In the interests of giving you a balanced set of views, I’ll kick of this latest roundup with some conflicted comments from Harry Markov at SFSignal:
SF Signal
I’ve had a maddening experience with Talus and the Frozen King because when Edwards nails it, this book is a page turner. I had no idea who the murderer was and all the suspects had the motivation to commit the crime. I loved the concept and how the investigative process translates into the Neolithic era. But when Edwards misses the mark, the novel makes me want to bang my head against a wall. I fluctuated between adoration and pure rage every thirty or so pages.
Amazing Stories
Talus and the Frozen King is an unusual book which wears its research lightly. I found myself lost in the story towards the end as events hurtled towards their tragic conclusion.
Upcoming4.me
The worldbuilding is simply superb. I also enjoyed the clear writing style. Talus and the Frozen King is a fast and enjoyable murder mystery with a twist and I’m definitely looking forward to reading next Talus book.
Carole Finds Her Wings
I love the world Edwards builds – it is beautiful but stark, lonely and deadly yet full of vibrance and life. Teetering on the edge of fantastical as well as historical I fell in love with the landscape and was genuinely a bit sad when I finished as I really enjoyed immersing myself in their world. Highly recommended.
The Troubled Scribe
What I really found unique here was the world into which these characters are thrust – the cold, icy, coastal realm inhabited by isolated tribes of Neolithic peoples. Edwards brings them to life with their rituals that seem very alien to us. Mud-painted faces, stone tools, bone weapons, are all rich details that add to the raw feeling of the island of Creyak.
Liberty Falls Down
Creyak is a creepy place – a frozen island only accessible by sea or through a maze. Edwards expertly weaves details in throughout the story about the location, the world mythology – particularly religious elements – and as the fog rolls in for the final, climactic set piece, I felt myself wanting to snuggle up under a blanket as the chill seemed to seep from my Kindle.
Falcata Times
All round a great book and the start to what I hope will be a cracking series.
Graham Edwards 