Madolyn Locke

What a Sci-Fantasy Book Should Be

I'm not going to go over the outline of the story (that's irrelevant), but what I will address is the overall quality of this book. Because it's got it in spades!

I'm an avid reader, a life-long sci-fi/fantasy fan, and a female - and this book delivers on all the levels I'm looking for. It really is the real deal. In picking up this prelude (and I can't wait for the rest of the series!) I was transported to another place & time - but one so fully fleshed out that I never once felt like I couldn't believe what was going on. It felt rational, real, and relatable while still being completely fantastical.

Everything in the writing of this prelude feels huge - but contained... like the deep breath before a scream, or the calm before the storm, or the pause before the gunshot sounds in a race. In the tradition of long-running series (Wheel of Time, Sword of Truth, etc.) - you just KNOW that this series is going to be EPIC... and bring you along for one hell of a ride.

As a huge sci-fi/fantasy fan, I'm well familiar with every wanna-be hack writer saying that their work is "Star Wars meets Lord of the Rings"... but in this case - I can actually say the claim (if made) would be justified. It's got all the action, suspense, magic, powers, conflict & pathos that you could hope for in a series like this.

One big difference between those stories & this one? WOMEN. Though the lead character (and most of the major players) in this prelude are men, there are (hold on to your hats) actual legitimate female characters. They aren't arm-candy, or need rescuing, or serve as place-holders or set-dressing. They're vibrant, talented, and as complex & varied as the males of the story.

Killer Action, Non-stop Story, New Realms to Discover, Engaging Characters, Outer Space...

Honestly, what more could you ask for?

Truly Refreshing YA

An engaging sci-fi/fantasy story, this book will appeal to adults and 'young adults' alike. The main characters are teens, but don't embody the whiney, angsty, 'emo' teen image that is so infuriating. Complex and action-filled enough to hold the attention of any level reader. Truly a fun read.