“Gilchrist has the lyrical knack that I love to find.”-BlueSmoke
I’d like to thank the author for making Advance Review Copies (ARC) available. I pre-ordered as soon as it was available.
Readers, if you see that ARC’s are available please consider helping an author out with a read and review.
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“Broken Earth, dystopian future, fanatical cultists, and two badass chicks just trying to survive.”-H.S. Gilchrist
The blurb captures the base essence of the novel.
However, there is much more to this work:
- There is “enemies to friends” that works well.
- While TEotW is undoubtedly dystopian there are elements of the occult & fantasy successfully deployed with the SciFi. The fantasy bits could turn out to be SciFi but fantasy is still an influence in my mind.
- Mix in themes of individuals that are damaged, broken, and/or struggling with addiction. If you are up to it there is much to ponder and possibly identify with.
The novel immediately plunges into the deep end with one of our main characters in dire straights. H.S. doesn’t mess around. It’s up to the reader to catch up and pay attention. In case you didn’t understand, this is a positive thing.
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Gilchrist proceeds to lead us on an ever evolving escapade raising tantalizing questions of the nature of the world we visit and the main characters of this dystopian universe. Answers are teased out to the reader with superb timing.
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The cast of characters are up against incredible odds and face dreadful set backs one after the other, there is no respite. I believe Gilchrist just might take a certain amount of glee in thinking up how to next torture her MC’s. It great!
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Pay attention, this next part is important.
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Excerpt from hsgilchrist.com/about-me/
“H.S. Gilchrist initially aspired to be a real-life Indiana Jones, a passion that drove her to pursue a degree in Anthropology. Although her heart is deeply rooted in exploring diverse cultures and unraveling history’s mysteries, the pragmatism of a career centered on ancient curses steered her in a different direction.”
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If you know this last bit about our author while you read, it becomes evident just how much her interest in Anthropology influences the world building. The construction of and development of the world & cultures found within are wonderfully executed. You will find parallels to our own universe. No spoilers, you will have to read the book and find out.
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I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable read. Gilchrist has the lyrical knack that I love to find.
- Flow that keeps the pages turning.
- Pace that keeps your head in the game
- Timing that elevates the narrative.
- Dialogue that just feels right for the characters and the scenes we find them in.
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I am looking forward to book two!
Very well done H.S., I’m a fan.
Available on Amazon and Barnes&Noble , release date February 5, 2024.
That was a hint, go order this book.