This review is part of the Speculative Fiction Indie Novella Championship (SFINCS). SFINCS, pronounced “sphinx”. This is a yearly competition to recognize, honor, and celebrate the talent and creativity present in the indie community. It’s a sister competition to both SPFBO and SPSFC, and it highlights greatness in the novella format in all areas of speculative fiction (fantasy, science fiction, horror, etc.).
To see more information on my team Behind the Musings check out this post!
Blurb for The Collector's Lost Things
Blind Those Who See…
Rei-Hai Shaw is a Collector, and he is very good.
At just thirteen years old, Rei became the youngest recruit ever to join the ranks of the Tower, the shadowy organisation that oversees the fulfilment of Whyt’hallen’s darkest requests.
Favoured by the masters but distrusted by his peers, Rei comes to learn the price of his accolades when the Tower demands more than the simple procurement of trinkets.
They want him to steal lives, too.
When his latest missions thrusts him back into the world of his childhood, Rei is painfully reminded of all he left behind—and what he can’t bear to lose again.
Includes additional short story, The King & His Shadow.
Book Review for The Collector's Lost Things
Having read the first two novels in the Gardens of War & Wasteland series, The Collector’s Lost Things was a wonderful addition to the main story. Readers will witness Rei during his early years at the infamous assassin’s guild called the Tower. A place where you're taught to be a useful tool or else. And Rei is quite useful as one of the youngest to be inducted into the Tower. However, readers will find catching the eyes of certain masters will cause further pain.
The Tower is whispered and alluded to in the series, but by reading this novella readers will see the inner workings and culture of the organization. And for those new to the series, it will lay down the foundation of who Rei is as a character, and what the Tower stole from him both physically and mentally. New readers will also be able to experience a sample of Jessica A McMinn’s brilliant character development and emotional depth.
The Collector’s Lost Things is a great addition to the Gardens of War & Wasteland series. For those who have begun reading the series, it will offer a wealth of backstory and information on Rei. While there will certainly be more connections made for those familiar with the series, as a standalone this novella would be great for those who enjoy emotionally charged darker fantasy.
To Purchase: Amazon| Author's Website
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