Embark on an epic space adventure with me as we dive into "The Quelling" by C. L. Lauder! Join the virtual book tour, powered by Rockstar Book Tours, and brace yourself for a thrilling journey across the galaxy. Don't miss out on the chance to win some stellar prizes – enter the giveaway now! 🚀✨
About The Book:
Title: THE QUELLING
Author: C.L. Lauder
Pub. Date: January 16, 2024
Publisher: River Grove Books
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 362
Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/THEQUELLING
When you’re Stained, patches of skin glisten like liquid starlight, and sooner or later, his creatures find you.
When Kyjta accidentally brands herself with an alien fluid while plotting revenge, she knows her fate is sealed. As one of the Stained, her markings glisten star-bright, and the creatures sent by the Rhemans to scavenge for bodies will have no trouble finding her.
One night, while sheltering during a raid, Kyjta forms an unexpected pact with a Rheman rebel to protect a young girl, Calipsie, who’s fallen into her care. Days later, when Calipsie is taken, Kyjta abandons precaution to go after her. Facing impossible odds and allied by a Rheman she’s not sure she can trust, Kyjta must not only rescue Calipsie, but also face the Rheman overlord who’s taken a disturbing interest in her.
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My Review
⭐⭐⭐1/2
"The Quelling" by C. L. Lauder thrusts readers into a world teetering on the edge of chaos from the very first page. With a premise that hooks you like a fish on a line, this dark fantasy novel promises a journey through a realm where danger lurks at every turn and alliances are forged in the shadows.
From the get-go, Lauder doesn't hold back. The narrative leaps into action, pulling readers into the heart of Kyjta's plight as she grapples with the consequences of her fateful encounter with an alien substance. The concept of the Stained, their luminescent markings, and the ominous creatures hunting them down sets the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with tension and uncertainty.
However, as someone with a penchant for traditional sci-fi and fantasy, I found myself craving a deeper exploration of the world and its intricacies. While the breakneck pace keeps the adrenaline pumping, a bit more groundwork in terms of world-building could have enriched the reading experience. A gradual unveiling of the setting and its nuances would have added layers to the narrative, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the fantastical realm Lauder has crafted.
Nevertheless, the allure of "The Quelling" lies not only in its fast-paced plot but also in its innovative premise. The notion of body snatchers controlled by a malevolent overlord adds a sinister twist to the age-old battle between light and darkness. As Kyjta navigates the treacherous landscape, forming unlikely alliances and confronting her own fears, readers are drawn into a web of intrigue and suspense.
One of the novel's strengths lies in its characters, particularly Kyjta, whose resilience and determination leap off the page. Her journey from reluctant survivor to fearless protector is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth and adaptation. Likewise, the dynamic between Kyjta and the enigmatic Rheman rebel adds depth to the narrative, injecting it with tension and ambiguity.
As Kyjta ventures into the heart of darkness to rescue the young girl, Calipsie, the stakes are raised to dizzying heights. The confrontation with the Rheman overlord promises to be a showdown of epic proportions, fraught with danger and uncertainty. With each twist and turn, Lauder keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next revelation.
In conclusion, "The Quelling" is a pulse-pounding journey into the unknown, fueled by gripping action and a cast of compelling characters. While the lack of extensive world-building may leave some craving more, the novel's innovative premise and relentless pace make it a captivating read from start to finish. Fans of dark fantasy and heart-pounding adventure will find much to enjoy in C. L. Lauder's thrilling debut.
About C.L. Lauder:
C. L. Lauder grew up in South Africa before immigrating to the United Kingdom, where she attended the University of London to complete an MA in Creative Writing. She now lives at the foot of a lush mountain in Hong Kong with her husband and two rapidly lengthening sons, who all enjoy their newfound proximity to nature, especially the sea.
Giveaway Details:
1 winner will receive a THE QUELLING box with a book and swag, International.
Ends April 23rd, midnight EST.
Tour Schedule:
Week One: