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The Eye of the Storm
Two brothers, one prophesied for greatness, one unworthy of a gift. Both must face a cataclysmic event that could wipe out not just their herd but all life as they know it.
As the days grow darker and the impending danger is upon them, the Stargazers have reason for hope in young Bravehorn—the one deemed the Chosen One.
But they are not the only herd who knows about the prophecy. Dark forces have their own plans for him, and Bravehorn soon learns that life as the Chosen One is not all fun and games.
While his older brother struggles with living in his shadow, he struggles with the responsibility of his new acclaim. One he’s not sure he wants anymore.
Both brothers will have their loyalty and faith tested in a battle as old as time—light versus dark, good versus evil—as each discovers the true meaning of sacrifice.
***This story is a captivating blend of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure. For readers 10 years old and up. Perfect for classroom or family read-aloud!
As the days grow darker and the impending danger is upon them, the Stargazers have reason for hope in young Bravehorn—the one deemed the Chosen One.
But they are not the only herd who knows about the prophecy. Dark forces have their own plans for him, and Bravehorn soon learns that life as the Chosen One is not all fun and games.
While his older brother struggles with living in his shadow, he struggles with the responsibility of his new acclaim. One he’s not sure he wants anymore.
Both brothers will have their loyalty and faith tested in a battle as old as time—light versus dark, good versus evil—as each discovers the true meaning of sacrifice.
***This story is a captivating blend of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure. For readers 10 years old and up. Perfect for classroom or family read-aloud!
- GenresFantasyChristian Fiction
309 pages, Paperback
Published May 19, 2022
10 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
James R. Hughes
1 book14 followersJames R. Hughes was born and raised in Carrollton, Georgia. An accountant by day, he also has a love of writing, through which he hopes provides the same magic that books provided him during his teenage years and allows readers to discover God’s grace for themselves. The Eye of the Storm is his debut novel.
James still makes his home in Carrollton, where he enjoys traveling, reading, playing tennis, and exploring new cuisines.
James still makes his home in Carrollton, where he enjoys traveling, reading, playing tennis, and exploring new cuisines.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 22, 2022
The story had a Land Before Time vibe about it. The cover could use some interesting action in it. The story needs a professional edit.
August 1, 2022
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the author's debut novel. I would say anyone middle grade age or higher would enjoy this book. I could see the authors influence from the Bible, Chronicles of Narnia and other works that inspired him to create these characters. I loved the use of Spiritual gifts throughout the book and that everyone has a different gift that God blesses them with.
Longcrest is getting ready to find out what gift he has received from Aeneas. But when he goes to find out, he finds out that Aeneas is silent, and that he hasn't received a gift. His brother is found to be the Chosen One who will save the whole herd and he is labeled as a No One. Will these two brothers be able to settle their differences and save their families?
I really enjoyed having a book with dinosaurs in it, we really don't get to see that very often. I loved Longcrest's character and his resilience through all of the trials.
I really enjoyed the author's debut novel. I would say anyone middle grade age or higher would enjoy this book. I could see the authors influence from the Bible, Chronicles of Narnia and other works that inspired him to create these characters. I loved the use of Spiritual gifts throughout the book and that everyone has a different gift that God blesses them with.
Longcrest is getting ready to find out what gift he has received from Aeneas. But when he goes to find out, he finds out that Aeneas is silent, and that he hasn't received a gift. His brother is found to be the Chosen One who will save the whole herd and he is labeled as a No One. Will these two brothers be able to settle their differences and save their families?
I really enjoyed having a book with dinosaurs in it, we really don't get to see that very often. I loved Longcrest's character and his resilience through all of the trials.
August 3, 2022
The Eye of the Storm by James Hughes is a Christian fantasy story about dinosaurs, and I really enjoyed it! I was pleasantly surprised how much fun I had reading this, as fantasy isn’t always my go-to genre. I highly recommend this for middle grade (probably 13+) and young adult readers who love a good fantasy story!
4 stars!
