ReviewsSci-Fi

The Rise of Fernando – Book Review

by Zayla Black

The Rise of Fernando (Electric Chaos Book 1) by Zayla Black is an exciting, galaxy-spanning tale that combines science fiction with a dash of humor, mystery, and intrigue. This first novel in the Electric Chaos series introduces the reader to a fascinating universe full of colorful characters, unexpected turns, and an unwavering sense of suspense.

I was really excited to read this book – the cover drew me in, and the blurb makes you want to know more. When I got a review copy, I couldn’t wait to dive in and tell you all about it. This is a novella of just over 100 pages in print, so it’s a quick read, but it’s so worth it to hear this story.

Right from the beginning in chapter one, we’re introduced to a girl in a very interesting position. Our protagonist has lost all of her memories. She wakes up with a terrible head injury and a total blank slate. At first, she struggles to orient herself with where she is, before realizing she’s on a ship.

The beginning of the novella takes us through her awakening, scary and confusing as she tries to figure out where she is. She’s in a bed in a room with no windows, and no doors that she can see. We feel like we’re right there with her as she struggles to gain her bearings and figure out what’s going on.

Black does an excellent job of capturing the confusion and doubt that come with amnesia, while also skillfully introducing clues about her past that forward the plot. We are just as confused as she is to her predicament. And as she begins to sort out her surroundings, we learn more about the world the story is set in. I really enjoyed this form of storytelling because it keeps you engaged the whole way through, trying to figure it out.

Next enters Fernando, the mysterious rescuer whose actual intentions are still unknown. He says someone left her to die and he took her in. But not just to be a good guy – he also wants something from her.

Fernando is a character who hovers between hero and anti-hero from the very beginning, which is what I love most about him. You’ll find yourself wondering if he really wants to help her or if she had been better off left to die. His offer to the main character to tour the galaxy with his team feels both generous and dubious, which strains their budding romance.

The background of the galaxy is shown with great detail, which I really enjoyed because I love space stories and getting to explore new worlds through books. Black’s universe is full of exotic planets, cutting-edge technology, and a cast of individuals whose distinct personalities give the narrative depth.

Readers are treated to amazing world-building as the protagonist sets out on her adventure, complete with bizarre settings, exciting space travel, and a diverse crew that seems authentic and well-developed. Among the novel’s highlights are the exchanges between Fernando and the other crew members. Sharp wit and a sense of camaraderie are infused into their interactions by Black, and the ongoing undercurrent of mistrust keeps things interesting.

One moment early in the book that stands out to me is when she sees herself in a mirror for the very first time and she’s shocked at what she sees. Is this the real her?

The Rise of Fernando’s flawless fusion of mystery and action is one of its most notable features. The plot revolves around the protagonist’s search for the truth about her identity before her injuries and the reasons behind someone’s desire to murder her. Excellent pacing alternates between quieter, more contemplative moments and fast-paced, high-stakes action scenes.

We are kept in suspense until the very end because to Black’s deft use of plot devices. As the protagonist considers whether to remain with Fernando and his gang or try to restore her previous life, the mystery surrounding her history grows increasingly complex.

Then there are the ducks, of course. Just as the cover and book description hint at. So what’s up with the ducks? You may need to just read for yourself to find out. The book is great at throwing in well-placed humor.

“Oh, good job, drones! This pink polka-dotted dress really complements the thruster’s glow!”

Another part that I really loved was the mystery surrounding why our main character had a craving for something… well, something that those of us who are human would not think is fit for eating. But I don’t want to ruin the story by telling you. But it’s definitely fun and intriguing and plays into how our main character is trying to figure out who she is.

The way Zayla Black examines the issue of identification in The Rise of Fernando is one of its strong points. The protagonist must start over after having her memory erased, leading her to reflect on what defines an individual. Should she welcome the new life she’s been thrown into or pursue the traces of her past? I think this aspect makes you think about yourself and what you’d do if you were in her shoes.

This is one part I found myself thinking about even after putting the book down.

There is just enough unanswered questions at the end of the book to make readers eager for the next Electric Chaos book. An intriguing conclusion is built up by the conflict between the protagonist’s need for answers and her developing relationship with Fernando and his crew, as well as by the threat of whoever initially injured her.

To sum up, The Rise of Fernando is an excellent beginning to a series that is sure to be remembered. With action, intrigue, and a peculiar sense of humor that distinguishes it from other space adventures, Zayla Black’s novel is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Fans of science fiction and space operas should not miss this book because of its fascinating setting, captivating plot, and well-drawn characters.

Rating: ★★★★★

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