects of the star beings' culture as well as living underground.
Plot
The plot was straightforward and adventurous. The second half of the book was filled with dramatic action that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Impressions
I loved 'The Calling'! The first chapter immediately drew me in, igniting my curiosity. I've just gotten used to the characters and the setting of the underground haven where humans had descended to survive the ice age, when the POV switched to Rana — the star being living on the surface. It took me some time to readjust and regain the same level of immersion while the POVs kept switching. The pace slowed down, allowing for a deeper understanding of both cultures, which, in retrospect, was quite essential. The tension kept building up, leading to spectacular action scenes, epic adventures, painful losses, personal tragedies and drastic changes for everyone.
Despite some people's violence and cruelty, it is a hopeful story. It explores the relationships that humans have with each other, the environment and the animals, questioning the status quo and offering a glimpse into how things could be done differently. It clearly demonstrates how aggression is born out of fear and invites the reader to reexamine their understanding of their place in the world. Ultimately, it is a story about love.
I liked the fresh angle on the classical YA trope of a love triangle and appreciated that even though it's the first book in a planned series, it wrapped up nicely, providing closure even for those readers who will decide not to continue with the sequel. I am personally looking forward to the next book!
You might enjoy the book if you like sci-fi YA adventures and hopeful narratives.
This review was first published on my website about sci-fi where you can find more reviews, interviews, lists, short stories and more.
July 23, 2022
I was intrigued by the first chapter and completely hooked by the second chapter. The more I read, the more questions I had, and I couldn’t put The Calling down! OShea’s pacing of The Calling is balanced, feeling neither too slow nor too rushed. She ended chapters at just the right moment, and I often found myself saying, “Just one more chapter.” I was especially impressed with the balance between dialogue and narration, which moved the story along while offering insight into the characters and beautifully describing the world around them.
Perhaps my favorite aspect of this book was the perspective-taking woven throughout the story. On the one hand, the reader is faced with the viewpoint of the members of Northern Haven. They have lived below the earth’s surface for generations and have created unflattering and even dangerous narratives about the people they left behind, the Undescended. But the perspective of these Undescended is so enlightening because they offer an honest and unfiltered view of what is left of humanity, and it is not a positive one. For example, they see how quickly we turn to violence to solve our disagreements and how easy it is for us to use our environment instead of coexisting with it. For me, this is what elevated this book to more than just a good story. It caused me to stop and think about the problems that exist in our world and how many of them derive from greed, anger, and the difficulty in viewing the world through another person’s experience.
There was only one scene in the entire book that I wish had more to it, and this was a conversation between characters Rana, Kahali, and Eka near the end of the book. The three discuss how an emotional issue between them will be resolved. This problem that plagued them for much of the book was quickly addressed and decided. I was looking for more emotion in this scene and even debate as the characters attempted to solve a complex problem!
OShea has created a well-written and engaging series that made my heart race and even surprised me with unexpected story elements. I look forward to reading the second book as I have a feeling the adventures have only just begun.
Read the full review at www.theredheadnotes.com!
Perhaps my favorite aspect of this book was the perspective-taking woven throughout the story. On the one hand, the reader is faced with the viewpoint of the members of Northern Haven. They have lived below the earth’s surface for generations and have created unflattering and even dangerous narratives about the people they left behind, the Undescended. But the perspective of these Undescended is so enlightening because they offer an honest and unfiltered view of what is left of humanity, and it is not a positive one. For example, they see how quickly we turn to violence to solve our disagreements and how easy it is for us to use our environment instead of coexisting with it. For me, this is what elevated this book to more than just a good story. It caused me to stop and think about the problems that exist in our world and how many of them derive from greed, anger, and the difficulty in viewing the world through another person’s experience.
There was only one scene in the entire book that I wish had more to it, and this was a conversation between characters Rana, Kahali, and Eka near the end of the book. The three discuss how an emotional issue between them will be resolved. This problem that plagued them for much of the book was quickly addressed and decided. I was looking for more emotion in this scene and even debate as the characters attempted to solve a complex problem!
OShea has created a well-written and engaging series that made my heart race and even surprised me with unexpected story elements. I look forward to reading the second book as I have a feeling the adventures have only just begun.
Read the full review at www.theredheadnotes.com!
June 23, 2025
For the first half of the book, this is almost two completely different stories. Below ground is straight sci-fi, with advanced technology and weaponry, a rigidly controlled society, and a focus on genetics. (Because, yeah, with a very limited gene pool, over a couple hundred years, if you don’t control who’s procreating with who, your family tree looks like a straight line.)
