"Risen Gods, by J.F. Penn and J. Thorn

It took time and a couple of books before I became a fan of Ms. Penn, now I easily can say I am one of her faithful readers that simply can get enough of her dark fantasy adventures.

Set against the backdrop of Aotearoa, New Zealand, “Risen Gods” is rich with myth and history of the island. It opens with Ben and Lucy are out sailing when a tidal waves strikes the coast and the two lovebirds are separated in the chaotic aftermath. New Zealand is rocked by earthquakes and aftershocks, volcanoes are erupting, the country is turned upside down, people are dead and those who are not believe the gods are coming…. Chaos everywhere, smoke demons are attacking, octopuses (octopi)are grabbing people, some escape and some fall and are eaten up….and as we follow Ben and Lucy journeys on their separate route we see the evil through their eyes. The duel protagonists battle supernatural and human evils to save those they love from destruction by the gods and find each other again…..

This very captivating story is coloured with Maori beliefs and legends and is well- done and extremely visual. I was such a riveting, macabre and mythical experience that I couldn’t put this book down and read it in no time. The author’s knowledge of history, mythology and archaeology and the country’s culture shine through her words. A great amount of researched went into this book no doubt. I also like the characterization Ben and Lucy are realistic in their approach and the secondary cast, good and bad are excellent players. 

This is an excellent read.

I was given a copy of this book by Ms. Penn for an honest and unbiased review.