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Emolecipation
No child should be thrown into slavery. Or made to harvest fruit that’s covered in poisonous barbs. After five years of this, young Gedov will do anything to escape. He jumps from a slave ship at night and swims to freedom on a tropical island.
A passing ship carries another batch of slaves off to deadly fields, and Gedov determines to set them free. But what can a teenage boy do against a crew of slavers? He needs a squad of trained fighters, but he’ll have to settle for a trio of talking moles whose sense of humor is stranger than the islands they’ve built over the centuries.
The classic tale quoted in the novel Scribes’ Descent. A Scribes Series Novella.
A passing ship carries another batch of slaves off to deadly fields, and Gedov determines to set them free. But what can a teenage boy do against a crew of slavers? He needs a squad of trained fighters, but he’ll have to settle for a trio of talking moles whose sense of humor is stranger than the islands they’ve built over the centuries.
The classic tale quoted in the novel Scribes’ Descent. A Scribes Series Novella.
- GenresFantasy
66 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 11, 2022
2 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Dylan West
4 books68 followersI’m a Jesus lover, web developer, video game developer, former Navy nuclear operator, foreign language nut, and a nut in general. While other people are busy thinking normal thoughts, I’m crafting corny jokes. I live in Chesapeake, VA, with my wife and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 24, 2023
"Emolecipation" by Dylan West is a fantasy novella that weaves a tale of adventure, freedom, and survival. Set in a world filled with floating islands and extraordinary creatures, it follows the harrowing journey of Gedov, a young slave determined to escape his grim fate.
Pros 👍
- Immersive World-Building: The novella excels in creating a vivid, unique fantasy world. The descriptions of floating islands and fantastical creatures are imaginative and engaging, drawing readers into Gedov's universe.
- Strong Character Development: Gedov's character is well fleshed out. His determination and resilience in the face of adversity make him a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The story delves into deep themes like freedom, resilience, and the human spirit, offering plenty of material for reflection.
Cons 👎
- Pacing Issues: Some sections of the book feel slow, particularly in the middle, which might lose the attention of some readers.
- Predictable Plot Points: While the narrative is engaging, some plot twists can be seen coming, reducing the element of surprise.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Emolecipation" scores 4 out of 5 stars. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy immersive world-building and strong character arcs, though it may falter in pacing and plot originality.
Similar Reading Suggestions:
1. "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss - A beautifully written fantasy novel with deep world-building and a compelling protagonist.
2. "Mistborn" by Brandon Sanderson - Offers a unique magic system and a well-constructed fantasy world.
3. "Chantilly" by Savior Sullivan - A fantasy novel with intriguing characters and a captivating narrative.
Pros 👍
- Immersive World-Building: The novella excels in creating a vivid, unique fantasy world. The descriptions of floating islands and fantastical creatures are imaginative and engaging, drawing readers into Gedov's universe.
- Strong Character Development: Gedov's character is well fleshed out. His determination and resilience in the face of adversity make him a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The story delves into deep themes like freedom, resilience, and the human spirit, offering plenty of material for reflection.
Cons 👎
- Pacing Issues: Some sections of the book feel slow, particularly in the middle, which might lose the attention of some readers.
- Predictable Plot Points: While the narrative is engaging, some plot twists can be seen coming, reducing the element of surprise.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Emolecipation" scores 4 out of 5 stars. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy immersive world-building and strong character arcs, though it may falter in pacing and plot originality.
Similar Reading Suggestions:
1. "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss - A beautifully written fantasy novel with deep world-building and a compelling protagonist.
2. "Mistborn" by Brandon Sanderson - Offers a unique magic system and a well-constructed fantasy world.
3. "Chantilly" by Savior Sullivan - A fantasy novel with intriguing characters and a captivating narrative.
May 24, 2023
I just loved this short read and I now have a new runner-up favorite animal. The mole. The humor the author weaves through the story is the perfect balance for the difficult topic he tackles. Slavery. Emolecipation is a story of hope and new beginnings but it's grounded in the harsh reality that comes before freedom. The author pulls this off with beauty, humor, and tact while not shying away from telling the stories of pain and even death. It's so well done.
