The Heater and The Hack – Book Review
This is book one of the Chronicles of the Dance series and I was happy to receive a review copy so that I could experience it for myself and share it with you. I love fantasy and this was epic sword and sorcery fantasy at its finest, but with some unique aspects that make it original. The author has a unique voice and a very intentionally unique writing style that doesn’t necessarily keep to traditional publishing norms.
From the first pages of the prologue, the vivid descriptive writing is apparent. I could tell right away this was a story I would get lost in. It does start slowly, building the story and the setting, like a classical fantasy. But it’s well worth the investment because when the action kicks in, it’s exciting.
The story unfolds in a mythical and lyrical way – it doesn’t spoon-feed you the story. Instead, we’re pulled into this imaginative, evocative world so that we feel like we’re living it right there ourselves. It does go into a great level of detail in many of the scenes, which some readers may find repetitive or cumbersome, but if you’re a fan of epic fantasy, this level of description and detail will be familiar to you.
Our main character, Emanrasu, is a hesitant nomad who never planned to be a hero. He starts off on a seemingly simple task of delivering his father’s sword and shield to a distant grandfather, but it soon turns into something more dangerous and extensive. He and his traveling companion speak of how they can probably make a great deal of money from the sword and shield but ultimately, Emanrasu wants to know if his grandfather is as good a storyteller as his father was. They want to take the items to him and see what he can tell them.
He and his companion Rezua are pulled into this epic journey that feels both personal and cosmic. There is a heartbreaking scene in the first chapter that many readers will find difficult to read, but it’s a bit of a catalyst for the hero’s journey and a necessary part of the overall arc, even if painful.
On their journey, the pair run into many dangerous scenarios, but they take care of one another. Little details, like Rezua teaching Emanrasu about flint and steel help us learn more about their world and their life experiences. We also learn more about Emanrasu’s past, including childhood, and the relationship he had with his father. We learn about how important the sword and shield were to his father.
There are bright graphic images at the beginning of each chapter, as well as a quote that gives a bit of a teaser or theme to the chapter. And each chapter has a title (another thing I’ve written about here that I like). This is a little touch I personally enjoy. I also like the way we learn more about our main characters from the side characters they interact with, such as when they meet a blacksmith who can tell our main character has never worn a sword and shield before.
Tarlis is a character I end up really enjoying as well. He joins them on their journey and brings knowledge neither of the friends had themselves. He’s witty and wise, and I enjoy getting to know him as the two travelers do as well.
I also really enjoyed how they picked up Serrah. She also brings a really useful skill to the group, that will be much-needed on their journey. To some, they may seem like a rag-tag bunch, but it begins to feel like fate has brought them all together for a reason.
The dream references were a big favorite of mine, too. I love stories with dreams woven into the themes, and this one doesn’t give too much away too quickly. There are just little moments here and there, little teasers of a bigger image we don’t get to see just yet.
The depth of this fantasy debut is one area where it really stands out. Waggoner invites us to immerse ourselves completely in the architecture of myth, prophecy and legend. The worldbuilding is full of culture and linguistic flavor. As The Heater and the Hack gradually builds up its mystery, it pulls you in with enticing clues and symbolism.
It begs you to ask the question: Is fate something that is created by choice or imposed on us without us having a say?
Throughout our main character’s journey, this is a question that will come up again and again. And as Emanrasu seems to be trying to figure this out for himself, we are also pondering it and thinking more deeply. When he finds out the truth of how his father came to have the Heater and the Hack, some of the pieces start to come together. But we’re still left with many new questions.
In addition to the high stakes our main character is facing, we also see his personal development. Every choice counts and each experience changes the course of the future – for better or worse. Every scene is depicted with strong images and are both intimate and dramatic.
The supporting cast all add to the story in their own way. Each has some mystery rhythm and scars. Each has a purpose within the story. I especially liked Rezua because he loves to write and carries a journal with him everywhere. And by the time you get to the ending, this will be even more important than you ever realized. I think each reader will find aspects of the characters that they can relate to.
As always, this is a spoiler-free review and the journey is the whole point when it comes to epic fantasy like this, so I will leave you with my thoughts: it’s worth the read.
It may take you some time to work your way through it, but racing to the finish line is not the goal. This book is best consumed with exploration and imagination. You may find yourself staying up late to continue turning the pages and see what happens next.
And this, my friends, is only the beginning. The next two books in the series are currently available for preorder and you can get The Heater and the Hack on Amazon in paperback, hardcover, Kindle, and Kindle Unlimited.
Final Thoughts:
- Perfect for fans of epic adventures, high fantasy, and profound philosophical undertones.
- Great for readers who like complex worldbuilding and characters that develop with every decision.
- A breathtaking debut that makes you thankful to have discovered the first installment while leaving you eager for the next.
Get ready to travel along paths that time has forgotten. Get ready to challenge your preconceived notions about fate. And above all, get ready for an eventual journey.