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Age of the Aura #1
Champions of Power
Nothing was more powerful than an Aura. It was a coveted might of celestial creation and the Blessed Galaxy had five of them. For millennia, the governing bodies of the Blessed Galaxy harnessed the Auras while ruling their respective reaches of space. They were almost untouchable. But now the Galaxy faces the threat of a calamity, from an unlikely source, that could shake the lives of all. Lowen Vars, a devout man of science, decides to take on the burden of saving the Galaxy. But he soon realizes the difficulty of playing the role of a hero while he begins the fateful saga of the Blessed Galaxy.
- GenresScience Fiction
202 pages
First published June 5, 2012
591 people want to read
About the author
Samuel Odunsi, Jr.
2 books11 followersSamuel is an author born and raised in Austin, Texas and Age of the Aura is his science fiction (space opera) series.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 8, 2013
*Gasp* *Gasp* This book is on giveaway!!! Yay!
My friend got hold of this book but when I asked to borrow it she was like
So I badly hope I could win this book for myself. Fingers crossed.
My friend got hold of this book but when I asked to borrow it she was like
So I badly hope I could win this book for myself. Fingers crossed.
February 16, 2013
It's been a while since I've been absolutely obsessed with a book. I would be in the middle of class with my phone hidden and reading to find out what would happen to Lowen and his group. I couldn't put it down. It was written so well, and all the descriptions were just captivating. It was different from other things I've read or seen.
Champions of Power is basically about a man named Lowen who lost his grandfather to the green Aura, the source of power in the Ludoran Imperium. He figured out that the Auras' powers are being drained into the Central Reach's Aura--the oldest in the Blessed Galaxy. Lowen and his friends took it into their own hands, working outside of the Assembly to try to prevent the Balance Point.
All of these characters are amazing, though I think I enjoy Ambrose and his little lion pet Jak the most. I don't know why. They just seem to stand out and interest me the most. It might be the fact that he seems to understand that they're something wrong with the Aura in his Kingdom and that he figured it out without even really knowing. I can see Lowen and Ambrose probably teaming up in later books.
I'm very excited to read the next books in this series. I was very pleasantly surprised. I didn't think that I would like this sci-fi book as much as I did. Even if you can't stand other sci-fis like Star Wars or Star Trek, pick up this book. I promise you won't be let down.
(Read more reviews at at The Guide to Good Books)
Champions of Power is basically about a man named Lowen who lost his grandfather to the green Aura, the source of power in the Ludoran Imperium. He figured out that the Auras' powers are being drained into the Central Reach's Aura--the oldest in the Blessed Galaxy. Lowen and his friends took it into their own hands, working outside of the Assembly to try to prevent the Balance Point.
All of these characters are amazing, though I think I enjoy Ambrose and his little lion pet Jak the most. I don't know why. They just seem to stand out and interest me the most. It might be the fact that he seems to understand that they're something wrong with the Aura in his Kingdom and that he figured it out without even really knowing. I can see Lowen and Ambrose probably teaming up in later books.
I'm very excited to read the next books in this series. I was very pleasantly surprised. I didn't think that I would like this sci-fi book as much as I did. Even if you can't stand other sci-fis like Star Wars or Star Trek, pick up this book. I promise you won't be let down.
(Read more reviews at at The Guide to Good Books)
March 27, 2013
For the full review see: http://diamondlovestoread.blogspot.com
I’m going to be honest, I think I would’ve grooved with the story way better if I was more into sci-fi as a genre. So I’m rating it with that in mind. That being said, the story was strong but there were things that were problematic. It is written very formally. This didn’t bother me much, it added to the style. As far as the writing I think some of the transitions could have been improved, smoother perhaps. Sometimes I had to back track a few pages to figure out who we were reading about, and which planet we were on! The story also lagged in the middle. Big time. The beginning and the end were super awesome-action-filled and then the middle was just slow, imo. Even with all those things I still think the creativeness of the story and the unique world were very impressive. I’d read the next book. I’m not a sci-fi nut, but if you are I DEF recommend it.
This book made me realize a few things. It made me realize that I haven’t read much sci-fi beyond Ray Bradbury (I don’t have much to compare/contrast this book to). Perhaps because I am not well-read in sci-fi I didn’t really appreciate the ins and outs of the story. I don’t know. But I’m glad I didn’t give up in the middle. The ending was good, and a bit of a cliffhanger! I think since this a prequel a lot of stuff had to be fleshed out, so I'm actually looking forward to the next book as I think I'll really enjoy it. Can't wait to see what happens with Lowen!
