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Sky Tracer
In the eternal darkness of the fungal realm of Ūmfalla, two women from different worlds form an unlikely bond and use their newfound powers to try and topple an empire.
In Ümfalla, only those with dark-bright eyes can see the way. A Wanderer with a forgotten past and a mechanical-arm named, MĒNA, is one of those few. When she rescues a woman named, RUTHY, who has fallen from Sky Tracer—an abysmal machine that transports stolen children over the dark land to be sacrificed—she is thrust into a fight against the warrior Reapers and magical Weirs for the very existence of the realm. The world-tree of the sunlit realm of Avernus looms large over the Spore Cloud that shrouds Ümfalla in eternal darkness. Through secrets and deception, RUTHY reveals that she is actually ARETHŪSA, the new Ruler of Avernus who can speak through the mycelium beneath the earth and directly to the Goddess who sleeps within the world-tree.
In Ümfalla, only those with dark-bright eyes can see the way. A Wanderer with a forgotten past and a mechanical-arm named, MĒNA, is one of those few. When she rescues a woman named, RUTHY, who has fallen from Sky Tracer—an abysmal machine that transports stolen children over the dark land to be sacrificed—she is thrust into a fight against the warrior Reapers and magical Weirs for the very existence of the realm. The world-tree of the sunlit realm of Avernus looms large over the Spore Cloud that shrouds Ümfalla in eternal darkness. Through secrets and deception, RUTHY reveals that she is actually ARETHŪSA, the new Ruler of Avernus who can speak through the mycelium beneath the earth and directly to the Goddess who sleeps within the world-tree.
338 pages, Paperback
Published February 17, 2023
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71 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 6, 2023
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I recieved a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review. Anyone looking at this book for the first time would probably say this is a carbon copy of The Last of Us and they couldn’t be more wrong. Hayden Moore has such a skill with a pen writing poetic prose in a grim dark setting. Page after page of beautiful flowing sentences even while everything around our main characters may end up going to shit. A foreign realm to our own in every way imaginable and if your not careful the will make your mind spin in all the good ways and maybe even some bad. Lets get into the review.
The land of Umfalla is the fungal realm where we meet our two main characters. Mushrooms sprouting like trees as far as the eyes can see and each one producing a different spore. These spores can have varying effects on the human body and not all of them are ingested for pleasure. Umfalla is also a land shrouded in darkness and the local people and creatures have dark bright eyes in order to see. This all is about to change when Ruthy falls from the land above in a machine called Sky Tracer to be sacrificed. Ruthy awakens from her fall in a daze and is rescued by the wanderer Mena. Mena has a long forgotten past and travels Umfalla with a sword and a mechanical arm. Mena chooses to protect Ruthy from the warrior Reapers and the magical Weirs because she is looking for a way to end the Fungal Realm once and for all. Mena’s answer may have come in the form of Ruthy when they travel to the world-tree and Ruthy is able to communicate with the Goddess within. Things will never be the same and you have better have your seat belts strapped in.
Although Sky Tracer is Hayden Moore’s debut novel, it won’t take you long to discover the brilliant and poetic prose as the foundation this book was built upon. The character work is also top notch as the backstory and history of our two main charcters slowly begins to unwind, the stakes and pressure continue to mount. With each an every chapter a new sense and realization of wonder is shown to the reader and it is a wild ride when you find where the story ends up going. Mena is by far the character who steals the show for me. A bit of a loose cannon but the lengths that she will go to accomplish her goals and the secrets she has kept hidden for many years were shocking for me to read. Twists are sprinkled throughout the story and it was completly unpredicatable where the story ends.
In a strange world with magic, mysterious creatures, and characters you will love to hate in certain situations Sky Tracer is a huge success as a debut novel. Its ambitious and challenging at first for the reader but it will reward the strong and determined. I will certainly be on the lookout for the sequel novel of the horizon but until then.
Cheers!
I recieved a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review. Anyone looking at this book for the first time would probably say this is a carbon copy of The Last of Us and they couldn’t be more wrong. Hayden Moore has such a skill with a pen writing poetic prose in a grim dark setting. Page after page of beautiful flowing sentences even while everything around our main characters may end up going to shit. A foreign realm to our own in every way imaginable and if your not careful the will make your mind spin in all the good ways and maybe even some bad. Lets get into the review.
The land of Umfalla is the fungal realm where we meet our two main characters. Mushrooms sprouting like trees as far as the eyes can see and each one producing a different spore. These spores can have varying effects on the human body and not all of them are ingested for pleasure. Umfalla is also a land shrouded in darkness and the local people and creatures have dark bright eyes in order to see. This all is about to change when Ruthy falls from the land above in a machine called Sky Tracer to be sacrificed. Ruthy awakens from her fall in a daze and is rescued by the wanderer Mena. Mena has a long forgotten past and travels Umfalla with a sword and a mechanical arm. Mena chooses to protect Ruthy from the warrior Reapers and the magical Weirs because she is looking for a way to end the Fungal Realm once and for all. Mena’s answer may have come in the form of Ruthy when they travel to the world-tree and Ruthy is able to communicate with the Goddess within. Things will never be the same and you have better have your seat belts strapped in.
Although Sky Tracer is Hayden Moore’s debut novel, it won’t take you long to discover the brilliant and poetic prose as the foundation this book was built upon. The character work is also top notch as the backstory and history of our two main charcters slowly begins to unwind, the stakes and pressure continue to mount. With each an every chapter a new sense and realization of wonder is shown to the reader and it is a wild ride when you find where the story ends up going. Mena is by far the character who steals the show for me. A bit of a loose cannon but the lengths that she will go to accomplish her goals and the secrets she has kept hidden for many years were shocking for me to read. Twists are sprinkled throughout the story and it was completly unpredicatable where the story ends.
In a strange world with magic, mysterious creatures, and characters you will love to hate in certain situations Sky Tracer is a huge success as a debut novel. Its ambitious and challenging at first for the reader but it will reward the strong and determined. I will certainly be on the lookout for the sequel novel of the horizon but until then.
Cheers!
May 9, 2024
4.5 stars
Sky Tracer is a beautifully written epic fantasy novel set in a fungal realm called Umfalla and I had the pleasure to consume this in audiobook format, narrated by the author himself. The story starts when one of our main characters falls from the sky and is found by a Wanderer who has a mechanical arm. Soon the plot thickens and our main characters are going through adventures in the fungal realms, but none of them is who they say they are.
I read the synopsis and while I immediately thought that this book seemed to be my cup of tea, nothing could prepare me for the uniqueness, the detailed story and the overall feeling of this book. It is definitely an epic fantasy novel, but it is also something more: The prose is beautifully detailed and descriptive with dark undertones. The entire world is beautiful in it’s darkness and so are the characters. Everything and everyone seem to be connected at an intrinsic physical and spiritual level. This book read as something different, something special, that kept me glued through what felt like multiple stories at once and somehow, just an amazingly written one. The characters grow, struggle and change in the best way possible and none of them have a problem doing what they need to survive.
