Fantasy Fanatics discussion

49th review 4.3 Stars (on Amazon)

Has a Steampunk feel: 19th Century tech, supernatural, dark, and forget about human rights . . .

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on December 21, 2022
Verified Purchase (Amazon)

"It was the mention of Steampunk elements that first drew my interest in this story. To me this story reads as a "day in the life of" the main protagonist. A dark and deadly figure on a mission in a low-tech war-torn land, Mr. Black is a semi-archetypical mystery figure driven by a sense of duty. Dark fanatical beliefs rule the actions of tyrants, and human life is a cheap expendable resource snuffed out en masse at a mere word. Very dark supernatural elements are revealed in descriptive detail as the author paints the picture of this sinister world. Mr. black has allies hidden here and there, however, the mission is ultimately entirely upon his shoulders.
I found this book a good read for its subject matter, the continuing unfoldment of the driving forces behind the protagonists actions, and the delving into his thoughts to help paint the pictures of the storyline. I have an interest in steampunk and various magical themes for an action/adventure story, and I like being able to read what the main characters are thinking as a device to to bring depth that is often missed when they "make the movie" later. The plot moved slower when compared to other stories I've read, however this story covers a short section of timeline in a much larger tale, so slowing the presentation of the details a bit kept the story interesting. The descriptions of the surroundings and the environment were a bit under-contextual at times and I found myself having to stop and re-read some of them to keep up with the image I was assembling in my mind. I did remind myself that this story is not in any realm known to me, so details would need to be extensive to create the image.
The monsters: HOLY CRAP!! These are the stuff of my worst nightmares. They are described as utterly foul & repulsive in their appearance, sickening sounds & odors they emitted, and their remorseless purpose. These nocturnal nasties are on par with any I've encountered in my other favorite books involving such kinds of creatures. Very imaginative and well described in nightmarish detail. Mr. Black has his hands full trying to help protect a few brave & helpful souls caught up in the business of just trying to stay alive, while he presses on to complete the mission.
Details are well written. I was able to stay engaged with the story as it progressed towards an unfolding goal. Details of the past are scattered throughout, and might have been revealed sooner for greater clarity. This story would be almost described as an excerpt from a much longer story written in a few installments. By all accounts, it ended on a note of "striking a blow for the good guys" in my opinion, and for that reason I came away with a faintly hopeful feeling.
To other readers: Stay on the path, hone your best skills, support your favorite dark hero, and never give up hope for a brighter future. And if you are out after dark, pray you never cross paths with a vhendo . . . ."