4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Redemption The Advent is a science fiction fantasy thriller written by Kimon Alexander.
The Valdors are ethereal beings in parallel dimension that watch over the development of humans’ consciousness. However, human depravity impedes spiritual evolution and Earth is being considered for total annihilation. Valianx, head of Valdor Council, sent Balthazar in a final attempt to redeem Earth. In line with his mission, Balthazar has to find an agreeable host who will voluntarily accommodate his consciousness and assist him with what he comes to Earth for.
Divided into three parts, this is an intriguing and suspenseful book that holds the readers’ interest from beginning to end. It features three important characters: a suave, cunning, ruthless and megalomaniac drug dealer, a manipulative and duplicitous Islamic zealot and an honorable but emotionally scarred police investigator. It is told in the third person perspective and in casual conversational tone for the most part.
Though the plot is initially hazy, the presentation is done very gradually, almost imperceptibly, that the readers may wonder about the connection, and culminates in a satisfying denouement. The author successfully puts all the pieces of the puzzle together almost at the very end giving the readers that feeling of being strung along though in a good way.
The book is not just exciting it is also very informative. The author gives, what I believe to be, an objective overview of the Islamic belief, specifically the Five Pillars of Islam. Moreover, he gives an almost academic explication of the workings of the brain which I find both interesting and impressive. Furthermore, all the characters, both main and minor, are well-developed complete with solid backstories. Consequently, the readers find them easily relatable that it feels natural to empathize with Baxter, to pity Patrick, to loathe King and detest Sheik Ali. To arouse such emotions from the readers says a lot about the writing skills of the author.
However, I find some scientific explanations to be too technical. Though I tried my best to follow with the expositions by reading them twice and more slowly, other readers may find it easier to simply skip the parts. Moreover, discussions between the Valdors about spiritual evolution and Alpha can be too perplexing and therefore a little taxing. Furthermore, some specific parts of the book may challenge some readers’ religious sensibilities. Though the book is clearly a work of fiction, other readers may find their long-standing belief questioned and may take offense. Finally, I noticed a few typo errors (like money to it pay back and the ship was a carrying weapons) and misspelled words (like discernable instead of discernible). Thankfully, they are too few to detract from the overall reading experience.
I, therefore, rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It is interesting, exciting, suspenseful, informative and well-researched. I recommend it to readers who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. It may also appeal to readers who are interested in various religion and religious beliefs. Some scenes of sex, abuse and cruelty, however, may not be suitable for young readers.
******
Redemption The Advent
View: on Bookshelves
Like kimmyschemy06's review? Post a comment saying so!
