Exalted: The Books of Sorcery Vol. 2: White and Black Treatises : Book Review

"Exalted" by Peter Schaefer is an enthralling novel that takes readers into a dystopian world where magic and technology coexist. This thought-provoking story follows the journey of Tarian, a young man who discovers his extraordinary gift in a society plagued by power and corruption.

Schaefer's descriptive prose brings the world of "Exalted" to life, painting vivid pictures of futuristic landscapes and intricate magical elements. The attention to detail in the world-building adds depth and authenticity to the story, immersing readers in a rich and captivating setting.

One of the strengths of "Exalted" lies in its exceptional character development. Tarian undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, evolving from a naive and uncertain young man to a confident and determined protagonist. Schaefer skillfully navigates Tarian's emotional journey, making him relatable and engaging to readers.

The exploration of power dynamics and corruption is a standout aspect of "Exalted." Schaefer seamlessly weaves these themes into the plot, shedding light on the dark underbelly of authority and the consequences of unchecked control. The story prompts readers to question their own beliefs and contemplate the impact of power on society.

With a steadily increasing pace, "Exalted" becomes increasingly enthralling as the plot unfolds. Twists and turns keep readers guessing, while the stakes continue to rise, leading to a satisfying and intense finale. This gripping novel will appeal to fans of both science fiction and fantasy, as well as those who enjoy exploring complex themes within a compelling narrative.

What are readers saying?

The book "Exalted" by Peter Schaefer has received a mixture of reviews. Some reviewers positively praised the book, commending its enthralling storyline and unique characters. They found the plot engaging and filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept them engrossed until the end. Many readers were pleased with the book's exploration of complex themes such as power, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. They also admired the author's descriptive and immersive writing style, which made it easy for them to visualize the vivid world that was created.

On the other hand, there were reviewers who were less enthralled by the book. They felt that the pacing of the story was inconsistent, with certain parts dragging and others feeling rushed. Some readers expressed their disappointment with the underdeveloped and shallow characters, making it difficult for them to establish a connection or empathize with their fates. Furthermore, a few reviewers believed that the book heavily relied on genre clichés and lacked originality.

Despite the mixed reception, one aspect that received consistent praise from reviewers was the book's world-building. Many appreciated the detailed and imaginative universe crafted by Peter Schaefer. They enjoyed exploring the different realms, each with its own distinct culture and history. The depth and attention to detail in this aspect of the book were highly regarded.

However, the pacing and characterization issues mentioned by several reviewers prevented some readers from fully immersing themselves in the story. While some were able to overlook these flaws and still appreciate the book for its overall concept and writing style, others were deterred by these issues, leading to a less enjoyable reading experience.

Overall, "Exalted" has generated a diverse range of reviews. While some readers were captivated by its engaging storyline and immersive world-building, others found it lacking in character development and originality.

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