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Myths Machina #1
Minotaur
A futuristic retelling of Icarus, Theseus, and the Minotaur in a city run by artificial gods
As daughter of the royal architect, Ikki set out to discover a new world the day she flew her homemade bi-plane up beyond Crete's artificial sun. Instead, she crashed her plane and found herself on trial for a crime she didn't commit. She is exiled to the Labyrinth—the city's ever-shifting mechanical core—and she has seven days to find her way back out. If Ikki can escape in time, she will be declared innocent by the gods of Crete. But no one has ever returned.
Lost among the moving walls and pursued by a diabolical engine large enough to shake the floors, she soon realizes there is a reason that no one has escaped the labyrinth. Determined to clear her name, Ikki's only hope for salvation lies in the very thing that is hunting a fearsome beast known only as the Minotaur.
As daughter of the royal architect, Ikki set out to discover a new world the day she flew her homemade bi-plane up beyond Crete's artificial sun. Instead, she crashed her plane and found herself on trial for a crime she didn't commit. She is exiled to the Labyrinth—the city's ever-shifting mechanical core—and she has seven days to find her way back out. If Ikki can escape in time, she will be declared innocent by the gods of Crete. But no one has ever returned.
Lost among the moving walls and pursued by a diabolical engine large enough to shake the floors, she soon realizes there is a reason that no one has escaped the labyrinth. Determined to clear her name, Ikki's only hope for salvation lies in the very thing that is hunting a fearsome beast known only as the Minotaur.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2018
3 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 5, 2018
In the first three pages, I fell in love with the protagonist and was consumed by curiosity about the setting. Those are the first things I knew, so they're the first things you need to know. And from there things only got better.
If you're like me, then the cast really carries a story. This cast is more than up to the job. Ikki (the protagonist, serving as Icarus) is honest, stubborn (unrelenting, really), and curious to the point of nosiness. She's an inventor and mechanic in constant search of the truth in a world where that can land you in trouble. She leads and grows so well. Her friends and even her enemies are just as complex and interesting. If a character had more than three lines, then I loved and wanted to see more of them.
The setting, too, really made me feel Ikki's curiosity. Minotaur is set in a post-apocalyptic haven where settings and resources are run by god-programs. It's clearly technological, but with enough of a mythical edge to make me wonder what was true.
And the story just keeps going. I read this over the course of six hours because I absolutely couldn't stand to put it down for any longer than necessary. Political tension! Danger! Plotting! Personal revelations! It's all here and it'll keep you hooked.
The dialogue gets a special mention here because all of it was incredible. The banter in this book had such a great rhythm without losing any of the heart. Every interaction had both wit and a caring understanding of the characters involved.
5/5, read this book immediately and provide more fan content for my killer book hangover, because I'm in love.
If you're like me, then the cast really carries a story. This cast is more than up to the job. Ikki (the protagonist, serving as Icarus) is honest, stubborn (unrelenting, really), and curious to the point of nosiness. She's an inventor and mechanic in constant search of the truth in a world where that can land you in trouble. She leads and grows so well. Her friends and even her enemies are just as complex and interesting. If a character had more than three lines, then I loved and wanted to see more of them.
The setting, too, really made me feel Ikki's curiosity. Minotaur is set in a post-apocalyptic haven where settings and resources are run by god-programs. It's clearly technological, but with enough of a mythical edge to make me wonder what was true.
And the story just keeps going. I read this over the course of six hours because I absolutely couldn't stand to put it down for any longer than necessary. Political tension! Danger! Plotting! Personal revelations! It's all here and it'll keep you hooked.
The dialogue gets a special mention here because all of it was incredible. The banter in this book had such a great rhythm without losing any of the heart. Every interaction had both wit and a caring understanding of the characters involved.
5/5, read this book immediately and provide more fan content for my killer book hangover, because I'm in love.
January 5, 2020
This is a fun and good story, full of tension, excitement and engagement.
