Review: Crystal Shade: Volume 1

Title: Crystal Shade
Author: István & Orlanda Szabá
Release Date: January 15, 2012 
Source: author

Seven year old Grace always dreamt of becoming a guardian angel; like those who guarded and guided her people and prepared to bravely fight in a dreaded mythical event, the Crystal Shade – which never came. It’s not like Grace ever wanted to see Demons. Or wants to know what evil and darkness is – things that no one ever faced on her world and as the legends says, the Crystal Shade carries within –, nor does she want to die to be reborn as a guardian. But she thinks the mysterious life of angels is so noble, a fable that it sounds exciting – until it actually happens.

David’s Review:

I normally don’t read fantasy this in depth. Though when Istvan Szabo contacted me to read his book, I figured, why not?

Anyway, I can’t say too much about the plot, because I dont want to give it away. But I will say that this story is told by an old man with an omniscient point-of-view. He is speaking to two young children who apparently have the attention span of gods. (I’m just saying, if I was their age, I would have lost interest and asked for a grilled cheese.)

Anyway this old man is telling the story of Grace who really, really, wants to become an aresian guardian with big white wings. Unfortunately, Grace dies and thus rises Angeni, Graces true form.

She trains, and learns, and grows. Eventually being awarded the one thing (after the wings that is) that she has wanted most, the legendary crystal blade. What happens after this, besides some pretty cool fighting? Well its up to you to find out. So read the rest of this review, then read it.

Istvan created each character with a distinct personality. And I could perfectly see the sceneries he crafted and could practically taste the ice fruit Grace sampled in the market. The transportation crafts were awesome, and I understood why Angeni needed to learn what she did. 

That being said, I think the author has amazing talent when it comes to creating whole worlds. But I wish things were a little more fast paced. At times I was blown away, and secretly jealous that he could easily make all these things so vivid and beautiful. At other times, I wished he’d move on and and just get back to the story. I mean common, I only have the attention span of a 22 year old. Need I say more?

1. The main character dies but that isn’t the end.
2. Beautiful writing.
3. A story line that is well thought out.
4. Distinct characters, no confusing who is who.
5. Can you say good sequel?

(Dun Dun Duuuunnn)

1. Slow placed too often.
2. I wish there was more fighting.
3. Im confused on a couple things from the beginning but by the end of this book, I dont remember what they are…. I just know I am…..