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The Game of VORs
Kier Vorsmith, the youngest son of an influential count, dreams of studying at the University and living a quiet life as a historian. However, when he fails his high school’s final exams, whirlwind events force Kier to become the official heir of the Vorsmiths’ county and an officer in the Imperial Special Corps. At the will of his father, the young man arrives at a remote arctic base to serve as a local weatherman...
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Published January 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 10, 2018
When I enjoyed a book that I’m going to review, I very often look at any one-star reviews if the book has them, to see if there was any complaint that I should address and explain why it wasn’t an issue for me.
In this case, I see that as it stands the one-star reviews that this book has accumulated are all one-liners referencing the same thing: they say this book is a rip-off of “The Vor Game” by Lois McMaster Bujold. In this case, I have neither read nor indeed hitherto heard of the other book, so I’ll refrain from comment on any similarity beyond the name.
However, what I will say is that very often even when a book has borrowed very heavily from another, if it’s well-written it shouldn’t matter in terms of reader experience. The Hunger Games is not worse for being a redo of Battle Royale, for instance.
Speaking of reader experience, I can only say that this was a high class read that I enjoyed greatly, and the translation is so skilful that it wasn’t at all clear that it was a translation at all.
I see that other reviewers have compared the book to some modern YA books; personally I found it was most highly comparable to Dune; a militaristic aristocracy, an ostensibly innocuous heir who will turn out to change everything, a feared outclass with paranormal abilities and their own set of rules, a harsh and unforgiving environmental setting — we were just missing the worms.
In short, the book exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it on its own merit.
In this case, I see that as it stands the one-star reviews that this book has accumulated are all one-liners referencing the same thing: they say this book is a rip-off of “The Vor Game” by Lois McMaster Bujold. In this case, I have neither read nor indeed hitherto heard of the other book, so I’ll refrain from comment on any similarity beyond the name.
However, what I will say is that very often even when a book has borrowed very heavily from another, if it’s well-written it shouldn’t matter in terms of reader experience. The Hunger Games is not worse for being a redo of Battle Royale, for instance.
Speaking of reader experience, I can only say that this was a high class read that I enjoyed greatly, and the translation is so skilful that it wasn’t at all clear that it was a translation at all.
I see that other reviewers have compared the book to some modern YA books; personally I found it was most highly comparable to Dune; a militaristic aristocracy, an ostensibly innocuous heir who will turn out to change everything, a feared outclass with paranormal abilities and their own set of rules, a harsh and unforgiving environmental setting — we were just missing the worms.
In short, the book exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it on its own merit.
January 27, 2018
Failing the general education exam was not what Kier Vorsmith had in mind. Neither was being made the legitimate heir to his father, Count Vorsmith, ahead of his two elder brothers. Nor his placement at the Aurora Borealis arctic military base, getting three people killed, and realizing people who weren't vors were treated little better than animals. From all angles, there always seemed to be someone more powerful, more evil, and more motivated to follow through with their goals of illegal dealings and destruction.
While keeping one eye open for who might try to kill him next, Kier becomes aware of secrets that people will give anything to find and others that no one will give a second thought to. The pressing conditions force him to figure out his future immediately. Will he be an ensign? Weatherman? A Count? An out-satrap? Or just another kid broken by society?
I will give any book a solid four stars if it can make me feel like I need to strangle certain characters and give others a hug.
Kier Vorsmith makes me reminiscent of Amir from The Kite Runner, and the book itself has a similar feel (though in a different world, with a different situation, harsher consequences, and more political than familial). The similarities between Kier and Amir are mainly the horrible things they had to watch, and thinking of whether they could've/should've done something to stop their conflict. They share the same loss about what they want in life and a lack of self-confidence.
That kind of character allows me to sympathize with them as well as wonder why in the world they are not doing anything about anything. A lot of Kier's thoughts are either detective-like or wondering about the functionality of his life and country and whether or not he should be reevaluating his morals, which is something Mr. Orange was able to convey very well. Because the book has such a dark tone to it, this specific ideology was the crowning point to such a broken society.
One thing that made reading difficult was the extensive terminology of the fantasy world. Many of the political terms were never really explained in more detail, so I was lost on more than one occasion when Kier was trying to figure out the terrorist plans going on around him.
I would recommend this to any person interested in twisted political discrepancies or learning about different takes on identity and morality (or if you just need to feel sympathetic and furious at a character).
While keeping one eye open for who might try to kill him next, Kier becomes aware of secrets that people will give anything to find and others that no one will give a second thought to. The pressing conditions force him to figure out his future immediately. Will he be an ensign? Weatherman? A Count? An out-satrap? Or just another kid broken by society?
I will give any book a solid four stars if it can make me feel like I need to strangle certain characters and give others a hug.
Kier Vorsmith makes me reminiscent of Amir from The Kite Runner, and the book itself has a similar feel (though in a different world, with a different situation, harsher consequences, and more political than familial). The similarities between Kier and Amir are mainly the horrible things they had to watch, and thinking of whether they could've/should've done something to stop their conflict. They share the same loss about what they want in life and a lack of self-confidence.
That kind of character allows me to sympathize with them as well as wonder why in the world they are not doing anything about anything. A lot of Kier's thoughts are either detective-like or wondering about the functionality of his life and country and whether or not he should be reevaluating his morals, which is something Mr. Orange was able to convey very well. Because the book has such a dark tone to it, this specific ideology was the crowning point to such a broken society.