What I loved most about this story is the number of biblical allegorical parallels. This had some great land before time and Narnia vibes! So much of the story can be tied to scripture in the Bible and I LOVED that! I think this book really is a great read for parents to be able to tie in with the biblical stories children learn along the way.
The story is about 2 dinosaur brothers – one born as the chosen one, Bravehorn, and the other brother, Longcrest was not provided a “gift” at their big Acceptance Ceremony as everyone else. The figure that portrays their ‘god’ is called Aeneas and Longcrest doesn’t know how to live his life without receiving a gift like everyone else usually does. He struggles with finding his purpose in life and with his relationship with his brother suffers, as he is the chosen one and Longcrest doesn’t feel like he has anything special. So many trials and tribulations occur throughout the story, leaving you to wonder what will happen next?
My favorite biblical connections or references I saw:
“Let your light shine” and “Light overcomes darkness”.
“Aeneas (parallel to God) has always protected us,” “And he’s still doing so. If you ever feel anxious or need to talk, your mother and I are always here. But ore than anything, Aeneas is always available. He wants to hear from you and take away your fears or burdens. Take your troubles to him.” – Loved this. Direct correlation to our relationship with God.
“Aeneas has good things in store you. Always remember that.” -- Correlation to scripture about God’s plan for us in our life.
“By Believing in me, your spirit will live on, and we will meet again in the High Skies” -- Correlation to believing in Jesus and heaven.
I could go on and on, but as you see above, there were so many biblical allegorical parallels. I loved that. Also some mentions of how he sees your heart and is with you always and knows how you feel, he is in control, have faith in him, we are not defined by what we do, we are defined by him, giving others mercy when you feel like they don’t deserve it, forgiveness, love – just so many great things!
I don’t really have any complaints – it just took me personally a little while to get going at the beginning, but I think that’s more of a personal thing where I don’t read a ton of fantasy, than an issue with the book. 😊 (There is a glossary of dinosaurs at the end that I think would help several!)
What an action-packed ending too! That plot twist!!! Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to honestly read and review.
4 stars!
What I loved most about this story is the number of biblical allegorical parallels. This had some great land before time and Narnia vibes! So much of the story can be tied to scripture in the Bible and I LOVED that! I think this book really is a great read for parents to be able to tie in with the biblical stories children learn along the way.
The story is about 2 dinosaur brothers – one born as the chosen one, Bravehorn, and the other brother, Longcrest was not provided a “gift” at their big Acceptance Ceremony as everyone else. The figure that portrays their ‘god’ is called Aeneas and Longcrest doesn’t know how to live his life without receiving a gift like everyone else usually does. He struggles with finding his purpose in life and with his relationship with his brother suffers, as he is the chosen one and Longcrest doesn’t feel like he has anything special. So many trials and tribulations occur throughout the story, leaving you to wonder what will happen next?
My favorite biblical connections or references I saw:
“Let your light shine” and “Light overcomes darkness”.
“Aeneas (parallel to God) has always protected us,” “And he’s still doing so. If you ever feel anxious or need to talk, your mother and I are always here. But ore than anything, Aeneas is always available. He wants to hear from you and take away your fears or burdens. Take your troubles to him.” – Loved this. Direct correlation to our relationship with God.
“Aeneas has good things in store you. Always remember that.” -- Correlation to scripture about God’s plan for us in our life.
“By Believing in me, your spirit will live on, and we will meet again in the High Skies” -- Correlation to believing in Jesus and heaven.
I could go on and on, but as you see above, there were so many biblical allegorical parallels. I loved that. Also some mentions of how he sees your heart and is with you always and knows how you feel, he is in control, have faith in him, we are not defined by what we do, we are defined by him, giving others mercy when you feel like they don’t deserve it, forgiveness, love – just so many great things!
I don’t really have any complaints – it just took me personally a little while to get going at the beginning, but I think that’s more of a personal thing where I don’t read a ton of fantasy, than an issue with the book. 😊 (There is a glossary of dinosaurs at the end that I think would help several!)
What an action-packed ending too! That plot twist!!! Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to honestly read and review.
July 3, 2022
29 June 2022
4.5 stars!
