Review of Still the Sun by Charlie N. Holmberg: A Journey Into the Unknown
There’s something inherently thrilling about discovering a new realm through the pages of a book, and when I stumbled across Charlie N. Holmberg’s Still the Sun, it felt like diving headfirst into a world crafted perfectly for my imagination. Having enjoyed Holmberg’s previous works, particularly the enchanting Paper Magician series, I was excited to experience her unique storytelling in an audio format, which was a first for me. My curiosity was piqued, and I couldn’t wait to venture into the steampunk-inspired landscapes she had conjured.
The narrative introduces us to Pell, an engineer residing on the sun-drenched planet of Tampere, where daytime reigns eternal, complemented only by the occasional mist. This setting instantly captivated me—it’s such a vivid contrast to our familiar night-and-day cycle. Pell’s quest to solve the mysteries surrounding her village, Emgarden, and the enigmatic tower looming nearby provides a rich backdrop. Holmberg’s trademark flair for world-building shines here, as we navigate through themes of discovery, technology, and the bonds of community.
However, I must confess that my initial journey into this tale was a bit bumpy. The early chapters present a substantial info dump about the technologies and machines that power Pell’s world—something I found myself zoning out on at times. It felt like I was wading through technical jargon that, while insightful, occasionally slowed the narrative’s momentum. I would have preferred a gentler introduction to some of these concepts, as Holmberg clearly knows her stuff, and the details definitely enrich the story.
As Pell embarks on her mission to repair the ancient machinery—protected by the intriguing figures of Heartwood and Moseus—the story begins to pick up speed. The plot twist that occurs later in the narrative genuinely took me by surprise, reflecting Holmberg’s adeptness at weaving complexity into her narrative fabric. Additionally, the slow-building romance is both sweet and organic, marking a lovely contrast to the more harrowing elements Pell faces.
One memorable aspect of the book that resonated deeply with me was Pell’s continued struggle with her identity and the haunting visions she experiences. It elicited a sense of empathy as we see her grapple with the duality of her role as a savior and her own self-doubt. Holmberg skillfully brings Pell’s internal conflicts to life, inviting readers to cheer on her journey toward self-discovery.
The pacing undeniably improved after the initial chapters, leading to an ending that, while resolved, has me wondering if there’s more to come in this narrative universe. The sign of a true storyteller lies in their ability to leave readers yearning for more, and Holmberg succeeds beautifully in this regard.
I wholeheartedly recommend Still the Sun to those who appreciate inventive world-building intertwined with elements of mystery and romance. It could be particularly enjoyable for readers who love steampunk or those who revel in stories about the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of an extraordinary setting. For me, this unique experience with an audiobook has not only deepened my appreciation for Holmberg’s artistry but also piqued my curiosity for the audio format, leading to a refreshing adventure that lingered long after the last chapter. As I reflect on Pell’s journey, I find a delightful warmth in the story that stays with me, a reminder of how compelling storytelling can transport us, even when it starts with a little bit of turbulence.