Thank you so much to Hayden Moore for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sky Tracer is a beautifully written epic fantasy novel set in a fungal realm called Umfalla and I had the pleasure to consume this in audiobook format, narrated by the author himself. The story starts when one of our main characters falls from the sky and is found by a Wanderer who has a mechanical arm. Soon the plot thickens and our main characters are going through adventures in the fungal realms, but none of them is who they say they are.
I read the synopsis and while I immediately thought that this book seemed to be my cup of tea, nothing could prepare me for the uniqueness, the detailed story and the overall feeling of this book. It is definitely an epic fantasy novel, but it is also something more: The prose is beautifully detailed and descriptive with dark undertones. The entire world is beautiful in it’s darkness and so are the characters. Everything and everyone seem to be connected at an intrinsic physical and spiritual level. This book read as something different, something special, that kept me glued through what felt like multiple stories at once and somehow, just an amazingly written one. The characters grow, struggle and change in the best way possible and none of them have a problem doing what they need to survive.
Thank you so much to Hayden Moore for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2023
This book whisked me away to an incredibly rich and full world unlike any other I have ever read! We start off in Umfalla, a dark magical fungal world where mushrooms grow like trees and different spores hold various powers. We meet Mena and Ruthy, our two main characters, when Ruthy falls from the sky out of a machine called Sky Tracer and Mena protects her from the Reapers who immediately start hunting her down. Mena is a badass with a sword and mechanical arm. It quickly becomes clear that there is more to Ruthy than she initially wants to give off. The two set off on an epic quest and we are taken through this unbelievable world where magic wielders, known as Weirs, wield magic through Whispering and Names have powers. The world itself is incredible and beautiful and enchanting. We meet A LOT of characters along the way, some more lasting than others, but you’ll need to pay attention as our cast expands. There are many secrets and reveals along the way. Memories long forgotten come to the surface, and not everyone is who or what they initially seem. We are taken to the surface world on this journey on the backs of spiders and it’s just as enchanting and ethereal as the fungal realm, with towering trees and crystalline structures blending together. Political plots are revealed, truths are unearthed, and Goddesses awaken. It is a complex plot!
While I very much enjoyed the world and the imagery and the visions it placed into my head, I do think the whimsical and descriptive writing sometimes overshadowed the plot and storyline, making it challenging to always understand what was going on. That being said, the writing IS beautiful and descriptive and some lines are so gorgeous I stopped to highlight them. So there are pros and cons to the writing style, which will ultimately come down to personal preference. Overall, I was captivated by the characters and the storyline. I always wanted to know what was going to happen and where the story was taking us. I was definitely surprised along the way! And the world itself is just incredible!
While I very much enjoyed the world and the imagery and the visions it placed into my head, I do think the whimsical and descriptive writing sometimes overshadowed the plot and storyline, making it challenging to always understand what was going on. That being said, the writing IS beautiful and descriptive and some lines are so gorgeous I stopped to highlight them. So there are pros and cons to the writing style, which will ultimately come down to personal preference. Overall, I was captivated by the characters and the storyline. I always wanted to know what was going to happen and where the story was taking us. I was definitely surprised along the way! And the world itself is just incredible!
September 11, 2023
Sky Tracer was pitched to me by friends as a perfect read for anyone interested in mycology, and it absolutely delivers, and if you are interested in anything fungal related, this is a book that needs to be read.
Recently, I have found myself frustrated with fantasy debuts, where authors fail to create anything original. This is where this book shined for me. Moore was able to build an immersive and wholly unique world that still felt comfortable. What was most impressive is that I found he was able to do so with very little exposition. The world grew as the story progressed, and the vivid imagery the writing envoked was cinematic. If James Cameron wanted to do a fungal setting for the next Avatar movie, this stody would provide some great ideas because of how well the world was built.
I have gushed enough about the geographical and physical world elements of the world building, but all the other aspects deserve praise as well. The political situation and tensions in this world were quite complex, and had a lot of depth despite the relatively short word count. The magic system was quite unique, again adding to the originality of the story.
Story wise, Moore throws us right into the deep end. As someone who reads a lot of epic fantasy, I love this stylistic choice by authors, but I know it can be hard to execute. For me, it worked perfectly, and even in times where I felt I had no idea what was going on, I was so immersed into the story by the world building and writing.
Both the writing style and the short chapter helped me get invested in the story. Short chapters helped with the pacing, which I found was quite rapid, and I was able to breeze through the story. It was written in a way where all the fat had been trimmed, which is impressive for a debut.
The characters were a mixed bag for me, and the primary reason this wasn't a perfect read for me. As much as I loved the fast pace and progression of the story, I feel that it came at the cost of some aspects of characterization. Immediately, I felt that the two "main" characters (Mena and Ruthy) became emotionally connected too quickly. As the story moved along, characters who were mere side characters with little background jump into prominent plot roles just a few pages later. This was a bit jarring at times because it felt like I missed something, but overall, this is just a minor gripe of mine.
Though, I have to give props to the way diversity was handled in this one. I respect the addition of disabled characters and how naturally woven in diverse sexualities were. It's nice knowing that I can recommend this read to those looking for LGBTQ representation.
The last 50ish pages is where the story really came together for me and it proved to be an absolutely exhilirating finish. I look forward to sinking my teeth into the next mushroom filled book.
Recently, I have found myself frustrated with fantasy debuts, where authors fail to create anything original. This is where this book shined for me. Moore was able to build an immersive and wholly unique world that still felt comfortable. What was most impressive is that I found he was able to do so with very little exposition. The world grew as the story progressed, and the vivid imagery the writing envoked was cinematic. If James Cameron wanted to do a fungal setting for the next Avatar movie, this stody would provide some great ideas because of how well the world was built.
I have gushed enough about the geographical and physical world elements of the world building, but all the other aspects deserve praise as well. The political situation and tensions in this world were quite complex, and had a lot of depth despite the relatively short word count. The magic system was quite unique, again adding to the originality of the story.
Story wise, Moore throws us right into the deep end. As someone who reads a lot of epic fantasy, I love this stylistic choice by authors, but I know it can be hard to execute. For me, it worked perfectly, and even in times where I felt I had no idea what was going on, I was so immersed into the story by the world building and writing.
Both the writing style and the short chapter helped me get invested in the story. Short chapters helped with the pacing, which I found was quite rapid, and I was able to breeze through the story. It was written in a way where all the fat had been trimmed, which is impressive for a debut.
The characters were a mixed bag for me, and the primary reason this wasn't a perfect read for me. As much as I loved the fast pace and progression of the story, I feel that it came at the cost of some aspects of characterization. Immediately, I felt that the two "main" characters (Mena and Ruthy) became emotionally connected too quickly. As the story moved along, characters who were mere side characters with little background jump into prominent plot roles just a few pages later. This was a bit jarring at times because it felt like I missed something, but overall, this is just a minor gripe of mine.
Though, I have to give props to the way diversity was handled in this one. I respect the addition of disabled characters and how naturally woven in diverse sexualities were. It's nice knowing that I can recommend this read to those looking for LGBTQ representation.
