Review: Very interesting and original fantasy/dystopia
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 14, 2013
"Known Afterlife" is a seamless blend of fantasy, dystopia, and religious philosophy. The book's chapters alternate between two protagonists who inhabit very different worlds and who grapple both with immediate danger and with long-term questions about the role of faith in one's life.The author deals expertly with the twin genres represented in the different plot lines. Both Antium and the planet called "The Provider" are well-rendered and fascinating worlds that should feel familiar to anyone who reads in these genres while still being rich and unique.Style-wise, my only criticism of this book is that it takes a while for the action to pick up or even for the reader to be able to really understand some things that are happening, although this can perhaps be attributed to the fact that this is the first book in a trilogy. Also, the negative portrayal of religious dogmatism can be a tad uncomfortable depending on your views.Overall, I recommend this book. It's a creative and unusual read that offers some definitely mind-expanding concepts.