November 17, 2022
Emolecipation is a story about freedom, faith, and adventure. An enslaved boy jumps his master’s ship and swims to the floating island of goofy moles (my own title for their land), where shenanigans ensue.
This story made me think of a cross between CS Lewis’s Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe (I kept thinking of the talking beavers) and for some reason, the story “Holes” by Louis Sachar. Perhaps because that story has plenty of digging in it, something moles are fond of.
This is a whimsical, YA feel-good tale of an adventure, and a treat to read for all ages. In case you hadn’t figured it from the title or cover (or my previous paragraphs), there are moles in this story—the talking kind. They are enormously silly and have fun with literary devices. West is masterful in how he navigates the sincere cultural misunderstandings between the boy, Gedov, who is the main character, and the many moles throughout the story. Many topics are covered in their back and forth banter – always playfully – such as mating (discussed in an age-appropriate way), possession, habitats, and many more topics where one might imagine slave boys and moles might differ in their thinking. It was comical throughout, and I read this with a smile on my face.
For such a short tale, there is a good bit of creative worldbuilding here. West drops in his own terms for animals and plants and even a fictional literary device. The pacing is strong and I found myself turning the pages without a break to the very end. This is only Episode 1, so I’m assuming there will be more adventures with Gedov and his posse of moles!
I recommend you check this out for a feel-good, creative adventure. As well as Dylan West’s companion novel, Scribes Descent, which is also excellent : )
Looking forward to more moles!
This story made me think of a cross between CS Lewis’s Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe (I kept thinking of the talking beavers) and for some reason, the story “Holes” by Louis Sachar. Perhaps because that story has plenty of digging in it, something moles are fond of.
This is a whimsical, YA feel-good tale of an adventure, and a treat to read for all ages. In case you hadn’t figured it from the title or cover (or my previous paragraphs), there are moles in this story—the talking kind. They are enormously silly and have fun with literary devices. West is masterful in how he navigates the sincere cultural misunderstandings between the boy, Gedov, who is the main character, and the many moles throughout the story. Many topics are covered in their back and forth banter – always playfully – such as mating (discussed in an age-appropriate way), possession, habitats, and many more topics where one might imagine slave boys and moles might differ in their thinking. It was comical throughout, and I read this with a smile on my face.
For such a short tale, there is a good bit of creative worldbuilding here. West drops in his own terms for animals and plants and even a fictional literary device. The pacing is strong and I found myself turning the pages without a break to the very end. This is only Episode 1, so I’m assuming there will be more adventures with Gedov and his posse of moles!
I recommend you check this out for a feel-good, creative adventure. As well as Dylan West’s companion novel, Scribes Descent, which is also excellent : )
Looking forward to more moles!
October 22, 2022
When young Gedov decides to escape from the slave ship and swim to freedom on a floating island sparsely populated by talking moles, he cannot possibly imagine the adventure that awaits him, especially when he decides to set other slaves free—with the help of his new friends.
Gedov’s adventure is referenced in the YA Christian Science Fiction novel, Scribe’s Descent. But here it takes center stage in the same world. Dylan West writes great YA fiction, and this is no exception. The moles Weeb, Sopol, and Clore each have distinct personalities, and while they are certainly mole-like in their thinking and worldview, there is plenty of cross-over into human-like attitudes and emotions. It’s easy to connect to them and root for them. My favorite, of course, was Clore, who writes fictional tales of moles going on adventures!
Gedov is clearly a young person, unaccustomed to being on his own. As a slave for five years, his leap from the slave ship into inky waters in the depths of night with no idea whether he’ll make it to his destination is a faith-based leap into the void. But he’s planned as well as he can and is leaving it in the hands of The Highest One.
While there is plenty of tension to be had, Emolecipation also has a healthy dose of whimsey. It’s “parent” story, Scribes’ Descent, is Young Adult; to me, even though there are elements in Emolecipation that speak to a YA reading level, the novelette felt more like Mid-Grade level reading. This is not a criticism! I liked the silly moments, as well as the moral quandaries sprinkled throughout. Gedov must make hard choices to accomplish his goals. These are moments that make the reader pause and wonder what they might have done in that situation. There is a comfortable amount of predictability—just right to make for a good, easy read—but Emolecipation also has its share of surprises.