One thing that made reading difficult was the extensive terminology of the fantasy world. Many of the political terms were never really explained in more detail, so I was lost on more than one occasion when Kier was trying to figure out the terrorist plans going on around him.
I would recommend this to any person interested in twisted political discrepancies or learning about different takes on identity and morality (or if you just need to feel sympathetic and furious at a character).
July 19, 2017
The Game of VORs by Andrew Orange follows the youngest son of a dangerous and influential count as he loses everything and is thrown onto an entirely new course for his life. Kier Vorsmith's home relies on him completing his final exams and getting into university. All those dreams change when he fails his exams, and he's taken away from his bodyguard, Brutari. The count chooses Kier as the official heir of the county, which creates unrest with his two older brothers who have been striving for the position. He's forced to join the Imperial Special Corps, and relocates to a remote Arctic base to serve as a weatherman, something he knows nothing about.
This book was honestly not what I expected, but it made me care to the point where I was still reeling about what happened, hours after reading. This isn't a light novel, and contains a lot of darker topics, such as rape and murder. Andrew Orange's writing has such detail and feeling that it gets an emotional reaction, and made me truly care about what was happening. Kier is one of the better characters in the book, with all the others ranging in how awful they can be, except for his friend, Harry. For a while after Kier gets to the base, their friendship adds a little light to the story. Harry is a connection that Kier needed to have in his life after losing everything he had. The Game of VORs is gritty, tragic, and very emotional... a suspenseful, coming of age story in a dark world.
This book was honestly not what I expected, but it made me care to the point where I was still reeling about what happened, hours after reading. This isn't a light novel, and contains a lot of darker topics, such as rape and murder. Andrew Orange's writing has such detail and feeling that it gets an emotional reaction, and made me truly care about what was happening. Kier is one of the better characters in the book, with all the others ranging in how awful they can be, except for his friend, Harry. For a while after Kier gets to the base, their friendship adds a little light to the story. Harry is a connection that Kier needed to have in his life after losing everything he had. The Game of VORs is gritty, tragic, and very emotional... a suspenseful, coming of age story in a dark world.
June 19, 2018
This was a good, entertaining and worthwhile reading experience. I enjoy sci-fi books, especially those that have dystopian premise and an imaginative world built into it, and this is just that. At times really dark, the plot as a whole is great and I just kind of slipped into it, which is just what I want when reading something. Kier is a good main characters, he has likability factor and he is grounded enough so I was able to identify with him and root for him along the way. Like I said, I love the world that the author managed to build in this book, it feels organic and wholesome, although it is not really a place I would like to live in. As a whole, I can’t say anything really bad about this novel. The writing is fine, plot is exciting, characters are really good, and it is just a good, solid sci-fi experience. Maybe I am missing a little something special, something you can’t explain, but you know when you have it in the book that is in your hands.
August 3, 2018
What strikes me the most about this book is the quality of its dialogues: they feel authentic and add a sense of realness in a dystopian world.
Andrew Orange was capable of building an entire world and creating an engaging and fascinating story that is both appealing and repulsive. Repulsive because it can be terribly dark at times, with rape and murder scenes. The friendship between Kier and Harry is – for the majority of the story – the only good point in humanity that we can find. The story is not new as it picks the old topic of a young man trying to prove himself and to his father and that tries to escape his family legacy and power, but it’s written in a fascinating way. The characters are well-developed and interesting, with a lot of information about them (through description and their own actions) and I absolutely love it. Most of the times, a story is built upon the strength of the characters and this one does not disappoint.
Andrew Orange was capable of building an entire world and creating an engaging and fascinating story that is both appealing and repulsive. Repulsive because it can be terribly dark at times, with rape and murder scenes. The friendship between Kier and Harry is – for the majority of the story – the only good point in humanity that we can find. The story is not new as it picks the old topic of a young man trying to prove himself and to his father and that tries to escape his family legacy and power, but it’s written in a fascinating way. The characters are well-developed and interesting, with a lot of information about them (through description and their own actions) and I absolutely love it. Most of the times, a story is built upon the strength of the characters and this one does not disappoint.
November 28, 2018
At first I thought “The Game of Vors” was about how to play said game. I am very satisfied that it was not so as this book was very mesmerizing and pulled on the imagination. In some parts I think the events are a parody of today’s realities and caused you to really see the other side of power and authority.
Though the well-constructed background reminds you that this is a work of fiction, it is also not the sort of light fiction that can be easily forgotten. There are very serious events in this book that will cause you to reflect on human “kindness”.
“The Game of Vors” is very well written, engaging and so real. It is also the first book for the author -Andrew Orange - and I look forward to even more fantastic stories from him.
Though the well-constructed background reminds you that this is a work of fiction, it is also not the sort of light fiction that can be easily forgotten. There are very serious events in this book that will cause you to reflect on human “kindness”.
“The Game of Vors” is very well written, engaging and so real. It is also the first book for the author -Andrew Orange - and I look forward to even more fantastic stories from him.