I’m going to be honest, I think I would’ve grooved with the story way better if I was more into sci-fi as a genre. So I’m rating it with that in mind. That being said, the story was strong but there were things that were problematic. It is written very formally. This didn’t bother me much, it added to the style. As far as the writing I think some of the transitions could have been improved, smoother perhaps. Sometimes I had to back track a few pages to figure out who we were reading about, and which planet we were on! The story also lagged in the middle. Big time. The beginning and the end were super awesome-action-filled and then the middle was just slow, imo. Even with all those things I still think the creativeness of the story and the unique world were very impressive. I’d read the next book. I’m not a sci-fi nut, but if you are I DEF recommend it.
This book made me realize a few things. It made me realize that I haven’t read much sci-fi beyond Ray Bradbury (I don’t have much to compare/contrast this book to). Perhaps because I am not well-read in sci-fi I didn’t really appreciate the ins and outs of the story. I don’t know. But I’m glad I didn’t give up in the middle. The ending was good, and a bit of a cliffhanger! I think since this a prequel a lot of stuff had to be fleshed out, so I'm actually looking forward to the next book as I think I'll really enjoy it. Can't wait to see what happens with Lowen!
March 27, 2013
Champions of Power (Age of the Aura, #1)Samuel Odunsi Jr.
Lowen Sars wants to save the Galaxies people, he is on a mission that he may not win. He learns of another Kingdom that is ready for war, he must also face The king and his two sons. There are 5 Auras and one is corrupt, he must see that it does not destroy any people. This Aura is dangerous with lightening leading a path of destruction. Will Lowen be able to complete his quest?
I admit I do not read a lot of sci-fi but I really got into this book. There is a lot of action, characters, and adventure and some nail biting moments. There is so much more I would like to say, but I do not write spoilers.
Sci-fi lovers will love this read, I know I did. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Lowen Sars wants to save the Galaxies people, he is on a mission that he may not win. He learns of another Kingdom that is ready for war, he must also face The king and his two sons. There are 5 Auras and one is corrupt, he must see that it does not destroy any people. This Aura is dangerous with lightening leading a path of destruction. Will Lowen be able to complete his quest?
I admit I do not read a lot of sci-fi but I really got into this book. There is a lot of action, characters, and adventure and some nail biting moments. There is so much more I would like to say, but I do not write spoilers.
Sci-fi lovers will love this read, I know I did. I look forward to the next book in the series.
May 11, 2013
The Auras are huge formations that radiate power. The peoples of the Blessed Galaxy derive energy for their different needs from them. Still the Auras remain a mystery.
This backfires when the Auras' power starts going rogue. On Aorta, the Aura seems to drive madness into the ruling dynasty. On Jordus, the capital planet of the Ludorian Imperium, energy blasts from the Aura result in a catastrophe.
Ludorian Lowen Sars and his fellow physicists develop a theory for the Auras' unsettling behaviour. And Lowen has a plan to let a greater good emerge from the disaster he is foreseeing.
The first instalment of the "Age of the Aura" follows Lowen's team in its efforts to implement the decisive first step of their plan. At the same time, the events in the Royal Court on Aortia enter into the picture. The author focuses, in both story-lines, on few characters.
The evolution of the Blessed Galaxy and its peoples is not recounted, its marvels, which must be infinite, are not approached; its characters, some shrewd and disturbing, are not drawn out in characters studies.
Still, the "Age of the Aura" is set in a new cosmos and the author is able to let the reader connect with the cosmic dimension of it. The reader feels he participates in History with a capital letter.
The language, in general, is neither outstanding nor flat. But at some moments its deliberateness can be seen and the effect created is peculiar.
Particularly in introductory paragraphs to the chapters, it appears the author withdraws from his presence within the scenes and comments them from the hindsight of historical reflection. This is signalled by changes of tense, when else the past tense is throughout the mode of narration.
Example: "It [the Aura] will always be the dominating force [switch to future sense] ... The truth of all this still stands but this is not where the story is [switch to "actual" present, the present of the narrator]. It is here on Jordus, the capital planet of the kingdom where it is so [switch made to the "historical" present, the present as it was present when the events, past to the narrator, took place]." In the continuing phrases, the narration sets into the standard past tense and keeps with it for whole chapter.
From the beginning of another chapter: "Regardless of their deathly obliviousness, the Assembly remained unaware of Lowen's covertly orchestrated plan at birthing a unified kingdom for those who would like to take part [sentence starts off with usual past tense], and the notion has left their minds altogether [turn to present perfect initiates historical present], but the ticking of the clock to Balance Point persists [rounding off the sentence in historical present]. The Ludoran people continue to live their lives normally [historical present again] ... "
By small means such as the one I pointed out, the depth dimension of historical, of cosmic gravity is added to the rapid, limited scenes. Odunsi Jr. shows that one can have a grand theme in the shape of a short e-book.