This is a fun, wholesome tale for young readers, as well as those young at heart. And since this is Episode One, I expect there will be more tales of thrilling heroics for Gedov and his mole pals to come.
Gedov’s adventure is referenced in the YA Christian Science Fiction novel, Scribe’s Descent. But here it takes center stage in the same world. Dylan West writes great YA fiction, and this is no exception. The moles Weeb, Sopol, and Clore each have distinct personalities, and while they are certainly mole-like in their thinking and worldview, there is plenty of cross-over into human-like attitudes and emotions. It’s easy to connect to them and root for them. My favorite, of course, was Clore, who writes fictional tales of moles going on adventures!
Gedov is clearly a young person, unaccustomed to being on his own. As a slave for five years, his leap from the slave ship into inky waters in the depths of night with no idea whether he’ll make it to his destination is a faith-based leap into the void. But he’s planned as well as he can and is leaving it in the hands of The Highest One.
While there is plenty of tension to be had, Emolecipation also has a healthy dose of whimsey. It’s “parent” story, Scribes’ Descent, is Young Adult; to me, even though there are elements in Emolecipation that speak to a YA reading level, the novelette felt more like Mid-Grade level reading. This is not a criticism! I liked the silly moments, as well as the moral quandaries sprinkled throughout. Gedov must make hard choices to accomplish his goals. These are moments that make the reader pause and wonder what they might have done in that situation. There is a comfortable amount of predictability—just right to make for a good, easy read—but Emolecipation also has its share of surprises.
This is a fun, wholesome tale for young readers, as well as those young at heart. And since this is Episode One, I expect there will be more tales of thrilling heroics for Gedov and his mole pals to come.
October 16, 2022
Fast-paced and well-written novella.
October 24, 2022
I recently read Scribes’ Descent by the talented young Dylan West, so naturally I had to follow up with Emolecipation. Behind the funny title lies a clever and heart-warming story that should attract readers of all ages. Even as a hard-core military sci-fi reader I enjoyed it thoroughly. Is there anything more important in this life than freedom? I think not. Young Gedov, a young slave, believes this, and takes fate into his own hands. A daring escape lands him in an unusual situation, which is only the beginning of a marvellous adventure. Its only fault? It’s too short. Buckle up!
May 15, 2023
Very good novella by Dylan West, set to a fictional world dominated by slavers. We meet teenager Gedov, who escapes captivity and finds himself on a floating island inhabited by talking moles and propelled by whales. A crazy idea! And wonderfully entertaining at that!
My nine-year-old-son liked the book, even though the language was too complicated for him at times (it was too complicated for me too but don’t tell anyone). At least my son added some new words to his vocabulary. Now, when’s the next volume being released? Can’t wait!
My nine-year-old-son liked the book, even though the language was too complicated for him at times (it was too complicated for me too but don’t tell anyone). At least my son added some new words to his vocabulary. Now, when’s the next volume being released? Can’t wait!
May 5, 2023
Emolecipation tells an enjoyable story suitable for your elementary school-aged child. It contains a blend of action, drama and childish humor based on the quirky proclivities of the moles like language alliteration, and mole social norms. Taking place in the fantasy world of ‘Scribes’ Decent’, there are metaphorical references to Christian prayer, prophecy, morality, and the Godhead. The main character is a good guy acting honorably throughout the very tough moral issues associated with the way slavers treat other human beings and how this world’s society handles slavery.
My favorite parts:
• Thrilling death-defying escape scenes
• Interesting fantasy world that differs greatly from the typical fantasy character tropes (elves, orcs, dwarfs, wizards, etc.)
• Details about survival – it all seemed realistic and consistent with the rules of this world.
• The method by which the moles communicate with the whales (no spoilers).
Pick it up today. You won’t be disappointed!
