Foothills of the Gods (Aresti: Planet of the Red God Volume 1)
Formats: Paperback, Hardback
Ages: 12-15
Armed with a collection of his grandfather’s journals and notes and a handful of relics, 16-year-old Blaas Rakendo struggles to steer clear of interference from what he considers an attack on his independence by those in authority as he attempts to solve the puzzle of his inheritance.
But powers beyond his understanding or control soon draw him deep into a labyrinth of political intrigue and dark secrets, and all thoughts of a summer spent digging for clues dissolve, especially when the Council Leader threatens detention, people disappear, and two students die by uncertain means.
Determined to escape the Leader’s scrutiny, Rake must join forces—willingly or not—with a special team to safeguard cryptic artifacts and unravel the long-buried scandal they represent.
Reviews
Aresti: Planet of the Red God Volume 1 by Evelyn Dunbar Webb is a riveting exploration of adventure and mystery set in the captivating world of Mars. Webb’s skillful storytelling weaves together a tale of intrigue and danger that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Webb’s world-building is masterful, immersing readers in the richly imagined landscape of Aresti and its intricate society. From the labyrinthine caverns beneath the surface to the sprawling foothills of Pana disa Esos, every detail is meticulously crafted, bringing the world of Mars to vivid life. The characters are equally compelling, with Rakendo’s determined spirit and resourcefulness driving the narrative forward. Supported by a diverse cast of allies and adversaries, Rakendo must navigate treacherous waters as he seeks to unravel the truth behind his grandfather’s legacy. Overall, Aresti: Planet of the Red God Volume 1 is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of science fiction and adventure alike. With its blend of action, mystery, and intrigue, it is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series.
This book is exemplary in its choice of topic or theme of the story. It is unique but still has strong appeal for most readers in its intended genre. The book is well plotted. All main characters (including antagonists) are unique and fully fleshed out with compelling, layered motivations and traits. Secondary characters are unique and have a meaningful purpose. This was a complex story with many twists and turns. Blaas is both likeable and relatable, yet caught in his own ego. I liked the character development and the writing was intricate and detailed.