The last 50ish pages is where the story really came together for me and it proved to be an absolutely exhilirating finish. I look forward to sinking my teeth into the next mushroom filled book.
Read
July 8, 2024Thank you to the author for sending me the audio of this book.
While I am not sure I am the correct reader for this book, I definitely appreciate the poetic prose to his writing in the fungi world he created. It was otherworldly and nothing I had quite read before. The world is brutal with its characters but also beautiful and lush, like a mushroom syfy with demons, magic, and dragons
The characters are diverse, and the pacing was good. The beginning did grab me, but I felt lost a bit in some parts of the story.
The author did the narration himself, which is really cool!
While I am not sure I am the correct reader for this book, I definitely appreciate the poetic prose to his writing in the fungi world he created. It was otherworldly and nothing I had quite read before. The world is brutal with its characters but also beautiful and lush, like a mushroom syfy with demons, magic, and dragons
The characters are diverse, and the pacing was good. The beginning did grab me, but I felt lost a bit in some parts of the story.
The author did the narration himself, which is really cool!
February 25, 2023
Epic Novel - Highly Recommend
The author created realms that are breathtaking and characters I will never forget. I’m hoping for a sequel and more of this intricately woven world.
The author created realms that are breathtaking and characters I will never forget. I’m hoping for a sequel and more of this intricately woven world.
March 21, 2023
Sky Tracer is an epic fantasy tale set in an unusual world which has echoes of Norse and Greek mythology.
The story opens in the dim world of the forest floor and the biosphere of mushrooms. Ruthy has fallen from the ‘sky’, escaping a ship. She is found by a lone warrior called Mēna and together they set off on an adventure; they collect lots more characters on their way and together face many battles.
This is a complex story, not easy to follow with many twists and even when I had finished the book, I still didn’t understand it all.
What I liked about the story:
Setting the opening part of the book in a world filled with mushrooms was my favourite part of the book and I could see a lot of thought had gone into this. Mēna was the character I empathised with most, and her fascinating mechanical arm was a good aspect of the story. I also liked the idea of The Tree Of Ancients and everything that lived on or in it.
What I didn’t like as much:
Sadly I found that the flowery writing style overpowered the world-building and storyline to the point where it was hard to want to read in large chunks. Many of the female characters were jarringly masculine, swearing and talking of sexual acts in what would be termed in this world as a 'laddish' fashion. I don’t mind ‘F’ bombs and sexual talk where appropriate, but in this high fantasy setting it felt wrong. My last point goes to the use of multiple names for more than one character; this became very confusing in a plot that was already intricate.
Overall, a complex plot in a fantasy world, with an overpowering writing style which made it challenging to read.
The story opens in the dim world of the forest floor and the biosphere of mushrooms. Ruthy has fallen from the ‘sky’, escaping a ship. She is found by a lone warrior called Mēna and together they set off on an adventure; they collect lots more characters on their way and together face many battles.
This is a complex story, not easy to follow with many twists and even when I had finished the book, I still didn’t understand it all.
What I liked about the story:
Setting the opening part of the book in a world filled with mushrooms was my favourite part of the book and I could see a lot of thought had gone into this. Mēna was the character I empathised with most, and her fascinating mechanical arm was a good aspect of the story. I also liked the idea of The Tree Of Ancients and everything that lived on or in it.
What I didn’t like as much:
Sadly I found that the flowery writing style overpowered the world-building and storyline to the point where it was hard to want to read in large chunks. Many of the female characters were jarringly masculine, swearing and talking of sexual acts in what would be termed in this world as a 'laddish' fashion. I don’t mind ‘F’ bombs and sexual talk where appropriate, but in this high fantasy setting it felt wrong. My last point goes to the use of multiple names for more than one character; this became very confusing in a plot that was already intricate.
Overall, a complex plot in a fantasy world, with an overpowering writing style which made it challenging to read.
September 17, 2024
I would like to thank the author Hayden Moore for providing me with an audiobook in exchange for an honest review! 🍄
I had Sky Tracer stuck in my mind for some time before settling on a 3,5* review, which in my rating means - Sky Tracer is a good book that I would recommend to a specific audience.
🍄 Unique fungal concept
🍄 LGBTQ+ characters
🍄 Female main characters
🍄 Disability rep
🍄 High fantasy
WORLD
The rich world-building in this book creates an atmospheric and especially unique setting for the story in the mushroom realm of Umfalla with creative use of spore magic and fungal biodiversity. Those interested in themes of mycology would find this high-fantasy book especially appealing! Think of *bioluminescent fungal realm*
CHARACTERS
I would love to say that this story belongs to strong women with even stronger minds. The MCs Mena and Ruthy meet under questionable circumstances, think *one falls from the sky*, but against all odds a strong alliance forms in the hope of toppling an oppressive empire. We set on an epic journey following not only the fight for Umfalla but also the complex backstory of each character unfolding with each page. I don't want to spoil anything but Mena's determination to achieve her goals and personality overall really made her my favourite character.
AUDIOBOOK
Although the writing of Sky Tracer can be easily described as poetic and lush, I would say that the audiobook narrated by the author himself, Hayden Moore, is a completely new way to relive the story. The narration was IMO done beautifully, everything sounded clear and especially magically! H. Moore's voice acting gave the story a whole new layer and I would recommend every fan of Sky Tracer to listen to the audiobook version as well!
DISLIKES
As a first-time reader of anything with fungal theme, a whole mushroom realm was a little confusing for me in some parts of the description, so be prepared to Google or know your shrooms people! Haha.
Even with such unique characters, the name changing and multiple POV switches, make that some confusion can arise easily.
I have nothing against slurs and sexual themes in books, but their frequent reoccurrence in this high-fantasy setting felt unnecessary to me.
ALL IN ALL
Sky Tracer is a great debut novel, with a unique high fantasy setting, eerie elements, complex plot, determined characters and a stirring finish ... triggering a new set of events for the next book!
I had Sky Tracer stuck in my mind for some time before settling on a 3,5* review, which in my rating means - Sky Tracer is a good book that I would recommend to a specific audience.
🍄 Unique fungal concept
🍄 LGBTQ+ characters
🍄 Female main characters
🍄 Disability rep
🍄 High fantasy
WORLD
The rich world-building in this book creates an atmospheric and especially unique setting for the story in the mushroom realm of Umfalla with creative use of spore magic and fungal biodiversity. Those interested in themes of mycology would find this high-fantasy book especially appealing! Think of *bioluminescent fungal realm*
CHARACTERS
I would love to say that this story belongs to strong women with even stronger minds. The MCs Mena and Ruthy meet under questionable circumstances, think *one falls from the sky*, but against all odds a strong alliance forms in the hope of toppling an oppressive empire. We set on an epic journey following not only the fight for Umfalla but also the complex backstory of each character unfolding with each page. I don't want to spoil anything but Mena's determination to achieve her goals and personality overall really made her my favourite character.