My favorite parts:
• Thrilling death-defying escape scenes
• Interesting fantasy world that differs greatly from the typical fantasy character tropes (elves, orcs, dwarfs, wizards, etc.)
• Details about survival – it all seemed realistic and consistent with the rules of this world.
• The method by which the moles communicate with the whales (no spoilers).
Pick it up today. You won’t be disappointed!
December 2, 2022
Gedov's desire is for freedom from a lifetime of cruel forced labor, and when he sees his chance to escape, he takes it. He didn't fully expect to be successful, nor could he ever imagine that he would find himself face to face with talking moles. His new furry friends are not only hilarious and witty, but also endearing. With each page I was given a deeper glimpse into the heart of Gedov and this trio of moles as they set forth on an adrenaline pumping adventure.
Emolecipation is a clever and beautifully written story interwoven with lots of heart, and moments that will make you sit a bit taller in your seat.
You also may discover like me, that maybe having a mole in your backyard may be a good thing after all.
Emolecipation is a clever and beautifully written story interwoven with lots of heart, and moments that will make you sit a bit taller in your seat.
You also may discover like me, that maybe having a mole in your backyard may be a good thing after all.
January 29, 2023
A fun, cute tie-in story to West's larger Scribes' universe. This book is standalone in that you do not need to have read his main series for the story to make sense, but if you have read Scribes’ Descent, this story will add dimension to several terms, characters, locations, and bits of lore featured in the main series. As always, the best part about this series is West's masterful integration of faith. I highly recommend checking out West's work if you're interested in studying an example of how to integrate faith into a fantasy world in an organic way.
May 5, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. Starting with striking maps then developed through excellent writing, this story unfolds with high stakes and immediate action. The world West builds is just plain cool; I enjoyed the islands, the ocean, the sailing, and the bobblenut shells. With talking moles, humans explaining humanity to mammals, and science-driven information, this book is interesting! Along with the summer-y fun entertainment, West weaves themes of slavery, corruption, and how we can respect nature. This is a great story.
September 12, 2022
Emolecipation has a sobering background, but fun characterization (the moles are adorable!). The story is short, almost episodic, and I'm looking forward to the next installment.
If you liked Scribes' Descent, this is a worthy addition to the world lore.
If you liked Scribes' Descent, this is a worthy addition to the world lore.
November 21, 2022
Emolecipation is an engaging fantasy adventure that follows the journey of fifteen year old Gedov who escapes from bondage on a slave ship to forge his path as a hero. Along Gedov’s journey, he encounters a colony of anthropomorphic animals (moles) who serve as animal guides and friends. These animals aid him on his quest to rescue other enslaved humans. These moles are delightful characters who speak in alliterations. The wordplay of these characters is masterful and fun! I thoroughly enjoyed West’s first episode of A Scribes Series and would recommend this novel for intermediate to young adult readers of fantasy. I look forward to West’s next installment.
December 30, 2022
Well Written and Adorable!
Wow, this is such a cute little novella! Typically, I’m not one to read middle grade fiction, but this one was just the thing. It took me less than two hours to binge and made me chuckle throughout. The author managed to discuss deep, dark issues within a context that middle schoolers and above could easily grasp. There was humor, but there was also an emphasis on morality and justice. I’m very impressed. I look forward to reading more work from this author! Sometime soon, I’ll have to pick up Scribe’s Descent!
Wow, this is such a cute little novella! Typically, I’m not one to read middle grade fiction, but this one was just the thing. It took me less than two hours to binge and made me chuckle throughout. The author managed to discuss deep, dark issues within a context that middle schoolers and above could easily grasp. There was humor, but there was also an emphasis on morality and justice. I’m very impressed. I look forward to reading more work from this author! Sometime soon, I’ll have to pick up Scribe’s Descent!
December 13, 2022
Fun read!
This was a fun read with great characters. The talking moles were awesome! I like the way it tied in with Scribes Descent.
This was a fun read with great characters. The talking moles were awesome! I like the way it tied in with Scribes Descent.
August 2, 2025
Emolecipation was a fun, engaging read. The characters were witty and memorable and the writing style whimsical and full of humor. Can't wait to follow Gedov's adventures in further novellas!
