Author: brian

Call of the Raven By Wilbur Smith Book Review

What happens when a privileged young man loses everything and has to fight his way back through a world full of betrayal, violence, and revenge? That’s exactly the kind of ride Wilbur Smith delivers in “Call of the Raven,” a gripping historical adventure packed with twists, danger, and some seriously complex characters.

So, what’s this book about? “Call of the Raven” is a historical thriller set in the 1840s, just before the American Civil War. It follows Mungo St. John, the son of a wealthy plantation owner, who comes home from Cambridge University only to find his family’s estate ruined, his father murdered, and his childhood love, Camilla, taken hostage by a ruthless enemy. Driven by revenge and desperation, Mungo’s journey takes him across the U.S., Africa, and the high seas, facing the brutal realities of the slave trade, corruption, and survival. The tone is intense and action-packed, but it doesn’t shy away from the harshness of its historical setting.

What makes “Call of the Raven” stand out? For starters, the characters aren’t just one-dimensional. Mungo is an antihero, heroic and ruthless, loyal yet morally conflicted. The story isn’t just about adventure; it’s about a man wrestling with his own dark choices in a world that’s just as brutal. Wilbur Smith and co-author Corban Addison mix sweeping historical detail with nonstop action and a good dose of suspense. The vivid descriptions of the Old South, the slave trade, and the dangerous ocean voyages really pull you into the time period, making history come alive, not always in a comfortable way, but in a way that feels real.

Readers have a lot to say about this one. Many praise the book as a perfect beach or airplane read, full of excitement and unexpected twists. Fans of Smith see it as a return to form, bringing back the classic Wilbur Smith storytelling they love, with fast pacing and compelling characters. At the same time, some find the plot a bit formulaic or predictable, or miss the depth from Smith’s earlier novels. The heavy subject matter, including scenes of violence and sexual abuse tied to slavery, makes it a tough read, but many feel it’s an important one for understanding that brutal era. The historical insights, from how slave ships operated to the complex role African chiefs played in the trade, have been eye-opening for readers. And the dynamic between Mungo and Camilla adds emotional complexity, giving us different perspectives on the grim world they live in.

From my side, this book is definitely for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a dark edge and aren’t shy about morally gray characters. If you want your heroes pure and your history sugar-coated, this might frustrate you. But if you’re into adventure stories that don’t hold back on the ugly parts of history and the complexity of human nature, it’s a solid pick. The nonstop action, fierce battles of wit and strength, and the ethical questions it raises make it more than just a simple adventure. It’s also a story that might get you thinking about how power, revenge, and survival can blur the lines between right and wrong.

In the end, “Call of the Raven” is an engrossing prequel to the Ballantyne saga that brings a fresh voice with co-author Corban Addison but keeps Smith’s trademark storytelling alive. If you’re a fan of fast-paced historical thrillers with layered characters and don’t mind some tough scenes, this one’s definitely worth your time.

If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And hey, let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too

Elantris By Brandon Sanderson Book Review

What if the city itself was alive, and cursed? That’s the haunting idea behind Brandon Sanderson’s Elantris, a debut fantasy novel that’s as much about hope and transformation as it is about magic and political intrigue.

So, what’s Elantris all about? It’s set in the kingdom of Arelon, where a once-glorious city full of shining, magical beings has fallen into ruin. People struck by the mysterious curse called the Shaod become trapped there, transformed into hollow, almost undead creatures. At the center of the story is Prince Raoden, who suddenly finds himself cursed and locked away in Elantris, but instead of giving up, he starts rallying the forsaken inhabitants to figure out what went wrong. Meanwhile, Princess Sarene, his arranged fiancée, arrives at Arelon’s royal court aiming to shake things up politically, while Hrathen, a powerful and calculating priest, schemes to convert the land to his harsh religion. What unfolds is a mix of magical mystery, court drama, and a complex power struggle, all told through multiple viewpoints that slowly come together.

