Shadows of the Apt - progress update

I have just finished the 7th book in the series, Heirs of the Blade, and jumped right onto the next one - The Air War. That is one of the biggest compliments that I can give to a series. This is one big, sprawling yet engaging epic. I cannot recommend it enough. Great story, well rounded characters, and that sense of urgency and trepidation that forces the reader to read on. I hope to write a review of the entire series when I have reached the end. Until then, try it, I guarantee that you won't regret it.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Triumph or Disappointment?

I was very excited, to put it mildly, when I sat in my seat, with my 3D glasses on, and waited for the lights to be turned off. It has been a while since I saw a Star Wars movie at the cinema and I was determined not to let anything ruin the experience. I have managed to find a suitable sitter for the boys. The venue was half empty, with no loud teenagers anywhere in sight. The reviews of the film were great - over 90% fresh at the Rotten Tomatoes, and everything was pointing towards a happy ending. 

At the beginning, everything was looking promising. (Warning: Spoilers approaching!) The text with the explanation what happened since episode VI quickly introduced us to the fact that the bad guys are now called the First Order, and that they are opposed by the Republic and Resistance (instead of Rebellion). To tell the truth, I was too excited to think about this, or the disappointment would probably have come much sooner that it had.

Trailer for Captain America: Civil War

I have been very busy lately, hence unable to fulfill my promise regarding the reviews of the Adrian Tchaikovsky's books from the Shadows of the Apt series. However, when I saw this trailer, I simply had to write a few words.

Looks like the heroes are going to clash between themselves, and it looks great. The tone reminded me a bit of my favorite Star Wars movie - The Empire Strikes Back. It is a dark, pessimistic second act and a great introduction to the final installment. This movie is going to be the overture for the next Avengers installment and it looks really promising. I admit that I am a big fan of Marvel movies and though some are better than others, I enjoyed watching all of them. I think they are at their best when they center on conflicts between characters. Having that in mind, this one could be one of the best and I am looking forward to it. 

Empire in Black and Gold by Adrian Tchaikovsky - Insectpunk Fantasy

Empire in Black and Gold is the first book in the Shadows of the Apt series. The series is finished, it consists of 10 books and it has garnered flattering reviews from the blogosphere. I have been circling it for some time and finally decided to give it a go.

At the beginning, the author throws us in the middle of a battle for the city of Myna, where Stenwold Maker and his friends are trying to help the city fend off the attack of the Wasp Empire. In the midst of all chaos, we are presented with barely a sketch of a somewhat different fantasy setting. I really like my FSF this way. At the start, you see a tip of the proverbial iceberg, and then your patience is rewarded as you read along.