What do you think?
Rate this book
Elei's Chronicles #1
Rex Rising
In a world where parasites create new human races, Elei leads a peaceful life — until a mysterious attack on his boss sends him fleeing with a bullet in his side. Pursued for a secret he does not possess and with the fleet at his heels, he has but one to stay alive. His pursuers aren’t inclined to sit down and talk, although that’s not the end of Elei’s troubles. The two powerful parasites inhabiting his body, at a balance until now, choose this moment to bring him down, leaving Elei with no choice but to trust in people he hardly knows. It won’t be long before he realizes he must find out this deadly secret – a secret that might change the fate of his world and everything he has ever known – or die trying.
YA Science Fiction novel. 76 thousand words/approx. 300 pages
Fiction for mature teens + adults
YA Science Fiction novel. 76 thousand words/approx. 300 pages
Fiction for mature teens + adults
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2011
46 people are currently reading
1919 people want to read
About the author
Chrystalla Thoma
47 books211 followersAuthor with a penchant for dark myths and good food. I have proven my tendency to settle down anywhere but at home.
I like to write about fantastical creatures, crazy adventures, and family bonds. I write fantasy and science fiction.
I like to write about fantastical creatures, crazy adventures, and family bonds. I write fantasy and science fiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
July 4, 2016
Elei lives in a world where parasites infect and either kill you or change you. One parasite, Regina, has created a race of supreme females, the Gultur, that rule and control everything. Elei is host to two strong parasites that, at least for the moment, balance each other out. But when his boss is shot and killed, wounding him in the process, his world spins out of control. Forced to seek help from the Undercurrent, the resistance, he must rely on people he doesn’t know and is not sure he can trust. Constantly chased by the Gultur for something he does not have, Elei starts to realize that something inside him is pushing him to do something he’s not sure he wants to.
I really loved the whole idea of Rex Rising. Even though the parasites that co-habit Elei provide him with benefits, they also have drawbacks. It’s not like he’s superhuman all of a sudden. The whole story was realistic and interesting. Right from the start I found myself relating to Elei. There was never a time where he’d do something and I’d go, “yeah right like a 16 year old would do that!” The action starts quickly and continues to build right to the very end of the book. It’s not very often I find a book that gets the heart pumping with excitement, making me read as fast as I can just to find out what happens next. Rex Rising> was definitely one of those books for me.
I really loved the whole idea of Rex Rising. Even though the parasites that co-habit Elei provide him with benefits, they also have drawbacks. It’s not like he’s superhuman all of a sudden. The whole story was realistic and interesting. Right from the start I found myself relating to Elei. There was never a time where he’d do something and I’d go, “yeah right like a 16 year old would do that!” The action starts quickly and continues to build right to the very end of the book. It’s not very often I find a book that gets the heart pumping with excitement, making me read as fast as I can just to find out what happens next. Rex Rising> was definitely one of those books for me.
February 9, 2012
This novel was different from what I usually read. It was very original in plot, characters, and the enemy elements. Enter the world of Elei; a world where you are infected with parasites that control you. Elei is lucky enough to be infected with two separate parasites. Fortunately (which is a relative term at this point), a former caretaker, who knew Elei was infected with one type of parasite, injected him with a second parasite and until now, they worked in harmony (again another relative term). With the killers of his boss on his tail he's thrust into a group of people that may or may not be the enemy. And it's all due to a secret that he is supposed to possess but knows nothing about.
Rex Rising was a very entertaining read and it kept me engaged from start to finish. The characters were strong and well developed and the world they lived in was vividly described. There weren't any elements that were lacking. Everything made sense and all transitions were easily done without confusion. A terrific sci-fi novel--even if you're like me and you don't usually read that genre. I'm glad I took the time to expand my horizons...I would have missed out on an excellent book had I declined.
Rex Rising was a very entertaining read and it kept me engaged from start to finish. The characters were strong and well developed and the world they lived in was vividly described. There weren't any elements that were lacking. Everything made sense and all transitions were easily done without confusion. A terrific sci-fi novel--even if you're like me and you don't usually read that genre. I'm glad I took the time to expand my horizons...I would have missed out on an excellent book had I declined.
December 29, 2015
**3.5 stars**
Rex Rising has a really interesting premise - a world with parasites that give people different abilities, including parthenogenesis, the ability of women to reproduce by themselves. I ended up enjoying it way more than I thought I would.
Elei is a kid from the streets, suffering from two different parasites. His boss was murdered in his arms and the Gultur, a race of superpowerful women, are after him. He's hurt, not only physically but emotionally because he's lost everybody who's meant something in his life. He doesn't trust himself and as such, he has trouble trusting anybody. With the help of Kaleas and Maera - two proteges of his boss - and Hera, a fighter for the resistance, they try to figure out what was so important that the Gultur are willing to destroy whole towns and murder thousands of people to get to him.
The action became a bit repetitive at times - they get to one place, they are discovered, they run - and I felt that the book could have used from more descriptions to add some color to this world. But the story is decent and I'm curious to see how Rex will keep affecting Elei, so I'm definitely finishing the trilogy.
Rex Rising has a really interesting premise - a world with parasites that give people different abilities, including parthenogenesis, the ability of women to reproduce by themselves. I ended up enjoying it way more than I thought I would.
