Genre- Sci-Fi | Action | Mythology | Motherhood | Self-Doubt | Magic | Grief
Eyes of Isis- Serpent’s Sting by Brian Coggins Jr is the second book in the “The Worlds of Complexity” series, but it also works as a standalone. This is my first time reading this author’s work.
The book is loosely based around Egyptian mythology. What sets this book apart is the cinematic-style storytelling. The author also has a dedicated website, YouTube channel and Instagram page for the series. They include character reveals, cityscapes, teasers and trailers of the books.
Synopsis
Isis succeds Osiris as the Pharaoh of Planet Praa, after his brother Set brutally kills him.
Torn between her duty as a mother and the crown that weighs heavily on her, Pharaoh Isis must uncover the dark forces threatening her kingdom, while facing an impossible choice—save her land from an ancient evil or protect the only family she has left.
Reiew
The first thing that captures the reader’s eye is the author’s richly descriptive writing. It transports the reader into Amun Re where the story takes place. I expected historical fiction when I started reading but the book has a futuristic and sci-fi tone to it. The story blends Egyptian mythology and Science fiction efficiently.
The book is medium-paced and has an engaging narrative. The action scenes are fast-paced and easy to visualize. They are well-placed and tightly written, immersing the reader completely.
At times, the dialogues feel mismatched with the mythological setting of the book, especially when ancient gods use modern slang in important scenes.
The story suggests deep-rooted classism and hierarchy between the Deities and Zodiacs through sharp dialogues, but the book skips the explanation for it. I had to watch the YouTube trailers for clarity. It takes the reader a while to get accustomed to the “Worlds of Complexity” universe. But once I got the hang of it, I enjoyed the novel.
The emotional depth in the story is unexpected for a sci-fi theme and adds to the positives. We see strong family and friendship bonds between the characters. The book also explores themes of grief, revenge, guilt, betrayal and forgiveness.
I liked the way the author crafted Isis’s character. She is portrayed as a normal person full of emotions and anger. Since Isis is not born into royalty, she struggles to put her kingdom’s needs before her family’s.
Throughout the story we see Isis mourning her husband’s death. She distances herself from her Pharaoh duties and puts her effort into resurrecting Osiris. She holds a deep grudge against the people who failed to save him. Forgiveness is a virtue that she hasn’t learnt.
Isis’s struggles with spellcasting, motherhood and persistent self-doubt add depth to her arc. Her internal monologues are sometimes lengthy and repetitive. This hinders the story flow at times.
All the characters in the book are well-crafted. My favourite characters are Nebet and Anhur. Osiris’ sister Nebet is always by Isis’ side, supporting her throughout the novel. Isis’ bodyguard Anhur is a formidable warrior who will go to any lengths to keep her safe.
The ending is satisfactory and sets the scene for the next novel. The novel has a vividly crafted universe with mythology, magic, glowing Hieroglyphics, extending balconies, and futuristic technology. The author delivers a reading experience that feels like watching a Sci-fi action movie.
‘Eyes of Isis- Serpent’s Sting’ is guaranteed to transport you into the magical kingdom of Amun re. Fans of movies like The Mummy, Avatar and Marvel Universe will enjoy this book. I look forward to reading the next instalment and exploring more into the Worlds of Complexity series.
I rate this book 4/5 for its complex world-building and character arcs.
Links to the trailers and content:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheWorldsofComplexity
https://www.instagram.com/the_worlds_of_complexity/
The book is set for release later this year.
I would like to thank the author for providing an advance reader copy ahead of the book’s official release in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
-By Soul Sword-
The Writers Room 