February 1, 2026
Emolecipation aka Three Moles and a Human Emancipate Slaves
Episode One, A Scribes Series Novella
3.5 Stars
I picked this up while visiting Dillon West in Portsmouth, Virginia at a local farmers art market. The author was kind, passionate, and clearly deeply invested in his world. He signed my copy, and since reading this novella, I have gone on to purchase other books and short stories by him, which says a lot.
It took me a moment to settle into the story, but once the first mole appears, I was hooked. The moles are the heart of this book. Their personalities are strong, distinct, and genuinely charming. Weeb, Sopol, Clore, and Fledge are memorable, and yes, I absolutely want mole plushies.
There is real imagination here. The lands, the mythological structure, and the idea of a book within the book written by Clore were highlights. Dossala’s introduction into human existence was especially moving and filled my heart with joy. I also immediately sensed the budding romance between Fledge and Weeb, and I was fully on board for mole love.
That said, the book struggles with continuity and audience focus. The vocabulary and sentence construction often feel far more advanced than the chapter titles and framing suggest. If this is intended for children or young readers, the reading level does not consistently match. If it is intended for an older audience, then the humor occasionally swings too young. Moments of elegant prose followed by blunt humor like bathroom jokes felt totally uneven.
The story has strong potential, especially as a children’s book, graphic novel, or illustrated middle grade fantasy. With tighter focus, clearer audience targeting, and editorial refinement, this world could really shine.
I am rooting for these unusual heroes and would happily continue reading this novella series.
Episode One, A Scribes Series Novella
3.5 Stars
I picked this up while visiting Dillon West in Portsmouth, Virginia at a local farmers art market. The author was kind, passionate, and clearly deeply invested in his world. He signed my copy, and since reading this novella, I have gone on to purchase other books and short stories by him, which says a lot.
It took me a moment to settle into the story, but once the first mole appears, I was hooked. The moles are the heart of this book. Their personalities are strong, distinct, and genuinely charming. Weeb, Sopol, Clore, and Fledge are memorable, and yes, I absolutely want mole plushies.
There is real imagination here. The lands, the mythological structure, and the idea of a book within the book written by Clore were highlights. Dossala’s introduction into human existence was especially moving and filled my heart with joy. I also immediately sensed the budding romance between Fledge and Weeb, and I was fully on board for mole love.
That said, the book struggles with continuity and audience focus. The vocabulary and sentence construction often feel far more advanced than the chapter titles and framing suggest. If this is intended for children or young readers, the reading level does not consistently match. If it is intended for an older audience, then the humor occasionally swings too young. Moments of elegant prose followed by blunt humor like bathroom jokes felt totally uneven.
The story has strong potential, especially as a children’s book, graphic novel, or illustrated middle grade fantasy. With tighter focus, clearer audience targeting, and editorial refinement, this world could really shine.
I am rooting for these unusual heroes and would happily continue reading this novella series.
September 12, 2023
So, this isn't the sort of thing that I usually read, since it's targetted for younger readers, but I decided to use it as an opportunity to read it with my far younger brother...and I had a really good time. In fact, I was surprised by just how fun this book is. It's short, and actually feels even shorter than it actually is, and by the end you wish it was twice as long.
Emolecipation covers some fairly mature themes, however, but does so in a light, delicate, and compelling way. We follow a boy, Gedov, and a trio of moles as they band together against slavers. The moles are hilarious, and the plot is straight forward and exciting.
Also, I have to say, although I haven't read the author's other works, the Scribe's Descent books, I understand that this novella is actually a story inside the main books, which I think is a super cool way to layer in fiction and target different reader groups.
Highly recommend Emolecipation to younger readers and, really, anyway who just wants to read a fun, short story!
Emolecipation covers some fairly mature themes, however, but does so in a light, delicate, and compelling way. We follow a boy, Gedov, and a trio of moles as they band together against slavers. The moles are hilarious, and the plot is straight forward and exciting.
Also, I have to say, although I haven't read the author's other works, the Scribe's Descent books, I understand that this novella is actually a story inside the main books, which I think is a super cool way to layer in fiction and target different reader groups.
