“I really enjoyed this book, mostly because it surprised me. The description hypes the fact that the heroine is a soccer mom pulled into another world. Since I have never been either a mom, or a big fan of soccer, I wasn’t sure if the story would connect with me. I almost expected a skewed version of Narnia—Matha Stewart dancing with elves, satyrs, and badgers…or something.
What I got instead was an immersive story that kept the pages turning. Yes, there is a nod to C.S. Lewis in the way Susan stumbles into another reality—but that’s where the similarities end. The alternate reality is what surprised me the most, in fact. It isn’t a straight sword and sorcery fantasy world. It is a fusion of fantasy and science fiction, with some cultures being highly technical, and others not so much.
And the characters are absolutely great. Very real. Plus, I feel I had an advantage over those who have read “The Restorer” before. I got to read the bonus chapters in place as I went through. (Something the eBook version makes simple.) I really enjoyed that touch. The additional backstory and life it breathes into the characters—even those with smaller roles. The additions illustrate the firm grip Sharon Hinck has on her characters and world. I respect that in a storyteller.
“The Restorer” is a great read. Buy it, and expect only to be surprised.
”
Kerry Nietz wrote this review Tuesday, December 27, 2011.
(
reply |
permalink )
