Creative Reviews discussion

A compelling fantasy that bounds across mysticism, theology, and the state of humanity in an elegant and thought-provoking tale. A “must read” for Neil Gaimon fans and a “should read” for everyone else.

In a wasted corner of Arizona that time can’t see, a journalist arrives for an interview more important that he knows. He has been sent to uncover the event now known as ‘The Forgetting’ but is, in fact, the mysterious disconnect of everyone in the world from his or her previous life. Though the journalist is following a lead, the powerful stranger he meets is the only one who can – and will - finally tell all.

The interplay of polar opposition underlies this story at every turn: the perverse cherubs and ‘lurks’; the rise or fall from grace; passion and materialism; and dark and light, to name just a few. The novel is an exploration in mirror opposition that is mysterious, poetic, and even playful. It is verbal burlesque; as each passage reveals more of the story, new layers are exposed that are exquisitely tempting.

The story is fast-paced and well conceived. Amidst a multitude of players and symbolic elements, Samuelle weaves a stylish account with complete control, even as the reader writhes with anticipation to see each piece find its place. The main characters, Charles and Dormius, are authentic and their loyal friendship is rendered with skill and insight. A few secondary characters are done well but are less distinct as the author’s voice overpowers them somewhat. This is easily forgiven, however, as Samuelle writes with vivid and often poetic imagery. If occasionally (rarely) his simile is a little heavy-handed, it is also richly descriptive and entirely commanding. His style is bold and robust, full of poignant questions and meaningful insights.

Ghosts Of A Tired Universe barrels along the edge of darkness in a tale that is at once disturbing yet is simultaneously a release into freedom and exhilaration.

What a nice and compelling review!

thanks!

Great review!