What makes this book stand out? For a first novel, Sanderson lays down one of the most intricately designed magic systems you’ll find in fantasy, with clear rules and logic that you can really get your head around. The city of Elantris itself is almost a character, the decay and the mystery around the Shaod add a unique atmosphere that’s both eerie and captivating. The characters, while sometimes straightforward, have real heart. Raoden’s unshakable optimism and kindness make him impossible not to root for, even when things get bleak. Sarene is a breath of fresh air, she’s sharp, witty, and never backs down, especially in a world that expects her to be silent. And then there’s Hrathen, the high priest whose logical, cold motivations clash brilliantly with the others, adding layers to the story’s conflicts. Plus, the political chess games and the slow-burn romance in the background add depth without taking over the main story.

Reader reactions are mixed at first because the book starts slow. Some people get bogged down in long worldbuilding or side plots like fencing scenes that don’t quite land. But almost everyone agrees that once the story kicks into gear, usually around the middle chapters, it really takes off. The plot twists and reveals might not shock you completely, but they feel earned and satisfying, and the way the multiple storylines come crashing together is really well done. Some readers have pointed out that parts of the writing can feel a little dated, especially how women are described, but overall, the worldbuilding and the magic system more than make up for it.

From my perspective, Elantris is a great pick if you like slow-building fantasy with a strong mix of political intrigue, multi-perspective storytelling, and worldbuilding that feels immersive without being overwhelming. If you’re coming from romantasy like Shadow and Bone or Throne of Glass and are curious about diving into something a bit more intricate and serious in fantasy, this could be just the bridge book you need. On the flip side, if you’re after fast-paced action or a tightly plotted story from the first page, this might test your patience early on. And if you’re sensitive to dated language or certain stereotypes, that could be a minor stumbling block.

To wrap it up, Elantris isn’t perfect, but there’s a lot to like, especially for fans of layered worldbuilding and characters who fight against impossible odds with hope and heart. It’s a solid standalone fantasy that sets up something bigger in Sanderson’s Cosmere universe, making it a fun read even if the sequel never comes. If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And if you’ve read it, let me know what you thought!

Skyward By Brandon Sanderson Book Review

Flying among the stars sounds amazing, right? But what if everyone around you thinks you’re just the kid of a coward? That’s exactly the world Brandon Sanderson throws us into with Skyward, a thrilling, heart-pounding sci-fi adventure about a young woman who refuses to be defined by her past.

Skyward is a young adult sci-fi novel that follows Spensa Nightshade, a determined and fearless teenage girl living on a planet constantly under attack by alien forces called the Krell. Labeled the daughter of a coward because of her father’s actions during a war, Spensa fights not just for her dream of becoming a pilot, but to prove her own courage to a society ready to write her off. Along the way, she discovers a mysterious, broken-down spaceship with an AI that’s as sassy as it is secretive. Together, they navigate flight school, uncover conspiracies, and face high-stakes battles that keep you turning the pages.

What makes Skyward stand out, especially among Sanderson’s works, is its fast-paced action mixed with real character growth. The story doesn’t get bogged down in heavy world-building; instead, it gives you just enough sci-fi tech and setting to fuel the plot without overwhelming you. The flight scenes feel so vivid, you can almost picture yourself in the cockpit alongside Spensa. And the cast? Each classmate and antagonist is distinct, layered, and far from cliché, making their relationships and conflicts feel real. Plus, Sanderson isn’t afraid to shake things up with some well-timed losses, adding real emotional weight.

Readers really connect with Spensa. She’s a bit rough around the edges, sometimes over-the-top, but totally relatable, a fighter stumbling through teenage angst, bullying, and high expectations all at once. Some people found her annoying or socially awkward, but many others loved her passion and vulnerability, especially how she struggles with her identity and her father’s legacy. The sentient ship, M-Bot, is another fan favorite, bringing humor and mystery to the story and making this more than your typical space adventure.

Themes of courage, identity, and overcoming prejudice run deep throughout the story. Spensa’s journey isn’t just about flying or fighting aliens, it’s about finding where she belongs, facing complicated truths about family, and learning what real bravery means. There’s also a strong focus on friendship and loyalty, as the ragtag group of flight cadets come together against all odds.

Full disclosure: Skyward leans on some classic YA and sci-fi tropes, the training montages, rivalries, outcast heroine, so if you’re after something wildly original, it might feel a bit familiar. Some plot points might test your suspension of disbelief, and the world-building could leave you wanting a little more depth. Spensa sometimes talks in ways that might make you cringe or roll your eyes. But honestly, that’s part of the book’s charm, it’s a YA story that knows what it is and delivers it with heart and energy.