Elei is a kid from the streets, suffering from two different parasites. His boss was murdered in his arms and the Gultur, a race of superpowerful women, are after him. He's hurt, not only physically but emotionally because he's lost everybody who's meant something in his life. He doesn't trust himself and as such, he has trouble trusting anybody. With the help of Kaleas and Maera - two proteges of his boss - and Hera, a fighter for the resistance, they try to figure out what was so important that the Gultur are willing to destroy whole towns and murder thousands of people to get to him.
The action became a bit repetitive at times - they get to one place, they are discovered, they run - and I felt that the book could have used from more descriptions to add some color to this world. But the story is decent and I'm curious to see how Rex will keep affecting Elei, so I'm definitely finishing the trilogy.
October 5, 2011
Ms Thoma has unleashed her imagination and produced a novel that is different from any other I've read.
The world she's created is terrifying, yet not unbelievable. Parasites play a huge role in our every day lives, and if they fell into the wrong hands, I truly believe they could be put to the same devastating use that is portrayed in Rex Rising (Rex is a parasite, by the way).
Elei, the main character with two opposing parasites within him, captured my heart. He's not the traditional hero, but I was willing him on all the way. The author maintained a fast pace throughout with a nail-biting continuous "will they, won't they?" (escape from the Gultur), "will he, won't he?" (survive the battling parasites within). I was hooked to the very last page. I do hope our Society never ends up like this - I'd hate to live in an all-women's world. And if you wonder how they reproduce, then read Rex Rising.
The world she's created is terrifying, yet not unbelievable. Parasites play a huge role in our every day lives, and if they fell into the wrong hands, I truly believe they could be put to the same devastating use that is portrayed in Rex Rising (Rex is a parasite, by the way).
Elei, the main character with two opposing parasites within him, captured my heart. He's not the traditional hero, but I was willing him on all the way. The author maintained a fast pace throughout with a nail-biting continuous "will they, won't they?" (escape from the Gultur), "will he, won't he?" (survive the battling parasites within). I was hooked to the very last page. I do hope our Society never ends up like this - I'd hate to live in an all-women's world. And if you wonder how they reproduce, then read Rex Rising.
November 19, 2011
I received the book Rex Rising (Elei's Chronicles) by Chrystalla Thoma from the member giveaways.
The book's a great read.The concept is original, unique and different from anything I have read before.I would like to applaud the author for writing the book soo well with an entirely new concept at hand. The characters were very real.
I have commonly read books about with characters having special powers by birth or fate or simply by them being vampires,warewolves or witches but none of the books had the characters' owing their powers to the parasites inhabiting their bodies.
The pace of the story was good .The book came to a wonderful conclusion with Elei doing what needed to be done in order to prevent the world from crumbling and knowingly staking his life in the process.
In short, I liked the book..!
I am giving it 3.5 stars (which happens to be the highest rating I usually give..!)
The book's a great read.The concept is original, unique and different from anything I have read before.I would like to applaud the author for writing the book soo well with an entirely new concept at hand. The characters were very real.
I have commonly read books about with characters having special powers by birth or fate or simply by them being vampires,warewolves or witches but none of the books had the characters' owing their powers to the parasites inhabiting their bodies.
The pace of the story was good .The book came to a wonderful conclusion with Elei doing what needed to be done in order to prevent the world from crumbling and knowingly staking his life in the process.
In short, I liked the book..!
I am giving it 3.5 stars (which happens to be the highest rating I usually give..!)
November 15, 2013
Elei’s had a good life all things considered. Yes, he was possessed by the parasite Telmion, which made him meek, covered him in gray snakeskin marks, and nearly killed him. And yes, to save his life, he was given the parasite Cronion, which made him aggressive and changed the color of one of his eyes. But the two parasites found a balance within him and he had a good job working for Pelia, a woman who was more like a mother than employer to him.
Everything changed when Pelia was shot and killed.
Now the Gultur, an all female race possessed by the parasite Regina, are chasing after him. They believe he has something that could destroy their kind forever, a cure for Regina.
And they maybe right.
Plot:
The story is well paced and gives the reader the right amount of tension and conflict to keep them engaged. Even in the parts where the characters can take a breather, the reader is aware the Gulturs are always close and ready with guns and bombs to blow them to oblivion.
Characters:
The story centers around the teenage boy, Elei. As you can infer from the opening, Elei already had a lot to deal with. The book opens in the middle of what has to be the worst night of his life. He’s on the run. He is bleeding, and his only hope is a torn piece of paper stuffed in his hand by Pelia just before she died. When pushed to this low point, Elei shows strength, resourcefulness, and a keen mind. He grabs the reader’s interest and does not let them go until the last page. Even the chapters away from his point of view still connect back to him. Elei is a wonderful character to carry a book.
The only other Point of View character is Hera. She is a member of the Undercurrent, the resistance against the Gulturs’ rule. She seeks out Elei believing he knows where the cure for Regina is. Her motives at first seem more focused on her mission than helping the boy, but things change as she gets to know Elei. She comes across abrasive at first, nonetheless I enjoyed her parts. Her motives are realistic and as the story progresses you begin to empathize with her.
