Review of Zona: The Forbidden Land

[Beatus]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Zona: The Forbidden Land" by Fred G. Baker.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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This is a story told from Dr. Grant Taylor’s point of view. Dr. Grant, the protagonist, is summoned to St. Petersburg, Russia, to settle Dr. Randall Taylor’s estate. Dr. Randall is Dr. Grant’s uncle. Dr. Randall’s demise is a mysterious case that involves a forbidden land deep in the mountains named Zona. ZONA: The Forbidden Land by Fred G. Baker started abruptly, I would say. A mysterious man broke into Dr. Randall’s house and entered the library. Dr. Grant found him going through some books. However, before they exchanged any introductions, the man ran out of sight.

Doctor Grant stumbled upon information that left him no choice but to trace his uncle’s footsteps to understand what happened to him. The mysterious disappearance seemed to have attracted the authorities’ attention as well. Furthermore, the diseased uncle had left behind a communication with instructions to not trust anyone, even close friends. The information about his uncle’s last expedition compelled Dr. Grant to embark on a perilous trip to Zona to find out what happened to his uncle. What exactly is Zona? Will Dr. Grant manage to find out the truth about his uncle’s demise?

In ZONA: The Forbidden Land, Fred G. Baker told a story about an expedition to a part of Siberia that, because of the extreme conditions and the wild beasts dwelling there, was unexplored. The narrative flows smoothly with such ease, and the choice of words takes the mind for a ride full of excitement and color. There are saber-toothed lions and mammoths in the valleys creating beautiful scenes in the reader's mind. Additionally, the author aligned the events chronologically and logically, reflecting his expertise and thoughtfulness. I particularly liked how the journal detailing Mr. Randall's previous expeditions complimented the current one. In addition, the author dressed the animal characters with temperaments relatable to their personalities and roles.

I couldn’t find anything that I didn’t like in the entire book. Beautifully drawn maps show the location of Zona and the camp layout, which gave the book depth and striking appeal. The grammar is so good; the editors deserve two thumbs up for the job. Readers who love adventures, expeditions and do not shy away from associated dangers and violence can enjoy the book. I would not recommend this book to readers who hate gruesome, gory scenes and violence. The author made sure that the book also educates about life. Therefore, any reader would definitely find a thing or two to learn from it.

I loved the book entirely, but I liked the cover most. It is superb. The title caught my interest straight away. Therefore, based on the reasons mentioned above, I rate ZONA: The Forbidden Land by Fred G. Barker four out of four stars.

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Zona: The Forbidden Land
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[María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda]

I'm not much into reading about full-on adventure without a little romance or something else thrown here and there. But Ive got to admit Siberia is a fascinating place, and an excellent setting for such a story, so I'm glad the author took full advantage of it. Thank you for your review!

[Amelia-Lily]

I'm not much into reading about full-on adventure without a little romance or something else thrown here and there. But Ive got to admit Siberia is a fascinating place, and an excellent setting for such a story, so I'm glad the author took full advantage of it. Thank you for your review!

I do recall there was some element of romance in this book too. It was not overly intense, but it was quite impressive.

[Cheryl Erickson]

Your review is enticing! Now I want to go along with Dr. Grant and find out more about Zona and what happened to his uncle. You wrote with great detail, and your positivity is rubbing off on prospective readers. Well done!

[Mercy Sos Christopher]

The book kicks off a reasonable and warm tendency that brings the peruser pleasurably into the story. That doesn't continue going long in any case, as the forming style changes to versatile and complex experiences with respect to the regulative issues and military methodologies of each and every situation. I really enjoyed the book though I had some issues with it, but it's a good book. Congrats to the author on BOTD