But this impressive achievement of the author cannot blind for the gaps in probability the story is fissured with. I'll choose one example.
Lowen and his team mean to reach the terraforming base of a planet, but due to dire weather conditions, they are forced to walk a long distance by foot. However, when their associate wants to leave the base once they have reached it, he orders an aircraft to take him from there because the sand storms have already calmed down - though no more than a few hours can have passed since Lowen and his team made the perilous struggle through them. The question remains unanswered why the team didn't wait the couple of hours in the first place. Of course there is just one answer: the author needed an excuse for putting his characters into danger.
In these and other instances the author doesn't bother with concerns of plausibility. But in consequence it cannot be History that is recounted, lived through by people with recognisable motives - instead, what is told then is pulp fiction that does away with human logic in order to achieve the cheap mimicry of thrill.
The first instalment of Age of the Aura" shows a significant disparity in quality. For its greater part, it is a fast-paced tale concentrating on few characters, but managing to surround them by that epic breadth the reader affectionate to large sci-fi schemes contemplates with joyful awe. But, in some parts, the novel is devalued by the plot construction suffering from breaches of plausibility. In sum, the grand shape of reconstructed History can only stand on shaky foundations.
[This is a shortened version of the review. In full it can be found on the reviewer's blog.]
This backfires when the Auras' power starts going rogue. On Aorta, the Aura seems to drive madness into the ruling dynasty. On Jordus, the capital planet of the Ludorian Imperium, energy blasts from the Aura result in a catastrophe.
Ludorian Lowen Sars and his fellow physicists develop a theory for the Auras' unsettling behaviour. And Lowen has a plan to let a greater good emerge from the disaster he is foreseeing.
The first instalment of the "Age of the Aura" follows Lowen's team in its efforts to implement the decisive first step of their plan. At the same time, the events in the Royal Court on Aortia enter into the picture. The author focuses, in both story-lines, on few characters.
The evolution of the Blessed Galaxy and its peoples is not recounted, its marvels, which must be infinite, are not approached; its characters, some shrewd and disturbing, are not drawn out in characters studies.
Still, the "Age of the Aura" is set in a new cosmos and the author is able to let the reader connect with the cosmic dimension of it. The reader feels he participates in History with a capital letter.
The language, in general, is neither outstanding nor flat. But at some moments its deliberateness can be seen and the effect created is peculiar.
Particularly in introductory paragraphs to the chapters, it appears the author withdraws from his presence within the scenes and comments them from the hindsight of historical reflection. This is signalled by changes of tense, when else the past tense is throughout the mode of narration.
Example: "It [the Aura] will always be the dominating force [switch to future sense] ... The truth of all this still stands but this is not where the story is [switch to "actual" present, the present of the narrator]. It is here on Jordus, the capital planet of the kingdom where it is so [switch made to the "historical" present, the present as it was present when the events, past to the narrator, took place]." In the continuing phrases, the narration sets into the standard past tense and keeps with it for whole chapter.
From the beginning of another chapter: "Regardless of their deathly obliviousness, the Assembly remained unaware of Lowen's covertly orchestrated plan at birthing a unified kingdom for those who would like to take part [sentence starts off with usual past tense], and the notion has left their minds altogether [turn to present perfect initiates historical present], but the ticking of the clock to Balance Point persists [rounding off the sentence in historical present]. The Ludoran people continue to live their lives normally [historical present again] ... "
By small means such as the one I pointed out, the depth dimension of historical, of cosmic gravity is added to the rapid, limited scenes. Odunsi Jr. shows that one can have a grand theme in the shape of a short e-book.
But this impressive achievement of the author cannot blind for the gaps in probability the story is fissured with. I'll choose one example.
Lowen and his team mean to reach the terraforming base of a planet, but due to dire weather conditions, they are forced to walk a long distance by foot. However, when their associate wants to leave the base once they have reached it, he orders an aircraft to take him from there because the sand storms have already calmed down - though no more than a few hours can have passed since Lowen and his team made the perilous struggle through them. The question remains unanswered why the team didn't wait the couple of hours in the first place. Of course there is just one answer: the author needed an excuse for putting his characters into danger.
In these and other instances the author doesn't bother with concerns of plausibility. But in consequence it cannot be History that is recounted, lived through by people with recognisable motives - instead, what is told then is pulp fiction that does away with human logic in order to achieve the cheap mimicry of thrill.