Above ground, it reads almost like fantasy, with unusual wild creatures, mystical energy, and characters with a lot of unexplained abilities Iike telepathy and teleportation.
It’s also the first half of the book that requires patience, because there is A LOT of world building both above and below ground. There are also a lot of characters introduced and a lot of names to remember.
Your patience is rewarded once the above-and-below worlds crash together. The below-ground crew sends an expedition into the still-frigid and icy surface world in search of a cure for a strange and lethal illness. It takes about five minutes for the first expedition to completely fall apart.
The second half of the book is where the action and the conflict really kicks in, which allows the characters to really show their personalities more. All the odd unexplained things from the first half of the book begin to make sense, and the plot moves forward at a more rapid pace.
And while many of the themes and story beats will feel familiar, the world and characters feel wholly unique and inventive.
I should also mention this is the first book of a series, and it leaves a few threads unraveled for book 2, but I still found the ending satisfyingly conclusive.
This is a great book with a lot going for it. It’s at times deep and thoughtful while also being a fun, exciting ride. It’s got “sci-fi that feels like fantasy” vibes. If that sounds like your thing, this books is for you.
Above ground, it reads almost like fantasy, with unusual wild creatures, mystical energy, and characters with a lot of unexplained abilities Iike telepathy and teleportation.
It’s also the first half of the book that requires patience, because there is A LOT of world building both above and below ground. There are also a lot of characters introduced and a lot of names to remember.
Your patience is rewarded once the above-and-below worlds crash together. The below-ground crew sends an expedition into the still-frigid and icy surface world in search of a cure for a strange and lethal illness. It takes about five minutes for the first expedition to completely fall apart.
The second half of the book is where the action and the conflict really kicks in, which allows the characters to really show their personalities more. All the odd unexplained things from the first half of the book begin to make sense, and the plot moves forward at a more rapid pace.
And while many of the themes and story beats will feel familiar, the world and characters feel wholly unique and inventive.
I should also mention this is the first book of a series, and it leaves a few threads unraveled for book 2, but I still found the ending satisfyingly conclusive.
This is a great book with a lot going for it. It’s at times deep and thoughtful while also being a fun, exciting ride. It’s got “sci-fi that feels like fantasy” vibes. If that sounds like your thing, this books is for you.
April 22, 2021
The Calling is a YA sci-fi novel that happens to be really, really long. It's almost 600 pages, but it packs a lot of story into those pages. The world building is really detailed and vivid, and the characters are well-written and engaging. The plot, though, was a little slow in spots. I found myself struggling a bit to get into it, but things started to get interesting, and as the story progressed, I found myself immersed and intrigued. While I normally do prefer books that are a little more fast-paced, I did enjoy The Calling because of how different it was. The story is set in a time when the surface of the Earth is frozen. Humanity now lives underground, but a Sickness is spreading, and a cure must be found. Bleu, one of our main characters, believes the answer lies above ground. He joins a team leading the trek to find a cure, and what they discover on the surface is not what they were expecting. There are star beings living above them. And when war breaks out, Bleu and Rana, a star being, must find a way to stop it before it's too late. A fascinating, futuristic story reminiscent of The Giver (which I read in middle school). Very bleak at times, and sometimes the multiple POVs get a little confusing, but overall not a bad read. Fans of dystopian/sci-fi novels may like this one.
3.5 stars from me.
3.5 stars from me.
February 21, 2021
The Calling is told from many different points of view one of them being Bleu who lives underground with his mom and sister. Humans have lived underground for a long time as it is way too cold up top. When Bleu’s little sister becomes sick with the mad disease he will do whatever he can to find a cure to save his sister. He believes the cure is up top on the surface. Bleu has been working on a way for everyone to live on the surface.
What is unknown to Bleu and the undergrounders is that life already exists on the surface known as the star beings. Rana a star being lives on the surface with her family. The final stage in the star being's life is when they Crown. Rana has not Crowned yet but her little sister has. Being Crowned in Rana’s world is a big thing. Rana is told to go on a journey alone so hopefully, she will Crown. Rana is supposed to go alone but her best friend doesn’t think she should go alone no matter what anyone says. So he follows her out into the wilderness so to speak.
