Review of Chaos Rising

[Erin Dydek]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Chaos Rising" by P.D. Blackwell.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Old tensions between rival clans simmer after a devastating attack on a hostile clan’s mining colony. Clan Polinda blames Clan Erstallius though there is no evidence of their involvement. One young leader, Arlud Erstallius, knows he must prove his clan’s innocence and put an end to the wrath of Polinda. Unfortunately, Polinda’s claims and actions cause more infighting, even as Arlud discovers a more pressing threat behind the mine attack.

One young woman is the key to ending the chaos. Bev Colli might have been born a slave on the Polinda homeworld, but she is a survivor of the mine incident and may know more about what happened than she realizes. If Arlud can find Bev before Polinda, he may be able to stop the coming war and prevent a terrifying new enemy from entering the scene. Can Arlud find the girl, earn her trust, and save the world? Find out in Chaos Rising by P. D. Blackwell.

If you enjoy complex, well-developed science fiction novels, you’ll want to check out Blackwell’s book. I loved how the author introduced Bev and her involvement in the overarching story. She was a bold and inspiring character from the start. I also enjoyed Arlud Erstallius, who had many challenges to overcome as he sought solutions. I enjoyed cheering him on as he built relationships with controversial and elusive clans to establish impossible alliances and allies. The amount of respect he earned throughout the novel was admirable, and his story was exciting to follow. I loved when he and Bev finally crossed paths, and the adventure took on a new level of suspense.

Blackwell also created an intriguing system of noteworthy planets and colonies. I loved how this adventure takes the reader to many new destinations full of diverse cultures, vivid landscapes, and honored pasts. When the characters revisited the site of an old accident, a sense of mystery invoked the reader’s curiosity and made for an exciting search for answers. The various spacecraft, cruisers, shuttles, and small aircraft were also a fascinating addition to the novel. I particularly enjoyed the creations of the Aku people and the secret power behind some of their old but reliable weapons.

In one section of the book, I was a little frustrated when the street-smart and savvy Bev suddenly started asking questions that made her seem unintelligent. I believe this answered some basic questions the reader might have. Fortunately, Bev’s next move proves once again how brave she truly is and makes it easy to forget her temporary ignorance. The book also had several lingering grammar errors. Therefore, I give Chaos Rising four out of five stars.

I recommend reading this book and its sequel if you enjoy well-developed space-based novels. This book suits the avid science fiction fan who can keep up with names, technology, and a detailed plot. This story ends with an exciting twist and a cliffhanger but continues in The Rhysu Alternative, which is readily available. Chaos Rising includes minor instances of swearing and some violence in the form of workplace accidents and military battles.

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Chaos Rising
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[NetMassimo]

Despite the flaws you pointed out, this seems like an engaging science fiction story with an intriguing mystery and well-developed characters. I see that his is the first book of a series, so look into it. Thank you for your great review!

[Cara Wilding]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Chaos Rising" by P.D. Blackwell.]

One young woman is the key to ending the chaos. Bev Colli might have been born a slave on the Polinda homeworld, but she is a survivor of the mine incident and may know more about what happened than she realizes. If Arlud can find Bev before Polinda, he may be able to stop the coming war and prevent a terrifying new enemy from entering the scene. Can Arlud find the girl, earn her trust, and save the world?

It's always ironic to me in these science fiction works that even in futuristic worlds, humanity can't seem to escape from it's own inhumanity (slavery)! I like the sound of the mysterious motivations behind the conflict and the descriptions of the planets, colonies, and spacecraft. My favorite aspect of your review is the fact that you let us know that there is a readily available book in the series that addresses that cliffhanger! Thank you! I admittedly get super frustrated when there is a cliffhanger and I can't move forward - I need closure! Kudos on a well-written review, look forward to reading more from you!