Wow, this honestly sooo good! I am pleasantly surprised by how much I seriously enjoyed it.
It was honestly harder to rate this than it should have been. I debated rating this 4 stars instead of 4.5, but I just couldn't; I enjoyed it far too much to do that. I also debated rounding down to 4 instead of 5, but again, I couldn't.
While the religious aspects are not subtle at all (which, for the record, is not a deal breaker for me), I found the character and plot development to be exceptionally well done! And I think that the religion was crucial to the world building, so while the religious aspects were a little too on the nose for me, I think anything less would have been an extreme disservice to the book.
Also, just to note, I'd like to say that this was marketed to me as a "YA novel that combines Narnia, Divergent, & Jurassic Park." Personally, I feel this wasn't entirely accurate because even though I knew it was Christian Fiction, I had expected something more subtle, akin to the Chronicles of Narnia. Nonetheless, Jurassic Park is pretty accurate, as this is literally about dinosaurs, but that's the extent of the similarities. I have no idea how it's like Divergent.
Still, nonetheless, this was a very good book, and I highly recommend it, even if you aren't Christian.
Full RTC!
4.5 stars!
I was provided a free e–copy from the author via BNU in exchange for an honest review
~~~~~
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Happy Reading!
4.5 stars!
Wow, this honestly sooo good! I am pleasantly surprised by how much I seriously enjoyed it.
It was honestly harder to rate this than it should have been. I debated rating this 4 stars instead of 4.5, but I just couldn't; I enjoyed it far too much to do that. I also debated rounding down to 4 instead of 5, but again, I couldn't.
While the religious aspects are not subtle at all (which, for the record, is not a deal breaker for me), I found the character and plot development to be exceptionally well done! And I think that the religion was crucial to the world building, so while the religious aspects were a little too on the nose for me, I think anything less would have been an extreme disservice to the book.
Also, just to note, I'd like to say that this was marketed to me as a "YA novel that combines Narnia, Divergent, & Jurassic Park." Personally, I feel this wasn't entirely accurate because even though I knew it was Christian Fiction, I had expected something more subtle, akin to the Chronicles of Narnia. Nonetheless, Jurassic Park is pretty accurate, as this is literally about dinosaurs, but that's the extent of the similarities. I have no idea how it's like Divergent.
Still, nonetheless, this was a very good book, and I highly recommend it, even if you aren't Christian.
Full RTC!
4.5 stars!
I was provided a free e–copy from the author via BNU in exchange for an honest review
~~~~~
Want more bookish stuff?
・ Comment below to discuss this book more. I'd love to hear what you think!
・ Send me a private message on Goodreads to discuss this book and other books!
・ Join Book Nerds Unite to get involved in all things bookish with fellow book nerds!
・ Like this review, and follow me for more book reviews.
・ Subscribe to my blog, Adventures with Asia Minor! https://www.adventureswithasiaminor.com/
Happy Reading!
July 8, 2022
I’d put this between 4 and 5 stars. The message is excellent; I would have liked to see a little more originality.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
1 Peter 4:10-12
This is a longer passage than I usually use, but it perfectly sums up two key elements of the novel: the distribution of spiritual gifts for the benefit of the herd and the coming danger that the dinosaurs are anticipating.
Spiritual Themes
There is a lot of strong Christian symbolism with a straightforward allegorical interpretation, although the spiritual content does not directly map to all of the elements inspired by the Christian faith. It’s clear that the author takes his cues from his faith, but definitely puts his own spin on things. For example, the character that I would interpret as the “Christ character,” in a typical allegory, has grandsons.
Sacrificial love is a big theme, and there are multiple references to the characters’ faith. The characters believe in Aeneas, the Creator, who is in control. Aeneas gives each dinosaur a spiritual gift (there are five) that will benefit the herd. Upon dying, the dinosaurs join Aeneas in the High Skies. However, there is also a herd, the Shadows, who are empowered with evil powers called Haze. Harrow, leader of the Shadows, is a spiritual being who somewhat corresponds to the devil. Redemption, grace and forgiveness are powerful elements in the book, as well.