The paper Pelia hands Elei leads to the home of Kalaes Ster, an old friend of Pelia’s and former gang member. Having lost so many he tried to help in the past, Kalaes at first tries to send Elei off. But after hearing Elei’s story and a scolding from his girlfriend, Maera, Kalaes decides to help Elei, taking in one more stray and hoping this time something good comes out of it.
Soon all four are on the run for their lives from the Gulturs. They can never stay anywhere for long, because the Gulturs always find them. Leading to only one conclusion, one of them is a spy.
All the characters feel like real people. The conflicts between them are believable and poignant. I found I cared about all of the characters; even the one I thought was a traitor.
World building/Setting:
The World of the Seven Islands is fascinating. Ms.Thoma also does a wonderful job of drawing the reader into the world. You feel the sweat on Elei’s back. Smell the different scents the parasites give off. See the dark and rotted avenues of the different towns.
My only issue is with how the reader is introduced to this new world.The reader is tossed into the pool of this story and told to tread water without any instruction. Words and ideas are thrown at the reader, which aren’t explained until several chapters later and sometimes never in text at all. Oh, there is a glossary at the end of the book and links to several articles proving this isn’t just science fantasy, but much of this information isn’t in text.
Is that a serious issue? No. It doesn’t affect the reader’s enjoyment of the book as long as he or she is paying attention. There is a big learning curve at the beginning of this book that makes some elements of the world very hard to visualize at first.
Theme:
Loyalty and betrayal. Doing what is right even if it is not easy. Sometimes what is right isn’t clear. Prejudice against people who are ill. What if the cure is worse than the illness? Totalitarianism. Classism. Sexism, though for a nice change of pace it’s the men who are being dominated, however, it’s not overdone like in some women controlling men stories. It is subtle and believable.
There are many thought provoking ideas for your mind to chew on once the book is finished.
Crystalla Thoma’s “Rex Rising” is a thrilling tale in a Sci Fi Dystopian world. It will make a wonderful addition to your library.
Everything changed when Pelia was shot and killed.
Now the Gultur, an all female race possessed by the parasite Regina, are chasing after him. They believe he has something that could destroy their kind forever, a cure for Regina.
And they maybe right.
Plot:
The story is well paced and gives the reader the right amount of tension and conflict to keep them engaged. Even in the parts where the characters can take a breather, the reader is aware the Gulturs are always close and ready with guns and bombs to blow them to oblivion.
Characters:
The story centers around the teenage boy, Elei. As you can infer from the opening, Elei already had a lot to deal with. The book opens in the middle of what has to be the worst night of his life. He’s on the run. He is bleeding, and his only hope is a torn piece of paper stuffed in his hand by Pelia just before she died. When pushed to this low point, Elei shows strength, resourcefulness, and a keen mind. He grabs the reader’s interest and does not let them go until the last page. Even the chapters away from his point of view still connect back to him. Elei is a wonderful character to carry a book.
The only other Point of View character is Hera. She is a member of the Undercurrent, the resistance against the Gulturs’ rule. She seeks out Elei believing he knows where the cure for Regina is. Her motives at first seem more focused on her mission than helping the boy, but things change as she gets to know Elei. She comes across abrasive at first, nonetheless I enjoyed her parts. Her motives are realistic and as the story progresses you begin to empathize with her.
The paper Pelia hands Elei leads to the home of Kalaes Ster, an old friend of Pelia’s and former gang member. Having lost so many he tried to help in the past, Kalaes at first tries to send Elei off. But after hearing Elei’s story and a scolding from his girlfriend, Maera, Kalaes decides to help Elei, taking in one more stray and hoping this time something good comes out of it.
Soon all four are on the run for their lives from the Gulturs. They can never stay anywhere for long, because the Gulturs always find them. Leading to only one conclusion, one of them is a spy.
All the characters feel like real people. The conflicts between them are believable and poignant. I found I cared about all of the characters; even the one I thought was a traitor.
World building/Setting:
The World of the Seven Islands is fascinating. Ms.Thoma also does a wonderful job of drawing the reader into the world. You feel the sweat on Elei’s back. Smell the different scents the parasites give off. See the dark and rotted avenues of the different towns.
My only issue is with how the reader is introduced to this new world.The reader is tossed into the pool of this story and told to tread water without any instruction. Words and ideas are thrown at the reader, which aren’t explained until several chapters later and sometimes never in text at all. Oh, there is a glossary at the end of the book and links to several articles proving this isn’t just science fantasy, but much of this information isn’t in text.
Is that a serious issue? No. It doesn’t affect the reader’s enjoyment of the book as long as he or she is paying attention. There is a big learning curve at the beginning of this book that makes some elements of the world very hard to visualize at first.
Theme:
Loyalty and betrayal. Doing what is right even if it is not easy. Sometimes what is right isn’t clear. Prejudice against people who are ill. What if the cure is worse than the illness? Totalitarianism. Classism. Sexism, though for a nice change of pace it’s the men who are being dominated, however, it’s not overdone like in some women controlling men stories. It is subtle and believable.
There are many thought provoking ideas for your mind to chew on once the book is finished.
Crystalla Thoma’s “Rex Rising” is a thrilling tale in a Sci Fi Dystopian world. It will make a wonderful addition to your library.
