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Seraphim George's avatar

I’ve read all seven installments now, and it’s one of the most distinctive things I’ve come across in a while. The voice of Maglibenot, the so-called Tea Slave, is unforgettable. He comes across as funny, unsettling, and strangely tender. The world of Palatiparvu feels completely alive, full of invented history and political absurdity that somehow feels true in today's world and in my own country (I'm in the US). The writing is rich and deliberate, every sentence loaded with rhythm and irony.

If I had one critique, it’s that the prose can get a little heavy at times (like the long title, which, to be honest, almost made me not read it.... ), and the story slows under its own weight at certain spots, but that’s a small thing compared to how immersive and original the series is. I also want to say that it gets better over time, like you definitely got more comfortable in the story as you went on. If you ever wanted to publish this as a finished novel, I think a new title would be helpful. over and out.

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Andrew Wilson's avatar

Thanks very much! I really appreciate your taking the time to read and share your very generous reaction. I am going to keep all of your thoughts in mind, esp regarding weight. Its so meaningful to me to have a reader as careful and sharp as you review my work. I really thank you for giving it your time.

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Seraphim George's avatar

You’re welcome! I do really enjoy it. Are you planning on maybe producing a book when you’re done with it?

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Andrew Wilson's avatar

You know honestly…ugh. That seems like a lot of work. Isn't that a funny thing to say? But my god…margins, binding, Jesus help me

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Seraphim George's avatar

Well, I'm not Jesus (though thinking I'm basically God incarnate has been known to be a problem of mine... ), but I'd be happy to help you if you ever get to that point. I run a publishing imprint and do Comms for an organization that publishes books (non fiction, though, so outside our world) and I design, edit, and format all of them. I also did so with all of my own independent books (which you can see at www.seraphimgeorge.com), so I know what's up. I'm great at editing, and I think I have a pretty good eye for design. I'd be happy to help you for free should you come to that. Im good at giving advice. Just not at taking it. ;)

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Sandra Hardie's avatar

Attention, even negative attention, shows you are actually alive and seen. Little kids understand this from an early age. Some people never outgrow that need. Sometimes they even grow up to be President,

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Andrew Wilson's avatar

Haha YES, I’ve heard that sometimes, in very lucky places, that exact thing can happen :)

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Alex Shifman's avatar

The particular, exultant voice of your narrator is so specific.

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Andrew Wilson's avatar

Thank you for putting it so precisely. That’s a better description than I could have given! It’s really a thrill to see someone read and read with care after I worked so hard on it.

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Alex Shifman's avatar

It’s become one of the things I consistently look forward to on here.

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Andrew Wilson's avatar

That's very kind. I couldn't ask for anything more

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