I’m so happy that I had the chance to read the “Threat Below”, I would like to thank again Jason Latshaw who directly contacted and provided me with a copy of the book. I was intrigued by the summary’s promise so I eagerly accepted the offer, and the book far exceeded my expectations. “The Threat Below” is nothing short of incredible. From its gripping storyline to its gradually escalating tension to the flowing and descriptive writing style, every aspect of the book left me thoroughly satisfied. It’s worth noting that this is just the beginning of a series. I cannot wait to delve into the second book, which boasts even higher acclaim than the first.
Genre
While dystopian fantasies aren’t typically my go-to genre, “The Threat Below” has piqued my interest in exploring more of this category. Its appeal is bolstered by its classification as a YA book, with teenage protagonists leading the narrative. Yet, the themes explored within the story transcend age barriers, making it equally compelling for adult readers.
Themes
Central to the narrative is the theme of power, set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has established a new society atop a mountain. With resources scarce, life resembles earlier phases of human history, characterized by hunting for food and rationing water. To maintain peace and order society is divided into two castes: the physically robust Veritas, who provide sustenance, and the intellectually elite Cognates, responsible for innovation and development. Amidst this structured society, rivalries emerge, even within the Cognates, adding depth to the meticulously crafted world.
Additionally, the novel delves into questions of faith and the existence of God. Protagonist Icelyn, daughter of the Cognate Chief undergoes a profound transformation as she ventures into the perilous realm known as Down Below. The world is thriving without humans and is inhabited by terrible creatures. As the story progresses we learn that these creatures are more than just beasts whose aim is to kill. They are the ones who make you and Icelyn think about questions such as if there is a God why does he abandon what he created and what influence can it have on the individual? Are you still a believer or do you lose your faith?
Characters
Without revealing too much of the plot, it’s worth noting that while I found the non-human characters to be particularly compelling, I had mixed feelings about the main trio of teenagers— Icelyn, Adorane, and Torrain. While their occasional childish behavior is understandable given their age, their persistent bickering, even in life-threatening situations, could be grating at times. Nevertheless, their individual strengths and character growth kept me invested in their journey. I could easily root for Icelyn’s mission and for things to turn out well.
Summary
In summary, “The Threat Below” delivers an original storyline with intricate world-building and notable character development. I eagerly await the next installment and highly recommend this captivating adventure to readers seeking an immersive and enjoyable read.
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