Review of Opaque

This forum is for volunteer reviews by members of our review team. These reviews are done voluntarily by the reviewers and are published in this forum, separate from the official professional reviews. These reviews are kept separate primarily because the same book may be reviewed by many different reviewers.
Post Reply
Trindade Carvalho
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 50
Joined: 21 Nov 2023, 15:01
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 25
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-trindade-carvalho.html
Latest Review: Deceptive Calm by Patricia Skipper

Review of Opaque

Post by Trindade Carvalho »

[Following is a volunteer review of "Opaque" by Calix Leigh-Reign.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


Cālix Leigh-Reign kicks off the "Opaque" saga by plunging into the supernatural universe and Adam's journey of self-discovery. The book introduces us to a young man who, while dealing with the fury, frustration, and isolation typical of adolescence, discovers he has telekinetic powers. Adam and Carly, both 16 years old, carry the legacy of a special Russian lineage: they possess biokinetic abilities. However, this inheritance comes with a price—the constant threat of the Iksha, ruthless scientists who seek to annihilate their bloodlines.

From the outset, the author characterizes Adam as a nuanced character. He battles his inner demons and the power that emanates from within while seeking to find his place in a society he considers oppressive and hypocritical. The dynamic between Adam and Carly is also fascinating. Sharing a unique bond, their interaction is permeated by moments of tension and mystery, largely due to Adam's powers and his difficulty in connecting emotionally.

Leigh-Reign masterfully explores Adam's dilemma regarding his powers: to accept or resist? The scenes in which he struggles to control his telekinesis are excellent, and the narrative, in describing his seizures, metallic secretions, and intense physical sensations, puts us in direct contact with the character's inner battle. The plot gains even more excitement with the introduction of a secret society of descendants with supernatural abilities.

The world-building and power system are captivating. The author creates a rich biokinetic system with abilities such as regeneration and telekinesis and a complex hierarchy among the descendants. The action sequences, especially the clashes against the Iksha, are electrifying and maintain a fast pace, captivating the reader from beginning to end.

Despite the positive aspects, the narrative sometimes focuses excessively on Adam's thoughts, making some passages repetitive. The character's constant resentment towards society and his struggle for self-acceptance can, at times, tire the reader. Interpersonal relationships, such as that of Adam and Carly, could have been further explored to bring greater emotional depth to the story.

I rate "Opaque" 5 out of 5 stars. Although the pacing could be a bit more balanced, especially regarding Adam's internal conflicts, the story is excellent, with impeccable editing, and the social critique is pertinent. Furthermore, the concept of biokinetic powers is very well developed. I recommend this book to teenagers who enjoy supernatural stories and complex characters, as well as those who appreciate plots that blend mystery and action.

******
Opaque
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
Post Reply

Return to “Volunteer Reviews”