With the “one brother chosen and one brother giftless” theme, I also thought of Jacob and Esau, although I don’t think those characters correspond directly with the dinosaurs.
What I Liked
I have never been particularly interested in dinosaurs. In fact, I think I am generally less interested in dinosaurs than the average person. With that said, I was very impressed with the author’s knowledge of dinosaurs. There are multiple pages of dinosaur descriptions, at the beginning of the book, referencing their size and behaviors. While I didn’t read this entire section, I think it can be helpful as an educational resource, along with a paleontology unit.
Aeneas is written as a very personal god, who speaks directly to the dinosaurs, and to whom the dinosaurs can speak. In this sense, I feel that the book can be an evangelical tool. It showcases the good news that God WANTS us to know Him and talk to Him. That’s something I am delighted to see in a book for young readers.
The characterization of/interaction with Harrow reminded me of Lord Lunacy in Archives of Anthropos. I liked this because that series is one of my favorite allegories.
I really liked Longcrest and I was so glad that he did not turn out to be like Cain (I was concerned about that, early on in the story). I actually found myself thinking about him, after I finished the story. Crugor was such a sweetheart, too.
I appreciated that this is a book that will appeal to boys and girls, alike, since I recently learned that we need more books for Christian boys!
Overall, I really enjoyed the spiritual content and themes, which conveyed powerful truths.
Respectful Critique
I felt a bit confused by the classification of the book as YA. While I am definitely a proponent of books that are wholesome, for teenagers, this book felt more like a children’s novel, to me. The writing felt a bit simplistic for a YA novel, and there were some notable similarities to existing stories/plots. For me, one of the major plot elements was easy to predict, which felt more like a kid’s book.
Content Notes
A character asks, “What in Harrow’s name,” which I felt strange about, but I can see that it corresponds to the phrase “what the devil.”
Spiritual themes are strong, but it’s worth mentioning that content/characters are fictionalized (not a 100% correspondence to scriptural connections).
Recommendation Status
The book bears some strong similarities to existing kids’ books. However, this make it a good Christian alternative to, say, the Warrior cats books, which were some of my very favorites, as a kid. I really liked the emphasis on God’s closeness, which is a strong commendation. This is a book I’d recommend for kids or as a family read-aloud.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
1 Peter 4:10-12
This is a longer passage than I usually use, but it perfectly sums up two key elements of the novel: the distribution of spiritual gifts for the benefit of the herd and the coming danger that the dinosaurs are anticipating.
Spiritual Themes
There is a lot of strong Christian symbolism with a straightforward allegorical interpretation, although the spiritual content does not directly map to all of the elements inspired by the Christian faith. It’s clear that the author takes his cues from his faith, but definitely puts his own spin on things. For example, the character that I would interpret as the “Christ character,” in a typical allegory, has grandsons.
Sacrificial love is a big theme, and there are multiple references to the characters’ faith. The characters believe in Aeneas, the Creator, who is in control. Aeneas gives each dinosaur a spiritual gift (there are five) that will benefit the herd. Upon dying, the dinosaurs join Aeneas in the High Skies. However, there is also a herd, the Shadows, who are empowered with evil powers called Haze. Harrow, leader of the Shadows, is a spiritual being who somewhat corresponds to the devil. Redemption, grace and forgiveness are powerful elements in the book, as well.
With the “one brother chosen and one brother giftless” theme, I also thought of Jacob and Esau, although I don’t think those characters correspond directly with the dinosaurs.
What I Liked
I have never been particularly interested in dinosaurs. In fact, I think I am generally less interested in dinosaurs than the average person. With that said, I was very impressed with the author’s knowledge of dinosaurs. There are multiple pages of dinosaur descriptions, at the beginning of the book, referencing their size and behaviors. While I didn’t read this entire section, I think it can be helpful as an educational resource, along with a paleontology unit.
Aeneas is written as a very personal god, who speaks directly to the dinosaurs, and to whom the dinosaurs can speak. In this sense, I feel that the book can be an evangelical tool. It showcases the good news that God WANTS us to know Him and talk to Him. That’s something I am delighted to see in a book for young readers.
