An ambitious, sweeping tale of power, faith, and the struggle for sovereignty…
Shekleton’s grand epic chronicles an unmarried princess’s fight for her throne amidst political upheaval, reform, and the lasting presence of an ancient creator in a fractured world. The narrative spans millennia, presenting a meticulously built world inhabited by three sentient primate species—the Wati, Crivien, and Vidogs. These societies are shaped by the enigmatic Cognoscens Wayfarer, whose interventions, perceived as miracles, influence their destinies. At the story’s core is Princess Danaba, a Wati royal whose personal growth parallels the upheavals of her empire. Grappling with the loss of her brothers, her father’s descent into despair, and escalating political turmoil, Danaba evolves from a grieving teenager into a calculated, poised ruler.
Shekleton portrays Danaba’s struggles with authenticity. Steadfast and resilient, Elenis plays a crucial role in the unfolding events of the story. Other characters, including Emperor Gazidja, whose grief and indecision destabilize his rule, and Xerafon, Danaba’s pragmatic tutor, add depth and complexity. The interplay between Danaba and Xerafon brings layers of intellectual and emotional tension. Shekleton’s worldbuilding is expert: From the grandeur of the Hall of Elevated Spirit to the precarious lives of palace servants, the world of Bellosio is both vast and intimately lived in. The societal hierarchies of the Wati, the rugged Crivien landscapes, and the Vidogs’ intricate linguistic customs are depicted with precision. Rituals like the Feast of Nurwet bring cultural specificity, grounding the story in a sense of realism despite its fantastical elements. The sensory richness of Shekleton’s prose heightens the immersive experience. Moments such as Danaba contemplating her reflection before donning a warrior’s helmet or the frenzied aftermath of an assassination attempt are described with vivid immediacy. The sci-fi aspects are seamlessly integrated, with details like the Crivien’s alenpa gland adding both scientific intrigue and thematic resonance.
Shekleton’s writing is a blend of lyricism and precision. His meditative prose shines in philosophical passages, while scenes of political conflict and action bristle with intensity. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, revealing character depth and driving the narrative forward. That said, the story occasionally lingers on exposition, which, while enriching, may slow the pace for some readers. Additionally, the dense prose and intricate political machinations may challenge casual readers, appealing primarily to those who enjoy intellectually demanding, layered storytelling. The interplay of faith, autonomy, and power dynamics is handled with sophistication, inviting readers to ponder profound questions. Shekleton expertly uses the backdrop of a divine overseer’s influence to probe existential dilemmas: What happens when divine guidance wanes? Can faith endure without tangible evidence? At its heart, the novel delves into the evolution of civilizations and the deeply personal struggles of people navigating love, loss, and the burdens of legacy.
For readers seeking a story that challenges their intellect and engages their emotions, Bellosio is a journey well worth undertaking.
Pub date October 14, 2024
Mo Keijuk Press
ISBN 979-8991455800
Price $19.95 (USD) Paperback, $9.99 Kindle edition