October 30, 2011
First off, I want to address the cover of this book. I pretty much love it. It's got a cool looking guy and makes you wonder why he looks that way. Plus, it is one hundred percent perfect for the story and the character it's portraying.
Now, the story in Rex Rising is like nothing else I've read. The idea is that if a person is infected with a parasite it changes how their body functions, and it also changes how they look. Elei grew up on the streets and lived through two of the toughest parasites infecting his body. The two fought and eventually came to a sort of stasis within him. He has lived with them for so long that he wonders if the person he has become is really who he is . . . or if he's only a product of the parasites within.
Elei is caught up in a fight between the ruling (not to mention all female) Gultur and the ones fighting to break free from their increasingly hostile methods of rule. The first we see of him, he is shot, bleeding out and running for his life. He has something the Gultur want, but he has no idea what it is. The pace doesn't slow throughout the entire story as he finds help in unexpected places, but also finds out that not everyone is what they appear.
A truly unique idea. I can't wait to see where the story takes Elei, and all the rest, in the next book!
Now, the story in Rex Rising is like nothing else I've read. The idea is that if a person is infected with a parasite it changes how their body functions, and it also changes how they look. Elei grew up on the streets and lived through two of the toughest parasites infecting his body. The two fought and eventually came to a sort of stasis within him. He has lived with them for so long that he wonders if the person he has become is really who he is . . . or if he's only a product of the parasites within.
Elei is caught up in a fight between the ruling (not to mention all female) Gultur and the ones fighting to break free from their increasingly hostile methods of rule. The first we see of him, he is shot, bleeding out and running for his life. He has something the Gultur want, but he has no idea what it is. The pace doesn't slow throughout the entire story as he finds help in unexpected places, but also finds out that not everyone is what they appear.
A truly unique idea. I can't wait to see where the story takes Elei, and all the rest, in the next book!
May 31, 2012
In all honesty this book was really hard for me to get through. The story was interesting and different, but the writing seemed very stiff and anticlimactic. The idea of everyone combating viruses on the norm was a very interesting idea and I enjoyed the thought behind it. The story follows a boy named Elei and his band of misfits he accumulates along the way. He is being chased by the “government” because he holds a “secret” that his dying friend gives him at the beginning of the story. The story was very predictable, with a few surprises along the way. All in all I would probably never read this again but I might recommend it to a few people.
December 11, 2011
Originally posted on These Pretty Words
I'm not a science fiction kind of girl. I admit a deep love for the paranormal but most things in the sci-fi realm leave me either confused or rolling my eyes. So when a request came in to read a book about parasites forming new races, I was a bit hesitant. But, in the true spirit of 'I read everything', I agreed to give Rex Rising a read (with another sci-fi loving reviewer in the wings just in case I couldn't finish it).
I shouldn't have worried.
The world Chrystalla builds is vivid and exciting. From the descriptions of the algae and fungi to the sense of neglect and squalor of the human cities. I loved reading about these seven islands and the culture of the inhabitants there. And the characters... so strong and solid. Elei tugged my heartstrings from his first appearance and really never let me go. The fragile balance within him and the way his strength and weakness battled at the same time was brilliant and well-written. The side characters were also wonderfully written, with personality quirks that stayed true and a clarity that kept them individualized. Really well done!
I loved reading about the land of the seven islands and the culture of the inhabitants there. So much of the story depends on the reader understanding the plight of that society, and Chrystalla really knows how to use her pretty words to paint a picture. And the characters… so strong and solid. Elei tugged my heartstrings from his first appearance and really never let me go. The fragile balance within him, and the way his strength and weakness battled at the same time was brilliant and well-written. The side characters were also wonderfully developed, with personality quirks that stayed true and a clarity that kept them individualized. Really well done!
This book is absolutely a “run, buy it, read it” recommendation. Trust me, Rex Rising is worth the time. Give Elei and his cohorts a little time (and very little money – at posting, RR will only set you back $.99!) and you’ll soon find yourself happily racing down the path of Rex Rising with a desperate need to figure out what’s going on. With the promise of an upcoming sequel, I will definitely be keeping an eye on Chrystalla.
I'm not a science fiction kind of girl. I admit a deep love for the paranormal but most things in the sci-fi realm leave me either confused or rolling my eyes. So when a request came in to read a book about parasites forming new races, I was a bit hesitant. But, in the true spirit of 'I read everything', I agreed to give Rex Rising a read (with another sci-fi loving reviewer in the wings just in case I couldn't finish it).
I shouldn't have worried.
The world Chrystalla builds is vivid and exciting. From the descriptions of the algae and fungi to the sense of neglect and squalor of the human cities. I loved reading about these seven islands and the culture of the inhabitants there. And the characters... so strong and solid. Elei tugged my heartstrings from his first appearance and really never let me go. The fragile balance within him and the way his strength and weakness battled at the same time was brilliant and well-written. The side characters were also wonderfully written, with personality quirks that stayed true and a clarity that kept them individualized. Really well done!