AUDIOBOOK
Although the writing of Sky Tracer can be easily described as poetic and lush, I would say that the audiobook narrated by the author himself, Hayden Moore, is a completely new way to relive the story. The narration was IMO done beautifully, everything sounded clear and especially magically! H. Moore's voice acting gave the story a whole new layer and I would recommend every fan of Sky Tracer to listen to the audiobook version as well!
DISLIKES
As a first-time reader of anything with fungal theme, a whole mushroom realm was a little confusing for me in some parts of the description, so be prepared to Google or know your shrooms people! Haha.
Even with such unique characters, the name changing and multiple POV switches, make that some confusion can arise easily.
I have nothing against slurs and sexual themes in books, but their frequent reoccurrence in this high-fantasy setting felt unnecessary to me.
ALL IN ALL
Sky Tracer is a great debut novel, with a unique high fantasy setting, eerie elements, complex plot, determined characters and a stirring finish ... triggering a new set of events for the next book!
May 30, 2023
3.5 rounded up. ✨
Thank you to Hayden Moore for reaching out and sending me a copy of this epic high fantasy tale in exchange for an honest review.
In the bioluminescent, mycelial world of Űmfalla, a warrior with dark-bright eyes, a mechanical arm and a forgotten past crosses paths with a woman who has fallen out of the sky. What comes to pass is an epic tale of these two entangled women, with their own unique powers, as they diverge and come together to battle out the fate of the sky realm above, and the fungal world below.
What I liked about it:
🍄 This book had such a unique and rich setting that was a joy to read about, from the ginormous, Avatar-like world-tree, to the bioluminescent fungal realm beneath. I loved the descriptions of Űmfalla under its spore cloud and of the different shrooms and creatures.
🍄 Well-realised main characters (especially Mēna, our warrior) and relationships, with a strong cast of secondary characters.
🍄 There are demons, goddesses, elemetal power wielders, dragons and dragon riders! Heck yeah!!
🍄 I really liked the concept of the Sky Tracer, (without giving much away) some related aspects of it creeped me out!
🍄 The concept of dark-bright eyes. Idk just thought it was cool. :)
🍄 I like documentaries on the use of plant medicines and really liked how the dialogue was done/what was said when Mēna (our warrior) and Ruthy (sky lady) ingest some. 🍄✨
🍄 A solid book setting up for more to come!
What I didn't gel with:
🍃 The world and story/it's vastness of characters were quite complex, in the way of high fantasy. This is fine, but the sudden changing of names for main characters threw me off a bit at points in the story where I was still trying to figure out what was going on.
🍃 The writing style at times made progressing through these complexities challenging, and I didn't always find the dialogues easy to follow.
🍃 Why is everyone always winking at each other!?!?!?
🍃 I don't fully understand the gravity of the books conclusion and am not sure if I should by now?? Maybe it'll be better explained in books to come.
Overall, would I read the next book in The Fungal Realm? Yes! Would I recommend it? Also yes!
Thank you to Hayden Moore for reaching out and sending me a copy of this epic high fantasy tale in exchange for an honest review.
In the bioluminescent, mycelial world of Űmfalla, a warrior with dark-bright eyes, a mechanical arm and a forgotten past crosses paths with a woman who has fallen out of the sky. What comes to pass is an epic tale of these two entangled women, with their own unique powers, as they diverge and come together to battle out the fate of the sky realm above, and the fungal world below.
What I liked about it:
🍄 This book had such a unique and rich setting that was a joy to read about, from the ginormous, Avatar-like world-tree, to the bioluminescent fungal realm beneath. I loved the descriptions of Űmfalla under its spore cloud and of the different shrooms and creatures.
🍄 Well-realised main characters (especially Mēna, our warrior) and relationships, with a strong cast of secondary characters.
🍄 There are demons, goddesses, elemetal power wielders, dragons and dragon riders! Heck yeah!!
🍄 I really liked the concept of the Sky Tracer, (without giving much away) some related aspects of it creeped me out!
🍄 The concept of dark-bright eyes. Idk just thought it was cool. :)
🍄 I like documentaries on the use of plant medicines and really liked how the dialogue was done/what was said when Mēna (our warrior) and Ruthy (sky lady) ingest some. 🍄✨
🍄 A solid book setting up for more to come!
What I didn't gel with:
🍃 The world and story/it's vastness of characters were quite complex, in the way of high fantasy. This is fine, but the sudden changing of names for main characters threw me off a bit at points in the story where I was still trying to figure out what was going on.
🍃 The writing style at times made progressing through these complexities challenging, and I didn't always find the dialogues easy to follow.
🍃 Why is everyone always winking at each other!?!?!?
🍃 I don't fully understand the gravity of the books conclusion and am not sure if I should by now?? Maybe it'll be better explained in books to come.
Overall, would I read the next book in The Fungal Realm? Yes! Would I recommend it? Also yes!
April 19, 2023
Okay this has got to be one of the most unique fantasy worlds I have ever had the pleasure of reading. I can’t even try and explain it, you just need to read about it for yourself. The world building and magic systems are just so beautiful.
The characters in this novel are so diverse we have openly LGBTQ characters, our main character is disabled as well as having a blind side character. And each one though all with clear flaws are so relatabe in their own right.
We also get dragons so I mean you can’t complain.
The only issue I had was the writing style while very Tolkienesque meant that it was a little difficult to get into but after part one and getting used to the flow it was much easier to understand and I devoured the rest of the book.
The politics within the fungal realm are very delicate and on the verge of a huge blow up. It was very intense in the regard that the wrong word could trigger chaos.
All in all this was an epic and unique fantasy that I NEED everyone to read so I can talk about it 🙌
The characters in this novel are so diverse we have openly LGBTQ characters, our main character is disabled as well as having a blind side character. And each one though all with clear flaws are so relatabe in their own right.
We also get dragons so I mean you can’t complain.
The only issue I had was the writing style while very Tolkienesque meant that it was a little difficult to get into but after part one and getting used to the flow it was much easier to understand and I devoured the rest of the book.
The politics within the fungal realm are very delicate and on the verge of a huge blow up. It was very intense in the regard that the wrong word could trigger chaos.
All in all this was an epic and unique fantasy that I NEED everyone to read so I can talk about it 🙌
June 6, 2023
An addictive weird-fantasy depicting the brink of change with one foot in the darkness of brewing catastrophe and the other in found-family tenderness, Sky Tracer is a drug-like trip with dragons and magic and unapologetically bloody violence.
"Everything is connected. That much I know. Ümfalla is held together by a thread. Change is in the wind, but I can't pretend understanding. Perhaps everything must fall for another Age to rise."
