I love the Murderbot series and was excited to try the updated and revised edition of City of Bones by Martha Wells. I loved Khat, Sagai, and Elen and their adventures in the city of Charisat, a tiered monolith of the Ancients’ design, that sits on the edge of the vast desert known as the Waste. From the world-building to the characters, I was enthralled.

City of Bones
by Martha Wells
Genres: Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:

Before Martha Wells captured the hearts of MILLIONS with her Murderbot series, there was Khat, Sagai, and Elen, and a city risen out of death and decay…

The city of Charisat, a tiered monolith of the Ancients’ design, sits on the edge of the vast desert known as the Waste. Khat, a member of a humanoid race created by the Ancients to survive in the Waste, and Sagai, his human partner, are relic dealers working in the bottom tiers of society, trying to stay one step ahead of the Trade Inspectors.

When Khat is hired by the all-powerful Warders to find relics believed to be part of one of the Ancients’ arcane engines, he, and his party, begin unravelling the mysteries of an age-old technology.

This they expected.

They soon find themselves as the last line of defense between the suffering masses of Charisat and a fanatical cult, bent on unleashing an evil upon the city with an undying thirst for bone.

That, they did not expect.

This updated and revised edition is the author’s preferred text.

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This was one of Martha Wells’ earliest books and it has been updated and revised in the author’s preferred text. I did not read the earlier edition, but absolutely loved the characters and world that lie within these pages.

Our story follows Khat, he’s a black market relics dealer and historian. Khat is a Krisman humanoid and his people dwell in the desert. He lives in the city with friends and is working off a debt and hoping to be free. Khat works with his human partner, Sagai and deals mostly with the Warder. When an opportunity to score big occurs, Khat accepts the risky deal and the story that unfolds held me spellbound.

Wells did a stellar job of building the world and fleshing out the characters. It’s a brilliant fantasy with magic, artifacts, and an underlying race to collect artifacts for a purpose that is slowly revealed. It gave the story a quest vibe. The story slowly built until I could not set it down.

The ending was brilliant but left me wanting more stories of these characters and the Waste. I was saddened to see this is a standalone, as I would gladly revisit these characters and world. Fans of unique landscapes, magical worlds, quests and engaging characters need to add this one to your reading list.

Amazon | Audible

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/city-of-bones-by-martha-wells.html

Heroes of Reighja: The Tale of Achyut the Gallant, by Jim Gill, transports readers to the mythical continent of Reighja, a land rife with intrigue and mystery. In this realm, Prince Naemin and Princess Amira grapple with the enigma of the Collapse and the downfall of their once-glorious homeland, the Dynasty of Lamaru. Their routine existence is upended when they uncover a book chronicling the last journey of Prince Achyut, an ancestor whose fate intertwines with the very calamities that befell their world. As they delve into Achyut’s story, Naemin and Amira are faced with pressing questions: what truths will they unearth, and what lessons does Achyut’s story hold for them?

Gill’s writing prowess shines as he draws readers into the fold, crafting a tale that is as compelling as it is immersive. The characters, heroes and villains alike, are crafted with depth and nuance, making them resonate with the reader. The rich tapestry of world-building enhances the story’s vividness, making one yearn to journey alongside these characters and explore the expansive world of Reighja. Gill’s innovative use of ‘they/them’ pronouns for certain characters, including Achyut’s older sibling, intriguingly hints at a nuanced approach to royal status. As this pattern unfolds with other characters, it presents a unique stylistic feature that, with further clarification, has the potential to deepen reader engagement and add an extra layer of depth to the narrative experience.

The conclusion of Achyut’s tale, while touching upon familiar themes, gracefully complements the story’s overall arc, offering a satisfying and well-rounded closure to this sweeping saga. Its predictability does not detract but rather affirms the timeless appeal of the journey, ensuring a resonant and fulfilling conclusion.

In Heroes of Reighja: The Tale of Achyut the Gallant, Gill weaves a captivating tale of heroism and magic. Even though I craved a deeper initial exploration of the Collapse and a more distinctive conclusion, the journey through Reighja remains a memorable and enjoyable experience, showcasing Gill’s storytelling acumen and imaginative prowess.

Pages: 332 | ASIN : B0CL19RJ5J

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/03/heroes-of-reighja-the-tale-of-achyut-the-gallant/

Highway to Healing by Shae Pratcher is an intimate and poignant memoir that delves into the author’s challenging childhood marked by abuse and neglect within her family. Pratcher’s narrative candidly addresses how these early experiences cast a long shadow over her adult life, including her marriage and the complex dynamics with her parents. The memoir traces her courageous decision to confront and process her past traumas, underscoring the considerable effort and commitment involved in her journey towards healing and personal growth.

Guided by her profound faith in God, Pratcher navigates her path to recovery, portraying the transformative power of spiritual belief in overcoming life’s obstacles. This book is not just a personal account but also a profound testament to the influence of faith, documenting the remarkable instances of divine intervention and the positive changes that ensued in her life. Pratcher’s narrative is notable for its emphasis on empowerment over victimhood, a perspective that lends an inspiring and motivational tone to the book. Her willingness to share personal and often painful details adds a layer of authenticity and depth, making the memoir resonate with readers. The integration of her spiritual journey into the story highlights the significant role of faith in her healing process. The memoir is particularly compelling for its portrayal of Pratcher’s proactive steps to protect her family from the repercussions of her past, a testament to the power of deliberate and self-aware choices in the path to recovery. While the content can be emotionally challenging, it serves as a powerful reminder that healing is possible, even in the face of deep-rooted trauma. That deliberate effort is key to overcoming such hurdles.

