One of my favorite science fiction trilogies (and a source of friction between me and my younger brother since I made the mistake of loaning him book 1 which he lost!) is by Julie Czerneda so I was delighted to discover a new title by her. I am always a little reluctant to start new series lately because I have promised so many authors reviews and I know that this author writes very densely intricate stories that cannot be rushed through. I am now even further behind on my commitments...but I can't say I'm sorry, lol. Be warned...it is more than 800 pages...and I had extreme trouble putting it down! (and, my apologies, I neglected to state that it is the beginning of the 'Night's Edge' series in my review)
My review:
A Turn of Light (Night's Edge)
by Julie Czerneda is a
fabulous fantasy tale that is an unusual coming of age story which
follows Jenn Nalynn as she approaches her pivotal nineteenth birthday.
The very insulated population of the valley of Marrowdell has a limited
scope for someone who yearns to see the wide world yet is unaware what a
singular existence she has in a place where grain protects and harvests
itself, an ethereal companion has watched her mature and a fountain remains forever pure. Unbeknownst to Jenn, the conundrum is, if
she goes out to explore the world, will there be a world to explore?
The arrival of enigmatic newcomer, Bannan Larmensu, who sees much more
than the ordinary observer, may provide more complications than
solutions, particularly since he brings a companion known as Scourge.
Marrowdell undoubtedly will never be the same, no matter what happens.I have always been impressed by the science fiction titles I have read by this author because I am fascinated by her world-building. It takes a lot of talent to create an entirely believable world filled with interesting beings who are fascinating despite their obvious ‘otherness’. I am ecstatic to discover that there was no loss of that ability when the world portrayed in this wonderful tale was created. The dexterity in populating the very unusual village of Marrowdell with exquisitely layered individuals and the gradual unfolding of their layers showcase what I love best about this author, her ability to suck one in and then turn preconceptions on their sides.
There are a wealth of beings who vacillate between being powerless and pivotal at various times interspersed with great hidden gems of sly humor and almost groan-worthy puns (e.g. will o’ the wisp) that keep one mesmerized by the unfolding tales The combination of positive and negative aspects that each entity is composed of gives a reality to the tale yet the fantastical world(s) they occupy stretch the imagination and lead to bemused speculation. There are so many side elements that I would love to explore and I am delighted to discover that there is a least one other tale already being woven. Be forewarned, this is not a quick beach read, but rather one that should be savored with the expectation of revisiting favorite sections, and plan your time accordingly as you prepare to be drawn under Ms. Czerneda’s spell and only reluctantly escape back into the real world.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
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