November 16, 2018
This book tells of Kier Vorsmith, a young man who dreams of studying at a university to eventually become a historian. However, while he has high hopes, Vorsmith runs into a few problems along the way. He ends up failing his final high school exams which cause him to flunk his senior year. Instead of attending school like he hoped, he instead must serve in the Imperial Special Corps. Vorsmith soon finds himself being sent to the Arctic Circle to serve as a weatherman, but finds that everything isn’t what it seems here.
Author Andrew Orange has created an incredibly captivating story with this novel. At first, it comes across as almost lighthearted, but eventually moves into deep and suspenseful topics. You’ll also read of well-developed characters that each add their own unique mark to the story. If you’re into science fiction or thrillers, definitely give this book a try.
Author Andrew Orange has created an incredibly captivating story with this novel. At first, it comes across as almost lighthearted, but eventually moves into deep and suspenseful topics. You’ll also read of well-developed characters that each add their own unique mark to the story. If you’re into science fiction or thrillers, definitely give this book a try.
June 14, 2019
You know how when you are watching a movie and you know that something crazy is about to happen or someone is about to do something or say something that you had either wanted them to say so you turn your head and cover your ears? Well that was me while reading “The Game of Vors.” The story follows young Kier Vor Smith, from his time in school to young adulthood. Unlike most protagonist in this genre, Kier was and pretty much remains your typical below average student and adult. He wants to become a stronger and more capable person, beyond his father and expectations, but as the story goes on, Keir finds himself falling deeper into a hellish conspiracy with no way out. The story and attention to detail was done so well, that it felt like I was watching a movie. It wasn’t too much backstory or information, but the perfect amount that left me wanting to know more. The ending was both unexpected and bittersweet but considering the different turns this one took on the way to the ending, I guess the final moment made a lot of sense. I only hope that there is a second novel to this because there is still so much stories to tell
April 12, 2018
‘The best of the vors were taken to the Special Imperial Corps, officially created for the anti-terrorist fight.’
Author Andrew Orange initially wrote THE GAME OF VORS in Russian and then provided his own translation into English. Though we know little about his background, what is evident is that he teaches us new concepts as he relates his story.
For example, the ‘VORS’ of the title is quietly introduced as follows – ‘Thirty-nine young men from three graduating classes of High School № 169 in New Roma, the capital of Northern Heartland, were to take the physical training exam. The graduation exam consisted of two parts, and intellectual condition would be checked the next day. Among this group, thirty-eight were from the social class of simples. Only Kier, the thirty-ninth, and the youngest son of the Count Vorsmith, was an aristocrat. “Kier Smith!” shouted the instructor, continuing the attendance check. Kier glared at him, and then immediately regained his composure. The instructor had omitted the reverent prefix “vor” from his surname, which bordered on an insult. In the aristocratic milieu, one could be challenged to a duel for such an omission; some simples had been killed for it without a second thought given. However, Kier knew of the emperor’s decree, which had introduced an obligatory political correctness in the state schools by prohibiting officially titling the infants of “vors” or showing them any emphasized respect.’ It is this manner of subtlety that is prominent in this little story.
Andrew has created a coming of age story that instead of simply surveying the hormonal aspects of that period in life when boys become men, introduces family commitments, intrigue, crime (murder and rape) and the emotional aspects of being raised in one atmosphere and then sent into ‘isolation’ into an unfriendly place to mature. Though the exact location of the story remains embedded n the dialogue, Andrew subtlely gives us hints: ‘Then, with a background of fussing blue-uniformed subordinates, the boss-general of the regional headquarters of the Imperial Security Service appeared. He announced that the out-satrap of Northern Island, as the Imperial authorities officially referred to rebellious Northern Gomorrah, had not been harmed. The responsibility for the terroristic act was habitually laid upon the elusive head of the Gomorrian underground, known as Mister Lemen. The screen showed a glimpse of the Empire’s main terrorist as a morose, dusky face with dark, slightly slanted eyes. Interesting. Why do outs never appear on the screen? The sudden thought popped into Kier’s head. The satrap of Northern Island has nearly been blown up and he delegated the announcement to his ImpSec dog. Come to think of it, none of the outs’ faces, except for Prime Minister Dwarfin and Emperor Darius III, are known to the majority of the population. And even those two are only known from videos. Having finished with Gomorrian terrorists and other news, Palantir started broadcasting some nerdy talk show about the moral upbringing of youngsters. As if to confirm Kier’s thoughts, they showed a fragment of one of the emperor’s speeches. Darius III—a pale-faced, silver-haired old man—was sitting on the throne in a purple mantle while fervently blaming libertines and pedophiles. Then the well-groomed spokesman of the talk show added something about the horrors of teenage sex and the benefits of sexual continence before a marriage and how that was “blessed by the gods.” By that time, Kier had eaten his dinner and was feeling an irrepressible urge to sleep.’
Stay with Andrew as he navigates this fascinating story – ‘Kier Vorsmith, the youngest son of an influential count, dreams of studying at the University and living a quiet life as a historian. However, when he fails his high school’s final exams, whirlwind events force Kier to become the official heir of the Vorsmiths’ county and an officer in the Imperial Special Corps. At the will of his father, the young man arrives at a remote arctic base to serve as a local weatherman...’ and for the specifics of this quasi-sci-fi adventure it is best discovered by the reader – far more fascinating that way. Andrew Orange shows true promise
Author Andrew Orange initially wrote THE GAME OF VORS in Russian and then provided his own translation into English. Though we know little about his background, what is evident is that he teaches us new concepts as he relates his story.