Welcome to Moore’s nightmarescape mushroom dystopia. Moore writes with an horrific type of beauty, one that reminds me of VanderMeer and Le Guin, and just like those two authors, his prose is the perfect accompaniment to the weird and the dark. This magical combination of borderline poetic text and mild horror fantasy world is, in my opinion, the books strongest asset. I was addicted from page one, and quickly found myself in love with the world and its mystique. Everything feels connected in a way that is as much literal as it is spiritual; as much horrifying as it was beautiful. Dense, fungal and anxiety-inducing landscapes are complemented by the spiritual, sometimes sensual connection between the characters. The bonds between them are a Yang to the worlds Yin. I was in awe of the mushroom focused setting and could tell that the author was clued up on his subject matter, you get the feeling that this is a project of passion as well as ambition. Not only did the mushroomyness of the thing create some wonderfully unique imagery, but it allowed the author to write some hallucinogenic sequences, indulging that part of me which forever craves the feeling of stupor in my fiction. Seriously: more authors should write trip sequences, it’s fantastic when done right.
It is the mystique of the world that drives much of the narrative: ‘What is this “Sky Tracer?”’ The point at which you ask this question is also the point where the world opens up in scale. The initial dose of claustrophobic queasiness, that confused doe-eyed introduction to Ümfalla which sets up the haunting beauty of the scene, begins to open up and reveal what is beyond the mushroom-spore shroud; what’s outside though is merely a different kind of darkness, one where the violence doesn’t yield and the horrors are greater than initially hinted at. I was impressed with the scope of this novel, and I’m eager to continue reading Moore...-do you...-do you see what I did there?
While I’ve so far described just how dark and bloodsoaked this world is, allow this segment to soothe your dread: there is a strong found-family element to this book with heavy focus on identity and belonging, and, admittedly, while my favourite bits were the hellish/beautiful landscape descriptions and overall poeticism of the thing, the bonds formed between the protagonists did truly warm my heart. I’m a fan of both main characters, and of the people they cross paths with. The magical elements of the characters’ in particular made for a refreshing read; I won’t spoil what Moore has worked hard at creating, but I will promise you that it’s much more interesting than wizards casting spells. If you’ve read this book, keep its magic a secret, speak of it only in whispered tones...
Who would I recommend this book to?
Fans of traditional sword-sorcery fantasy with wizards, goblins, action heroes and damsels in distress: avert your eyes. I don’t think there’s much for you here.
For anyone who finds that the fantasy scene is filled with tropey nonsense and you’re forever on the hunt for something special: I urge you to read this book. It is wonderful. This is how fantasy should be done.
“She thought she would see life in some kind of conciliatory light when death was near. Nothingness was ahead, while nebulous regrets followed through the grime.”
I would call myself a “part time” fantasy reader. I find myself reading fantasy about 1/10th of the time, or less, but I am constantly hunting for the gems. I’ve quite a specific taste when it comes to fantasy, namely I need something thick with atmosphere and negative, anxious emotions. None of that happy hero gets the girl lark. This book was my kind of fantasy, for the most part. If I have one complaint its that it does get a bit dialogue-heavy in the final acts, though I don’t think most people would think so. The book also uses lots of mad names, which I found myself skimming over here and there, though it’s not nearly as tryhard as China Miéville’s novels and I’m sure it’s a ‘me’ problem as a mostly non-fantasy guy.
I’ll wrap up the review section by saying thanks, Hayden. This book was sent to me and while I generally neglect to finish review copies owing to their low quality, I was honoured to read this one. It truly was a breath of fresh air and helped get me out of a reading slump.
"Everything is connected. That much I know. Ümfalla is held together by a thread. Change is in the wind, but I can't pretend understanding. Perhaps everything must fall for another Age to rise."
Welcome to Moore’s nightmarescape mushroom dystopia. Moore writes with an horrific type of beauty, one that reminds me of VanderMeer and Le Guin, and just like those two authors, his prose is the perfect accompaniment to the weird and the dark. This magical combination of borderline poetic text and mild horror fantasy world is, in my opinion, the books strongest asset. I was addicted from page one, and quickly found myself in love with the world and its mystique. Everything feels connected in a way that is as much literal as it is spiritual; as much horrifying as it was beautiful. Dense, fungal and anxiety-inducing landscapes are complemented by the spiritual, sometimes sensual connection between the characters. The bonds between them are a Yang to the worlds Yin. I was in awe of the mushroom focused setting and could tell that the author was clued up on his subject matter, you get the feeling that this is a project of passion as well as ambition. Not only did the mushroomyness of the thing create some wonderfully unique imagery, but it allowed the author to write some hallucinogenic sequences, indulging that part of me which forever craves the feeling of stupor in my fiction. Seriously: more authors should write trip sequences, it’s fantastic when done right.
It is the mystique of the world that drives much of the narrative: ‘What is this “Sky Tracer?”’ The point at which you ask this question is also the point where the world opens up in scale. The initial dose of claustrophobic queasiness, that confused doe-eyed introduction to Ümfalla which sets up the haunting beauty of the scene, begins to open up and reveal what is beyond the mushroom-spore shroud; what’s outside though is merely a different kind of darkness, one where the violence doesn’t yield and the horrors are greater than initially hinted at. I was impressed with the scope of this novel, and I’m eager to continue reading Moore...-do you...-do you see what I did there?
While I’ve so far described just how dark and bloodsoaked this world is, allow this segment to soothe your dread: there is a strong found-family element to this book with heavy focus on identity and belonging, and, admittedly, while my favourite bits were the hellish/beautiful landscape descriptions and overall poeticism of the thing, the bonds formed between the protagonists did truly warm my heart. I’m a fan of both main characters, and of the people they cross paths with. The magical elements of the characters’ in particular made for a refreshing read; I won’t spoil what Moore has worked hard at creating, but I will promise you that it’s much more interesting than wizards casting spells. If you’ve read this book, keep its magic a secret, speak of it only in whispered tones...
Who would I recommend this book to?
Fans of traditional sword-sorcery fantasy with wizards, goblins, action heroes and damsels in distress: avert your eyes. I don’t think there’s much for you here.
For anyone who finds that the fantasy scene is filled with tropey nonsense and you’re forever on the hunt for something special: I urge you to read this book. It is wonderful. This is how fantasy should be done.
“She thought she would see life in some kind of conciliatory light when death was near. Nothingness was ahead, while nebulous regrets followed through the grime.”
I would call myself a “part time” fantasy reader. I find myself reading fantasy about 1/10th of the time, or less, but I am constantly hunting for the gems. I’ve quite a specific taste when it comes to fantasy, namely I need something thick with atmosphere and negative, anxious emotions. None of that happy hero gets the girl lark. This book was my kind of fantasy, for the most part. If I have one complaint its that it does get a bit dialogue-heavy in the final acts, though I don’t think most people would think so. The book also uses lots of mad names, which I found myself skimming over here and there, though it’s not nearly as tryhard as China Miéville’s novels and I’m sure it’s a ‘me’ problem as a mostly non-fantasy guy.
I’ll wrap up the review section by saying thanks, Hayden. This book was sent to me and while I generally neglect to finish review copies owing to their low quality, I was honoured to read this one. It truly was a breath of fresh air and helped get me out of a reading slump.
