CLN's Seasonal Reviews (CLOSED)

Seer's Library- by - SiomayAi

Reviewer:

Author:

Title, cover:

The title of this book does everything a title should, in my opinion. It intrigues readers and raises questions without completely confusing them by using words that have just the right amount of mystery. The cover might be simple, but it also matches the overall vibe of the book, and, well, it's just plain pretty.

Blurb:

The blurb on the other hand, I would recommend be shortened. It's too long for a book blurb, and there's some information that doesn't really seem necessary. Long descriptions can be a pretty big turn-off for readers, and so are lots of names and made-up words in a blurb. Of course, I understand that some fantasy books are bound to have many made-up names but I'd suggest keeping them to a minimum, especially in the description. You don't need to tell your reader every single thing about the story, simply use enough words to get them interested in the story or characters. All you need in a description is the two or three major points/conflicts of the story, and a reason for the reader to keep reading.

I find the order in which everything is mentioned to be a little messy, as well. Celeste is mentioned in the first chapter, then we skip to The Five Heroes, then Orion, then Luminur, and back to Celeste again?

Other than that, though, it's actually a pretty good set-up for a story. I like how Celeste was introduced, and the Magie Societate is both mysterious and villainous. All of it really makes you question whether Celeste and Luminur will even succeed.

Extended blurb:

I actually really like this version, though it is long for a blurb. It's a little clearer in what it's trying to convey, to me at least.

Map:

It's clear, pretty, simple. Everything you want in a map. You can really sense the amount of effort you put into this.

Prologue:

Great opening paragraph. It's an interesting perspective, immediately intriguing. Quite philosophical, and depending on the audience this story is marketed towards, that could be either a good or bad thing. Overall, though, it's an exciting prologue and inciting incident.

I also noticed the words "warm snow". They stood out a lot to me, and if it was intentional then I think it warrants an explanation. What I assumed was that the character felt so cold that even snow felt warm at this point, though it might be something else. But saying something that unusual usually needs at least a short explanation or readers will be confused.

You really get a sense of how lonely the character is, which is perfect with the whole time concept and the setting, that's described to be extremely cold.

You did a pretty good job describing the setting, the environment they're in especially. I could use a little more description of the characters though, not necessarily they themselves yet but a cloak flowing the wind, bits of white snow in their hair, being so cold their lips have turned purple, etc.

ACT 1- Orion:

It's a very effective way of setting the story's overall vibe. The "madman" line being particularly chilling. It builds suspense in the reader, gets them curious. I basically love everything about this, and I don't say that too often.

Description:

I think this is my favorite aspect of this book. I am absolutely in love with the way you described Sun City, the fields, the deserts, the moon being shadowed, your writing style works so well with these descriptions and it's really effective at giving off a warm sort of vibe. And it's not just warm, happy things that you described so well. The scene where Orion drinks the alcohol against his will was disturbing in a very well-written way. From the wine burning his throat, to the tear, it's disturbing because it feels real. Which is great if it was what you were going for.