For example, the ‘VORS’ of the title is quietly introduced as follows – ‘Thirty-nine young men from three graduating classes of High School № 169 in New Roma, the capital of Northern Heartland, were to take the physical training exam. The graduation exam consisted of two parts, and intellectual condition would be checked the next day. Among this group, thirty-eight were from the social class of simples. Only Kier, the thirty-ninth, and the youngest son of the Count Vorsmith, was an aristocrat. “Kier Smith!” shouted the instructor, continuing the attendance check. Kier glared at him, and then immediately regained his composure. The instructor had omitted the reverent prefix “vor” from his surname, which bordered on an insult. In the aristocratic milieu, one could be challenged to a duel for such an omission; some simples had been killed for it without a second thought given. However, Kier knew of the emperor’s decree, which had introduced an obligatory political correctness in the state schools by prohibiting officially titling the infants of “vors” or showing them any emphasized respect.’ It is this manner of subtlety that is prominent in this little story.
Andrew has created a coming of age story that instead of simply surveying the hormonal aspects of that period in life when boys become men, introduces family commitments, intrigue, crime (murder and rape) and the emotional aspects of being raised in one atmosphere and then sent into ‘isolation’ into an unfriendly place to mature. Though the exact location of the story remains embedded n the dialogue, Andrew subtlely gives us hints: ‘Then, with a background of fussing blue-uniformed subordinates, the boss-general of the regional headquarters of the Imperial Security Service appeared. He announced that the out-satrap of Northern Island, as the Imperial authorities officially referred to rebellious Northern Gomorrah, had not been harmed. The responsibility for the terroristic act was habitually laid upon the elusive head of the Gomorrian underground, known as Mister Lemen. The screen showed a glimpse of the Empire’s main terrorist as a morose, dusky face with dark, slightly slanted eyes. Interesting. Why do outs never appear on the screen? The sudden thought popped into Kier’s head. The satrap of Northern Island has nearly been blown up and he delegated the announcement to his ImpSec dog. Come to think of it, none of the outs’ faces, except for Prime Minister Dwarfin and Emperor Darius III, are known to the majority of the population. And even those two are only known from videos. Having finished with Gomorrian terrorists and other news, Palantir started broadcasting some nerdy talk show about the moral upbringing of youngsters. As if to confirm Kier’s thoughts, they showed a fragment of one of the emperor’s speeches. Darius III—a pale-faced, silver-haired old man—was sitting on the throne in a purple mantle while fervently blaming libertines and pedophiles. Then the well-groomed spokesman of the talk show added something about the horrors of teenage sex and the benefits of sexual continence before a marriage and how that was “blessed by the gods.” By that time, Kier had eaten his dinner and was feeling an irrepressible urge to sleep.’
Stay with Andrew as he navigates this fascinating story – ‘Kier Vorsmith, the youngest son of an influential count, dreams of studying at the University and living a quiet life as a historian. However, when he fails his high school’s final exams, whirlwind events force Kier to become the official heir of the Vorsmiths’ county and an officer in the Imperial Special Corps. At the will of his father, the young man arrives at a remote arctic base to serve as a local weatherman...’ and for the specifics of this quasi-sci-fi adventure it is best discovered by the reader – far more fascinating that way. Andrew Orange shows true promise
August 2, 2018
The Game of VORs is a coming of age suspense novel centered around a different and dark theme. Kier Vorsmith had a difficult upbringing where despite being a member of an influential count family, he lived a life of depravity and hardships. To make matters worse he is poor in physical skills, and while he has mental ability, the corrupt education system makes it difficult to pass the examination without the aid of any money. The questions that come in the exam are silly and meant to fail anyone who dares to sit the exam without funding out the required amount such as what time frame did a particular emperor ruled his kingdom- Was it 18 years one month and 21 days or 18 years and 19 days. These absurd questions make our hero flunk out by just one mark, leaving him to reach out to his forgotten father. However, this is a wrong move and things take on a turn for worse.
The story paints the picture of a bleak world where the powerful take advantage of the Simple and the poor. There are lots of surprises with unpleasant surprises getting the upper hand. However, the Game of VORs looks only the start of a series and we readers could look forward to lots of action in the upcoming book.
While the book is dark, it is highly engaging and as a reader I couldn't help turning the pages and knowing what future the fate has in store for him. Will Kier get recognition for some goodness in him? Will he win over his girl? Will the corruption decrease? Will truth reign over falsehood and will justice be served?
The story paints the picture of a bleak world where the powerful take advantage of the Simple and the poor. There are lots of surprises with unpleasant surprises getting the upper hand. However, the Game of VORs looks only the start of a series and we readers could look forward to lots of action in the upcoming book.
While the book is dark, it is highly engaging and as a reader I couldn't help turning the pages and knowing what future the fate has in store for him. Will Kier get recognition for some goodness in him? Will he win over his girl? Will the corruption decrease? Will truth reign over falsehood and will justice be served?
July 24, 2018
Sci-fi thrill with a twisted view
Keir is a kid who wants to make his own way and follow his dreams but his father has other plans so when Keir fails his high school exams he finds himself in a undesirable position. The story builds on Keir and his future as he is lead into becoming heir of the Vorsmith legacy. The story is fast paced and very entertaining. The characters are developed and relateable to just about anyone. The sci-fi genre is one that takes a special quality to be able to present a story in a way that it is believable by the reader. I found the to be a good read and would recommend this one to all the sci-fi fans out there. Check this one out, you will not be disappointed.