I'm really glad I read it. At the title, I expected more about how I imagined the Minotaur to be, but it wasn't like that. It had it's own cliffhangers and personality.
A very good read. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves Mythology.
I'm really glad I read it. At the title, I expected more about how I imagined the Minotaur to be, but it wasn't like that. It had it's own cliffhangers and personality.
A very good read. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves Mythology.
March 27, 2018
I loved 'Minotaur'. It's a solid, smart YA with great characters and strong themes set in a unique world. If you are interested in greek mythology, you'll enjoy creative parallels; if you don't care for that much, it won't take from your experience with this book. I would say it belongs in a fantasy genre, though its whole mythos is technically (he-he) build on machinery and AI. If I had to compare it to another book, I'd name Philip Reeve's "Mortal Engines", but 'Minotaur' has its own very distinct taste and story (and is far less gritty).
The setting: the city of Crete feels like a whole new miniature world. It never distracts from the ongoing story, but neither serves as just a background, as it is always relevant and present. You really feel that characters truly lived their whole lives in that world. And it's one you want to learn more of: myth mixed with futuristic technology works very well here. I think the worldbuilding is one of my favorite things about this book; in fact, I wish we could learn more about everyday life on Crete and its culture - what kinda music, cuisine, and theatre would exist in such place, for example? How would author merge classical antiquity with developed technology in this case? I understand why the book doesn't go in such detail, of course, but I just liked the worldbuilding aspect this much.
The story: without spoilers, it is satisfying and effective. Some twists are more expected, some not, but there's always something new, while progression is fluid and logical. The scale grows constantly, and the stakes become higher and higher. The story felt very streamlined. Nothing extra, nothing missing, and I still wanted more :)
I appreciated the ideas and questions that "Minotaur" builds upon. It's not too complex but it's smart, not always giving definitive answers, not shying away from some darker stuff, but it isn't too gritty or cynical.
The characters: the heroine, Ikki, is very likeable while still allowed to make mistakes and be wrong. I loved her. I loved how active and curious she is, always striving to make sense of the world around her, learning and trying her best. Her flaws and her strengths come organically from a very solid character, and her development is great.
The rest of the cast is also very enjoyable. Even supporting characters don't seem one- dimensional. Almost everyone is memorable and interesting.
The style: Singer's prose is pretty laconic most of the time, and it's well utilised. I especially appreciate how character interactions are written, creating a vivid picture without describing too much. When there were more detailed descriptions of surroundings and landscapes, however, they didn't leave such a strong impression on me; not bad by any means, just less memorable than character-driven scenes, where author's talent really shines. Labyrinth in particular was confusing at times, though I admit that's quite fitting :)
To conclude, I recommend "Minotaur" to everyone who enjoys creative world-building and good story and characters. Personally, I would probably love a more adult and lengthy version of this book even more (especially having read other works of Alex T. Singer), but it's absolutely complete and great as it already is.
The setting: the city of Crete feels like a whole new miniature world. It never distracts from the ongoing story, but neither serves as just a background, as it is always relevant and present. You really feel that characters truly lived their whole lives in that world. And it's one you want to learn more of: myth mixed with futuristic technology works very well here. I think the worldbuilding is one of my favorite things about this book; in fact, I wish we could learn more about everyday life on Crete and its culture - what kinda music, cuisine, and theatre would exist in such place, for example? How would author merge classical antiquity with developed technology in this case? I understand why the book doesn't go in such detail, of course, but I just liked the worldbuilding aspect this much.
The story: without spoilers, it is satisfying and effective. Some twists are more expected, some not, but there's always something new, while progression is fluid and logical. The scale grows constantly, and the stakes become higher and higher. The story felt very streamlined. Nothing extra, nothing missing, and I still wanted more :)
I appreciated the ideas and questions that "Minotaur" builds upon. It's not too complex but it's smart, not always giving definitive answers, not shying away from some darker stuff, but it isn't too gritty or cynical.