April 10, 2024
BOOK REVIEW for 🍄Sky Tracer 🍄The Fungal Realm Book 1
Author: @author_hmoore
Book format: Paperback/Audiobook
Page count: 272
Genre: Epic Fantasy
✨✨✨✨✨
Sky Tracer is a unique beautifully written epic fantasy story set in Umfalla, a fungal land surrounded by gorgeous enlarged mushrooms. The main characters are Mena, a Wanderer who has a mechanical arm & Ruthy, a woman she saved after seeing her fall from the sky...from Sky Tracer, a machine that transfers children over the dark land to be sacrificed.
Soon they are both thrown into a fight against scary Reapers & magical Weirs (magical people) to claim the Realm. As the friendship continues, Ruthy ends up not being who she says she is.
More characters join in on their adventure, and Ruthy drifts from Mena during battles of the Reapers & other scary creatures.
I don't want to give the rest away as there are twists so on to the other feedback :)
Not only are the descriptions & world building well-written, taking you into a very fantasy novel, but the character development is strong, even with the supporting characters.
The swear words offer comic relief, as well as seriousness in the scenes. Overall, this is something I could see being a series or movie. I can't wait to read book 2.
As I was 1/4 into the book, the author released an Audiobook that HE recorded all by himself, which is so cool! I got the audiobook right away, & would alter reading along with the book & audiobook, or doing one or the other. It helped me fully grasp the story because I personally do not read fantasy novels very often...I watch them on the movie screen, due to my short attention span. The world building captures Umfalla & the character's actions/back story, so I am glad that I was able to fully absorb the story. It's also inspired me to branch out more to read/listen to fantasy genre. Thriller/suspense novels can sometimes get old.
Author: @author_hmoore
Book format: Paperback/Audiobook
Page count: 272
Genre: Epic Fantasy
✨✨✨✨✨
Sky Tracer is a unique beautifully written epic fantasy story set in Umfalla, a fungal land surrounded by gorgeous enlarged mushrooms. The main characters are Mena, a Wanderer who has a mechanical arm & Ruthy, a woman she saved after seeing her fall from the sky...from Sky Tracer, a machine that transfers children over the dark land to be sacrificed.
Soon they are both thrown into a fight against scary Reapers & magical Weirs (magical people) to claim the Realm. As the friendship continues, Ruthy ends up not being who she says she is.
More characters join in on their adventure, and Ruthy drifts from Mena during battles of the Reapers & other scary creatures.
I don't want to give the rest away as there are twists so on to the other feedback :)
Not only are the descriptions & world building well-written, taking you into a very fantasy novel, but the character development is strong, even with the supporting characters.
The swear words offer comic relief, as well as seriousness in the scenes. Overall, this is something I could see being a series or movie. I can't wait to read book 2.
As I was 1/4 into the book, the author released an Audiobook that HE recorded all by himself, which is so cool! I got the audiobook right away, & would alter reading along with the book & audiobook, or doing one or the other. It helped me fully grasp the story because I personally do not read fantasy novels very often...I watch them on the movie screen, due to my short attention span. The world building captures Umfalla & the character's actions/back story, so I am glad that I was able to fully absorb the story. It's also inspired me to branch out more to read/listen to fantasy genre. Thriller/suspense novels can sometimes get old.
March 9, 2023
*I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
3/5 🌟
The story has such an interesting premise, it's fantastical and very high fantasy, and I think that's most of the reason why I felt confused through most of the book.
The novel jumps straight in with the action and fantasy terminology which continues throughout the book, whilst this was fun and unique, none of it was really explained in detail at the beginning, were kind of thrown into the deep end, and I had to rely on the glossary at the back for knowledge and reminders.
I enjoyed the relationships between the characters, however I did get muddled with the name changes and multiple POVs, the relationships were well established too. I'd say Mēna was my favourite character due to her strength and determination.
The descriptions were fairly good, and the entire world was unique and something I'd never read about before, there was a huge amount of action and the fight scenes play out really well. Another point I wasn't keen on was the amount of sexual references, some felt unnecessary and took away from the flow of the story.
Overall, this is a big story to tackle and I'd reccomend it for fans of very high fantasy due to the complex world building and even more complex story. I did enjoy this book but due to personal tastes and a couple of aspects I found, I can't say I loved it.
3/5 🌟
The story has such an interesting premise, it's fantastical and very high fantasy, and I think that's most of the reason why I felt confused through most of the book.
The novel jumps straight in with the action and fantasy terminology which continues throughout the book, whilst this was fun and unique, none of it was really explained in detail at the beginning, were kind of thrown into the deep end, and I had to rely on the glossary at the back for knowledge and reminders.
I enjoyed the relationships between the characters, however I did get muddled with the name changes and multiple POVs, the relationships were well established too. I'd say Mēna was my favourite character due to her strength and determination.
The descriptions were fairly good, and the entire world was unique and something I'd never read about before, there was a huge amount of action and the fight scenes play out really well. Another point I wasn't keen on was the amount of sexual references, some felt unnecessary and took away from the flow of the story.
Overall, this is a big story to tackle and I'd reccomend it for fans of very high fantasy due to the complex world building and even more complex story. I did enjoy this book but due to personal tastes and a couple of aspects I found, I can't say I loved it.
March 25, 2024
BRIEF:
Ruthy, a girl longing to escape the broken rule of the Elders of Avernus, leaps from the skies into the dark, abysmal realm of Ümfalla, where she is found by the mechanical armed wanderer, Mēna. The two embark on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing a painful, forgotten past, and power. From the depths of mycelium to the reaching branches of the Sky Realm, the will to topple an empire becomes more than their purpose, but their greatest strength and weakness.
MY THOUGHTS:
It's been a long time since I've found myself so immersed in a story as fantastic and unique as this one. Moore is the conductor of one of the most impressive world builds I have read between the pages of a book. His attention to the inner voice that surrounds the fungal realm and all who inhabit it is poetry to my ears.
I love the grit and the pitted feeling I get reading this book. I love the sudden sparks of humanity that surge within the characters, whether they are wanderer or Weir. I love the way the words flow into the next almost seamlessly, even in moments of bloodlust. Unearthing the mysteries and discovering what comes next fueled the need to be completely encapsulated by this book.
Truly a work of art ✨ Like a piece you'd find hidden in the corner of a gallery where no light needs to shine for it to be seen. As long as you are brave enough to seek it.
Ruthy, a girl longing to escape the broken rule of the Elders of Avernus, leaps from the skies into the dark, abysmal realm of Ümfalla, where she is found by the mechanical armed wanderer, Mēna. The two embark on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing a painful, forgotten past, and power. From the depths of mycelium to the reaching branches of the Sky Realm, the will to topple an empire becomes more than their purpose, but their greatest strength and weakness.
MY THOUGHTS:
It's been a long time since I've found myself so immersed in a story as fantastic and unique as this one. Moore is the conductor of one of the most impressive world builds I have read between the pages of a book. His attention to the inner voice that surrounds the fungal realm and all who inhabit it is poetry to my ears.
I love the grit and the pitted feeling I get reading this book. I love the sudden sparks of humanity that surge within the characters, whether they are wanderer or Weir. I love the way the words flow into the next almost seamlessly, even in moments of bloodlust. Unearthing the mysteries and discovering what comes next fueled the need to be completely encapsulated by this book.
Truly a work of art ✨ Like a piece you'd find hidden in the corner of a gallery where no light needs to shine for it to be seen. As long as you are brave enough to seek it.
July 31, 2023
"Sky Tracer" transports readers to the captivating realm of Ūmfalla, an eternal darkness cloaked in the enigmatic Spore Cloud. The lives of two extraordinary women, MĒNA and ARETHŪSA, intersect in this enthralling tale. MĒNA, a resilient Wanderer with a mechanical arm, and ARETHŪSA, hidden as RUTHY, the Ruler of Avernus, forge an unlikely alliance to topple an oppressive empire.
Secrets and deception abound as they face off against warrior Reapers and mystical Weirs, heightening the stakes and propelling the plot forward. The vivid descriptions transport readers to the haunting beauty of Ūmfalla, while the writing style immerses them in this unique world.
Despite occasional moments of reflection, the intricate layers of the plot gradually reveal themselves, leading to an electrifying climax that will leave you yearning for more. "Sky Tracer" is a standout read, blending a captivating setting, well-realized characters, and a complex plot into an unforgettable experience. Fans of fantasy and adventure will be thoroughly enthralled by this exceptional tale. Brace yourself for a journey unlike any other. 🍄🍄🍄
Secrets and deception abound as they face off against warrior Reapers and mystical Weirs, heightening the stakes and propelling the plot forward. The vivid descriptions transport readers to the haunting beauty of Ūmfalla, while the writing style immerses them in this unique world.
Despite occasional moments of reflection, the intricate layers of the plot gradually reveal themselves, leading to an electrifying climax that will leave you yearning for more. "Sky Tracer" is a standout read, blending a captivating setting, well-realized characters, and a complex plot into an unforgettable experience. Fans of fantasy and adventure will be thoroughly enthralled by this exceptional tale. Brace yourself for a journey unlike any other. 🍄🍄🍄
August 10, 2023
So much of Fantasy is centered around the common setting of the European Woods. When I encountered the world-building in Sky Tracer, I was wonderfully overwhelmed with a fresh take on imagined worlds. Not only did the author find a way to utilize fungi as something other than some kind of 'plague', or a 'malicious entity trying to take over the world', the world was grounded in Science and Nature.
The character development danced in so many gradations of gray, all while they searched for their authentic selves, for better and for worse. This is no Hero's Journey and I was constantly jolted by character's choices. This is a story of identity, ambition, the nature of power, as well as beauty and courage. The beautiful emerges during horrific moments, just as it is absent during the brightest. The scope and groundbreaking world-building in this book is unforgettable.
Sky Tracer weaves Science and Nature into the realm of Fantasy. This is certainly not a quick-read, but a book requiring that 'willing suspension of disbelief', an active reading. If you're willing, this book will reveal its depth and thrust you into something refreshingly alive.
The character development danced in so many gradations of gray, all while they searched for their authentic selves, for better and for worse. This is no Hero's Journey and I was constantly jolted by character's choices. This is a story of identity, ambition, the nature of power, as well as beauty and courage. The beautiful emerges during horrific moments, just as it is absent during the brightest. The scope and groundbreaking world-building in this book is unforgettable.
Sky Tracer weaves Science and Nature into the realm of Fantasy. This is certainly not a quick-read, but a book requiring that 'willing suspension of disbelief', an active reading. If you're willing, this book will reveal its depth and thrust you into something refreshingly alive.
June 1, 2024
After listening thoughts ~
Unique and alluring, Sky Tracer’s beautiful imagery and captivating ensemble pair for an epic adventure. Full of action, fantasy, and unlikely and unbreakable bonds.
I love stories about bad-ass women and Sky Tracer did not disappoint.
I listened to this on audio, but wished I also had a written companion for some of the more intricate acts and dense descriptions to be able to break down in my own mind, at my own pace, what was going on, but that didn’t hinder the experience or enjoyability of the book. Read by the author himself with great diction and tone, it definitely set the mood for an exciting journey through the fungal realm.
Thank you Hayden Moore for the audio copy of Sky Tracer. Can’t wait to see how this debut is followed up.
On the menu 🍽️:
- Unique and intricate world-building
- Bad-ass FMC
- Magic
- Epic battle sequences
- Dragons!!
- Plot twists
Unique and alluring, Sky Tracer’s beautiful imagery and captivating ensemble pair for an epic adventure. Full of action, fantasy, and unlikely and unbreakable bonds.
I love stories about bad-ass women and Sky Tracer did not disappoint.
I listened to this on audio, but wished I also had a written companion for some of the more intricate acts and dense descriptions to be able to break down in my own mind, at my own pace, what was going on, but that didn’t hinder the experience or enjoyability of the book. Read by the author himself with great diction and tone, it definitely set the mood for an exciting journey through the fungal realm.
Thank you Hayden Moore for the audio copy of Sky Tracer. Can’t wait to see how this debut is followed up.
On the menu 🍽️:
- Unique and intricate world-building
- Bad-ass FMC
- Magic
- Epic battle sequences
- Dragons!!
- Plot twists
July 12, 2023
I've followed Hayden's writing for some time through the Medium platform. His vivid and clever method of washing you with words and images in his poetry instantly made me a follower, and I never read a piece of his that didn't feel like an experience. I had no hesitation or wariness in purchasing Sky Tracer as soon as I saw his announcement of its release and it turned out to be no gamble. The world created is vibrant, intense, and eclectic (had to look up a word that would accurately describe the mix of its nature) from start to end. The characters in the book, as in life, begin smooth, unseeming, rapidly exploding into reality. I finished the book with the actions and path of each character feeling understood and with another new experience chased and satisfied. The epilogue brought contentment and curiosity for the future of this transformed realm. Excellent work.
-Josh (LBiS)
-Josh (LBiS)
January 2, 2024
I was sent this book by the author and this is my honest opinion after finishing the ebook :)
I really enjoyed this fresh take on fantasy! The world building was so unique and the idea itself is really original which (as someone who reads a lot of fantasy) is a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed the way Hayden describes the beauty of each scene and the characters themselves, but sometimes it’s so descriptive I had a hard time letting my imagination roam (which is really one of the only qualms I had). This wouldn’t be a strong read for someone who wants a lighthearted book or quick read because it takes you on a magical journey that you have to really focus on and bring to life (if that makes any sense).
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read this and I’m looking forward to more poetic artistry from him in the future!
I really enjoyed this fresh take on fantasy! The world building was so unique and the idea itself is really original which (as someone who reads a lot of fantasy) is a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed the way Hayden describes the beauty of each scene and the characters themselves, but sometimes it’s so descriptive I had a hard time letting my imagination roam (which is really one of the only qualms I had). This wouldn’t be a strong read for someone who wants a lighthearted book or quick read because it takes you on a magical journey that you have to really focus on and bring to life (if that makes any sense).
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read this and I’m looking forward to more poetic artistry from him in the future!