I loved reading about the land of the seven islands and the culture of the inhabitants there. So much of the story depends on the reader understanding the plight of that society, and Chrystalla really knows how to use her pretty words to paint a picture. And the characters… so strong and solid. Elei tugged my heartstrings from his first appearance and really never let me go. The fragile balance within him, and the way his strength and weakness battled at the same time was brilliant and well-written. The side characters were also wonderfully developed, with personality quirks that stayed true and a clarity that kept them individualized. Really well done!
This book is absolutely a “run, buy it, read it” recommendation. Trust me, Rex Rising is worth the time. Give Elei and his cohorts a little time (and very little money – at posting, RR will only set you back $.99!) and you’ll soon find yourself happily racing down the path of Rex Rising with a desperate need to figure out what’s going on. With the promise of an upcoming sequel, I will definitely be keeping an eye on Chrystalla.
September 3, 2014
I found this book because Chrystalla Thoma contacted me directly for me to review it on my blog www.yanovelreader.com. From her description I was completely intrigued because the story sounded very unique and because it was a YA science fiction. Though I do watch science fiction movies, I never read science fiction books, especially young adult ones, and I have to say I am so happy Chrystalla contacted me because otherwise I would have never read this amazing story.
Rex Rising will keep you on the edge of your seat, trying to figure out what happened to Elei after the attack on his boss and why he is being chased by huge military fleets. Rex Rising has a lot of suspense and mystery that keeps you guessing who you can really trust until the very end.
What I like most about this book was the originality of the story and the well rounded, extremely likeable characters. Normally in YA adult fiction, the trend has been to go with paranormal characters like vampires, werewolves, and witches. Rex Rising provides a much needed break from the paranormal and takes you into a world where parasites can control humans and their actions. While I know parasites taking over humans has been done before in other science fiction books and movies, Thoma provides such an interesting take on it. I also liked that I didn't feel overwhelmed by all the scientific elements about the parasites. Thoma explains perfectly while you are reading the world around Elei so you are not starting off the book with long descriptions about the world.
The characters in Rex Rising are likeable because they seem real. Their reactions to situations are realistic, and instead of the trend of the whining main character that is full of teen angst we have a very strong, bad ass Elei who can kick the bad guys butt and then melt you heart in the same sentence. I honestly cannot wait to read Rex Cresting which is the sequel. Thoma has also published Hera which is the start of Hera's story for Rex Rising.
If you like science fiction, or if you are looking for a new genre in YA fiction I highly recommend Rex Rising. Go get it now!!
Rex Rising will keep you on the edge of your seat, trying to figure out what happened to Elei after the attack on his boss and why he is being chased by huge military fleets. Rex Rising has a lot of suspense and mystery that keeps you guessing who you can really trust until the very end.
What I like most about this book was the originality of the story and the well rounded, extremely likeable characters. Normally in YA adult fiction, the trend has been to go with paranormal characters like vampires, werewolves, and witches. Rex Rising provides a much needed break from the paranormal and takes you into a world where parasites can control humans and their actions. While I know parasites taking over humans has been done before in other science fiction books and movies, Thoma provides such an interesting take on it. I also liked that I didn't feel overwhelmed by all the scientific elements about the parasites. Thoma explains perfectly while you are reading the world around Elei so you are not starting off the book with long descriptions about the world.
The characters in Rex Rising are likeable because they seem real. Their reactions to situations are realistic, and instead of the trend of the whining main character that is full of teen angst we have a very strong, bad ass Elei who can kick the bad guys butt and then melt you heart in the same sentence. I honestly cannot wait to read Rex Cresting which is the sequel. Thoma has also published Hera which is the start of Hera's story for Rex Rising.
If you like science fiction, or if you are looking for a new genre in YA fiction I highly recommend Rex Rising. Go get it now!!
February 20, 2012
Rex Rising was like a delicious brew of mystery, suspension, and action. From the time I read the blurb I knew what kind of story I’d be venturing into, but I never would have thought it’d be a story so different from those of a similar concept. You’re thrown into this world Thoma so cleverly created from the very first sentence. In fact, not much information about the world or the various parasites is explained to you. However, while this seemed like a problem to me at first, Chrystalla Thoma, whether she’s aware she did it or not, has managed to deliver a rarity that is so rounded and artistic that while you’re reading you don’t even feel like you’re mentally there anymore.
The switch in POV between Elei (MC) and Hera didn’t seem to bother me as much as I thought it would. I think the key to it was that Chrystalla made sure to include the person’s name at least somewhere in the first paragraph when starting a new chapter or scene. I’ve read some books where I will read through a chapter, thinking its one character’s POV, when it’s actually another’s. And speaking of characters, I couldn’t get enough of Elei. Though you don’t get much about his appearances, his voice—the monologue—made him seem so real and defined. I love strong characters and don’t really have a tolerance for the whiny ones, so I’m thankful Chrystalla exceeded the urge most authors have to “elucidate” their characters “feelings”.
If there’s anything I love more than happy endings and best-friend love, it’s a good butt-kicking spy adventure. Though there are no spies, technically, in Rex Rising, Hera’s search to find Elei is nerve-wracking in that way when you know something bad is going to happen, but you just don’t know when. All the top-secret things, and the gadgets, and the guns—oh man, I was drooling for more.
Another great read for me this year, one I will definitely remember.
