Update: If anyone is interested, I have a brief perspective response to the most recent editorial review. In reference to PA’s first chapters, I find the supporting characters far from dry, the culture fascinating (although definitely not as individualistic as Americans are used to), the conversations invigorating, and the pace perfect for me, since I absolutely love childhood and training/schooling sagas. I feel that Schoales got exactly what the first chapters are about when she pointed out the detail given to the setting, unique belief system, and kind of person Chevenga is. That is the sort of introduction that this story needs, because that IS the kind of story this is.
Some will love it, finding it speaks to their reading needs as nothing else can, getting so swept along that at times they will feel that it is so intense, it takes them to the brink of what they can process. Others, of course, will grow bored from the beginning, leaving to find something more gratuitous or instantaneous.
Of course in PA, I’ve found a thrill like no other. Every update is heart-filling. Karen gets me every time. And no, I can’t shut up about it. =)
Original Review: I’m "holding out for a hero," dear readers, and in Chevenga, I’ve found an awesome one! I already look forward to reading "asa kraiya," because I am so enjoying the first book of the series (there were 84 chapters at the time of this review, and I made it through them in two days).
This story is definitely of an idealistic character from an idealistic culture. As an idealist, I LOVE it. However, Chevenga’s neighbors and the world he lives in can be cruelly realistic indeed, and I think the issues centering around human nature, behavior, and choice ring true, even if framed from a relatively uncommon perspective. The summary is accurate, in that the various cultures are very well developed, even if the new vocabulary does take some getting used to (I think the first chapter would be better off with less unknown words being tossed about, and more in context explanation of those words, as they are so important to understanding the story). It is indeed a post-apocalyptic world, but in a very subtle way, the references being vague and fitting the context of the story. I have no idea what the real world setting would be, or even what continent they are on (If the continents are even comparable). There are very few truly fantastic or supernatural elements, and they also are handled very subtly, without throwing you out of the story world at all. Another subtlety I appreciated: the main character turns out to be bisexual. It is simply an acceptable concept and even culturally expected of a person in his position.
Go ahead and start READING this! If you like it, you’ll want to enjoy it slowly so as to put off the pain of being caught up for as long as possible, and if you don’t like it, you’ll probably know quickly and sate your curiosity. =P I have the feeling the pace of the writing will be too detailed and emotionally aware for many readers. No matter. Those who are captured by the world in the beginning will better enjoy the handling of battle and torture scenes as well because of the sensitivity of the writer. I for one LOVE the Yoeli people, and I <3 Chevenga. He is the true hero character, inspiring anyone who enjoys characters one can admire and love.
3 of 3 members found this review helpful.
Help us improve!
Register or
log in to rate this review.