The characterization of/interaction with Harrow reminded me of Lord Lunacy in Archives of Anthropos. I liked this because that series is one of my favorite allegories.
I really liked Longcrest and I was so glad that he did not turn out to be like Cain (I was concerned about that, early on in the story). I actually found myself thinking about him, after I finished the story. Crugor was such a sweetheart, too.
I appreciated that this is a book that will appeal to boys and girls, alike, since I recently learned that we need more books for Christian boys!
Overall, I really enjoyed the spiritual content and themes, which conveyed powerful truths.
Respectful Critique
I felt a bit confused by the classification of the book as YA. While I am definitely a proponent of books that are wholesome, for teenagers, this book felt more like a children’s novel, to me. The writing felt a bit simplistic for a YA novel, and there were some notable similarities to existing stories/plots. For me, one of the major plot elements was easy to predict, which felt more like a kid’s book.
Content Notes
A character asks, “What in Harrow’s name,” which I felt strange about, but I can see that it corresponds to the phrase “what the devil.”
Spiritual themes are strong, but it’s worth mentioning that content/characters are fictionalized (not a 100% correspondence to scriptural connections).
Recommendation Status
The book bears some strong similarities to existing kids’ books. However, this make it a good Christian alternative to, say, the Warrior cats books, which were some of my very favorites, as a kid. I really liked the emphasis on God’s closeness, which is a strong commendation. This is a book I’d recommend for kids or as a family read-aloud.
April 10, 2022
My thoughts about this book:
Me before reading this book: Ooh! A fun, Christian book about dinosaurs!
Me while reading it: Crugor is my fav character :)
Me after reading it: My mind and heart are shattered. My life will never be the same after this!
I really liked this book besides *the ending*! I like how the Christian messages were woven in this preistroci world and the worldbuilding in general, I liked the main three characters so much (especially Crugor) and even Bravehorn (after his redemption arc). I like how it handled the evil vs good theme, the main characters overcoming their doubts and insecurites...it was truly a fabulous adventure!
Definetly would recomend it!
Also, dear author. I need therapy after that ending.
Me before reading this book: Ooh! A fun, Christian book about dinosaurs!
Me while reading it: Crugor is my fav character :)
Me after reading it: My mind and heart are shattered. My life will never be the same after this!
I really liked this book besides *the ending*! I like how the Christian messages were woven in this preistroci world and the worldbuilding in general, I liked the main three characters so much (especially Crugor) and even Bravehorn (after his redemption arc). I like how it handled the evil vs good theme, the main characters overcoming their doubts and insecurites...it was truly a fabulous adventure!
Definetly would recomend it!
Also, dear author. I need therapy after that ending.
September 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this parable-like fantasy novel about two brothers (dinosaurs), one destined for greatness, and one labeled "giftless". As I read the story, I was reminded of the Chronicles of Narnia, the Land Before Time, and some biblical stories as well. While the story itself isn't particularly original, the author's choice to tell this story via dinosaur characters was definitely unique and I thought he did a great job of it.
I believe the story is geared towards children 10 and up, but depending on the attention span and interest level, I believe this is a story parents could read out loud to their kids over many nights. While the story could be a mainstream fantasy story, it's definitely heavy on the morality lessons, which didn't bother me, but they definitely stood out. As I said, it read much like a parable/morality tale to me. Despite that, I loved the characters, and I loved that the author allowed us to hear the thoughts of many of the characters, rather than just one character. This helped him more effectively teach the lessons he intended as well as helping us to find empathy for some of the less savory characters.
I really enjoyed reading this debut novel and wish the author the best of luck in future books. I would definitely be interested in reading them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Book Sirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I believe the story is geared towards children 10 and up, but depending on the attention span and interest level, I believe this is a story parents could read out loud to their kids over many nights. While the story could be a mainstream fantasy story, it's definitely heavy on the morality lessons, which didn't bother me, but they definitely stood out. As I said, it read much like a parable/morality tale to me. Despite that, I loved the characters, and I loved that the author allowed us to hear the thoughts of many of the characters, rather than just one character. This helped him more effectively teach the lessons he intended as well as helping us to find empathy for some of the less savory characters.