Keir is a kid who wants to make his own way and follow his dreams but his father has other plans so when Keir fails his high school exams he finds himself in a undesirable position. The story builds on Keir and his future as he is lead into becoming heir of the Vorsmith legacy. The story is fast paced and very entertaining. The characters are developed and relateable to just about anyone. The sci-fi genre is one that takes a special quality to be able to present a story in a way that it is believable by the reader. I found the to be a good read and would recommend this one to all the sci-fi fans out there. Check this one out, you will not be disappointed.
December 1, 2017
THE GAME OF VORs, by Andrew Orange, is a fantasy tale about a world with many hidden agendas and classes of people. On the whole, it is a selfish and violent society with little regard for life. A young Vor is the main character in this story. Raised by his body guard, he comes to learn about morals and empathy which are unknown to many of the people occupying this world. The story is filled with twists and turns and a surprise ending.
December 10, 2017
Through colloquial writing and an extensively constructed backdrop, Andrew Orange’s fantasy novel, The Game of VORs, depicts an oppressive imperial society while providing elements of our own world (past and present). It's a society placed within a wider-encompassing alternate universe that feels somewhat familiar and entirely disconcerting to experience. Follow an estranged count-heir, who, after failing his high school finals, is thrown off trajectory and forced to become a weatherman at a secluded military base amid violence, hidden agendas, and government censorship and propaganda.
Opinion:
In terms of narrative style, The Game of VORs feels slightly reminiscent of Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series and Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. This is entirely due to the simple, modern, and easy-to-understand voice used, while simultaneously providing allegorical insight that is critically observant of the human potential in a truly dystopian way. However, that's where the comparisons end.
While this novel began with an engaging start, it had some lulls throughout because some information given felt irrelevant to the plot. However, while sometimes difficult to maintain this reader’s interest, the intriguing characters and concepts of Orange’s story could make powering through the somewhat verbose and seemingly arbitrary segments worthwhile to other readers.
Some conversations felt awkward in execution, evoking a quality specific to a fictional realm rather than a real one. However, this could be excused as an authorial choice to place the characters in a different reality than the reader’s, and if so, the different conversational mannerisms complimented this fact.
There were straight-forward yet multiple mentions and situations involving murder, suicide, prostitution, infidelity, excessive alcohol drinking, and use of impolite language, which may be inappropriate for younger readers. Similarly, frequent and explicit talk of sex (both consensual and non-consensual) might be too mature for some.
The females in this novel were treated as sexual objects or side characters who were barely seen, and when seen, those women were perceived through the gaze of somewhat sexist heterosexual males. Whether this inhibits one’s reading experience is up to the reader. It can be seen as either the personality of the characters or as a general atmosphere of the novel. This reader felt it to be the latter. On the other hand, this book isn’t set in a pleasant or picturesque world. It’s dismal, corrupted, and often disgusting. While some of the conversations, thoughts, and actions of characters were revolting to read, it felt like an intentionality of the author in terms of setting the scene of the world in which the characters live. This could be compared to reading a history textbook and feeling repulsed by past actions of the human race. While the information isn’t nice, it isn’t necessarily meant to be. Just as a history textbook would, Orange reported the cultural horrors of the time period he invented, which doesn’t make this a lightweight read but a possibly interesting one nonetheless.
In conclusion, The Game of VORs is unpredictable, yet not in an inconsistent or surfeit manner. The roller-coaster-esque ride brings surprises around every corner (or rather page), without making it difficult to keep track of the plotline. While several sections felt tedious to sift through and the material rather grim and crude, overall, the novel’s vibe can be mysteriously intriguing enough to collect attention without being mysterious to the point of vagueness.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age 19
Opinion:
In terms of narrative style, The Game of VORs feels slightly reminiscent of Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series and Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. This is entirely due to the simple, modern, and easy-to-understand voice used, while simultaneously providing allegorical insight that is critically observant of the human potential in a truly dystopian way. However, that's where the comparisons end.
While this novel began with an engaging start, it had some lulls throughout because some information given felt irrelevant to the plot. However, while sometimes difficult to maintain this reader’s interest, the intriguing characters and concepts of Orange’s story could make powering through the somewhat verbose and seemingly arbitrary segments worthwhile to other readers.
Some conversations felt awkward in execution, evoking a quality specific to a fictional realm rather than a real one. However, this could be excused as an authorial choice to place the characters in a different reality than the reader’s, and if so, the different conversational mannerisms complimented this fact.
There were straight-forward yet multiple mentions and situations involving murder, suicide, prostitution, infidelity, excessive alcohol drinking, and use of impolite language, which may be inappropriate for younger readers. Similarly, frequent and explicit talk of sex (both consensual and non-consensual) might be too mature for some.