The first instalment of Age of the Aura" shows a significant disparity in quality. For its greater part, it is a fast-paced tale concentrating on few characters, but managing to surround them by that epic breadth the reader affectionate to large sci-fi schemes contemplates with joyful awe. But, in some parts, the novel is devalued by the plot construction suffering from breaches of plausibility. In sum, the grand shape of reconstructed History can only stand on shaky foundations.
[This is a shortened version of the review. In full it can be found on the reviewer's blog.]
June 30, 2013
My Thoughts: Let's start with the style stuff. This book uses a lot of big words, a lot. At times, I found it hard to follow because of the words but after a while you get used to it. You also get to learn something because of it. There was also a small issue with contractions. There were no contractions used in this book. I felt like maybe that took away from the work because it's distracting. Lack of contractions makes the work feel like a piece of Academic writing. I think that it would have been best if the author made the "barbaric" people use contractions or something like that. Even Shakespeare had the less educated people speak differently. I think that, in the future, we will be using more contractions, not less. Finally, there was a single picture in the book. The words should have been able to describe the image without the picture being necessary.
Now, on to the story. I was sad to find that I didn't care about Lowen or his grandfather when things were happening to them. Had I cared, I might have been more into the action. I cared more about the other two brothers than Lowen. That left me confused about what I was suppose to care about.
There was some witty banter that made me chuckle. It was greatly appreciated.
Finally, I thought that the end came suddenly. I'm sorry to go all English class on you but there was no 'falling action' after the climax. It really forces the reader to read the second in this series. You have no idea where the story is going by the end. One side gets their way but there is no wrap up so if you want to know how it ends, plan on reading the rest of it.
This book really speaks to the geek in me. I grew up watching Star Trek and the like so I could follow along and fill in whatever I felt was left out. It was a good thing that I had this background or I might not have been able to appreciate this story at all. I do, however, believe that this book would be better suited for a male audience with a strong interest in science fiction that won't miss having a romance element.
Final Thoughts: Though I learned some big words, this was a pretty easy read. I would recommend this book to mostly guys. I made it through it but it wasn't exactly my forte but I believe guys might get more out of it. If you like science fiction though, you might like it too.
http://one-chapter-ahead.blogspot.ca/
Now, on to the story. I was sad to find that I didn't care about Lowen or his grandfather when things were happening to them. Had I cared, I might have been more into the action. I cared more about the other two brothers than Lowen. That left me confused about what I was suppose to care about.
There was some witty banter that made me chuckle. It was greatly appreciated.
Finally, I thought that the end came suddenly. I'm sorry to go all English class on you but there was no 'falling action' after the climax. It really forces the reader to read the second in this series. You have no idea where the story is going by the end. One side gets their way but there is no wrap up so if you want to know how it ends, plan on reading the rest of it.
This book really speaks to the geek in me. I grew up watching Star Trek and the like so I could follow along and fill in whatever I felt was left out. It was a good thing that I had this background or I might not have been able to appreciate this story at all. I do, however, believe that this book would be better suited for a male audience with a strong interest in science fiction that won't miss having a romance element.
Final Thoughts: Though I learned some big words, this was a pretty easy read. I would recommend this book to mostly guys. I made it through it but it wasn't exactly my forte but I believe guys might get more out of it. If you like science fiction though, you might like it too.
http://one-chapter-ahead.blogspot.ca/
May 3, 2015
I'm really not too sure how I want to rate this book. The idea is really interesting, the writing is pretty good (though it could do with a bit of an edit to shore up the tenses and double check word usage), and there is the start of some really good world-building, but it's only a start. The book is roughly 140 pages long and if it was closer to 500, with a complete storyline and plot I would likely be giving it far higher marks. But as it is the reader is barely introduced to the characters, technology, and lead-up to an important event that undoubtedly sets in motion the rest of the series. That isn't enough to make for a happy read. I finished the last page wondering not only what would happen next, but why 'the envoy' was important, why we needed to get to know the Monvaldo family at all, how long the process had taken (I couldn't tell how much time passed in the course of this book), what was the implication of Lowen's experience on Dox, was there a method to the madness of Edith and Brill's deaths, how could Lowen be so naive as to not know what he was really setting in motion, where did the Aura's originally come from, and what of all of the side characters that were introduced once and then never seen again.
Eventually I decided that the clue is in the book's description. It reads, "In his process of self-discovery, Lowen inadvertently begins the fateful saga..." There it is, BEGINS. That's all this book is, a beginning. It's a pretty good beginning, but still just a start. I don't generally sit down to read part of a book. I want the whole thing.
Having said all of that I must confess that I did like the Monvaldo brothers and Lowen and his team. They're likeable characters after all. If there was more to the book I would have happily kept reading to see it to the end too. So, if you're the sort that doesn't mind their stories broken into a series of small snippets this saga will likely appeal to you. I, on the other-hand, was annoyed to find it ending as the action finally came to a head.
Eventually I decided that the clue is in the book's description. It reads, "In his process of self-discovery, Lowen inadvertently begins the fateful saga..." There it is, BEGINS. That's all this book is, a beginning. It's a pretty good beginning, but still just a start. I don't generally sit down to read part of a book. I want the whole thing.
Having said all of that I must confess that I did like the Monvaldo brothers and Lowen and his team. They're likeable characters after all. If there was more to the book I would have happily kept reading to see it to the end too. So, if you're the sort that doesn't mind their stories broken into a series of small snippets this saga will likely appeal to you. I, on the other-hand, was annoyed to find it ending as the action finally came to a head.
March 19, 2015
Brill is being honored for keeping the peace and bringing the Galaxies together in The Capital City of Planet Jordus. Brill starts to behave oddly and his grandson, Lowen seems to notice. However, Lowen keeps his grandfather focused on his impending speech. When Brill starts to have severe pain in his head and he starts experiencing a horrific nose bleed, his grandson notices several members in the audience start having the same symptoms. It is then that Aura, a large spherical shaped mass that radiates an everlasting amount of energy with an all-encompassing glow spears Brill and vanishes him from life. After naming Lowen, Brill’s grandson, his successor Lowen is now faced with the fortitude of saving his kingdom and becoming the hero as his grandfather once was.
Lowen now travels to The Blesses Galaxy where the five Auras are. It’s a task that becomes as daunting as ever for Lowen as challenges happen. Can Lowen’s fate be successful as he battles? Can Tyfer, one of Lowen’s trusted team members carry on with Lowen? This journey for both of them will test both of them in ways they never thought possible before. Can their relationship handle all of the changes and challenges they encounter?
This book had complexities and a language that was different than other Sci-fi novels I have read. I enjoyed the world that the author created and I felt as if I was really being transported with the vivid descriptions and characters.
It was a little bit of a slow start for me, but once it picked up I was really entranced with this story. I like that the author kept me on my toes with a story that was constantly moving and developing. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Lowen now travels to The Blesses Galaxy where the five Auras are. It’s a task that becomes as daunting as ever for Lowen as challenges happen. Can Lowen’s fate be successful as he battles? Can Tyfer, one of Lowen’s trusted team members carry on with Lowen? This journey for both of them will test both of them in ways they never thought possible before. Can their relationship handle all of the changes and challenges they encounter?
This book had complexities and a language that was different than other Sci-fi novels I have read. I enjoyed the world that the author created and I felt as if I was really being transported with the vivid descriptions and characters.
It was a little bit of a slow start for me, but once it picked up I was really entranced with this story. I like that the author kept me on my toes with a story that was constantly moving and developing. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 12, 2013
The plot was pretty good. It is clear this is meant as a starting point for a series. It starts of with action, and a mystery unfolded through out the book. It was paced okay, but the sense of time wasn't really there. I rarely knew the amount of time that passed between each event. I'm actually not sure if this took place within weeks of the start or a few months. It was also a little jumpy at times, but that wasn't to bad.
There were a few different characters. There wasn't a lot of character development for most of them. Lowen was forced into being the hero and he finally seemed to settle into that role at the end. Ambrose was the more emotional of the two brother princes. And honestly, most other character were pretty generic.
Slight spoilers of the ending in next paragraph! I warned you.
The ending was entertaining, but didn't seem to completely fit. I got the sense that Lowen and crew wanted to find a more peaceful solution, but it was actually kinda violent. Dr. Prime specifically said he would only help if there was no violence. But at the end he didn't seem to have any problem with people getting burned and paralyzed. I wish that issue came up.
Overall, it was a pretty good read. It was the start of a series so there was a lot of world development and set up. There were some errors and mistakes, but that didn't brother me to much when I noticed. And I got the sense that the next book might be better than this one. I do recommend this book to fans of the science fiction genre.
There were a few different characters. There wasn't a lot of character development for most of them. Lowen was forced into being the hero and he finally seemed to settle into that role at the end. Ambrose was the more emotional of the two brother princes. And honestly, most other character were pretty generic.
Slight spoilers of the ending in next paragraph! I warned you.
The ending was entertaining, but didn't seem to completely fit. I got the sense that Lowen and crew wanted to find a more peaceful solution, but it was actually kinda violent. Dr. Prime specifically said he would only help if there was no violence. But at the end he didn't seem to have any problem with people getting burned and paralyzed. I wish that issue came up.
Overall, it was a pretty good read. It was the start of a series so there was a lot of world development and set up. There were some errors and mistakes, but that didn't brother me to much when I noticed. And I got the sense that the next book might be better than this one. I do recommend this book to fans of the science fiction genre.
March 7, 2013
Age Of The Aura: Phase I: Champions of Power is a science fiction taking place in many worlds that are connected by Aura. The Aura surrounds the planets and is thought to protect the world and it’s people. At least that is what it was thought to do but now it seems the Aura has different plans for itself. Mysterious deaths and lightening storms that all lead to the Aura turning towards it’s people it was suppose to protect.
I have to say I never thought of Aura surrounding planets. I know of people who say in real life that Auras surround a person and that it changes color during mood. I enjoyed the Age Of The Aura and found it a science fiction that was not too complicated to follow which is usually the problem I have with science fiction.
Having said that I liked the story the only thing that confused me was thinking of Auras not on people but on planets. It made me curious to know if the Aura (in this series) was also surrounding it’s people.
I am curious what will happen to the characters introduced. It was a nice change of pace as I do not read much science fiction but I find I like the genre more than I thought. This a good introduction to the sci fi genre for anyone.
I have to say I never thought of Aura surrounding planets. I know of people who say in real life that Auras surround a person and that it changes color during mood. I enjoyed the Age Of The Aura and found it a science fiction that was not too complicated to follow which is usually the problem I have with science fiction.
Having said that I liked the story the only thing that confused me was thinking of Auras not on people but on planets. It made me curious to know if the Aura (in this series) was also surrounding it’s people.
I am curious what will happen to the characters introduced. It was a nice change of pace as I do not read much science fiction but I find I like the genre more than I thought. This a good introduction to the sci fi genre for anyone.
April 4, 2013
This is a complex, well-written sci fi novel that harkens back to the good old days of sci fi/fantasy writing. The story takes place on two different worlds and focuses on two main characters --Lowen Sars who is intent on saving his world by taking the aura of another planet, and Ambrose, prince of the doomed planet who is wrestling with his own issues. Odunsi captures the problems and passions of these two men, and paints us a wonderful picture of the different worlds.
This book is pretty short, and is more of a setup for things to come. Because it is geared for adult readers, I think it could safely run much longer than it does and would be a more satisfying read that way. I enjoyed the smart complexity of Odunsi's writing and was immersed in the story when the book ended. It ended at a good point, leaving me wanting to read more, but if it had kept going, I would have been satisfied too. It's written in such a grand way, kind of epic-like, and would be great as a complete novel instead of broken up into different books.
If you're looking for some good old sci fi writing, check this book out. It's a captivating story and will leave you wondering what will happen next.
This book is pretty short, and is more of a setup for things to come. Because it is geared for adult readers, I think it could safely run much longer than it does and would be a more satisfying read that way. I enjoyed the smart complexity of Odunsi's writing and was immersed in the story when the book ended. It ended at a good point, leaving me wanting to read more, but if it had kept going, I would have been satisfied too. It's written in such a grand way, kind of epic-like, and would be great as a complete novel instead of broken up into different books.
If you're looking for some good old sci fi writing, check this book out. It's a captivating story and will leave you wondering what will happen next.
May 25, 2013
Originally posted at http://abooksofathomless.blogspot.com...
Champions of Power is not the type of book I would usually pick up- as much as I’d like to say that I’m a Sci-Fi fan, I’m not very widely read in the genre. This being said, I really quite enjoyed the book, especially as something different to the books I’ve read recently.
The book starts with action, while it’s also quite vague about some of the things that are happening and why they are happening, which creates a sense of mystery which draws you into the story. The world itself is exceptionally detailed, which I found was really great in the sense that it created a clear picture of the world which the characters live in. The writing was constructed very well- at sometimes it was a bit formal or distant from the characters, but I believe that this actually adds to the complexity of the novel.
I only wish that this book was a little longer- I loved how the book started and ended but I thought there were parts in the middle that could have been fleshed out a little more. However, I believe that this was a wonderful start to a new series that I’m sure will be enjoyed by many readers, myself included.
Thank you to Samuel for sending us a copy of this book to review!
Champions of Power is not the type of book I would usually pick up- as much as I’d like to say that I’m a Sci-Fi fan, I’m not very widely read in the genre. This being said, I really quite enjoyed the book, especially as something different to the books I’ve read recently.