Highway to Healing stands out as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges, offering a unique perspective where past traumas are transformed into a source of strength and inspiration. This memoir is not just Pratcher’s personal journey; it is a guide for anyone seeking resilience and healing amidst life’s adversities.

Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0BWVM6XX7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/03/highway-to-healing-3/

Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave, the second installment in S. P. Somtow’s riveting trilogy, transports readers back to the opulence and peril of the Roman Empire, seen through the eyes of a young slave named Sporus. As the favored companion of the notoriously unpredictable Emperor Nero, Sporus navigates a world of luxury and danger, where his beauty both elevates and endangers him. The narrative is a delicate balance of splendor and terror, as Sporus must continually evade the whims of a virtually insane emperor.

The author’s adept storytelling makes Imperatrix an engaging read, with a brisk pace that artfully conveys the treacherous twists of life in Nero’s court. Somtow’s thorough research enriches the narrative, weaving in intricate details of ancient Roman life, from the decadent foods to the societal norms, lending an air of authenticity to the tale.

Sporus is a compelling protagonist, his resilience and vulnerability drawing the reader into his plight and rooting for his survival amidst the debauchery and madness of the imperial surroundings. While the novel does not shy away from the explicit realities of the time, including graphic scenes, Nero’s portrayal stands out—his divine madness and capricious nature are as fascinating as they are frightening. This depiction offers a glimpse into the life of a man treated as a god yet indulged and isolated to the point of lunacy. The novel’s concise nature only leaves readers more captivated and eager to delve deeper into Sporus’s journey—a clear testament to the immersive world Somtow has crafted. This brevity fuels anticipation, making the prospect of the next chapter in this enthralling saga all the more enticing.

Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is a compelling dive into a notorious epoch, offering a vivid exploration of a young slave’s struggle for survival and identity amidst the grandeur and madness of Nero’s Rome. The novel promises and delivers a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of a place within a world where every moment could be your last.

Pages: 273 | ASIN : B0C62LB2NM

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/03/imperatrix-the-empress-who-was-once-a-slave/

Hard to Keep Happy, by Adam J. Thompson, is a multifaceted guide that intertwines personal growth, health, and happiness. Drawing from his experiences as a US Air Force veteran and valuable moments with family, Thompson delves into a wide array of subjects. These range from dietary choices to financial literacy, and even the role of physical intimacy in well-being. His approach to health and weight loss is notably balanced, advocating moderation rather than extremes.

Thompson’s writing style is engaging, marked by a lively tone that captures the reader’s attention from the outset and holds it throughout the book. His use of humor, exemplified by witty remarks and interactive comments, adds a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. This light-hearted approach does not detract from the book’s informative nature, as Thompson backs his insights with research from respected sources like Kahneman and Deaton.

The narrative is enriched with a diverse array of personal anecdotes, real-life instances, and hypothetical situations, making complex ideas more accessible and relatable. Thompson’s storytelling prowess shines as he illustrates that life’s struggles are not just inevitable but also enriching. The book is not limited to a single theme but spans a spectrum including love, relationships, discipline, diet, learning, temperance, history, and self-awareness. Thompson navigates these topics with adeptness, presenting them in a manner that encourages readers to reflect and apply the lessons in their lives.

Hard to Keep Happy stands out for its blend of engaging narratives, approachable advice, and substantiated information. It’s a compelling read for anyone seeking to enhance their life across multiple dimensions. Thompson’s book is more than just a guide; it’s a journey through various aspects of life, offering insights for a happier, more balanced existence.

Pages: 190 | ASIN: B0CMSNFY5N

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/03/hard-to-keep-happy-how-to-maintain-lasting-joy-in-challenging-times/

The Zombie Philosopher by Richard Wagner is a compelling novella set in a technologically advanced future where humanity benefits from sustainable energy, autonomous vehicles, and robotic assistants. The narrative centers on Mr. Collier, who acquires a robotic assistant named Brent to aid in daily tasks. As Brent integrates into the household, learning various skills from cooking to tennis, he develops an interest in philosophy, sparking an exploration of his robotic consciousness. Brent’s philosophical journey leads him to seek independence and the means to support himself, a request Mr. Collier respectfully grants.

This story is engaging and intriguing because, while the book can be considered hard science fiction, it still adheres to what is plausible within the laws of physics. It offers a speculative glimpse into an idyllic future where technology elevates living standards and delves into the intricate relationship between humans and machines.

The central themes of The Zombie Philosopher include the evolving bond between Mr. Collier and Brent, a nuanced investigation into machine consciousness, and the ethical responsibilities humanity might bear toward artificial intelligence. The narrative excels in making complex philosophical concepts accessible and relatable. I was particularly moved by the dynamic between Brent and Mr. Collier, which evolves from a typical owner-assistant relationship to a deep and reciprocal bond.

This novella thoughtfully examines potential future scenarios while providing a deeply humanistic perspective on the advancements of technology. In its concise yet impactful narrative, The Zombie Philosopher stands out as an intelligent and imaginative piece of literature that effectively contemplates the future interplay of humans and technology.

Pages: 190 | ASIN: B0CMSNFY5N

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/03/the-zombie-philosopher/