Botulf's Stone Blog

Abstract:  This is another short but interesting novella from this series.  In this prequel to  The Song of the Sirin , some questions are answered, others are not.  Otchigen makes for a good focal point, with virtues that are also the origin of vices, and his story gives him a level of humanity that had been lacking. Content Warning (highlight to view):  some violent and frightening imagery, disturbing imagery, an instance of gross-out humor, demonic possession ——— I forgot that this was a blog weekend until a few hours ago, so here’s just a quick review for a quick read.  It’s also the last entry in the Kotar series for a bit (not that I have a choice, since the next book hasn’t come out yet).   The Rusted Blade  is a prequel novella to Kotar’s  Raven Son  series detailing the circumstances leading to the disgraceful absence of Voran’s parents, in particular his father, in  The Song of the Sirin .  As such, there are a c...

Abstract:  A book displaying Kotar’s growth as an author, but which doesn’t quite measure up as a whole to the potential of its parts.  Prose and character writing have improved, and certain ideas introduced in the world building grabbed me imaginatively and intellectually while also allowing the conflict to develop naturally.  Some subplots fall flat, though, as do some character revelations, but overall the multiple plots and characters work well together, and there is no wasted space to be found.  The ending might also be frustrating to some, but there is good payoff for the set up. Content Warning (highlight to view):  violent imagery, non-explicit sexual content, some frightening/grotesque imagery, some mild cursing, demonic possession ——— I don’t know when I grew so attached to Kotar’s world and characters, but I quite enjoyed  The Heart of the World , the third book in his  Raven Son  series.  Before I go on, THIS IS A BOOK IN A SERIES...