If you’re into strong female main characters, high-action space battles, and stories about fighting unfair labels and harsh societies, this book will probably hook you. If you’re more about deep, complex world-building or looking for less familiar stories, it might not be your thing.

For me, Skyward was one of the most fun and inspiring reads I’ve had in a while, it made me want to jump into a spaceship and fly for myself! And if you love the idea of a snarky, talking AI ship mixed with kick-butt pilots and high-school drama in space, it’s a total win.

So if that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And if you’ve read it, I’d love to hear what you thought!

Evershore By Brandon Sanderson, Janci Patterson Book Review

Sometimes a side character just steps up and surprises you with way more depth and leadership than you expected. That’s exactly what happens in Evershore, the final novella in the Skyward Flight series by Brandon Sanderson and Janci Patterson.

Evershore is a sci-fi story full of action, political intrigue, and emotional growth. It follows Jorgen, also known as “Jerkface,” who suddenly has to lead his people after a devastating attack throws everything into chaos. With Spensa, the main character from the Skyward series, away on a mysterious mission, Jorgen has to handle everything from tricky alien diplomacy to controlling his own cytonic powers that could spiral out of control. The story balances intense action with thoughtful character moments and mixes in plenty of drama and humor.

What really makes this novella stand out is how much it dives into Jorgen’s character. He’s been a fan-favorite side figure since the start, and this story puts you right in his shoes as he faces huge responsibilities and tough choices. You also get to know the Kitsen, the fox-like alien species, much better, while the story touches on leadership, trust, and personal growth. The world-building feels natural, and Jorgen’s emotional journey makes the stakes feel really personal.

Readers love Evershore for filling in important gaps left by the main series, especially the emotional depth and fresh perspective it brings. Many say it feels like a classic Sanderson finale, with plenty of action and plot threads coming together in satisfying ways. Fans especially appreciate how the novella pushes the bigger conflict forward while Spensa is gone, making the universe feel bigger and more connected. Some even think it outshines parts of the main novels because of its strong focus on character relationships and growth.

That said, a few moments can feel a bit over-the-top or stretch believability, and if you’re not already into the Skyward universe, it might not grab you as much. But if you like emotional character arcs mixed with sci-fi action and a story that’s part rescue mission, part political drama, there’s a lot to enjoy here. It’s perfect for fans who’ve read Skyward and Starsight and want the full, detailed picture before the big finale.

In short, Evershore gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the hard work, doubts, and bravery behind leadership, plus those pulse-pounding moments Sanderson’s known for. It’s a great way to deepen your connection to the Skyward universe while waiting for the next full novel, Defiant.

So, if you’re a Skyward fan wanting a story that digs deeper into a beloved side character while keeping the action and world-building sharp, definitely check out Evershore. And if you’ve already read it, I’d love to hear what you think!

The Sunlit Man By Brandon Sanderson Book Review

Living on a planet where the sun literally burns everything it touches, and where stopping means certain death, sounds wild, right? That’s the intense world Brandon Sanderson throws you into with The Sunlit Man, a fast-paced, sci-fi-infused fantasy set deep in his sprawling Cosmere universe.

Here’s the quick rundown: The Sunlit Man follows Nomad, a mysterious wanderer running from a relentless enemy called the Night Brigade. He lands on Canticle, a tiny planet where the sunlight is instantly fatal. To survive, everyone has to keep moving, on hoverbikes, airships, and floating cities, because the sun’s rays melt stone and incinerate anything left standing. In the middle of this brutal world, Nomad gets caught between a tyrannical ruler known as the Cinder King and a desperate rebellion trying to overthrow him. It’s a nonstop, high-stakes fight for survival, freedom, and atonement.

What really makes this book stand out is Sanderson’s signature worldbuilding pushed to new extremes: the deadly sun isn’t just a threat, it’s a core part of the planet’s hard magic system that shapes society and the story. Plus, Nomad isn’t your typical hero, he’s haunted, complex, and carries the weight of a backstory spanning multiple Cosmere worlds. Fans of Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive will spot plenty of clever lore tie-ins and character nods, but this story also has a distinct Western vibe, like a lone gunslinger drifting through a sci-fi dystopia.

