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Saturday, December 5, 2020

Book Review: Apophis by Raj Anand | Science-Fiction

 

Book Review

Apophis: Into the Folds of Darkness by Raj Anand


Book Review: Apophis by Raj Anand | Science-Fiction | Review by Dhiraj Sindhi | Indian Book Blogger
Apophis by Raj Anand


Author: Raj Anand

ISBN: 978-1648508981

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: 456 Pages

Publisher: Notion Press (24th September 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/36KfD8p

About the author:

Savinder Raj Anand is a writer, architect, professor, father, and a long-distance runner with a wanderlust to explore and write stories that traverse across diverse cultures.


Book Review: Apophis by Raj Anand | Science-Fiction | Review by Dhiraj Sindhi | Indian Book Blogger
Raj Anand


Instagram:@rajanandbooks
Facebook: @rajanandbooks


REVIEW

Apophis by Raj Anand is a Science-Fiction book that brings several disciplines together including, science, philosophy, history, astrophysics, and shamanism to fight off the apocalyptic danger posed by this asteroid with 2.45 kilometers diameter and weight more than 360,000 metric tons, moving straight towards the earth. The book is highly educative in terms of facts and information regarding great philosophers and historical events from across various civilizations; very conveniently embedded in the plot.

The most interesting aspect of the book is the central conflict that is between two organizations – the Crypteia, and the lineage of Lazarok (who are committed to protecting the Kleos) and the Kleos – five sentient beings (9-year-old reincarnations of ancient philosophers). The first half of the book depicts how Lazarok shields the Kleos ever since their birth and brings them together on their ninth birthday. The second half portrays how the Kleos, collectively set out on a journey to the mission they are destined to accomplish. They prepare themselves for the intergalactic war which is imminent.

The very conception and the elements the author has involved in the book make it stand out from other books in the Sci-Fi genre. The book combines a lot of contemporary and historical facts to form a large network that justifies scores of unusual events of the past, which makes it seem realistic. There are some vivid, action-packed scenes and other mind-blowing theories to give you an unforgettable experience. The author has incorporated representation from different countries, their culture, myths, legends, and philosophies.

The book starts and ends with the same situation, that is the threat is closing in on the earth and there is a single ray of hope – the Kleos with their shamanic powers and great wisdom. The end is fairly satisfactory as the Kleos achieve what seems to be a fully-powered weapon. The timeline is not linear owing to the fact that international travel and time-travel are the major aspects involved, although it is easily comprehensible and the structure complements the mysterious storyline. Set in December 2021, there is a lot going on in past, present, and future with regard to ancient history & philosophy, the international & Crypteia conflict, and the intergalactic conflict respectively. Some characters like Lazarok, Claire, and Neerja are outstanding. The setting and location the author has chosen are justly compatible with the mysterious and warlike storyline.

 

What I disliked about Apophis?

The thing I most disliked about the book was that it is charged with plenty of nouns and numbers, which is not the exact problem but they were used for unnecessary detailing. The aggregation of Greek, Chinese, Japanese, and Egyptian philosophy and setting didn’t help much in this matter. The nouns were difficult to read, let alone the pronunciation.

The writing style seems to follow the ‘tell, don’t show’ tactic which suspended the illustrious and creative aspect of the novel. For instance, the author has mentioned names of highways and buildings, adding extra emphasis on nouns and overlooking the actual details of the surroundings. The book seems to focus only on two parties, ignoring the common people. It would have been really fulfilling to read the perspective of a commoner.

I adored the first half of the book where each reincarnation (9-year-old sentient beings) of great philosophers is introduced separately with their lineage, special abilities, etc. But when they come together, I couldn’t differentiate between them. As I mentioned earlier, the book is very informative; largely this knowledge is shared via dialogues overstressing the characters. While I enjoyed the plot and conception, I couldn’t keep up with the character arcs and what I said about surroundings.

 

Conclusion

Well, this doesn’t change the fact that Apophis has a lot to offer from science to philosophy to action to humor. This book won’t let you down on that front. Pick this up if you want to know how these nine-year-olds fight against the Crypteia and aliens.


Happy Reading!
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