The switch in POV between Elei (MC) and Hera didn’t seem to bother me as much as I thought it would. I think the key to it was that Chrystalla made sure to include the person’s name at least somewhere in the first paragraph when starting a new chapter or scene. I’ve read some books where I will read through a chapter, thinking its one character’s POV, when it’s actually another’s. And speaking of characters, I couldn’t get enough of Elei. Though you don’t get much about his appearances, his voice—the monologue—made him seem so real and defined. I love strong characters and don’t really have a tolerance for the whiny ones, so I’m thankful Chrystalla exceeded the urge most authors have to “elucidate” their characters “feelings”.
If there’s anything I love more than happy endings and best-friend love, it’s a good butt-kicking spy adventure. Though there are no spies, technically, in Rex Rising, Hera’s search to find Elei is nerve-wracking in that way when you know something bad is going to happen, but you just don’t know when. All the top-secret things, and the gadgets, and the guns—oh man, I was drooling for more.
Another great read for me this year, one I will definitely remember.
March 27, 2013
This book is for the science fiction fans.
Elei is running away and being tracked at every moment. Unfortunately, he has also been shot. Even more unfortunate, the two parasites that coexist in him are fighting for control. Elei must look to complete strangers to help him.
Action is the best word to describe this book. From the opening chapter where the protagonist is on the run with a bullet hole in him, the action does not stop. He continues on through the whole book- almost forcefully pushing the action forward. It is a quick read as you feel like you are just keeping up with him as he continues to move the plot along. I would say compared to many of the books I have read recently, this book has very few main characters. It can be good and bad. Good: you don't have to learn more people and keep track of tons of people which leads to confusion. Bad: it made the plot towards the end a bit predictable because you were running out of people to suspect.
Being that this was science fiction- I thought I should comment on this. The premise of the novel is that there are parasites that have changed humans- one being stronger than the others creating a race of women that rule the rest. The author did seem to have a great grasp of what is plausible (this coming after a semester studying invertebrate zoology which made me never want to touch anything again). I thought it was nicely written and not to the point of grossing me out- which my class did day after day.
Elei is running away and being tracked at every moment. Unfortunately, he has also been shot. Even more unfortunate, the two parasites that coexist in him are fighting for control. Elei must look to complete strangers to help him.
Action is the best word to describe this book. From the opening chapter where the protagonist is on the run with a bullet hole in him, the action does not stop. He continues on through the whole book- almost forcefully pushing the action forward. It is a quick read as you feel like you are just keeping up with him as he continues to move the plot along. I would say compared to many of the books I have read recently, this book has very few main characters. It can be good and bad. Good: you don't have to learn more people and keep track of tons of people which leads to confusion. Bad: it made the plot towards the end a bit predictable because you were running out of people to suspect.
Being that this was science fiction- I thought I should comment on this. The premise of the novel is that there are parasites that have changed humans- one being stronger than the others creating a race of women that rule the rest. The author did seem to have a great grasp of what is plausible (this coming after a semester studying invertebrate zoology which made me never want to touch anything again). I thought it was nicely written and not to the point of grossing me out- which my class did day after day.
December 25, 2011
Rex Rising by Chrystalla Thoma is a unique YA fantasy/sci-fi book I stumbled upon on Facebook. I love books with male leads and the picture of this dashing young man with beautiful eyes and scales on his cheek simply intrigues me into making an impulse buy. It was a most satisfying purchase, I must say!
The protagonist, Elei, is a driver and bodyguard who lives in the backwater slumps called Ost. He was infected with two tough and oftentimes lethal parasites in his childhood, each keeping the other in check. The survival instincts of these parasites are so strong that they arm their host (Elei) with physical characteristics and abilities to protect him and hence, their home. This accounts for the scales on his cheek and part of his body, as well as the ability to sense danger and more. It is an interesting concept, the first I’ve come across, and quite credible in sci-fi fiction, and deftly handled by Ms Thoma.
When he first appeared in the book, he had just been shot, traumatised and fleeing from his attackers. He had witnessed the killing of his boss, a woman he looked to as a mother figure, his own having passed away when he was young. The pace doesn’t let up throughout the entire story as he meets help in unexpected places, and is driven to accomplish a seemingly impossible mission.
A spellbinding read. I very much look forward to its sequel!
The protagonist, Elei, is a driver and bodyguard who lives in the backwater slumps called Ost. He was infected with two tough and oftentimes lethal parasites in his childhood, each keeping the other in check. The survival instincts of these parasites are so strong that they arm their host (Elei) with physical characteristics and abilities to protect him and hence, their home. This accounts for the scales on his cheek and part of his body, as well as the ability to sense danger and more. It is an interesting concept, the first I’ve come across, and quite credible in sci-fi fiction, and deftly handled by Ms Thoma.
When he first appeared in the book, he had just been shot, traumatised and fleeing from his attackers. He had witnessed the killing of his boss, a woman he looked to as a mother figure, his own having passed away when he was young. The pace doesn’t let up throughout the entire story as he meets help in unexpected places, and is driven to accomplish a seemingly impossible mission.
A spellbinding read. I very much look forward to its sequel!
July 15, 2012
This book is very Dune meets invasion of the Body snactchers; sort of. Initially I was drawn by the cover, we know I am a Cover HO. The story did not disappoint; fast paced and thought provoking, Thoma has created a futuristic Sci-Fi Gem for young AND old alike with her Engrossingly descriptive style of writing.