Highly recommend Emolecipation to younger readers and, really, anyway who just wants to read a fun, short story!
June 21, 2023
Emolecipation is a delightful story that approaches a serious subject in a fun way. Young Gedov is a boy looking to be free, and after he escapes his own captivity, he meets some new friends that are willing to put their lives on the line to help him free others like him.
No one quite does world building like author Dylan West. Though this book is shorter than its predecessor, Scribes’ Descent, and geared towards a younger audience, it is no less full of the fantastic. In just a few pages, West sucks you into Gedov’s world, one in which animals can talk and something called the ‘tickle monster’ actually exists and serves a purpose. If you’ve read the first book, you’ll love this little addition to the Scribes’ Series world, and if you haven’t, you’ll still love Emolecipation because it stands on its own as a fun young adventure story!
No one quite does world building like author Dylan West. Though this book is shorter than its predecessor, Scribes’ Descent, and geared towards a younger audience, it is no less full of the fantastic. In just a few pages, West sucks you into Gedov’s world, one in which animals can talk and something called the ‘tickle monster’ actually exists and serves a purpose. If you’ve read the first book, you’ll love this little addition to the Scribes’ Series world, and if you haven’t, you’ll still love Emolecipation because it stands on its own as a fun young adventure story!
September 23, 2022
Emolecipation by Dylan Young is a short book that’s set in the same world as the author’s previous novel, Scribes’ Descent. It follows the journey of Gedov, who escapes from a slave ship and swims to a float, where he meets three moles who can talk.
Together, Gedov and his new friends decide to free more slaves as soon as the next ship comes around. But the task is difficult and dangerous, and the risk of recapture is high.
Will Gedov put his own life on the line to free others? And will his mole friends be able to help with the rescue mission?
Emolecipation is very well-written and engaging. The story is original, and the author has clearly taken a lot of time to make sure the language flows well throughout.
Together, Gedov and his new friends decide to free more slaves as soon as the next ship comes around. But the task is difficult and dangerous, and the risk of recapture is high.
Will Gedov put his own life on the line to free others? And will his mole friends be able to help with the rescue mission?
Emolecipation is very well-written and engaging. The story is original, and the author has clearly taken a lot of time to make sure the language flows well throughout.
March 3, 2023
A long moment balanced on a fulcrum made of fear and hope. This is the linchpin and underlying foundation of Emolecipation from the moment Gedov flings himself overboard to escape slaver to his daring plan to rescue others trapped in the same predicament. This delightful little fantasy comes with a perk—it gets more than a cameo appearance in Scribe’s Descent, leaving the reader to wonder “Is this a true story from the Scribe’s universe?”
My only complaint is the story finished before I was ready to say goodbye to the characters. I don’t know if the author plans to continue the adventures of Gedov or leave the rest of the story to the reader’s imaginations, but it is well worth reading and sharing.
My only complaint is the story finished before I was ready to say goodbye to the characters. I don’t know if the author plans to continue the adventures of Gedov or leave the rest of the story to the reader’s imaginations, but it is well worth reading and sharing.
September 2, 2024
A fascinating, fun, well-written story! Emolecipation is my first book by author Dylan West, but it will not be the last. While I haven't yet read book one, I didn't feel that it negatively impacted my reading of this, as the story truly is a standalone. It gave me C.S. Lewis vibes, which I appreciated. The serious topics are dealt with sensitively, even while the story is fun and witty. Our young protagonist is a boy we can root for, and the worldbuilding is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story, and I highly recommend Emolecipation to readers of all ages!
February 19, 2023
From whimsical elements like “bubblebark” to “bobblenuts”, this delightful little tale has talking creatures that really hail you back to a Narnia-like quality and sense of wonder.
But deeper still (and perhaps the reason I found it to be enjoyable), was the concept of freedom from bondage and treating each other with compassion. I’m definitely interested in buying more books from this author!
But deeper still (and perhaps the reason I found it to be enjoyable), was the concept of freedom from bondage and treating each other with compassion. I’m definitely interested in buying more books from this author!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews