Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
30(30%)
4 stars
44(44%)
3 stars
26(26%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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To perhaps isn't a bad book... But I have already read so many better ones.

It is rather short, so it's not a big investment. However, there is a feeling that the world is built on something more, but I don't see that it's part of some series - well, unless the worlds of the Iron are somehow loosely connected with each other.

Still, it is one of the few books maintained in the climate of "ancient sci-fi", so all in all it was pleasant to pick up. "Lord of the Light" is much better!

This book has its own charm, despite not being the absolute best. The short length makes it a quick read, which can be a plus for those who don't have a lot of time.

The idea of a world with something more lurking beneath the surface is interesting, even if it's not fully explored.

And while it may not be part of a larger series, it still manages to create a unique atmosphere.

Overall, it's an okay read that has its moments, but it doesn't quite reach the level of some of the greats in the sci-fi genre.
July 15,2025
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The text seems to convey a sense of confusion. It says that when looking at the parts separately, they make sense, but when considering the whole, one can't even step back and say what they have read. It was interesting. This might suggest that the individual components have some level of coherence on their own, but when combined, the overall meaning becomes somewhat elusive or perhaps requires a deeper analysis. It could be that the relationships between the parts are not immediately clear, or that there are hidden connections that need to be uncovered. Maybe the author is trying to make a point about the complexity of understanding and how sometimes, even when we think we understand the parts, the bigger picture can still elude us.

July 15,2025
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I still am not sure what I actually read. It seems that the words on the page just flew by my eyes without really sinking in. Maybe I was too distracted, or perhaps the content was just too complex for me to fully understand at the moment.


As I try to recall the details, only a few fragmented images and concepts come to mind. I wonder if I should go back and read it again more carefully, taking my time to analyze each sentence and paragraph. But then again, I'm not sure if that would really make a difference.


Maybe I need to find a better way to approach reading, something that will help me stay focused and engaged. Or perhaps I just need to accept that sometimes, we don't fully understand everything we read on the first try. Either way, I know that I need to keep working on my reading skills if I want to improve my understanding and knowledge.

July 15,2025
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Although there are a plethora of truly imaginative elements within this novel that I absolutely adore,

Zelazny's storytelling fails to completely resonate with me. However, the writing is so richly dense with allusions that perhaps I overlooked something or became overly engrossed in following the trail of references.

Either way, I firmly believe that books such as this one, along with Vance's Dying Earth, truly laid the foundation for Wolfe's Book of the New Sun. As I have repeatedly stated, it is my "book of gold," primarily due to the manner in which it constructs layers of meaning and mystery by relying on mythological allusions, unreliable narration, and so forth.

In This Immortal, the complete narrative of Earth during Conrad's (our narrator) time unfolds in a complex manner, and it is delightful to encounter details that enable readers to envision the science underlying the fantasy elements of spider bats, satyrs, and vampire god-icons.

Essentially, Zelazny primes us to imagine the genealogy of an Earth transformed by nuclear folly back into a world of myth. It also features several action sequences that are nothing short of cinematic and truly entertaining.

The most favorable thing I can assert about Zelazny is that every time I peruse his works, I feel inspired to envision and create.
July 15,2025
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This work is truly a remarkable piece.

It is full of post-apocalyptic drama that immediately grabs the reader's attention and takes them on a thrilling journey through a world that has been devastated by some unknown cataclysm.

However, what really sets it apart is the unexpected amount of humor that is interspersed throughout the story. The author has a deft touch when it comes to adding lighthearted moments that relieve the tension and make the reader smile.

Overall, it is definitely a better Hugo winner than I initially expected. In fact, it tied with Dune, which is no small feat. This work is a must-read for anyone who loves science fiction, post-apocalyptic stories, or just a good laugh.

It combines elements of drama, humor, and adventure in a way that is both engaging and entertaining. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great read.
July 15,2025
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Really good, Zelazny swashbuckling and brilliant as usual.

His works always manage to capture the reader's attention from the very beginning. The vivid descriptions and fast-paced action make it impossible to put the book down.

Zelazny has a unique way of creating characters that are both complex and engaging. You can't help but root for them as they face various challenges and obstacles.

Whether it's a thrilling adventure in a far-off land or a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, Zelazny's writing never disappoints.