The book starts with action, while it’s also quite vague about some of the things that are happening and why they are happening, which creates a sense of mystery which draws you into the story. The world itself is exceptionally detailed, which I found was really great in the sense that it created a clear picture of the world which the characters live in. The writing was constructed very well- at sometimes it was a bit formal or distant from the characters, but I believe that this actually adds to the complexity of the novel.
I only wish that this book was a little longer- I loved how the book started and ended but I thought there were parts in the middle that could have been fleshed out a little more. However, I believe that this was a wonderful start to a new series that I’m sure will be enjoyed by many readers, myself included.
Thank you to Samuel for sending us a copy of this book to review!
June 1, 2015
*I received this book free in exchange for an honest review*
So, I have to say, it was a struggle to get through this book. It had an interesting concept. I was excited to read it, but let down. I felt it was boring, drawn out, and written wrong. Either the author needs a better, more honest editor, or the book should be redone. I have no clue how much time passed through out this book.
I was annoyed that after reading this very long, droll book, that there was no closure. I understand it's "Part 1" of a series, but a good series will have closure to something each episode.
The story has a large cast of characters. At times I felt too many for the first part of a series. I don't mind reading Sci-Fi, but it has to be a story that grabs me and doesn't let go. If it bores me, I'll never be able to enjoy it. It's one of those genres that has to be fun. This story put me to sleep and did not excite me.
So, I have to say, it was a struggle to get through this book. It had an interesting concept. I was excited to read it, but let down. I felt it was boring, drawn out, and written wrong. Either the author needs a better, more honest editor, or the book should be redone. I have no clue how much time passed through out this book.
I was annoyed that after reading this very long, droll book, that there was no closure. I understand it's "Part 1" of a series, but a good series will have closure to something each episode.
The story has a large cast of characters. At times I felt too many for the first part of a series. I don't mind reading Sci-Fi, but it has to be a story that grabs me and doesn't let go. If it bores me, I'll never be able to enjoy it. It's one of those genres that has to be fun. This story put me to sleep and did not excite me.
April 29, 2013
This is definitely a Science Fiction read and really quite impressive. Although it is a short read at 137 pages, there is a lot of world building and definition set forth in this first edition. The characters are well defined and we learn that life as they know it will cease to exist in a matter of three years. Lowen Sars sets out to defy his own council after they shut him down in his efforts to save the people from the inevitable, but he enlists the aide of the ruthless Rodassians who have a secret agenda of their own.
The book is written in alternative chapters....one from Lowen's home planet, the next from the planet whose aura is being stolen. It was indeed an interesting concept and I enjoyed the read, although science fiction is not usually my thing. I have many questions left in my mind's eye and look forward to Mr Odunis's continued labor of love!
The book is written in alternative chapters....one from Lowen's home planet, the next from the planet whose aura is being stolen. It was indeed an interesting concept and I enjoyed the read, although science fiction is not usually my thing. I have many questions left in my mind's eye and look forward to Mr Odunis's continued labor of love!
May 22, 2013
I won this with Goodreads Firt Reads.
I feel very ambivalent about this book and wasn't sure wether to give three or four stars. Age of the Aura is definately not the kind of story you'll meet every day. It took me a while to get used to the universe of the book but after a while reading it turned out to be quite exiting. Sometimes though i found it a bit difficult to completely figure out what was going on - some scenes in the book are very well described while others are barely mentioned. This makes the storyline a bit confusing at times since the caracters talk about how long time they haved worked on their project but when reading it doesn't seem like they have been working on the project for more than just a few weeks.
All in all it's a good read and i deffinately wasn't bored!
I feel very ambivalent about this book and wasn't sure wether to give three or four stars. Age of the Aura is definately not the kind of story you'll meet every day. It took me a while to get used to the universe of the book but after a while reading it turned out to be quite exiting. Sometimes though i found it a bit difficult to completely figure out what was going on - some scenes in the book are very well described while others are barely mentioned. This makes the storyline a bit confusing at times since the caracters talk about how long time they haved worked on their project but when reading it doesn't seem like they have been working on the project for more than just a few weeks.
All in all it's a good read and i deffinately wasn't bored!