March 28, 2023
Sky Tracer is full of fantasy and adventure, featuring two women who form a bond despite being from two different worlds. The land of Ūmfalla is filled with mushrooms that are as tall as trees and produce a different spore that has multiple effects on the body. When Ruthy falls from the Sky Tracer as a sacrifice, Mena protects her from the dangers of her world.
I’m always excited to read an author’s debut novel, but I never would have guessed this was Moore’s first book. His writing is brilliant and builds into the world he has created. Readers are in for a great journey of wondering where the story leads, I was definitely captivated by the way Moore wrote the twists for us to uncover. I am definitely going to be reading the sequel once it is out!
I’m always excited to read an author’s debut novel, but I never would have guessed this was Moore’s first book. His writing is brilliant and builds into the world he has created. Readers are in for a great journey of wondering where the story leads, I was definitely captivated by the way Moore wrote the twists for us to uncover. I am definitely going to be reading the sequel once it is out!
September 23, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! It’s very refreshing to read a book with an original story line, setting, and characters. I really did fall in love with the characters and enjoyed the world the book submersed me in.
I personally just had an issue with the writing style (not necessarily a good or bad thing, just personal preference). While the writing was very descriptive, it was just a little too much for me at times and I thought it took away from the awesome story.
This is very much an adult read and I didn’t feel it was easy to read. You really have to be concentrating or you’ll miss stuff and have to reread.
I would recommend this though if you’re looking for a new and different fantasy world to fall in to.
I personally just had an issue with the writing style (not necessarily a good or bad thing, just personal preference). While the writing was very descriptive, it was just a little too much for me at times and I thought it took away from the awesome story.
This is very much an adult read and I didn’t feel it was easy to read. You really have to be concentrating or you’ll miss stuff and have to reread.
I would recommend this though if you’re looking for a new and different fantasy world to fall in to.
October 24, 2024
Moore is not just a prodigious wordsmith, but a world-builder. Much like I lost myself for hours in Tolkien’s Middle earth or in the swords of Shanara… I was lost in Unfalla and the world-tree of the sunlit realm of Averus... Moore writes beautifully with a flow and distinctive tone teeming with the dark bright eyes of legend. Sky Tracer rewards the ambitious reader with a mycelium highway to magic and myth!
August 26, 2025
If you are looking for epic world building and twists and turns, look no further! This book has a totally unique world, like nothing I’ve ever read before. Also, check out the audiobook, which was narrated by the author himself!
January 2, 2024
Beautiful, unique, and amazing story telling. A pioneer in the fantasy genre. 11/10. You will not find another story like this one. I am so happy that I was able to experience this beautiful book.
March 20, 2024
OVERALL RATING:
🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄/ 5
BRIEF:
Ruthy, a girl longing to escape the broken rule of the Elders of Avernus, leaps from the skies into the dark, abysmal realm of Ümfalla, where she is found by the mechanical armed wanderer, Mēna. The two embark on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing a painful, forgotten past, and power. From the depths of mycelium to the reaching branches of the Sky Realm, the will to topple an empire becomes more than their purpose, but their greatest strength and weakness.
MY THOUGHTS:
It's been a long time since I've found myself so immersed in a story as fantastic and unique as this one. Moore is the conductor of one of the most impressive world builds I have read between the pages of a book. His attention to the inner voice that surrounds the fungal realm and all who inhabit it is poetry to my ears.
I love the grit and the pitted feeling I get reading this book. I love the sudden sparks of humanity that surge within the characters, whether they are wanderer or Weir. I love the way the words flow into the next almost seamlessly, even in moments of bloodlust. Unearthing the mysteries and discovering what comes next fueled the need to be completely encapsulated by this book.
Truly a work of art ✨ Like a piece you'd find hidden in the corner of a gallery where no light needs to shine for it to be seen. As long as you are brave enough to seek it.
🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄/ 5
BRIEF:
Ruthy, a girl longing to escape the broken rule of the Elders of Avernus, leaps from the skies into the dark, abysmal realm of Ümfalla, where she is found by the mechanical armed wanderer, Mēna. The two embark on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing a painful, forgotten past, and power. From the depths of mycelium to the reaching branches of the Sky Realm, the will to topple an empire becomes more than their purpose, but their greatest strength and weakness.
MY THOUGHTS:
It's been a long time since I've found myself so immersed in a story as fantastic and unique as this one. Moore is the conductor of one of the most impressive world builds I have read between the pages of a book. His attention to the inner voice that surrounds the fungal realm and all who inhabit it is poetry to my ears.
I love the grit and the pitted feeling I get reading this book. I love the sudden sparks of humanity that surge within the characters, whether they are wanderer or Weir. I love the way the words flow into the next almost seamlessly, even in moments of bloodlust. Unearthing the mysteries and discovering what comes next fueled the need to be completely encapsulated by this book.
Truly a work of art ✨ Like a piece you'd find hidden in the corner of a gallery where no light needs to shine for it to be seen. As long as you are brave enough to seek it.
May 23, 2023
I was sent this book by the author and this is my honest opinion after finishing the ebook :)
I really enjoyed this fresh take on fantasy! The world building was so unique and the idea itself is really original which (as someone who reads a lot of fantasy) is a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed the way Hayden describes the beauty of each scene and the characters themselves, but sometimes it’s so descriptive I had a hard time letting my imagination roam (which is really one of the only qualms I had). This wouldn’t be a strong read for someone who wants a lighthearted book or quick read because it takes you on a magical journey that you have to really focus on and bring to life (if that makes any sense).
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read this and I’m looking forward to more poetic artistry from him in the future!
I really enjoyed this fresh take on fantasy! The world building was so unique and the idea itself is really original which (as someone who reads a lot of fantasy) is a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed the way Hayden describes the beauty of each scene and the characters themselves, but sometimes it’s so descriptive I had a hard time letting my imagination roam (which is really one of the only qualms I had). This wouldn’t be a strong read for someone who wants a lighthearted book or quick read because it takes you on a magical journey that you have to really focus on and bring to life (if that makes any sense).
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read this and I’m looking forward to more poetic artistry from him in the future!
July 12, 2023
I've followed Hayden's writing for some time through the Medium platform. His vivid and clever method of washing you with words and images in his poetry instantly made me a follower, and I never read a piece of his that didn't feel like an experience. I had no hesitation or wariness in purchasing Sky Tracer as soon as I saw his announcement of its release and it turned out to be no gamble. The world created is vibrant, intense, and eclectic (had to look up a word that would accurately describe the mix of its nature) from start to end. The characters in the book, as in life, begin smooth, unseeming, rapidly exploding into reality. I finished the book with the actions and path of each character feeling understood and with another new experience chased and satisfied. The epilogue brought contentment and curiosity for the future of this transformed realm. Excellent work.
-Josh (LBiS)
-Josh (LBiS)
July 8, 2025
Deepest thanks to everyone who devoted their time and imaginations by reading SKY TRACER, and to all those to come.
--Hayden Moore
--Hayden Moore
January 1, 2024
Beautiful, unique, and amazing story telling. A pioneer in the fantasy genre
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