Audible version of “The Obsidian Mirror”:
Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars
A Customer
05-13-18
The Narrator Made This Story Come To Life
Welcome to a rich fantasy world spiced by a melange of gods, demigods, demons, spirits and creatures drawn from the traditions and beliefs of Mesoamericans, Native Americans and practitioners of Voudun. The protagonists are the astounded ordinary, people who are made aware of these fantastic beings and beliefs—in order to act/fight on the side of good or evil.
I purchased both the Kindle and Audible versions, so I was able to enjoy Tanya Eby’s skillful narration, which brought the characters to life. The voice actor mattered because the well-developed characters—both good and evil—were the most enjoyable part of this book. I also liked the Silicon Valley area settings and especially the flashes of humor threaded through the book.
At times this fantasy reads as though aimed at the YA market, but I decided not after coming across some adult language. This book was published in 2015, but I was amazed by the relevance of the story’s focus on the environmental: clean water, air and lands.
****
Really Fun Read
I don’t usually read fantasy novels. However, a friend recommended it and it takes place in Northern California which is where I live, so thought I’d take a listen while I drove around for my work. It turned out to be the audible equivalent of a page turner- I didn’t want to turn it off when I reached my destination. The characters, both well meaning and sinister, were ones I cared about and was interested in following their changes throughout the story. The fantasy characters were particularly inventive and most entertaining, and the way the author wove them into peoples lives was most interesting. There were shades of Carlos Castaneda in the mixing of spirituality and fantasy, making for a very thought provoking read. Lastly, I was really impressed with how modern and foresightful the story is, with little vignettes of news that are sadly true in today’s political climate. I highly recommend The Obsidian Mirror as a thoughtful and entertaining book.
****
“Fire in the Ocean”:
5.0 out of 5 starsFantastic!
ByJB Dowon May 1, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Reading Fire in the Ocean is time well spent. It is beautifully written, engaging and humorous. A great story that incorporates the super natural in present day settings. The super natural characters were created from Hawaiian folk lore and legends. Can’t wait for the next novel!
****
Lose yourself in this smartly plotted page-turner, a blend of ancient Hawai’an traditions and contemporary thrills
ByCindy Knoebelon March 22, 2018
Format: Paperback
A fantastic, fast-paced and sometimes unexpectedly and delightfully humorous read. K.D. Keenan expertly weaves Hawai’an culture and ancient traditions together in a plot that gives a big (and intelligent) nod to environmentalism. She has concocted a spell-binding and fantastical world populated by richly rendered characters, both human and … not. The journey of her protagonist, Siena, begins as she attempts to intercede between the locals of Molokai and a corporate chieftain intent on building oil rigs that threaten local whales and other marine life. But soon enough she finds herself at cross-purposes with ancient gods that range from the lovesick Kama to his fire-breathing mistress, Pele and powerful ocen-dwelling supernaturals, all intent on preserving their homeland and waters. There’s plenty of danger here, together with Voudon (voodoo) and narrow escapes – with a touch of romance, too. Her flesh-and-blood characters are nuanced and utterly human and refreshingly stereotype-free. K.D. has done her research on Hawaii, its language, geography and folklore – and it’s all on display here, richly rendered through a plot containing enough twists to keep you turning pages as fast as your fingers allow.
****
I greatly enjoyed “Fire in the Ocean” for several reasons
March 27, 2018
Format: Paperback
I greatly enjoyed “Fire in the Ocean” for several reasons. First, the book blended reality and fantasy in a wonderful way — reminiscent of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, a great favorite. Seamlessly, is what I mean to say. Second, I love Chaco, Sierra, and Fred. (Fred shares my great affinity for food!) It’s entirely possible to imagine having a beer and a chat with them. Third, I love what I learned about Hawaii and its warm and welcoming culture.
The plot moved along briskly, with interesting twists. The dialogue is credible. The style is clean and easy to read. Escapist, yes, but no insult to the reader’s intelligence here.
How many fantasy authors do you know who live in Malta, study martial arts, and write wildly funny, action-packed stories about a wizard who can’t use magic? There’s only one: Ryan Attard, author of the “Legacy” fantasy series.
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