I really enjoyed reading this debut novel and wish the author the best of luck in future books. I would definitely be interested in reading them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Book Sirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 23, 2022
This book is an excellent read! It's full of action, adventure, suspense, and good vs evil. It will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved this book and highly recommend it.
May 17, 2022
The Eye of the Storm is a novel by James R Hughes. This is an outstanding book. The story is inspirational and the strength of family and community. The characters are dinosaurs but with human feelings and emotions. When the young dinosaurs are two, they come to their leader for the Acceptance Ceremony where their god will tell them which of the gifts he has given to them. As a Christian, I thought that this was similar to receiving a Gift of the Spirit from God.I thought that Longcrest and his little brother, Braveheart, were interesting characters. I feel that there is a lot of symbolism in the book and well as depth. The theme of good vs evil is also present… no greater love than to lay down your life for another. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
August 9, 2022
This is an interesting blend of Science Fiction and Action and Adventure. A tale as old as time. Good vs. bad. Family, friends, and herds. It is well written and has some teachable moments woven into the story. An enjoyable read. I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and dinosaurs. Or anyone who wants to read a nice clean story.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book, but that does not affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book, but that does not affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
June 2, 2022
James Hughes gives his readers a delightful Christian allegory using dinosaurs as the main characters. Those who love the ancient beasts will be enthralled, and even those who aren't dinosaur fans will find the story engaging. You'll find some adventure and tragedy as well as other struggles YA (and adult) readers will relate to. Great job!
August 4, 2022
I truly enjoyed reading this book! Not only did I fall in love with each of the characters, I also enjoyed the way the story mirrored different aspects of the Christian faith. I think this would be best suited for younger readers, probably middle-school age, but honestly it's appropriate for any age group and would be good as a family read as well!
November 29, 2021
The time-tested age old battle of good versus evil, light versus dark plays out well in this YA Science Fiction/Fantasy novel. I found it refreshing that the characters are adolescent/teenage(ish) age dinosaurs and not humans. Think Land Before Time but for an older audience.
The author does a great job of capturing the essence of Christianity, without being too overt. It's layered in with the belief system of the Stargazer herd. Along the way, you meet two main characters Longcrest and Bravehorn, brothers, but one who is the Chosen One and one who is 'giftless'.
The reader gets to follow along the adolescent dinosaurs journey of making their way through feelings of being an outcast, pressures of being held to lofty expectations, all way combating typical and not so typical teenage and sibling rivalry.
It's an easy read and a clean (no adult content, language, or violence) read that is age-appropriate for 13 and above.
The author does a great job of capturing the essence of Christianity, without being too overt. It's layered in with the belief system of the Stargazer herd. Along the way, you meet two main characters Longcrest and Bravehorn, brothers, but one who is the Chosen One and one who is 'giftless'.
The reader gets to follow along the adolescent dinosaurs journey of making their way through feelings of being an outcast, pressures of being held to lofty expectations, all way combating typical and not so typical teenage and sibling rivalry.
It's an easy read and a clean (no adult content, language, or violence) read that is age-appropriate for 13 and above.
August 1, 2022
Eye of the Storm by @jamesrhudges_22
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I was surprised I enjoyed reading this book, about Dinosaurs - it kinda reminded me of 'Walking w Dinosaurs'. 🤭 A story of two Brothers, one receiving a gift and the other not receiving a gift from a higher being, like God (Aeneas). I loved learning about their brotherly relationship and how it progressed throughout the story. A twist I didn't expect but glad it ended like that. The author is a great job creating the characters & the plot but one thing I didn't like was how humanized some part where and I couldn't picture it 😅 but if you like this type of theme pick up this book 🦕🦖
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I was surprised I enjoyed reading this book, about Dinosaurs - it kinda reminded me of 'Walking w Dinosaurs'. 🤭 A story of two Brothers, one receiving a gift and the other not receiving a gift from a higher being, like God (Aeneas). I loved learning about their brotherly relationship and how it progressed throughout the story. A twist I didn't expect but glad it ended like that. The author is a great job creating the characters & the plot but one thing I didn't like was how humanized some part where and I couldn't picture it 😅 but if you like this type of theme pick up this book 🦕🦖
August 23, 2022
This book is a young-adult novel, with a strong allegory of God in it. To be honest, I am not quite used to read Christian fantasy, but the metaphors are well-written and fuel the story. I have accepted to receive the story and to make quite a detailed review of it, and I thank James for it once again.
