Beneath a Fractured Sky - A Deep Dive Review

by J.P. Silverwood (Author)

Updated at: 19/02/2025

Journey to 20,000 B.C. in J.P. Silverwood's Beneath a Fractured Sky, the first installment of a captivating young adult fantasy series. When a celestial event shatters the earth, unleashing ancient evils, young hunter Kaya finds herself thrust into a desperate fight for survival. Guided by mysterious visions and pursued by the ruthless Morak, Kaya must embrace her destiny and heal a fractured world. This illustrated epic blends prehistoric settings with high-stakes magic and thrilling action, creating a unique coming-of-age story rich in world-building and unforgettable characters. Fans of prehistoric fantasy like Clan of the Cave Bear will be captivated by Kaya's journey, a breathtaking adventure where the choices of one young woman ripple across time.

Beneath a Fractured Sky: A Fantasy Fiction Series of Ancient Worlds, Epic Adventures, and a Legendary Destiny (Dawn of the Ancestors - Young Adult Fantasy Fiction Series)

5 / 9 ratings

Review Beneath a Fractured Sky

"Beneath a Fractured Sky" completely captivated me! It's one of those books that whisks you away to another world, and I honestly didn't want the journey to end. J.P. Silverwood's descriptive writing painted such a vivid picture of this ancient, fantastical land – I could practically feel the damp earth beneath my feet in the lush Elaria Valley and smell the scent of the forests. The world-building is truly exceptional; it felt so real, so lived-in, that I found myself completely immersed in the Lirana tribe's daily life and deeply invested in their connection to the land and its spiritual force, Gaia.

Kaya, our protagonist, is a fantastic character. She’s strong, brave, and fiercely loyal to her people, but also vulnerable and relatable. Watching her grow and develop throughout the story, facing both internal and external challenges, was incredibly rewarding. The way Silverwood portrays her connection to nature and her coming-of-age journey is both authentic and inspiring. She’s not just a typical fantasy heroine; she's complex and nuanced, with believable flaws and strengths.

The plot itself is wonderfully engaging. The premise – a fractured earth, ancient secrets, and a destiny spanning millennia – is inherently captivating. The blend of prehistoric fantasy and the subtle sci-fi elements introduced by Ethan, the boy from the future, added an unexpected layer of intrigue that kept me guessing. I loved the way the author skillfully wove together the threads of their interconnected destinies, creating a thrilling sense of mystery and anticipation. There's a perfect balance between action-packed sequences and quieter, more introspective moments that allowed me to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

While the pacing did slow down at times, particularly during the more descriptive passages detailing the world, I didn't mind. These moments were integral to building the immersive atmosphere and appreciating the richness of the setting. In fact, I found the detailed descriptions to be a strength, rather than a weakness, contributing to the overall feeling of immersion. The vivid imagery, coupled with the emotional depth of the characters, made even the slower parts feel worthwhile. I was particularly impressed by the skillful way Silverwood incorporated both the mystical and the practical aspects of Kaya's world, creating a believable and engaging whole.

The ending, although leaving me wanting more (naturally!), was perfectly executed. It left me with a sense of satisfaction while simultaneously fueling my eagerness to dive into the next book in the series. The cliffhanger was expertly done, leaving me with plenty of questions and a burning desire to find out what happens next. Overall, "Beneath a Fractured Sky" is a must-read for young adult fantasy fans, particularly those who appreciate richly imagined worlds, compelling characters, and epic adventures. It's a truly unforgettable read.