Review by Aisha_123 -- Masters and Bastards

[Aisha_123]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Masters and Bastards" by Christopher J. Penington.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Gripping, humor-filled, action-packed, and entertaining, Penington brings science fiction and fantasy to a whole new level with Masters and Bastards. This intriguing tale is one of which in the world of Poltervaut, a solar system far away from Earth, Iberia and Scythia are the last of the human nations. With the ongoing war amongst themselves, they are forced to come together to withstand an invasion by an alien force, the Vulgari, who wants to enslave the entire human race. Entangled in this battle is Andreas Marset, a young Arpathian soldier in the Iberian Army. He learns vaguely about his true identity and his purpose in the wars to come from the Emperor’s daughter, Isabella Caravingian after a visit to the Imperium. Thus, he began a journey of self-discovery interwoven within a love triangle while facing betrayal from his trusted comrades and love interests in the incoming war with the Vulgari.

This is not my first book from this author, and I must say that Penington is very seasoned in his works. This book is like a roller coaster ride which drives a plethora of positive emotions within your body. Though it was written in 3rd person narrative, I could see the world through Andreas’s eyes. I found that very thrilling. I also observed the plot to be very intense and engaging. I could not put it down until the very last page.

Asides from the engaging plot, I found to my satisfaction, the development of each character. Each character fulfilled their purpose and it brought out the beauty of the book. The character, Andreas exhibited a high level of brilliance and courage while dealing with the events that unfolded. Being a psionipath was a very demanding task but that did not stop his commitment. Overall, I liked his character and the role he played in the wars. Isabella Caravingian showed a flair for the dramatic. Especially when conversing with Andreas, she kept him puzzled but led with an attraction that he could not resist. This was amusing to read.

Another interesting character was Emperor Constantine. Constantine showed a huge amount of vulgarity which made his character realistic and extremely humorous. He displayed a type of charisma that is usually not expected from Emperors. Though he was a static character, he was my favorite among all. I enjoyed and anticipated reading his appearances.

I cannot think of anything I disliked about this book. Although, I felt more light was needed to be shed on what became of the Vulgari. This, however, does not alter my stance or affect my rating. Though there were two instances of grammatical errors, I found the book professionally proof-read. There was a great use of profanity and a few sexual scenes. Sci-fi and fantasy adult readers might find the story a great and intriguing read. Adult readers who do not have an interest in fantasy may pass on this.

Without further ado, I rate Masters and Bastards a 4 out of 4 stars.

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Masters and Bastards
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[Jaroks]

A fantastic review there with a great use of expressions. I love to see it!

[Aisha_123]

A fantastic review there with a great use of expressions. I love to see it!

Thank you!

[Leen282]

I guess, like me, you're also looking forward to reading more of this author.

[Teddyquam]

Its interesting that Emperor Constantine was your favourite, because I found myself paying little mind to him. I quite liked Andreas' second love interest (her name evades me), but thinking back, Emperor Constantine was indeed a very favourable character.

[Aisha_123]

I guess, like me, you're also looking forward to reading more of this author.

Yes, I am.

[Aisha_123]

Its interesting that Emperor Constantine was your favourite, because I found myself paying little mind to him. I quite liked Andreas' second love interest (her name evades me), but thinking back, Emperor Constantine was indeed a very favourable character.

It was like he moved in the shadows and still found a way to shine. Her name was Hannah.

[Nerea]

I love your summary of the book. It's clear and precise. I too enjoyed reading the book and I kinda liked Andreas parts in the story, it seasoned the the narative. Great job in your review. Kudos.

[Aisha_123]

I love your summary of the book. It's clear and precise. I too enjoyed reading the book and I kinda liked Andreas parts in the story, it seasoned the the narative. Great job in your review. Kudos.

His story was really interesting to read. Thank you!

[Nehal Mitna]

It was a delight to read this book. I too loved seeing things through Andreas' eyes. Nice review!

[Aisha_123]

It was a delight to read this book. I too loved seeing things through Andreas' eyes. Nice review!

Thank you!