The Dark Crystal (The Adventures of Xanthus Book 1)

I was given an ecopy of The Dark Crystal (The Adventures of Xanthus Book 1) by Francis Mills for review.

The Dark Crystal  is a light fantasy adventure. Although it deals with a heavy theme, it still reads as a light adventure. We have good and bad guys, some who want to rule the world (there is always somebody who wants to rule the world, right?)

The Dark Crystal is the first installment of the Adventures of Xanthus trilogy. At only 118 pages it is a quick fun read. The story is set up fairly well for continuation in the next two books. The story line is not all that complicated, generally a quest tale. For the most part I would say The Dark Crystal  has good middle grade or YA appeal.  The problem with that classification however is the adult oriented part of the story.

While the quest has been well established, the story seems to evolve into a sex fest (not a problem for me, in case you were wondering). The sexual activity is not a problem in itself, but the way it is presented is. We have two very passionate (read: horny) characters, yet when they do get together we don't feel the passion. The action is graphic but in a more clinical way. More like a report of what the characters did than allowing the reader to feel the passion of the moment. I just didn't get caught up in the action.

I did enjoy The Dark Crystal  by Francis Mills over all. It is not an epic story full of twists and turns and plot complications. But that is okay it doesn't have to be. It is a good, quick, light, fun read. But as is, it is an adult read. Not a bad way to spend a couple of hours. Enjoy!

Mike