The females in this novel were treated as sexual objects or side characters who were barely seen, and when seen, those women were perceived through the gaze of somewhat sexist heterosexual males. Whether this inhibits one’s reading experience is up to the reader. It can be seen as either the personality of the characters or as a general atmosphere of the novel. This reader felt it to be the latter. On the other hand, this book isn’t set in a pleasant or picturesque world. It’s dismal, corrupted, and often disgusting. While some of the conversations, thoughts, and actions of characters were revolting to read, it felt like an intentionality of the author in terms of setting the scene of the world in which the characters live. This could be compared to reading a history textbook and feeling repulsed by past actions of the human race. While the information isn’t nice, it isn’t necessarily meant to be. Just as a history textbook would, Orange reported the cultural horrors of the time period he invented, which doesn’t make this a lightweight read but a possibly interesting one nonetheless.
In conclusion, The Game of VORs is unpredictable, yet not in an inconsistent or surfeit manner. The roller-coaster-esque ride brings surprises around every corner (or rather page), without making it difficult to keep track of the plotline. While several sections felt tedious to sift through and the material rather grim and crude, overall, the novel’s vibe can be mysteriously intriguing enough to collect attention without being mysterious to the point of vagueness.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age 19
March 16, 2019
The author did a good job of weaving in the political hierarchy into the story instead of spending the first section of the book describing it in detail as many of these types of novels have done. I very much appreciated this approach.
I couldn't decide (and still am on the fence) whether the main character was given a difficult life to live or a privileged life. In many ways he had things much easier than the simples but at the same time he certainly didn't have all the luxuries as did those with power, such as his father. I did find myself hoping that something good would come of one of his many trials and tribulations throughout his entry into adulthood, yet none ever came.
I would never have predicted the ending but even that wasn't necessarily the break this young vor needed. It may have even opened up the potential for a sequel to see what comes next for Kier.
Overall I enjoyed the book and would read another by this author in the future.
I couldn't decide (and still am on the fence) whether the main character was given a difficult life to live or a privileged life. In many ways he had things much easier than the simples but at the same time he certainly didn't have all the luxuries as did those with power, such as his father. I did find myself hoping that something good would come of one of his many trials and tribulations throughout his entry into adulthood, yet none ever came.
I would never have predicted the ending but even that wasn't necessarily the break this young vor needed. It may have even opened up the potential for a sequel to see what comes next for Kier.
Overall I enjoyed the book and would read another by this author in the future.
June 2, 2019
The Game of VORs by Andrew Orange is an intriguing story with lots of surprises along the way. I enjoyed the writing and the story line as I watched Kier try to fit in and cope with the life he finds himself in. The conditions and expectations of his dystopian life all seem a bit too much for him. The writing in the book is good and I really enjoyed the descriptions of Kiers’ life and surroundings.
Kier struggles with his relationship with his father; this is a universal theme in life and one that many people have struggled with. Adding that to the book makes it very relatable for readers. Mr. Orange shows a great amount of imagination in the description of the world Kier lives in. Even though we are reading about characters in a strange world, they felt real to me and I enjoyed reading about them.
There are so many aspects to the book that seem like real life here on earth; growing up, failing exams, dealing with unwanted status and family trauma. These issues are what really pulled me into the book, even though it is considered science fiction. I like the way the author built the characters in the book too. Each one seemed real to me and their actions made sense. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense writing set in a sci-fi/fantasy world. The book isn’t the type of book I normally read, but it kept my interest and I think that makes it very readable for many people.
Kier struggles with his relationship with his father; this is a universal theme in life and one that many people have struggled with. Adding that to the book makes it very relatable for readers. Mr. Orange shows a great amount of imagination in the description of the world Kier lives in. Even though we are reading about characters in a strange world, they felt real to me and I enjoyed reading about them.
There are so many aspects to the book that seem like real life here on earth; growing up, failing exams, dealing with unwanted status and family trauma. These issues are what really pulled me into the book, even though it is considered science fiction. I like the way the author built the characters in the book too. Each one seemed real to me and their actions made sense. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense writing set in a sci-fi/fantasy world. The book isn’t the type of book I normally read, but it kept my interest and I think that makes it very readable for many people.
December 28, 2019
I received a free e-book in exchange for my review. (SPOILER ALERT): I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It had a great mixture of intrigue, politics, sci-fi, and betrayal. I found it slightly difficult to follow at times but that did not detract from the pleasure i experienced from reading this book. I truly hope that Mr. Orange is planning on getting a sequel. I really want to see how the story of the outs develops. I have a feeling Mr. Orange would be doing many of us a huge favor should be choose to see where a sequel would take him. Great job on your first book sir!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2019
I could not put this story down, it was so compelling! I read it through. Fast-paced and action-packed with young Keir, the main protagonist who is captivating. Lots of interesting surprises keep you reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2020
I really like this book! The future the author has created is scary familiar in so many ways. The machinations, secrets, and plots are complicated and intriguing, and there is so much going on all the time. It's like a chess game. There is a big cliffhanger at the end and it's perfect! I can't wait to read the next in the series!
April 8, 2018
**I received a free PDF copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are mine and 100% honest.**
The Game of VORs by Andrew Orange was an alright read for me. To be honest, I wasn't a big fan of it to really any extent, or at least not the extent that the synopsis promised me after reading it.
One of the main things in any book for me that can either make or break it entirely is the writing and narrative voice that is used. Fourtnaley, for this, I did like how it was written and I thought the narrative voice was strong. While it was very simple, it was easy to understand while being very modern dystopian-esque, and carrying that esque throughout the story.
