Author’s Note: We were provided with a free e-copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Plot and Storyline Quality (1 point)
For the purpose of this review, I will abandon my usual structure and attempt to examine the many errors committed during the construction of this tale. First, the plot is hard to follow and is full of printed-out fantasy tropes. Second, the villians are both mysterious and cheesy (e.g. the trolls and dragon(s) bear a striking similarity to Tolkein’s orcs and the Lord of the Rings dragon, hmmm). Last, the storyline is forgettable at best, and the characters can only be compared to flimsy paper dolls (lacking depth and relevancy). I will sum up the quality of the story itself by saying this: Every aspect of the plot/storyline hinge on..you guessed it…vanishing powder. Absurd. If you haven’t already gathered this, any relevant themes are nil. Let’s talk about the other categories in more detail.
Character Development (0 points)
It is hard to get to know the cast of characters as their sailboat is tossed in the churning, changeable waters of this fictional ocean. Connor, the protagonist, is a partially developed character who has more potential than his comrades. However, nothing sets him apart from any other fantasy hero character in hundreds of other novels, so the ideas behind his construction topple quickly because no solid foundation is laid. Likewise, the minor characters are pawns in the hands of the story and contribute nothing meaningful in either dialogue or plot (see my paper dolls comment). There is really nothing good to say here, so I’ll stop while I’m ahead.
Creativity and Originality (0 points)
Regrettably, I can list nothing creative or original to speak of in regards to this novel. To put things bluntly, most of the book’s content is very unengaging and may lull some readers to sleep. Christian writers everywhere, we need brain-stimulating, not mind-numbing entertainment! I believe that all writers (who are called by God to write) have the potential to change the world with their finished manuscripts. However, the authors in question must be in tune with Jesus and tuned in to the needs of the people around them to truly produce something with gravitas. Until this occurs, we will, unfortunately, continue to see forgettable works of fiction on Christian bookstore shelves hither and yon.
Wish List Rating: 0 out of 10 points
Box Office Revolution 