The characters: the heroine, Ikki, is very likeable while still allowed to make mistakes and be wrong. I loved her. I loved how active and curious she is, always striving to make sense of the world around her, learning and trying her best. Her flaws and her strengths come organically from a very solid character, and her development is great.
The rest of the cast is also very enjoyable. Even supporting characters don't seem one- dimensional. Almost everyone is memorable and interesting.
The style: Singer's prose is pretty laconic most of the time, and it's well utilised. I especially appreciate how character interactions are written, creating a vivid picture without describing too much. When there were more detailed descriptions of surroundings and landscapes, however, they didn't leave such a strong impression on me; not bad by any means, just less memorable than character-driven scenes, where author's talent really shines. Labyrinth in particular was confusing at times, though I admit that's quite fitting :)
To conclude, I recommend "Minotaur" to everyone who enjoys creative world-building and good story and characters. Personally, I would probably love a more adult and lengthy version of this book even more (especially having read other works of Alex T. Singer), but it's absolutely complete and great as it already is.
March 16, 2018
This was a great book and I really enjoyed this creative spin on Greek mythology. I love Ikki's personality and one of my favorite things about her was that her practically endless questions left everyone just exhausted. Her characterization and personality made it so she was only "annoying" to the characters in the book without extended that feeling of annoyance to the reader. I also liked that when Tor was introduced he and Ikki had similar interest rather than opposing ones. It was something I don't read to often. It was nice their shared interest bring them together, rather than different interest being used to make them dislike each other then eventually "see the light" and come together over something.
Despite how much I loved this book there were a few parts where machines are being described, feel like it's being over described. Some descriptions I felt really lost because there was so much information that it was hard to understand what was up or down in relation to whatever is being described. Even with a few re-reads of sections to try to understand and it was still lost on what was being described. The first chapter was really heavy with this and that chapter was a tough read because of how much machine/mechanical description was done. I wish it was simplified enough to still convey the machine but also not be this info dump about it. With that said one thing I wish was described more, or better?, the Herm. I have a vague idea of what it kinda is and overall I understand it purpose, but it still feels like the one thing that's somewhat mysterious in visuals.
Also the reveal in the first few chapters that the city is inside a dome was a bit lack luster. It seemed like it was being made obvious so you would assume it before the reveal, but it also felt like the author was trying to not be so obvious about even though it was really obvious.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and tried to take my time with it but, once it got closer to the end I just had to finish it. I can't wait for whatever is coming next.
Also
Despite how much I loved this book there were a few parts where machines are being described, feel like it's being over described. Some descriptions I felt really lost because there was so much information that it was hard to understand what was up or down in relation to whatever is being described. Even with a few re-reads of sections to try to understand and it was still lost on what was being described. The first chapter was really heavy with this and that chapter was a tough read because of how much machine/mechanical description was done. I wish it was simplified enough to still convey the machine but also not be this info dump about it. With that said one thing I wish was described more, or better?, the Herm. I have a vague idea of what it kinda is and overall I understand it purpose, but it still feels like the one thing that's somewhat mysterious in visuals.
Also the reveal in the first few chapters that the city is inside a dome was a bit lack luster. It seemed like it was being made obvious so you would assume it before the reveal, but it also felt like the author was trying to not be so obvious about even though it was really obvious.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and tried to take my time with it but, once it got closer to the end I just had to finish it. I can't wait for whatever is coming next.
Also
March 3, 2022
Gods guide survival
Modern version of the ancient story of Minos, Minor aur told with a somewhat steam punk vibe. Human survival from a major climate event takes a deep impact into examining the ideas of maintaining a survival adaptation for impossible lengths of time. Religion becomes a government method of maintaining the population both legally and emotionally. Classes have evolved into survival roles, technology enforced routines are potentially fatalistic in extreme circumstances. Curiosity becomes secretive. Ikki, the daughter of The Architect, has hunted for the reasons of her mother's accidental death. Tierce, a protective mentor, guides her mechanical engineering skills. Tor, a retrograde human, deformed and hidden, carries secrets beneath the foundation of their environment. When does survival become dictated and what are the true controls. I really enjoyed this story with the almost touch able hints, vividly exciting mechanical devices, and a fictional comparison to our own reality. A must read book.