Bleu finally makes it to the surface by joining the expedition team. On the surface, Bleu and the expedition team are attacked by deadly creatures. Rana herself has a few run-ins with some dangerous creatures of her own and is injured but must continue on with her mission.
The Calling has some great world-building and some really great characters. Once I picked up The Calling I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as the action rolled out. The evolved creatures were so awesome. The descriptions of the creatures were so vivid I could see them in my head. I could see all the characters in my head and would love to see them on the big screen. What an amazing graphical movie The Calling would make. Rana reminded me of Echo, from the clan the Azgeda also known as Azgedakru, or Ice Nation also known as Grounders, from the TV show The 100.
I would recommend The Calling to all sci-fi or dystopian fans! One-click your copy of The Calling today!
What is unknown to Bleu and the undergrounders is that life already exists on the surface known as the star beings. Rana a star being lives on the surface with her family. The final stage in the star being's life is when they Crown. Rana has not Crowned yet but her little sister has. Being Crowned in Rana’s world is a big thing. Rana is told to go on a journey alone so hopefully, she will Crown. Rana is supposed to go alone but her best friend doesn’t think she should go alone no matter what anyone says. So he follows her out into the wilderness so to speak.
Bleu finally makes it to the surface by joining the expedition team. On the surface, Bleu and the expedition team are attacked by deadly creatures. Rana herself has a few run-ins with some dangerous creatures of her own and is injured but must continue on with her mission.
The Calling has some great world-building and some really great characters. Once I picked up The Calling I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as the action rolled out. The evolved creatures were so awesome. The descriptions of the creatures were so vivid I could see them in my head. I could see all the characters in my head and would love to see them on the big screen. What an amazing graphical movie The Calling would make. Rana reminded me of Echo, from the clan the Azgeda also known as Azgedakru, or Ice Nation also known as Grounders, from the TV show The 100.
I would recommend The Calling to all sci-fi or dystopian fans! One-click your copy of The Calling today!
June 14, 2021
Like every book, this book has it's good points and it's bad points. I think the idea of this story, is absolutely phenomenal and such a distinct idea that really spoke to me. Though, I believe that it definitely could have a been executed a bit better and brought to life. This book for me has an extremely slow start, it was quite hard to read, and difficult to keep reading. It was quite confusing at times, especially at the start were it just didn't quite make sense. For me these were the only bad points, but it is incredibly important for a book, hence the three stars. This book also has some wonderful points, I loved the characters, they each had a distinct personality and were really great to read about. The way the chapters switched at some points were a bit confusing but I think it was a great idea and added to the story. The way things are described are great and I had a clear image in my mind. In all this book has a great idea, though if things were executed better, the story would have better unity and be a lot easier to read.
September 26, 2024
This one is a bit harder to review for me. It wasn't a favorite, but it wasn't horrible either. The premise is interesting, earth in the future where people don't remember what it was like when the world wasn't an artic worldwide. The remaining people are a one culture, some barely remembering things from the past. Everything is designed as to "better" the entire population that still exists. Of course, when that happens, there are usually those that do not fit the norm, and this book has those characters too.
It is a long book, with a lot going on. Focus is needed to understand all the intricate parts, and being honest, I probably missed some along the way, it was easy for my mind to wander while reading it. I don't think I will read the squeal, if there is one, it is listed as the first in the "Finding Humanity Series"
It is a long book, with a lot going on. Focus is needed to understand all the intricate parts, and being honest, I probably missed some along the way, it was easy for my mind to wander while reading it. I don't think I will read the squeal, if there is one, it is listed as the first in the "Finding Humanity Series"
November 25, 2024
Humanity is boldly examined in this thought provoking, adventure filled novel.
I enjoyed the varied and engaging characters, keenly following them along each of their story arcs.
The alien society is very well written, playful and intriguing. I enjoyed their connection with nature, animal characters in particular adding to the wonder of the setting.
When the two societies meet the entertainment level increases by the octave.
There is a lot of action and it is so well described that I felt as if I'd visited an underground village and battled in the frozen wilds. Amongst the several surprises during the final chapters, the ultimate twist left me with a lot of questions, yet the story has a satisfying conclusion.
I enjoyed the varied and engaging characters, keenly following them along each of their story arcs.
The alien society is very well written, playful and intriguing. I enjoyed their connection with nature, animal characters in particular adding to the wonder of the setting.
When the two societies meet the entertainment level increases by the octave.
