Print length: 358 pages
Publisher: United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development (17 Jun. 2020)
Language: English
ASIN: B08BGDD9SZ
Genre: Mythology & Folk Tales
SUMMARY: Pursued by a powerful jinn master and a mysterious sect of occultists, Fada sets out across the lush and unforgiving ancient Arabian Peninsula on a quest to rescue his son. Legend has it that the sacrifice of a calamitous child, a child born under the Serpent-Neck star, can bring about the end of the world.
The BookViral Review:
By any stretch of the imagination A. Ali Hasan Ali has delivered a superb debut novel. A rich, enchanting and evocative tale inspired by the many fairy tales and folk stories that circulate in Oman and Southern Arabia. It’s a literary undertaking that might daunt the most seasoned of authors, but one he’s delivered with enviable panache.
Of epic proportions The Guardians of Erum and the Calamitous Child of Socotra is immediately engaging with a narrative that effortlessly captures the essence of a bygone time and it would be a diehard cynic who denied Ali’s descriptive prowess. Furthermore, he has an obvious affinity for rich historical detail which he blends well with the fantastical in a finely executed plot whilst never opting for the lesser option of leaving it to his readers to connect the dots.
Through characters like Yam, Fad and the saher Behas intricate back stories are woven together to create the canvas upon which his magical era finds form. The action is dramatic and intense as he finds an equitable balance between suspense and intrigue, whilst imbuing his characters with a degree of emotive resonance that ensures his readers will become fully invested in the trials and tribulations they each face.
Original fantasy fiction is rather rare, but if you are a seeker of something truly memorable, that will spirit you away to a world of magical high adventure, then The Guardians of Erum and the Calamitous Child of Socotra may well mark the end of your quest. It is highly recommended
