Book Review: Desert Rain
Working as a writer online, you meet a lot of unique authors. Today is the birthday of my oldest friend and writing buddy. So, as a simple present, I decided to do a book review of his first novel and maybe get him a little exposure.
So, without further ado, this is Desert Rain by Lorenzo Hall.
I should disclaim that while I have helped Lorenzo with commentary, idea pitching, and work on the website, this is his own original work and story. And what a colorful world it is.
Desert Rain takes us to the world of Isavoire, a land rich in diversity from traditional humans to the animalistic Ellons (and much more). Our story centers around a young Ellon prince named Kenta off on his journey to follow a mysterious dream he has received. His travels take him to the expansive desert kingdom of Ahsira.
Kenta quickly gets involved in the turmoil of the kingdom, and, being a noble prince, feels his obligation to aid the failing nation. And here’s where the story shines. Lorenzo opens up the story to a colorful cast of memorable characters. If I had to compare them to any type of story, it might be one of the Final Fantasy games. They have distinct voices, personalities, and presence that keeps you thinking about them long after reading the pages.
I won’t spoil much of the plot. There are plenty of twists and turns fitting of an epic fantasy story. The pacing is good and you’re kept engaged all the way through. If I had one comment is that it’s a very safe plot and you can probably guess the direction its going later on in the story. This is very much the introduction story for the characters and the setup for a much larger narrative in the background.
Despite being a story set in a wasteland, Lorenzo paints a beautiful and varied world. The desert has different layers to it, from bustling Arabic-inspired market places to mirage-filled ruins hinting at a giant past. This, of course, makes the story ripe with adventure. Lorenzo has also expanded on the lore of his world on his website, which includes origin stories for Ahsira and the races of the world alike.
That also brings me to the artwork. While Desert Rain is strictly a novel, the pictures for the cover and the website are simply gorgeous. Done by a variety of artists, including a cover by the incredible Edgar Caballero, it really gives a vision to the world Lorenzo is trying to portray. While the art sets you in the mood, it’s Lorenzo’s simplistic but hopeful words brings the characters to life.
If the artwork doesn’t grab you, the promise of an truly epic and growing world will. Give Desert Rain a read if the cover appeals to you, because I promise a fitting tale.
Lorenzo is also working on a subsequent novel set in the same universe, this time involving the dragons of Isavoire.
Check out his books and more of his world at his main website: http://isavoire.com/
And happy birthday, Lorenzo!