February 24, 2013
Read it! Champions of Power truly is a sci-fi epic for the ages. It creates a vivid and grand setting. There are multiple story lines unfolding with complex characters that change, grow, and surprise while informing us of the vast and detailed larger ‘Aura universe’. A place you can get lost in. I was reminded of Dune. As with Dune, one could argue there’s an undercurrent of political/sociological commentary. Champions isn’t a cumbersome read, either. Its pace is brisk and the writing style is intellectual, but straightforward. At just under 200 pages this introduction to the series is accessible and an easy approach. I’m very much looking forward to diving back into the ‘Aura-verse’. Don’t miss out. 5/5
February 28, 2013
I'll start off by saying that this isn't a book I would typically pick up and read. I decided to step out of my comfort zone for a change, and let me assure you I'm very glad I did!
Age of the Aura was much more than I expected. I couldn't wait to find out the fate of Ludoran Imperium and how they would get out of their predicament with their beloved turned hostile Aura.
When the young Lowen Sars is unexpectedly appointed Chief Emissary of Off-Planet Relations by his Grandfather the Lords of the Assembly are left in utter disbelief. Will Lowen be able to protect his people from the growing menace of the once beloved Aura?
This book was exciting and full of action taking unexpected twists and turns along the way. Definitely a must read book.
Age of the Aura was much more than I expected. I couldn't wait to find out the fate of Ludoran Imperium and how they would get out of their predicament with their beloved turned hostile Aura.
When the young Lowen Sars is unexpectedly appointed Chief Emissary of Off-Planet Relations by his Grandfather the Lords of the Assembly are left in utter disbelief. Will Lowen be able to protect his people from the growing menace of the once beloved Aura?
This book was exciting and full of action taking unexpected twists and turns along the way. Definitely a must read book.
April 28, 2016
A copy of this Book Was Given To Me By The Author In Exchange For An Honest Review*
My reasons for awarding only three stars are (i) a good editor is needed to turn this into the sort of book that grabs your attention and won’t let go and (ii) even the best editor could do nothing about the large number of characters, most with little to contribute. Finally (iii) when a tale is spread over several books there should be some sort of closure to each section. There isn’t
Nevertheless anyone reading this book will want to read the sequels and I recommend it.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
My reasons for awarding only three stars are (i) a good editor is needed to turn this into the sort of book that grabs your attention and won’t let go and (ii) even the best editor could do nothing about the large number of characters, most with little to contribute. Finally (iii) when a tale is spread over several books there should be some sort of closure to each section. There isn’t
Nevertheless anyone reading this book will want to read the sequels and I recommend it.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
April 14, 2013
My Review: I found the idea of this book interesting. The different worlds controlled more or less by the energies of their Auras. There was good action and intrigue in the book. I was at a loss though most of the time as I did not feel there was enough explanation of how these worlds worked. It almost felt like I was reading a second book of a series rather than the first. The diction was strange in some areas but that may be fitting for the worlds in which they lived but did not feel consistent enough for that. A good edit might help smooth out some of the awkward areas. I really liked parts of it but felt need for more input to these worlds. I give this book a 3 star rating.
May 31, 2016
To the best of my recollection, this is the first sci-fi novel that I have read, and I was intrigued after reading the first chapter. My emotional ranges included in reading this first excerpt were sadness, upset, hope, and fear.
This is a saga filled with disaster, betrayal, and adventure; from the horror occurring in the Galaxy, to the breakdown of leadership, and back alley plans to save the Galaxy from despair. I expect the second excerpt to be even more action packed and emotion and drama filled.
If you’re a newcomer to the science fiction world, this book is a great start for you to widen your horizons and expand your reading library.
This is a saga filled with disaster, betrayal, and adventure; from the horror occurring in the Galaxy, to the breakdown of leadership, and back alley plans to save the Galaxy from despair. I expect the second excerpt to be even more action packed and emotion and drama filled.
If you’re a newcomer to the science fiction world, this book is a great start for you to widen your horizons and expand your reading library.
April 24, 2013
This story was very well written. If you are a huge Star Trek fan then this book is for you.
I, on the other hand am not a huge fan of Star Trek or the Sci-fi. So this book was good but not something I would read on the norm.. I was having a hard time connecting with the characters and finding that spark with them.
But overall if you like Sci-fi and looking for something different then this book is for you.
I received a copy from the Author, exchanged for an honest review.
I, on the other hand am not a huge fan of Star Trek or the Sci-fi. So this book was good but not something I would read on the norm.. I was having a hard time connecting with the characters and finding that spark with them.
But overall if you like Sci-fi and looking for something different then this book is for you.
I received a copy from the Author, exchanged for an honest review.
March 23, 2013
"Age of the Aura, Phase I: Champions of Power" was so much more than I expected and had a really hard time putting the book down. A true sci-fi story line with extremely interesting places, complex characters and twists and turns within the plot. I highly recommend this book to all sci-fi fans and I am very interested in what comes next in this series.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
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