Now, if you look at reader reactions, you’ll see some interesting splits. Devoted Cosmere fans tend to love it, they’re thrilled by the fast pace, the intricate connections to other books, and the breathtaking art included in some editions. Many praise it as possibly Sanderson’s best work since Rhythm of War, especially appreciating how it blends thrilling action with ethical dilemmas and cosmic mystery. But for newcomers or those not caught up with the Stormlight Archive and related works, The Sunlit Man can feel pretty dense and confusing. Some find the relentless action exhausting, with fewer quiet moments to connect with Nomad or his companion Aux. And since a lot of the backstory hinges on events in future, unreleased books, some plot points feel frustratingly vague.

From my perspective, The Sunlit Man is a rewarding read if you love Sanderson’s Cosmere and don’t mind jumping into a story that takes place later in the timeline, weaving together threads from several other series. It’s great if you want something action-packed with a darker, sci-fi twist, but probably not the best place to start if you’re new to Sanderson’s universe or prefer slower, more character-driven fantasy. Fans who enjoy world-hopping stories and expansive lore will definitely appreciate the layers here, while casual readers might feel a bit overwhelmed.

All in all, The Sunlit Man feels like a bold experiment, a thrilling ride that raises as many questions as it answers, teasing huge developments to come in the Cosmere. If you’re already invested in Sanderson’s world and excited for what’s next, this one’s a must-read. But if you want a self-contained fantasy without needing tons of background, you might want to wait until you’ve caught up on the Stormlight Archive.

So, if that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And hey, let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too!

The Seventh Scroll By Wilbur Smith Book Review

Diving headfirst into a high-stakes treasure hunt through the deserts of Egypt and the wilds of Ethiopia sounds like an adventure, right? That’s exactly what Wilbur Smith delivers in The Seventh Scroll.

So, what’s this book about? It’s an action-packed historical thriller set mostly in modern times, following British aristocrat and adventurer Nicholas Quenton-Harper alongside the brilliant Egyptologist Royan Al Simma. Together, they’re racing to uncover the lost tomb of Pharaoh Mamose, a king driven from Egypt by ruthless invaders thousands of years ago. The quest kicks off with the discovery of a mysterious seventh scroll, written millennia ago by the clever slave Taita, which holds clues to the tomb’s location. As Nicholas and Royan crack puzzles and face off against various enemies, including a crazed German billionaire collector bent on grabbing the treasure, the story delivers plenty of danger, suspense, and some unexpected romance. Think Indiana Jones meets The Da Vinci Code, but with a strong Egyptian vibe and a bunch of twists.

What really makes The Seventh Scroll stand out is Wilbur Smith’s talent for vivid settings and fast-paced action. His descriptions of desert nights, ancient tombs, and bustling villages pull you right into those exotic places. The characters range from noble heroes to unforgettable villains, striking a good balance of historical detail without getting bogged down, though, fair warning, some parts can slow down or get a bit too detailed. Also, Smith writes with a classic British wit and a slightly old-school adventure feel that his fans enjoy.

Reader reactions have been pretty mixed. Many praise it as a thrilling, page-turning adventure that locks you in with life-threatening dangers and clever puzzles. Others point out some clunky moments, like awkward author references within the story and some uneven romantic and character stuff, especially how certain relationships develop, or don’t, in ways that don’t always feel believable. Some even find the villain portrayals, especially the sexual elements, a bit over the top or off-putting. But overall, if you like your adventure with history, mystery, and desert danger, this one delivers.

From my perspective, if you’re into classic adventure stories with a solid archaeological mystery at the heart, this could be your kind of book. Wilbur Smith’s storytelling gives you that satisfying treasure-hunt thrill, complete with exotic locations and a cast of sharp characters. But if you’re after deep romantic plots or super-polished prose, or if uneven pacing and some outdated tropes bother you, it might not be the best fit. The ending, in particular, has left some readers scratching their heads, which could annoy you if you want everything tied up neatly.

Overall, The Seventh Scroll is like settling in for an old-school adventure movie, sometimes a bit cheesy, sometimes intense, but with enough intrigue and excitement to keep you hooked. If you’re curious about ancient Egypt and love a treasure hunt packed with real danger, this could be a fun ride.

If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And hey, let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too!