He is truly a master of his craft, and his books are a must-read for any fan of science fiction or fantasy.

If you haven't read any of his works yet, I highly recommend that you do so. You won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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I rather don't like science fiction.

When it comes to my mind, what is written is just that.

Good ideas, but what about the essence?

Science fiction often presents us with imaginative and futuristic concepts, but sometimes it seems to lack depth and substance.

It may focus too much on the external trappings and technological wonders without delving into the deeper human emotions and experiences.

Sure, it can be exciting and entertaining, but does it really offer us something more?

Maybe I'm being too critical, but I believe that for science fiction to truly have an impact, it needs to go beyond the surface and explore the profound questions of our existence.

Only then can it become a genre that not only entertains but also启迪 and enriches our lives.

July 15,2025
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I have read this book countless times, and still I love it!

Nomikos, how old are you?

This captivating tale takes us on a wild and thrilling ride through a post-nuclear war earth. The world has been not only ravaged by the horrors of war but also by the invasion of an alien species.

Nomikos is truly the star of this show. He moves slowly, biding his time until the moment to act arrives. Even Hassan the Assassin, a fearsome figure in his own right, trembles at the thought of the hard hands of Nomikos!

Nomikos has performed incredible feats. He broke an alien bat's neck with ease and then fell hundreds of feet, yet he managed to survive all the ravages of this harsh and unforgiving world. Despite all the hardships, he still fights valiantly for his fellow human-beings, never losing hope.

This is action at its most cerebral and engaging best. I would wholeheartedly encourage any reader of any age to hop on this wild ride and discover what fate has in store for "This Immortal"!!

Zelazny is truly a frigging rock-star! His writing is masterful, drawing the reader in and keeping them on the edge of their seat from start to finish.
July 15,2025
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I was really wondering whether to give this book a three or a four.

When comparing it with other Zelazny's books, it is indeed a three.

The whole book represents one big mediocrity. And when you read Zelazny, you are not used to mediocrities.

That's exactly why it's a three.

The idea is good, the book is written solidly, but it's nothing more than that. It lacks that extra spark, that something special that would make it stand out among his other works. There are moments that are interesting and engaging, but overall, it doesn't quite reach the level that we have come to expect from Zelazny. Maybe it's because our expectations are so high, but still, this book just doesn't quite measure up.
July 15,2025
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I read Zelazny for the first time. His power of observation is very good. Identifying the future fiction with a Helen planet is also original.

Here and there, the characters and the plot structure are overly complicated, but I can say that it is a decent science fiction text for "This Immortal".

Zelazny's writing style is quite unique. He manages to create a vivid and imaginative world that draws the reader in.

The story of "This Immortal" is full of twists and turns, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.

Although some parts may be a bit hard to follow, overall, it is a very interesting and engaging read.

I look forward to reading more of Zelazny's works in the future.
July 15,2025
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Alêthôs anestê!

This ancient Greek phrase holds a profound meaning. It can be translated as "truly risen" or "indeed awakened."

In a spiritual or philosophical context, it implies a state of enlightenment or a newfound awareness.

When we say "Alêthôs anestê," we are perhaps referring to a moment of profound transformation within ourselves.

It could be the awakening of our true selves, the realization of our deepest desires and purposes.

This phrase also has a certain power and energy associated with it.

It can inspire us to break free from the limitations of our old ways of thinking and being, and to embrace a new way of life.

Alêthôs anestê! Let us strive for this state of awakening in our own lives, and may it bring us greater joy, peace, and fulfillment.

July 15,2025
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I have no idea why Hugo was awarded in 1966 to this novel, at tie with Frank Herbert's Dune. It's truly a mystery to me.

This was the very reason for which I wanted to read it in the first place. I was curious to find out what made this novel worthy of such a prestigious award.

However, I guess my expectations were too high. I had read Dune first, and perhaps that set a very high standard for me. Maybe that's why I was not too delighted by it. The story might not have lived up to the expectations I had formed based on the award and my prior reading experience.

Nonetheless, I still think it's important to give every book a fair chance and try to understand its unique qualities and contributions. Maybe upon a second reading or a different perspective, I might be able to appreciate this novel more fully.
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