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 (review by Alastair Savage)
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.
http://troubledscribe.wordpress.com/2014/05/04/liam-reviews-talus-and-the-frozen-king/
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 