Official Review: The Elf Sojourn - Book Eight of the Magi...

Post by **kandscreeley** » 12 Dec 2020, 16:40

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Elf Sojourn - Book Eight of the Magi Charter" by Jordan David.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Santa and the elves are back. Last year's mission—to deliver toys to all the good boys and girls of the world—failed. This year, Santa Tiberius is determined not to fail. However, the base has been abandoned, and the elves are scattered amongst the stars. Santa thinks something called Key Stones (sic) are the key to getting the mission back on track. The elves aren't the only ones looking for them, though.

With no Santa, the galaxy is breaking down. Galactic war is on the horizon, and it may all stem from the failed mission. Will Santa Tiberius be able to right these wrongs? Will the world survive without Christmas? Who will be the one to find the Key Stones (sic)?

The Elf Sojourn: Book Eight of the Magi Charter Series by Jordan David is a science fiction tale. Pretty complex, it's not meant for children. There is the occasional swear word. Otherwise, the book is not graphic in either violence or sexuality. There are, though, adult themes.

It's worth noting that each set of three books in the series have a unique flavor. The first three were quite adventurous. Four, five, and six had an almost historical fiction feel to them. These last three are epic science fiction bordering on space operas. How the author can dabble (successfully I might add) in all of these is beyond my understanding.

I admit that when I first saw this eighth book of the Magi Charter series available for review, I was a bit nervous. It's been so long since I've read the other books that I wasn't sure I'd be able to remember all that had happened. It was easy, though, to get back into the story. Also helpful was a glossary. It features notable characters, places, and terms in the book. However, one suggestion I'd like to make is that the glossary be put at the beginning. As it is, it's at the end. The reader could peruse it before starting the story.

There are many different perspectives followed here. Most chapters denote a change as to which story is being told. These changes are easy to pick up on, and it's interesting to see how it all ties together.

There are so many aspects of the book that I liked that it's difficult to pinpoint any one. There are a few that stand out, though. For example, I loved the humor that is sprinkled throughout. Adamite, an elf, has a chat with an artificial intelligence. He then says: "Like any lass he’d ever known, she would never admit her true age without a **** good reason." It made me chuckle, which I appreciated.

Another thing that Mr. David is so talented with is world-building. This book is no different. With each world we visit, we are privy to interesting creatures and technology. There are even different religions. I love seeing the author's creativity and exploring this universe.

The downside of this book, as many of the books before, is the editing. Though not atrocious, there were more than ten errors. To me, it seems that the author uses a speech to text program. This would account for the many homophone errors like "miss guided" instead of "misguided." They aren't distracting and are easily overlooked.

Overall, I'm still in awe of the author's imagination and ability to write in so many different styles. Solely due to the editing errors, I rate The Elf Sojourn: Book Eight of the Magi Charter Series 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend this to adults who enjoy a complex science fiction novel. Still, the books must be read in order if they are to be enjoyed fully. I highly recommend reading the entire series. It's even available on Kindle Unlimited, which makes it more accessible. I wonder if or how Mr. David will bring the world of the elves back into order in the end.

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The Elf Sojourn - Book Eight of the Magi Charter
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Harty Muli · Post by **Harty Muli** » 18 Dec 2020, 09:19

I like the timing of this book coming so close to Christmas. I hope Santa Tiberius gets hold of the Key Stones as we can do without this holiday. Thanks for the enjoyable review.

Sararob06 · Post by **Sararob06** » 18 Dec 2020, 12:38

I love that the author wasn't afraid to try something new within a series and it seems they were successful with the differing genres. It's fitting that you reviewed this book so close to the holiday season and I'm glad you didn't have trouble jumping back in to the series. Great job!

Post by **kandscreeley** » 18 Dec 2020, 18:26

Slater678 wrote: ↑18 Dec 2020, 09:19 I like the timing of this book coming so close to Christmas. I hope Santa Tiberius gets hold of the Key Stones as we can do without this holiday. Thanks for the enjoyable review.

I didn't quite mention, but Santa and the elves do so much more than bring toys to kids. I can't imagine that world without their existence. Thanks!

Post by **kandscreeley** » 18 Dec 2020, 18:27

Sararob06 wrote: ↑18 Dec 2020, 12:38 I love that the author wasn't afraid to try something new within a series and it seems they were successful with the differing genres. It's fitting that you reviewed this book so close to the holiday season and I'm glad you didn't have trouble jumping back in to the series. Great job!

The whole series is worth reading. I honestly don't know how the author has written in all these different genres. Thanks.

Raluca_Mihaila · Post by **Raluca_Mihaila** » 19 Dec 2020, 07:58

It looks like an interesting book, with a refreshing perspective on Santa and the elves. Thank you for this entertaining review!

Post by **kandscreeley** » 19 Dec 2020, 11:06

raluca_mihaila wrote: ↑19 Dec 2020, 07:58 It looks like an interesting book, with a refreshing perspective on Santa and the elves. Thank you for this entertaining review!

This definitely isn't just about Santa and the elves. It's such a great series. I highly recommend it. Thanks.

Leverage · Post by **Leverage** » 19 Dec 2020, 12:59

How cute, I want books like this one. I think they are actually motivational in some way. The message is so positive, I could cry. I want to read this now.

Nmesoma · Post by **Nmesoma** » 19 Dec 2020, 14:50

I've read book one, two and three, and I agree with you, the author does a great job bringing many elements into harmony. Your review is amazing and I look forward to diving into the next ones.

Shahina C A · Post by **Shahina C A** » 20 Dec 2020, 05:56

Great review. Looking forward to read it

Fozia RYK · Post by **Fozia RYK** » 20 Dec 2020, 06:47

This is a book according to your interest and selection of the books for review. You have written about Christmas in your review.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 20 Dec 2020, 16:06

Leverage wrote: ↑19 Dec 2020, 12:59 How cute, I want books like this one. I think they are actually motivational in some way. The message is so positive, I could cry. I want to read this now.

The series is absolutely worth reading. I highly recommend it. Thanks.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 20 Dec 2020, 16:07

Nmesoma wrote: ↑19 Dec 2020, 14:50 I've read book one, two and three, and I agree with you, the author does a great job bringing many elements into harmony. Your review is amazing and I look forward to diving into the next ones.

Oh, you're only getting started! Wait until you see how the North Pole was made! Thanks.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 20 Dec 2020, 16:07

Shahina C A wrote: ↑20 Dec 2020, 05:56 Great review. Looking forward to read it

Thank you. I hope you enjoy!

Post by **kandscreeley** » 20 Dec 2020, 16:08

Fozia RYK wrote: ↑20 Dec 2020, 06:47 This is a book according to your interest and selection of the books for review. You have written about Christmas in your review.

Thanks.