Fires of Eden

Dan Simmons

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Who Would Like This Book:

This book is a wild ride blending Hawaiian mythology, volcanic terror, and a touch of humor - all set against the lush, vividly described backdrop of the Big Island. If you love learning about unique places, appreciate clever historical cameos (hello, Mark Twain!), or just want a campy, fast-paced thriller with a dash of the supernatural, you'll probably have a blast. Fans of B-movie horror, witty horror-thrillers, or anyone craving an imaginative vacation to Hawaii will find lots to enjoy.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you're looking for world-class literature or the deep, chilling suspense of Simmons's more famous works, this one might disappoint. Some readers found the story a bit silly, the villain over-the-top, and the attempts at mixing humor and horror unsuccessful. The action stays in a small setting and can feel claustrophobic or repetitive. If historical accuracy or a believable, serious tone are musts for you, you may want to skip it.

A fun, campy horror adventure with loads of Hawaiian flair - but best for readers who don’t mind a little pulp and playfulness along the way.

About:

'Fires of Eden' by Dan Simmons is a thrilling tale set in Hawaii, where a multi-millionaire tries to sell his resort to Japanese businessmen, only to face the wrath of ancient Hawaiian deities. The story intertwines two narratives - one involving the current events at the resort with missing guests and strange occurrences, and the other through journal entries from the past detailing the encounters of a young Samuel Clemens with similar horrors. The writing style combines elements of thriller, humor, and historical references, creating a fast-paced and engaging storyline with a touch of campiness.

Characters:

Characters range from relatable protagonists to exaggerated villains, providing a mix of depth and caricature.

Writing/Prose:

While detailed and researched, the writing sometimes lapses into a less refined style, affecting the overall impact of the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative intertwines modern events at a Hawaiian resort with historical accounts involving gods and supernatural elements, featuring a mix of thrilling and humorous situations.

Setting:

The vivid Hawaiian setting plays a crucial role in the narrative, enhancing the atmosphere while grounding the mythological elements.

Pacing:

The story moves quickly through action and events, though some readers felt the pacing occasionally led to monotony.

E Pele e! The milky way turns. E Pele e! The night changes. E Pele e! The red glow is on the island. E Pele e! The red dawn breaks. E Pele e! Shadows are cast by the sunlight. E Pele e! The sound of r...

Notes:

The book involves extensive research on Hawaiian mythology, including gods, goddesses, and demons.

The plot features two erupting volcanoes and a character experiencing events recorded in a diary from the 1860s.

Mark Twain makes an appearance in the narrative, providing a humorous historical perspective.

The setting for the story is mostly confined to Hawaii's Big Island, which is about 93 miles wide.

Characters include a college professor, a prize-winning vacationer, and a hotel owner trying to sell his resort.

The action includes quirky events involving a shark, a pig, and a dog.

The story is described as a thriller that combines horror and farce, though some readers found it neither scary nor funny.

Some reviewers noted the writing style as 'pulpish' and questioned the depth of Simmons' research effectiveness.

The character of the villain is depicted as a comic relief resembling a 'Trump wannabe'.

Overall, the book is considered entertaining but not on par with Simmons' works like 'The Terror'.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Warnings include scenes involving horror elements, violence, and themes of greed.

From The Publisher:

Billionaire Byron Trumbo wants to sell his posh Hawaiian resort to a Japanese investor but must make it appear prosperous while the deal is being struck.

Due to the high prices, guests have been scarce. Unfortunately, they are becoming even scarcer as someone or something is kidnapping and murdering them. Drawn by the sketchy news accounts, Eleanor Perry has come to Mauna Pele on a sort of pilgrimage, using her aunt Kidder's 1866 travel diary as a guidebook.

The events Kidder chronicled-tales of demons conjured up to rid the island of missionaries-seem to parallel the current events. As volcanoes erupt and vengeful gods and demons become more violent, Eleanor and her fellow guest, the indomitable Cordie Stumpf, attempt to get to the bottom of things.

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Fires of Eden

Dan Simmons

Who Would Like This Book:

Who May Not Like This Book:

About:

Characters:

Writing/Prose:

Plot/Storyline:

Setting:

Pacing:

Genres:

Tropes/Plot Devices:

Topics:

Notes:

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

From The Publisher:

Reader Stats (1):

What can you read after
Fires of Eden?

Fires of Eden

Dan Simmons

Who Would Like This Book:

Who May Not Like This Book:

About:

Characters:

Writing/Prose:

Plot/Storyline:

Setting:

Pacing:

Genres:

Tropes/Plot Devices:

Topics:

Notes:

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

From The Publisher:

Reader Stats (1):

What can you read after Fires of Eden?

What can you read after
Fires of Eden?