Review of Desert Shadows

[Owuor Yonguze]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Desert Shadows" by Richard Draude.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Desert Shadows by Richard Draude weaves an intriguing narrative around a conversation between Lieutenant Travis and his father, General Arkenslade. The General, despite positive reports from Cosmos Unlimited, reveals concerns about Earth's relationship with the Gordovians. This adds a layer of mystery as he instructs the Lieutenant to discreetly investigate the state of affairs on Gordovia. The General's unusual worry heightens anticipation for the unfolding events.

The book unfolds as a captivating adventure, skillfully balancing well-developed characters and engaging plotlines. The worldbuilding is a standout feature, introducing readers to the imaginative alien world of Gordovia. The planet comes to life with its unique inhabitants, and the author's attention to detail in describing the culture and environment immerses the reader in a rich and vivid setting.

Central to the narrative are the main characters, Travis and Kylea, who undergo believable emotional arcs and significant growth throughout the story. The development of their relationship feels authentic, providing a strong emotional anchor for readers to invest in. The narrative's strength lies in its fast-paced action sequences, propelling the story through dangers, mysteries, and battles.

However, it's crucial to address certain negative aspects of the book. Elements like kidnapping and attempted rape/murder of a female character may be distressing for some readers. The portrayal of separate restaurants for humans and aliens raises concerns about potential reinforcement of racist stereotypes, urging readers to critically examine societal portrayals. Additionally, the handling of the main character's emotional turmoil and mental health issues, including suicide attempts, lacks sensitivity, potentially impacting readers on a profound level. The book also prominently features violence and guns in conflict resolution, which may convey a pro-gun stance that won't resonate with all readers.

Despite these drawbacks, Desert Shadows stands as a compelling read, particularly recommended for fiction enthusiasts. It earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars, acknowledging its exceptional editing and error-free presentation that enhances the overall reading experience.

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Desert Shadows
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[NetMassimo]

This science fiction novel develops the relationship between Earthlings and Gordovians, also including some difficult issues that make the story far more complex than a simple adventure. Thank you for your great review!