There is a lot of action and it is so well described that I felt as if I'd visited an underground village and battled in the frozen wilds. Amongst the several surprises during the final chapters, the ultimate twist left me with a lot of questions, yet the story has a satisfying conclusion.
July 31, 2022
I enjoyed this epic story about Bleu with his unconditional love for his sister who starts to get sick from the dreaded incurable Sickness, where they are buried deep under the earth. Rana lives above the ground, and it is only in the end when you learn whether they are aliens or an evolved human species. I found this story very deep and loved how those who lived above learned to adapt without holding on to the past, while those who lived below held on to their past and lived in fear off those above. I don't think I've ever disliked a character more than Savas. He actually gave me a feeling of anxiety.
I got this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
I got this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2022
Loved this book!! Read it in about 24 hours simply because I couldn't put it down. All of the characters were so well voiced and developed--even the side characters. I never had trouble remembering names or who was who. Having the multiple points of view really showed both sides of the conflict unfolding at once. It was so gripping, and so many times I just wanted to shout "No!" But somehow, despite it ending with room for the next book, the close was still uplifting and hopeful. I will be thinking about this one for weeks!
March 22, 2023
"The Calling" is the first book in a series called "Finding Humanity".
Well written, with engaging characters and a good pace, we follow the experiences of two groups of people on Earth, one on the surface, one underground.
The ones underground are determined to find other havens where people live, but that's easier said than done. Expeditions to the frozen surface require a lot of preparation, and resources are limited.
Be ready for misunderstanding, rigid minds and insights of many kinds.
Well written, with engaging characters and a good pace, we follow the experiences of two groups of people on Earth, one on the surface, one underground.
The ones underground are determined to find other havens where people live, but that's easier said than done. Expeditions to the frozen surface require a lot of preparation, and resources are limited.
Be ready for misunderstanding, rigid minds and insights of many kinds.
April 4, 2025
The Calling is a competently executed Young Adult Sci-fi with a well defined setting, well-rounded characters who each have their individual traits and goals, and plenty of moral themes and lessons suitable for teenage readers. The only thing missing for me was the compulsion to keep reading to find out what would happen next. I enjoyed working my way through the book in small chunks though, and I'm sure there are plenty of actual young adult readers who would find the tension and suspense that I missed.
May 25, 2022
I found The Calling to be a worthwhile read. The Love vs Fear theme is done well and as it should be, love wins in the end but not without a struggle. The style is a bit wordy for my tastes and the author took too long to get to the action. It took me a couple months to get through the first third of the book and it wasn’t enough to keep me awake many times. Once I got to halfway, I read the rest of the book in one evening. So persevere, the action will come and you won’t put it down.
September 8, 2023
This is such a good book! Engaging young characters, a villain that you can't help feeling a little bit sorry for, a fascinating concept that yields believable conflict, and a beautiful message embedded in it. Of course it helps that the "message" is very similar to the one in my own book, so of course I loved it. But it is well written and I lost most of yesterday because I couldn't put it down.
July 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this great end of the world apocalyptic sci fi adventure! A good read, liked the characters, ideas & plot! I found the story intriguing & will definitely look for more by this writer! I do recommend & will look forward to the rest of the series!
August 2, 2022
this was great start to the Finding Humanity series, the characters were interesting and it was a strong start in getting to know them. The plot of the book was great and it worked for the scifi novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2021
These characters were great! I enjoyed the story ad how it weaved a story of humanity. I need the next book right now! The multi-perspectives were perfect for this story. I need more.
June 11, 2023
Loved it! Cant't wait to grab the second one. This had a highly engaging plot and great characters.
June 18, 2023
A fantasy sci-fi novel full of great characters. A wonderful story told from various viewpoints. I bought the second in the series as soon as I finished this one!
January 5, 2024
Truly stunning and immersive world building. The author didn't just write a story, they wrote an entirely new reality.
November 19, 2024
I gave it a 3 🌟 cause it was hard for me to stay interested in it. Most likely cause it ain't my kind of book. But I also felt it dragged on.
I will try another book by this author later on.
I will try another book by this author later on.
May 11, 2022
A not-your-typical YA story with vivid world building and well-written characters with goals and flaws. Every now and then the plot would drag, but that was only at the beginning. When we reach the surface with the humans, the story doesn't stop. The ending seemed too simple to me, but oh well.
Great book if you like dystopian YA novels but with teenagers who are actually competent.
Great book if you like dystopian YA novels but with teenagers who are actually competent.
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