With a promising start to the plot, it started to fell shorter and shorter the further I continued to read on. It was becoming harder and harder to maintain my interest throughout the story. The only part that kept me interested was the characters and those slowly started to become less and less worthy of me holding onto them.
From the mentions of rape to the women being treated more or less like objects than people and all the other controversial entities in the world, it was such a huge turn off for me. I have no problem with hard topics such as rape, suicide, etc. being mentioned in stories, in fact, some of my favorite books are based on hard topics, just Orange did it such an controversial way that I wish it was either done right or taken on completely.
The only thing that kept me from giving this 1-star was the writing and voice, everything else wasn't enjoyable. I don't think I am going to check out the sequel Orange is working on right now after the let down of this one.
The Game of VORs by Andrew Orange was an alright read for me. To be honest, I wasn't a big fan of it to really any extent, or at least not the extent that the synopsis promised me after reading it.
One of the main things in any book for me that can either make or break it entirely is the writing and narrative voice that is used. Fourtnaley, for this, I did like how it was written and I thought the narrative voice was strong. While it was very simple, it was easy to understand while being very modern dystopian-esque, and carrying that esque throughout the story.
With a promising start to the plot, it started to fell shorter and shorter the further I continued to read on. It was becoming harder and harder to maintain my interest throughout the story. The only part that kept me interested was the characters and those slowly started to become less and less worthy of me holding onto them.
From the mentions of rape to the women being treated more or less like objects than people and all the other controversial entities in the world, it was such a huge turn off for me. I have no problem with hard topics such as rape, suicide, etc. being mentioned in stories, in fact, some of my favorite books are based on hard topics, just Orange did it such an controversial way that I wish it was either done right or taken on completely.
The only thing that kept me from giving this 1-star was the writing and voice, everything else wasn't enjoyable. I don't think I am going to check out the sequel Orange is working on right now after the let down of this one.
June 18, 2019
“The Game of Vors” title makes one think of that “other” book with a similar title. While the book doesn’t contain all of the murder and mayhem of GoT, it is a great coming of age story of a young man in a dystopian society that is both similar and different than ours. I found the book hard to put down once I had time to read – I wanted to find out what would happen next. The story opens with Kiers Vorsmith, the youngest son of a “Vor” preparing for his graduation from secondary school and failing his final exams. A subsequent whirlwind of events results in Kiers becoming his father’s heir and being banished to a frozen wasteland. I’m not going to spoil the surprises that occur as he explores his new world, finds new friends and new enemies and possibly even new “frenemies”.
This is a well written book; it’s an intense exploration of a world that’s similar to ours with many of the similarities and differences being explained in the closing pages. I had a difficult time at first deciding whether I was reading a science fiction novel set on Earth or set on another planet, but the answer becomes apparent near the end of the book.
I enjoyed the book well enough that I tried to find out if the author has any other books; he has a Facebook page that contains a link to an interview which contains a few surprises (at least for me) and the good news that “Game of Vors” will have a sequel which I’ll definitely be looking forward to!
This is a well written book; it’s an intense exploration of a world that’s similar to ours with many of the similarities and differences being explained in the closing pages. I had a difficult time at first deciding whether I was reading a science fiction novel set on Earth or set on another planet, but the answer becomes apparent near the end of the book.
I enjoyed the book well enough that I tried to find out if the author has any other books; he has a Facebook page that contains a link to an interview which contains a few surprises (at least for me) and the good news that “Game of Vors” will have a sequel which I’ll definitely be looking forward to!
May 1, 2019
The Game of Vors by Andrew Orange brought a wonderfully exciting story with many aspects I did not expect to see but nonetheless was delighted with the twists and turns of the story. It provided an exciting read which I found myself taking extra time to get through since it was so enjoyable. While the story follows many dark themes, there was a strange relatable sense within the writing. As we followed along with the main character, Kier, it truly felt as if I was within the story! There was a good bit of dialogue within the story which I felt highlighted this more immersive experience in a complete way. The extra dialogue brought along a ton of details to the character which I felt was even more enjoyable as we heard about the journey.
There was an overall message within the story I felt truly spoke to me and I would imagine others relate to this feeling as well. The main character comes from a very wealthy and powerful family but still deals with hardships. I relate to this simply being from a first world country where the standard of living is so pleasant and frankly easy and how yet it can bring other challenges and hardships along with it. This double edge sword was highlighted well by the author!
All and all, I highly recommended taking the time to check out The Game of Vors by Mr. Orange. It was a splendid read which deserves 5/5 stars!!
There was an overall message within the story I felt truly spoke to me and I would imagine others relate to this feeling as well. The main character comes from a very wealthy and powerful family but still deals with hardships. I relate to this simply being from a first world country where the standard of living is so pleasant and frankly easy and how yet it can bring other challenges and hardships along with it. This double edge sword was highlighted well by the author!
All and all, I highly recommended taking the time to check out The Game of Vors by Mr. Orange. It was a splendid read which deserves 5/5 stars!!
June 19, 2019
Game of Vors is written well and has the potential to be a good video game or action anime feature. I enjoyed the story and found the characters interesting and the story well developed. There are twists aplenty in this story and Keir, the hero, endures a long period of dodging schemes and problems made by people who are afraid of him. It is not just that he belongs to the right family, but he represents someone who does not back the status quo. It is not just his wealthy family; it is the fairness and order he wants in everyone. Frankly, this applies to many coming of age stories. It is a sexy book and like a lot of stories in this genre has some very disturbing stories as subtext as well as those that effect the action. Orange, the author writes in another language and this is a translation. It is a good one and a lot aren’t. The story line also some good descriptions and believable details. He even creates and describes a money type and tells of manipulation that is common in Soviet and Slavic countries. If you like to read something that is complex, has great bad guys that get killed and good guys who finish well; this is it. My wife read it and said it does not have an ending. I think she is wrong, because she likes Hallmark Romances, and this is not one of those. It is good tough gritty story.
January 1, 2019
Sometimes I find that Sci-Fi novels try just too hard with the background explanations for the various tech and world order, leaving no room for any character development or storytelling.
This is NOT one of those novels. It manages to blend the storytelling with the wider explanations and isn't afraid to shock the reader with character arcs that end prematurely.
If you like a combination of Sci-Fi with Murder-mystery and a bit of political intrigue then I'd recommend this title
This is NOT one of those novels. It manages to blend the storytelling with the wider explanations and isn't afraid to shock the reader with character arcs that end prematurely.
If you like a combination of Sci-Fi with Murder-mystery and a bit of political intrigue then I'd recommend this title
March 30, 2019
Удивительно, что такие книги еще пишут на русском.
Это надо читать каждому, кто не хочет быть быдлом.
Я получил бесплатную копию этой книги от автора.
Мое мнение мое собственное.
Это надо читать каждому, кто не хочет быть быдлом.
Я получил бесплатную копию этой книги от автора.
Мое мнение мое собственное.
August 1, 2020
Enjoyable and interesting read. A number of things I wasn't expecting so it was good to be surprised. Will look forward to the next book in the series.
March 8, 2019
It started a little slow, but progressed toward an intriguing royal power-play. It’s a dystopian tale from the side of those in power. The characters are not predictable, but neither are most of them particularly likable. The main protagonist is sympathetic enough for the reader to engage, and want to follow his story.
You may think you know where the story is going a few chapters in, but you will likely be wrong. It doesn’t so much twist, as simply take a turn and focus on a different plot line.
There is a surprise at the end, but I’m not sure I found it satisfying. This felt very much like the prelude to a series. It will be interesting to see how the protagonist has changed in any following books.
It’s an interesting read if only in that it not like anything I’ve read before. It’s worth checking out.
You may think you know where the story is going a few chapters in, but you will likely be wrong. It doesn’t so much twist, as simply take a turn and focus on a different plot line.
There is a surprise at the end, but I’m not sure I found it satisfying. This felt very much like the prelude to a series. It will be interesting to see how the protagonist has changed in any following books.
It’s an interesting read if only in that it not like anything I’ve read before. It’s worth checking out.
October 27, 2018
The Game of VORs is a fascinating book that didn’t leave me indifferent. The contrasting relationships between the characters do not allow you to stop reading, you want to read more and more, because there are so many interactions and dialogues, and as you know, dialogues are faster and easier to read. Moreover, one can understand the inner world of the characters and their characters and relationships.
I was surprised by the attitude of the father and his son. There one can meet in places a despotic and imperious attitude, which probably makes his son more powerful and purposeful, as he tries to prove himself. I like the character of the characters and how they develop throughout the book.
I read about the author and was surprised that this is his first book, because, as for me, it is written very well and talentedly, I hope this successful beginning will allow him to write even more books. I will be glad to get acquainted with them.
I was surprised by the attitude of the father and his son. There one can meet in places a despotic and imperious attitude, which probably makes his son more powerful and purposeful, as he tries to prove himself. I like the character of the characters and how they develop throughout the book.
I read about the author and was surprised that this is his first book, because, as for me, it is written very well and talentedly, I hope this successful beginning will allow him to write even more books. I will be glad to get acquainted with them.
May 9, 2020
“Didn’t see that coming” was a thought that came to mind quite a few times during this book. I received a copy through Voracious Readers and found a fast, enjoyable read. In a world where the rich and titled can buy their way out of anything, Kier Vorsmith, the youngest son of a count, fails his final exams from high school. Feeling that he has no other option, Kier calls his father for help and sets the reader and young Kier off on an journey full of questions.
May 24, 2020
While this book presented a rather original dystopian world building and explored some political discrepancies and affairs in a good way, I did not enjoy reading it. I had many issues with the book and one of them was the pacing. It felt rushed to me at most points in the sense that you were just given some information directly without being given the opportunity to find it out for yourself, while in the same times, the action was too slow at other points.
Secondly, I couldn’t connect with the main character at all. His sudden(and at times illogical) change of emotions seemed artificial and unnatural to me and to be honest his way of thinking was repulsive most of the time. Overall the idea behind almost all of the characters was interesting but the majority of them felt flat and underdeveloped.
A good idea but a not so good execution in my opinion.
Secondly, I couldn’t connect with the main character at all. His sudden(and at times illogical) change of emotions seemed artificial and unnatural to me and to be honest his way of thinking was repulsive most of the time. Overall the idea behind almost all of the characters was interesting but the majority of them felt flat and underdeveloped.
A good idea but a not so good execution in my opinion.
March 24, 2019
Obvious plagiarism of Lois McMaster Bujold’s the Vor Game! He didn’t even bother to change the names much.
Poorly translated and edited.
Poorly translated and edited.
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