Review of The Stylite

[Kshitija Sonawane]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Stylite" by Shane Hallawa.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Are you ready to embark on a fantasy adventure that delves into the spiritual realm? If you're a fan of books that seamlessly blend these two genres, then The Stylite by Shane Hallawa is a must-read for you.

Teresa lost her mother recently. Depression is eating her alive. What worse could happen? Well, for starters, she could hear her mom’s voice beyond the grave. Worried about her, and for good reason, her aunt decides that it would be good for her to learn martial arts under a teacher. This is how Teresa’s journey into the spiritual world started. She now has the responsibility to save the world from demons. Does she survive? Or does she perish? What does she encounter while fighting them? Grab a copy of the book and find out.

I like how the teachings of the Bible are combined with those of other religions. It is easy to divide but difficult to unite. I liked the demons' representation of our insecurities. I also liked the book's concept, which reminded me of Doctor Strange. This book combines two genres: religion and superhero. The fight sequences are also very entertaining. Even if the book is full of them, you rarely get bored of them. I liked Matthew and how he treated his cousin sister. He was indeed a companion that Teresa needed. I also liked the political discourse throughout the book. The demonic language and how it was written was also very elaborate. It seemed like an entirely new world created inside this world.

Sometimes, some scenes seemed to drag on and on. They seem never-ending. I felt this in some fight scenes. There was also limited vocabulary used to describe the action sequences. I would have appreciated more mixing up and playing around with words there. The book also seemed incomplete, only describing fire and rock. Even astrology mentions four elements: fire, earth, water, and air. However, there was an indication of a sequel. I hope this time other elements are used too. The book seems to have stolen the show from rock, too. I would be interested in knowing about the way of rock and their martial arts in more detail. There were also many mistakes in the book. However, it is to be expected because the book was very long. The book does seem professionally edited.

The book contains some vulgar words. However, older teenagers, especially boys, would like it since it is a superhero book. However, there are some touching scenes here, sexual in nature, but not much. Even though the significant audience of the book should be kids, the author would not allow that with some of the things mentioned here.

I would like to give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I loved reading this book, and I loved this world. Hope you give this book a try, too.

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The Stylite
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Gerry Steen]

It is interesting that the demons represent our insecurities. This will make the plot relatable to me. The martial arts aspect is intriguing as it helps Teresa come out of her depression and fight the demons. I would like to join Teresa on her spiritual journey. Thank you for this informative review. I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

[devarshi_1113]

Thank you for recommending "The Stylite" – it sounds like a thrilling adventure that many readers, especially those interested in both fantasy and spiritual themes, will thoroughly enjoy!

[RJ Reviews]

I saw this book around. After reading your review, I am quite encouraged to pick it up. I am intrigued by the concept of conquering demons. I appreciate your mention of the errors and profanities. Thank you.

[Adrian Bouknight]

Kshitija! Sounds like another interesting read! Interestingly, the target audience borders a younger audience, though still contains some mature content that would make it more suitable for adult readers. I'll have to do some more reading on this book, I have noticed it on the selection page as an option for review but haven't yet pulled the trigger on it.

Anyway, Thanks for sharing! Your reviews are succinct, yet contain depth and pertinent detail.

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Stylite" by Shane Hallawa.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Share This Review

---

Are you ready to embark on a fantasy adventure that delves into the spiritual realm? If you're a fan of books that seamlessly blend these two genres, then The Stylite by Shane Hallawa is a must-read for you.

Teresa lost her mother recently. Depression is eating her alive. What worse could happen? Well, for starters, she could hear her mom’s voice beyond the grave. Worried about her, and for good reason, her aunt decides that it would be good for her to learn martial arts under a teacher. This is how Teresa’s journey into the spiritual world started. She now has the responsibility to save the world from demons. Does she survive? Or does she perish? What does she encounter while fighting them? Grab a copy of the book and find out.

I like how the teachings of the Bible are combined with those of other religions. It is easy to divide but difficult to unite. I liked the demons' representation of our insecurities. I also liked the book's concept, which reminded me of Doctor Strange. This book combines two genres: religion and superhero. The fight sequences are also very entertaining. Even if the book is full of them, you rarely get bored of them. I liked Matthew and how he treated his cousin sister. He was indeed a companion that Teresa needed. I also liked the political discourse throughout the book. The demonic language and how it was written was also very elaborate. It seemed like an entirely new world created inside this world.

Sometimes, some scenes seemed to drag on and on. They seem never-ending. I felt this in some fight scenes. There was also limited vocabulary used to describe the action sequences. I would have appreciated more mixing up and playing around with words there. The book also seemed incomplete, only describing fire and rock. Even astrology mentions four elements: fire, earth, water, and air. However, there was an indication of a sequel. I hope this time other elements are used too. The book seems to have stolen the show from rock, too. I would be interested in knowing about the way of rock and their martial arts in more detail. There were also many mistakes in the book. However, it is to be expected because the book was very long. The book does seem professionally edited.

The book contains some vulgar words. However, older teenagers, especially boys, would like it since it is a superhero book. However, there are some touching scenes here, sexual in nature, but not much. Even though the significant audience of the book should be kids, the author would not allow that with some of the things mentioned here.

I would like to give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I loved reading this book, and I loved this world. Hope you give this book a try, too.

******
The Stylite
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Stephen Christopher 1]

I'm in two minds about this book. I love heroes vs demons and think the story sounds interesting but the long drawn out fight scenes with limited vocabulary instantly puts me off. I might park this book. Thanks for the honest review.

[Alissa Nesson]

This sounds like an interesting concept, but not really my thing. I’m also turned off by all the errors. I really enjoyed your review though. It sounds like a fun book for older teens/young adults.