Modern version of the ancient story of Minos, Minor aur told with a somewhat steam punk vibe. Human survival from a major climate event takes a deep impact into examining the ideas of maintaining a survival adaptation for impossible lengths of time. Religion becomes a government method of maintaining the population both legally and emotionally. Classes have evolved into survival roles, technology enforced routines are potentially fatalistic in extreme circumstances. Curiosity becomes secretive. Ikki, the daughter of The Architect, has hunted for the reasons of her mother's accidental death. Tierce, a protective mentor, guides her mechanical engineering skills. Tor, a retrograde human, deformed and hidden, carries secrets beneath the foundation of their environment. When does survival become dictated and what are the true controls. I really enjoyed this story with the almost touch able hints, vividly exciting mechanical devices, and a fictional comparison to our own reality. A must read book.
July 16, 2018
The first chapter started off a little slow for me with a lot of terminology thrown from the get go, but the pacing picked up fast from the second chapter on wards, and I was hooked.
What a great and interesting world built, half familiar Greek mythos and half sci-fi technology.
Characters were A+. Ikki is the female character I wanted my whole life but never knew I did. She's strong without having to be physically strong. She's curious and inquisitive and never stops asking questions, and it's a neat way to balance that as her greatest strength and also at her insensitivity when it comes to others as well. I love Ikki so much and I would fight an army for her. The other characters are fantastic as well, including a character who's morally grey with lots of layers that I devoured.
Also, incredibly well written slow burn romance? SIGN ME UP.
If you love Greek mythology or sci-fi or a good romance (but not taking over the plot) or interesting characters, pick this book up. You won't be disappointed.
What a great and interesting world built, half familiar Greek mythos and half sci-fi technology.
Characters were A+. Ikki is the female character I wanted my whole life but never knew I did. She's strong without having to be physically strong. She's curious and inquisitive and never stops asking questions, and it's a neat way to balance that as her greatest strength and also at her insensitivity when it comes to others as well. I love Ikki so much and I would fight an army for her. The other characters are fantastic as well, including a character who's morally grey with lots of layers that I devoured.
Also, incredibly well written slow burn romance? SIGN ME UP.
If you love Greek mythology or sci-fi or a good romance (but not taking over the plot) or interesting characters, pick this book up. You won't be disappointed.
April 3, 2018
I loved this book! The protagonist, Ikki, is exactly the kind of female character that I relate to most in fiction. The fact that she is so unafraid to voice her thoughts and questions, and confidently does so throughout the course of the novel, only adds to her capability as a character. She is exactly the kind of curious, stubborn, and intelligent protagonist that you can root for from the very start. Throughout the novel's first act, we follow Ikki's struggle to make her case to a world set against the truth, and then her banishment to the perilous and confusing labyrinth, serving as an excellent and intriguing setup for the unlikely buddy comedy and gripping action adventure that comes to follow. If you're a fan of the films of Hayao Miyazaki, particularly Nausicaä, then this Greek fairytale set in the backdrop of a mysterious steampunk future is definitely the right kind of novel for you!
June 7, 2018
I love the author's snappy, clever writing, and ability to assign clear and vibrant voices to her characters. I read this when it was a manuscript, and then read it again upon release to celebrate! I love Ikki, and Tor, and how easy it was to fall in to enjoy the ride the story offers. Though the door is left ajar for continuation, just finishing this first book alone felt complete, and I didn't feel I was left hanging in the grand scheme of things. Minotaur is an easy read, simple and effective, and so so charming.
Would suggest to anyone looking for alternative fantasy and anybody who likes genre-bending! I do - and Greco Steampunk is riiiiight up there as a fave solely thanks to this book.
Would suggest to anyone looking for alternative fantasy and anybody who likes genre-bending! I do - and Greco Steampunk is riiiiight up there as a fave solely thanks to this book.