The new terms related to the story (dinosaur's names, cycle, etc.) are quite unusual at first, so it is very clever from the author to have inserted a glossary of terms and dinosaurs.
In it, dinosaurs are humanised, but their physical capacities are kept, which can be fun for kids and teenagers. The Chosen One and the prophecies behind it is at the heart of the story. Also, the idea of being gifted is preponderant, as Longcrest is "ungifted" but still very nice and wise.
From chapter 6/7, Longcrest is qualified as 'giftless' and 'no-one' which can be seen as a metaphor for kids and teenagers who feel like they did not fit in the society. Bravehorn is mean to his brother, and seems very full of himself because of the fear he has.
I think that the fact, the Bravehorn is not the chosen One and that it is Longcrest is quite predictable. Nevertheless, I liked the character of Faraka which was not simplistic and which have shown a real development, and thus I liked the fact that the official reveal of Longcrest as the chosen One was well-done.
Some parts of the book (the prophecies, the mysteries, the legends) are quite repetitive, nevertheless I think these repetitions explain themselves as the novel tends to be read by young-adults.
I do think the last chapter was anecdotal, as the epilogue seems to shorten the essence of it.
Overall, I had a great moment reading this book. The vocabulary is well-chosen, and it is well-written. It also shares great moral values.
The new terms related to the story (dinosaur's names, cycle, etc.) are quite unusual at first, so it is very clever from the author to have inserted a glossary of terms and dinosaurs.
In it, dinosaurs are humanised, but their physical capacities are kept, which can be fun for kids and teenagers. The Chosen One and the prophecies behind it is at the heart of the story. Also, the idea of being gifted is preponderant, as Longcrest is "ungifted" but still very nice and wise.
From chapter 6/7, Longcrest is qualified as 'giftless' and 'no-one' which can be seen as a metaphor for kids and teenagers who feel like they did not fit in the society. Bravehorn is mean to his brother, and seems very full of himself because of the fear he has.
I think that the fact, the Bravehorn is not the chosen One and that it is Longcrest is quite predictable. Nevertheless, I liked the character of Faraka which was not simplistic and which have shown a real development, and thus I liked the fact that the official reveal of Longcrest as the chosen One was well-done.
Some parts of the book (the prophecies, the mysteries, the legends) are quite repetitive, nevertheless I think these repetitions explain themselves as the novel tends to be read by young-adults.
I do think the last chapter was anecdotal, as the epilogue seems to shorten the essence of it.
Overall, I had a great moment reading this book. The vocabulary is well-chosen, and it is well-written. It also shares great moral values.
June 7, 2022
This book was so good! I really enjoyed the Christian aspects of the book, and I love the characters! By the end of the book I was crying, but my heart felt so good! James did such a good job with the story building up and an unexpected plot twist. I was intrigued to find out what would happen in the end! This book would be good to read aloud in your classroom or at night to your children. I promise you it will become part of your treasured library!
August 20, 2022
I accepted the opportunity to read this book with no expectation from the author of a review.
I realized early, now about 50% through, that I was just reading to read. I could not get into the book at all. Unfortunately I realized not my genre.
I realized early, now about 50% through, that I was just reading to read. I could not get into the book at all. Unfortunately I realized not my genre.
July 29, 2022
This is a pretty good book. I struggled with the story. It got better. Two brothers with different callings. They work together to survive in a fight against good and evil.
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