You come to the edge of consciousness, blinking. Everything is black and silent. My voice decimates the quiet. “Attend!”
Something whistles through the air to snap against the tip of your nose. You cry out and receive another whistling snap on your left ass cheek. My sonorous voice echoes off unseen cavern walls, coming at you from every angle. “Hear now my review of the book, Wealthgiver by Daniel M Benson.”
“What book–” another whistling crack this time to your lips.
“In Good! Speak in Good, you ignorant Fool, or do not speak at all!” You lick your angry lips, wisely remaining silent. I smile, though you still cannot see anything. “Ah, you can be taught.” Your stinging lips form a silent insult, yet I hear it. “The darkness knows itself, Fool. Your lips move and smack about as loud as words. Now, attend!” You wince in expectation but the sting never comes. “Wealthgiver is a historical romance. Fools may call it fantasy, but I would not. Much time was invested in the accuracy of language and history and I will not deign to hear it besmirched by the likes of such a simple label. Imagine a cult which worships Hades, living in darkness and reenacting old myths – this is the stage upon which the book takes place. It is written well and features characters that are enjoyable to read. The sequences involving total darkness were very interesting to read and well written, considering the lack of sensory input Daniel is able to use.. The unresolved question of whether or not the rituals grasp at something true is an interesting point, I think. It has made me think about the book more after finishing it. There were moments in the last section of the book where motivations felt forced or shifts in a character’s attitude seemed rushed, which meant a slightly softer landing on the ending where I would’ve liked to feel more punch. Anyway, that’s my review.”
I flick on the lights and you’re blinded. You realize you were standing in your bedroom with a bag over your head. You look at me, but I point to the door.
“You may go now.”