October 11, 2018
Reimagined Mythology Done Well
This is probably one of the most well done examples of taking Greek mythology and putting an original spin on it that I’ve read in a long time. It was a perfect marriage of Greek myths and sci-fi imagery that I was able to picture everything as it happened. The action was fast paced and thrilling, and the characters were complex and believable. Ikki is a strong female character without being one dimensional or dismissive of men, something I’ve seen too often in fiction. Her inquisitiveness is one of my favorite parts about her, and how she uses the knowledge gained from asking her questions is another. I would definitely recommend this and am on the edge of my seat awaiting a sequel!
This is probably one of the most well done examples of taking Greek mythology and putting an original spin on it that I’ve read in a long time. It was a perfect marriage of Greek myths and sci-fi imagery that I was able to picture everything as it happened. The action was fast paced and thrilling, and the characters were complex and believable. Ikki is a strong female character without being one dimensional or dismissive of men, something I’ve seen too often in fiction. Her inquisitiveness is one of my favorite parts about her, and how she uses the knowledge gained from asking her questions is another. I would definitely recommend this and am on the edge of my seat awaiting a sequel!
April 30, 2018
I love this book.
I've been a fan of Alex's writting for a while and Minotaur is everything I've ever wanted from a book-length story written by her.
The characters, as always, shine in how real and likeable they are and the world in which they live builds itself effortlessly. The blending of greek mythology and sci-fi/steampunk works perfectly. The city in which the story takes place is such a peculiar and interesting setting, it feels like every inch of it has been thought out and brought to life.
It's been a while since I've fallen in love with afictional place like I have with the world where Ikki's story takes place.
I can't recommend this enough.
I've been a fan of Alex's writting for a while and Minotaur is everything I've ever wanted from a book-length story written by her.
The characters, as always, shine in how real and likeable they are and the world in which they live builds itself effortlessly. The blending of greek mythology and sci-fi/steampunk works perfectly. The city in which the story takes place is such a peculiar and interesting setting, it feels like every inch of it has been thought out and brought to life.
It's been a while since I've fallen in love with afictional place like I have with the world where Ikki's story takes place.
I can't recommend this enough.
January 19, 2022
good story twisting Greek mythology
This story is full of twists that aren’t just the way the myths are interpreted. Ikki is an engaging young girl caught in an unprecedented situation. Being the person she was born to be, she makes decisions that are contrary to anything that’s ever happened before in the history of the Great Tower she lives in. Fast paced action is the key word once she gets rolling. Good characters. Could have been proofread a bit more, but the errors don’t distract from the story.
This story is full of twists that aren’t just the way the myths are interpreted. Ikki is an engaging young girl caught in an unprecedented situation. Being the person she was born to be, she makes decisions that are contrary to anything that’s ever happened before in the history of the Great Tower she lives in. Fast paced action is the key word once she gets rolling. Good characters. Could have been proofread a bit more, but the errors don’t distract from the story.
November 20, 2020
I totally enjoyed this story!When the Archetects daughter builds a flying machine and swears the sky is blue,all heck breaks out.When even her friend,Minos 8,turns his back on her,she is sent to be judged by the gods.What she finds is myth and machinary.I thought Courtney Shelly was a really good narrator.I can't wait to read book 2! I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
February 15, 2019
This high-tech re-imagining of the tale of the Minotaur is a must-read for anyone interested in Greek myths, and/or YA starring a plucky girl engineer with a plot that isn't overly mired in romance, and/or futuristic post-apocalyptic sci-fi steampunk lit. (Sing that last bit to the "purple people eater" tune.)
Definitely highly recommended!
Definitely highly recommended!
February 15, 2021
An interesting and enjoyable retelling of the Icarus and Minotaur myths with some science fiction elements. Enjoyed the characters and the world was fascinating, as is normal for Singer's work. If this is the first in the series like the title suggests, I'd be interested in book 2.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews