The narrative is impressive and steady and the story engaging at once. Given the cover, and the fact that the book is Sci-fi, we get anxious to see what marvelous science fiction is going go happen, because we are introduced to an archaeology site digging, which, has, per our experience in Sci-fi, good basis to discover mysteries of ancient societies, or…. aliens. But the writer, V. S Holmes, knows her craft, her story and characters and where she wants the readers at all times. Lovely.
The description of things in the book are as necessary. Characters make great first impressions and the connections explained with simplicity. V. S. Holmes uses the background of the characters to add layers of mystery and keep readers focused. The author, gives us bits and pieces of information about them while moving the plot with purpose.
The antagonists, presented not long after the book starts add a layer of curiosity to the reading experience. Albeit all the mystery and conflicts, V. S. Holmes doesn’t give time to readers to think or guess. The narrative flows and the story moves with a jogging pace as more mystery plots appear on the story. A nice trick to keep readers interested.
We have a strange excavation site facing a group of local rebels trying to protect something. But given that the site is new, the questions are: What are they trying to protect in that site? And why?
Archaeology is fun after all, or at least the author makes a pretty damn job of making it fun.
One of the MCs, Mickey, is very interesting. His gentle personality and a approach to things brings a much needed layer to the book, adding depth to it. Given that he acts as a mentor and friend to Nel, they make a perfect contrast and add depth to the book with their dynamic. Comical and wise, he enlightens the story and brings about the many shades of Nel. Nice!
Neil, our MC, feels real. She has lots of issues and is still growing as a person and as a teacher. Unlike what we are used to read, Nel doesn’t have super powers, or even a super ability like intuition. She is flawed and human, and most times she shows no “main character hero-bravado”. It’s super nice to read Neil’s difficulties in such as teaching, patience and crying.
We have to acknowledge the great work the writer did when it came to conveying the emotional stats of the characters, especially our MC. It is beautiful and detailed allowing readers to understand the motivations of our MC and why she is how she is. Not only that, but secondary characters had an emotional layer that made them relevant and interesting.
There is a very nice message on this book about teaching, and education. A reminder of something simple we forget to do that helps strengthen relationships. Nice!
This book will please mystery and sci-fi lovers alike because it is mysterious to the core. The plot is unpredictable, the book is easy to read, with a story that will leave you curious for more.
This book is the start of what we’re sure it will be a great series. The premise is awesome, and told in a way that will intrigue you without becoming obvious. The approach the writer took in telling this story was genius, and V. S. Holmes kept it tight and interesting until the main plot was finally revealed.
Pros:
- Steady narrative
- Unpredictable plot
- Amazing MCs with depth
- Lots of mysteries to contemplate and ponder on
- Interesting and original setting
- Incredible build-up to the main plot
- Surprises in every corner
- The action scenes, although few, were nice to read
- Great ending that makes you want to read the second book right away
- Mysterious romance
- Great messages for the reader to think about
Cons:
- None
Scribble's Worth 