We are immediately drawn into Elei's world; Who shot him? Why? Why is he on the run? Who is after him, again, Why? So many questions and Thoma keeps your attention and keeps you guessing until the very end; With just a few twists and turns along the way that surprised me!
Our story starts with Elei bleeding and on the run, controlled by dueling parasites that are at war with each other inside him. Thoma's concept of the "invading" but not always "deadly" parasites had me intrigued from the first page! I especially liked Cronion, he was the more terminator-esque parasite that would head smack Elei, from the inside. LOL! He kept Elei on his toes, literally.
The major concept of the story is that parasites not only make you sick (sometimes even killing the host) but give them enhanced abilities as well; special powers I guess you could say (Super Human!) as well as ruling their behavior. Add in the Dystopian society in which the Ruling Parasite (Gultar) are all female and what you have is a page turning, action packed, must read novel!
4/5 Quills guys.
We are immediately drawn into Elei's world; Who shot him? Why? Why is he on the run? Who is after him, again, Why? So many questions and Thoma keeps your attention and keeps you guessing until the very end; With just a few twists and turns along the way that surprised me!
Our story starts with Elei bleeding and on the run, controlled by dueling parasites that are at war with each other inside him. Thoma's concept of the "invading" but not always "deadly" parasites had me intrigued from the first page! I especially liked Cronion, he was the more terminator-esque parasite that would head smack Elei, from the inside. LOL! He kept Elei on his toes, literally.
The major concept of the story is that parasites not only make you sick (sometimes even killing the host) but give them enhanced abilities as well; special powers I guess you could say (Super Human!) as well as ruling their behavior. Add in the Dystopian society in which the Ruling Parasite (Gultar) are all female and what you have is a page turning, action packed, must read novel!
4/5 Quills guys.
April 30, 2012
In this world, parasites are (in a way) controlling humans and giving them various powers as well. Not only do they manipulate their human hosts the parasites are at war too, fighting over their human subjects. Regina (one of the parasites) controls the Gultar who have taken control of this society. They are a race of women who live in luxury while everyone else has to live in poverty.
Elei gets mixed up in an effort to bring the Gultar down. As a result, he goes through a lot of struggle and suffering.
I enjoyed this story. There are some fun twists. I was especially glued to the pages when more information came out about how these parasites work. The setting and how Elei grew up in poverty reminded me of the movie Slum Dog Millionaire. Overall, it has a gang-ish atmosphere, which I thought was cool. I also loved the author’s use of description. She has a way of vividly describing in a short amount of words without bogging down the story.
Looking forward to Rex Cresting.
Elei gets mixed up in an effort to bring the Gultar down. As a result, he goes through a lot of struggle and suffering.
I enjoyed this story. There are some fun twists. I was especially glued to the pages when more information came out about how these parasites work. The setting and how Elei grew up in poverty reminded me of the movie Slum Dog Millionaire. Overall, it has a gang-ish atmosphere, which I thought was cool. I also loved the author’s use of description. She has a way of vividly describing in a short amount of words without bogging down the story.
Looking forward to Rex Cresting.
November 29, 2011
I really enjoyed reading this book. The concept of using parasites was an original and fascinating idea. The characters were interesting and believable. The best part was how no one was "perfect". Everyone gets hurt and not every battle was won. I especially like Elei. He is a lot like a stray cat and it's funny to see him react to something like a hug.
While enjoyable, this book was hard to get into the beginning. Mainly because it was confusing. Too many things were happening (the author starts right away with the action!) and the parasites was not explained until a third of the book was done. However, once you get through it, everything becomes clear.
Pro: Action-packed, fun and believable characters, engaging and absorbing read
Con: confusing in the beginning
I would recommend this book to everyone (though you should be warned that the language is a bit crude), especially to sci-fi and fantasy fans. This book is joining my favorite's list!
Won in a giveaway in return for an honest review
While enjoyable, this book was hard to get into the beginning. Mainly because it was confusing. Too many things were happening (the author starts right away with the action!) and the parasites was not explained until a third of the book was done. However, once you get through it, everything becomes clear.
Pro: Action-packed, fun and believable characters, engaging and absorbing read
Con: confusing in the beginning
I would recommend this book to everyone (though you should be warned that the language is a bit crude), especially to sci-fi and fantasy fans. This book is joining my favorite's list!
Won in a giveaway in return for an honest review
November 2, 2012
Rex Rising by Crystalla Thoma, is the first instalment in a series titled Elei’s Chronicles, is a fast paced sci-fi where Elei is running for his life , after his boss and mother figure is murdered I an attack in front of his eyes.
The story is set in a future, where food and water is scarce and a race of women rule society with a heavy hand.
The people of this world are kept poor and almost destitute while the ruling race lives in luxury.
Elei holds the key to the future of this world, but this is unknown to him, as he desperately flees from his pursuers. He finds friendship along his journey and people willing to help him in his plight.
I found the book a great read and quite unique.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes intrigue, sci-fi and espionage, packed into a mysterious setting.
The story is set in a future, where food and water is scarce and a race of women rule society with a heavy hand.
The people of this world are kept poor and almost destitute while the ruling race lives in luxury.
