Updraft by Fran WildeA fantasy with a difference; an intriguing world above the clouds with tall towers and wings with which to reach them.
A singular, fascinating world, even if a bit vague in context. Since this is an uncorrected manuscript, the world-building may be better clarified in the final version. The basis for this world, however, is strong, distinctive, and original.
Book Description: In a city of living bone rising high above the clouds, where danger hides in the wind and the ground is lost to legend, a young woman must expose a dangerous secret to save everyone she loves.
Welcome to a world of wind and bone, songs and silence, betrayal and courage.
The above description is short and intriguing and works so well with the cover. The characters are imperfect, interesting, and complex-- working in a unique cultural milieu .
The strong female protagonist is Kirit who eagerly awaits her wing test. Kirit's mother is an admired and important trader who flies great distances on her trade routes, and Kirit wants nothing more than to follow in her footsteps. Circumstances and Kirit's failure to observe one of the laws, however, will alter things immeasurably. Someone or something is determined to influence and manipulate Kirit's own plans for her future.
This was an uncorrected manuscript, and I'm sure a good editor could smooth things out a bit, but even without it, the originality and strong characterization make Updraft well worth the effort. A debut novel for an author who will surely develop a strong fan base.
Read in June. Blog post scheduled for August 24.
NetGalley/MacMillan-Tor/Forge
Sci-Fi/Fantasy. Sept. 1, 2015. Print length: 352 pages.
It sounds like this has lots of potential. :-)
ReplyDeleteI think it does have potential for an interesting series, especially for a debut novel! Since my copy was an uncorrected manuscript, the final version may clean up the areas I found a bit vague. :)
DeleteI don't think I've read anything like this; and it does sounds it has potential. It'd be interesting to see how the characters develop as the series go.
ReplyDeleteI will certainly want to read the sequel. :)
DeleteGreat - so glad to read your review. I have this waiting to be read.
ReplyDeleteLynn :D
It was an uncorrected manuscript, but I did like it even though I had a few quibbles. :)
DeleteIt does sound unique. I really like the sound of Updraft, Jenclair. A strong female character, the whole flying thing . . . So much promise! I hope it turns out to be a good series.
ReplyDeleteIt was entertaining, and I want to catch up with the characters when the next one comes out. :)
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