Elei holds the key to the future of this world, but this is unknown to him, as he desperately flees from his pursuers. He finds friendship along his journey and people willing to help him in his plight.
I found the book a great read and quite unique.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes intrigue, sci-fi and espionage, packed into a mysterious setting.
October 9, 2015
Elei is on the run, and injured. It’s all very confusing in his own mind: he was protecting someone, who was assassinated as she left the flying machine he was driving. She had saved him from a dire fate. She had said something to him he didn’t understand. He knew he had to get out, to another island, away from the people who killed her.
For a lot of the book we are with Elei as he runs, trying to find the answer to a miniscule bit of information he was given. We learn as we go, but we also know we are being hunted. Thomas’s writing really gets you involved, and as I write this, I recall more the feelings than the actual plot. It is powerfully written, evoking both emotions and images – and I don’t remember reading an exciting story giving me such a strong sense of place for ages.
Highly recommended, and the first of a series, the Elei Chronicles, which I need to add to my TBR.
For a lot of the book we are with Elei as he runs, trying to find the answer to a miniscule bit of information he was given. We learn as we go, but we also know we are being hunted. Thomas’s writing really gets you involved, and as I write this, I recall more the feelings than the actual plot. It is powerfully written, evoking both emotions and images – and I don’t remember reading an exciting story giving me such a strong sense of place for ages.
Highly recommended, and the first of a series, the Elei Chronicles, which I need to add to my TBR.
November 2, 2011
What a great read. This quick science fiction book has everything from parasites (no- not a spoiler) to a "new" world and it also read likes a post-post apocalyptic dystopian. There is a lot of social commentary that comes through- none of it is "in your face" but it should get you thinking. The characters were flawed and believable. The pace was fast in some sections but slowed down enough in others to get some back-story.
I did catch on, about midway, to one of the twists but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment. I will be looking forward to the next part.
Recommended for YA and adults alike.
I did catch on, about midway, to one of the twists but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment. I will be looking forward to the next part.
Recommended for YA and adults alike.
October 11, 2011
The world created in Rex Rising is beautifully detailed and an interesting look at what could happen if mutant parasites changed humanity in some pretty amazing ways. The main character, Elei, shows that even in the darkest times, one person can make a difference. He manages to escape a ruthless enemy all while he battles forces attacking his body from within. There were questions left unanswered that begged for a sequel. If you enjoy character-driven peeks into a bizarre future, then Rex Rising may be just the read for you.
August 30, 2011
I really enjoyed the story because it pulled me in with its unique and detailed world, and its fleshed out characters. I liked that the story dealt with fascinating aspects of an interesting and well constructed society. Ms. Thoma writes with flare and momentum and I liked the twists and turns she took. Elei is a well drawn character, flawed and yet willing to do what he has to when it counts, and he's supported by an intriguing cast. I very much enjoyed being given a glimpse of
Dakru and the other islands and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Dakru and the other islands and I can't wait to see what happens next!
June 20, 2012
This book was really interesting. I've not read anything like it previously.
The main character, Elei, begins the book having been shot. His employer was also shot and presses a piece of paper with an address into his hand before dying. The story follows Elei's journey to the address where he meets the other characters and onwards. As well as escaping his pursuers, he has a battle of his own with warring parasites inside his body.
The book was well paced and kept my interest to the end. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
The main character, Elei, begins the book having been shot. His employer was also shot and presses a piece of paper with an address into his hand before dying. The story follows Elei's journey to the address where he meets the other characters and onwards. As well as escaping his pursuers, he has a battle of his own with warring parasites inside his body.
The book was well paced and kept my interest to the end. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
February 16, 2013
The good: the author has done a good job of world building and creating characters we care about. Her take on the parasites made for an interesting story line. The bad: while she uses some good adjectives, similes and metaphors, she throws them in every other sentence and it begins to feel ridiculous. The one character twist seemed both forced and you could see it coming chapters before the reveal. But all in all, the bits I didn't like seem like new author stumbles, so I will probably read the next book to see how she and the story progress. Great cover image by the way.
August 17, 2011
An original engaging read. A young man with the weight of the world inside him, struggling to understand and survive in a harsh, well-drawn world of cruelty and inhuman conditions, Elei will steal your heart, as will Kalaes, a guy who maintains his humanity just when you think things will never get better for Elei. The pace is relentless, the settings so fresh I know I’d stand in line to watch Rex Rising on a screen. I can’t wait for book two to release!
January 4, 2012
I know that I have read this in 2 parts but pretty good - I just got sidetracked by other book...
I like Elei and I really want to know what happens to him... So looking forward to the next one...
I like Elei and I really want to know what happens to him... So looking forward to the next one...
March 16, 2012
Read this at a family picnic and couldn't put it down.
April 4, 2012
I good action story with the hint of possible future romance
February 6, 2013
I loved it.
Great world building.
Lots of fun.
Great world building.
Lots of fun.
tbr-later
November 5, 201516 March 2015: $0.00 FREE on Kindle
May 4, 2020
This book has a wonderfully original plot, and it's left me dying to know what happens next. Its fast-paced storyline never leaves you bored, and the use of parasites as a core societal development trigger is fascinating.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews