Fires of Eden by dan simmons

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

It is quite nice indeed. However, when it comes to 8-eyed pigs that eat souls, I seem to have a strange weakness. I find myself inexplicably drawn to such奇特的 creatures. There is something about them that intrigues me deeply. Maybe it's the mystery surrounding their existence and their unusual abilities. The thought of an 8-eyed pig devouring souls is both terrifying and fascinating at the same time. It makes me wonder what kind of world these creatures inhabit and what their purpose might be. Despite the fact that it sounds rather荒诞, I can't help but be a sucker for these 8-eyed pigs that eat souls.

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TheBingusing

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This was my second reading of this novel.

It takes place in the beautiful and enchanting Hawaii.

My first reading had such a profound impact on me that it made me yearn to visit the islands.

Therefore, in anticipation of my upcoming visit, I decided to reread it.

The novel is rather interesting, especially if you have a penchant for Hawaiian mythology.

It features elements such as dogs with human teeth and giant talking pigs, which add a touch of奇幻 and excitement.

However, I must admit that I won't be reading it for a third time.

Although it has its merits, it's not that outstanding to warrant multiple readings.

Nonetheless, it has served its purpose in whetting my appetite for my visit to Hawaii and giving me a taste of the unique mythology and culture of the islands.

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TheGreatHako

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Polynesia is a really interesting part of the earth. There are nearly a hundred islands, each with its own mythology and pantheon. Only the Hawaiian or Sandwich Islands are 24 (by the way, let's not confuse Hawaii with Haiti, the two are even in different oceans). Some time ago, I was immersed in part of the mythology, mainly related to their shark gods, and it turns out that Simmons is indebted in the mythology next to their largest volcano. The differences are simply immeasurable.

Somehow I couldn't feel that love of Simmons for classical literature being transferred to the little-known mythology of Kilauea. I would even speculate that the main idea put in the second plot line with Mark Twain and then added the modern one to connect things with Elm Haven.

Anyway.

Elenor is a professor at a university and has chosen a rather strange place for vacation. A resort of an extravagant millionaire where a series of mysterious disappearances of people occur. The motive is also an old diary of her great-grandmother, in which the mystical adventures of the same place more than a century ago are described. Together with her new friend Cordy Stumpf, they will delve deep into the world of the island's mythology (literally) to save the island and maybe the world.

The second plot line runs in the epistolary form of the aforementioned diary, where Mrs. Stuart gets to know a young journalist - Samuel Clemens and has to face the underground world of the volcanic island in person.

In the book, there is also an extravagant and breakthrough millionaire who is modeled after Trump even before he became president (after all, it was published in 1994) and I can say that it has aged quite well. He manages to turn a rather engaging horror story into a horror comedy. There are lightly touched on quite a few of the problems of Hawaii, both in the 19th century and today. There is also quite a bit of science about volcanoes, which is a plus for an old fan of fantasy who likes to learn something new with each read book. And of course, quite a bit of mythology.

Cordy Cook was very likable to me even in "The Summer of Fear" and I'm glad that 40 years later she is still the strongest character of the girls there. She even manages to almost steal the main role from under the feet of Elenor, which is a bonus as the professor is boring.

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LunaNoodle

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Must read if you've read Summer of Night.

It is truly a captivating piece that stands on its own merits. Even if you haven't delved into the world of Summer of Night, this book is still an absolute gem. It has the power to transport you to a different realm, filled with mystery, excitement, and heart-pounding moments. The story unfolds in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover what lies ahead. The characters are vividly drawn, each with their own unique personalities and backstories that add depth and complexity to the narrative. The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, making it easy to lose yourself in the story. Whether you're a fan of horror, mystery, or just a good read, this book is sure to satisfy. So don't miss out on this wonderful literary experience.

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VendettaJake

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I'm starting my reading adventure in 2021 with a really great horror novel. For a while, I have to admit to myself that the Hawaiian pantheon seemed a bit overdone to me, and thus the rating started to lean towards 4. However, the final scenes made me thrill with excitement and with a clear conscience, I awarded a 4.5.

Dan Simmons once again demonstrates in-depth research and preparation. The two storylines - from the past and the present - perfectly complemented each other. And the traditional insertion of real historical personalities in the author's books, in this case - Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was an additional enjoyable bonus.

This novel not only kept me on the edge of my seat with its spine-chilling horror elements but also provided a fascinating exploration of different time periods and historical figures. It was a truly engaging read that I would highly recommend to any horror enthusiast or lover of historical fiction.

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omelette_sama

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This Hawaiian adventure was truly one of the outstanding spin-offs from Summer of Night.

Cordie Cooke's description, although bordering on the outright grotesque, didn't diminish her likability. In fact, she seemed even more charming than in her initial appearance. There's just something about her bluntness that is endearing.

I particularly enjoyed the way Simmons wove in the historical aspect of Mark Twain's visit to Hawaii through Aunt Kidder's journal entries. It added a fascinating layer to the story.

The adventure was full of excitement, and with the cameo appearance of Mike O'Rourke, it made for a thoroughly enjoyable read. Basing the story on Hawaiian mythology made it even more unique. Despite the presence of giant pigs, sharks, and volcano eruptions, it made me long to visit Hawaii again.

This is a fun and summery adventure that is a welcome addition to Simmons' diverse bibliography. Simmons is undeniably talented, but he truly excels in the historical sections. Summer of Night

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blndwtch

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

A truly outstanding fantasy-horror novel is set in the beautiful yet mysterious land of Hawaii. It delves deep into the rich mythology and complex history of the region, both before and after the American occupation. The story weaves a captivating mystery, with a fanciful and imaginative supernatural backdrop that adds an extra layer of intrigue. The real suspenseful horror elements are so well-crafted that they had me constantly turning the pages, eager to discover what would happen next.

Moreover, Simmons employs one of his favorite literary devices by introducing one of his beloved writers as a character. In this instance, it is the renowned Mark Twain. This unique addition not only adds a touch of authenticity but also creates an interesting connection between the fictional world and the real literary great.

Highly recommended for those who have a passion for both Simmons' historical fantasy works like Olympos and his pure horror masterpieces such as Carrion Comfort. This novel is truly first rate and is sure to leave readers enthralled and satisfied.

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Rust_Cohle

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Just now, I read a short review and noticed that I have also read this novel - although a long time ago - and have not yet entered it on GR.

There are two levels, both of which are set in Hawaii, especially the main island. In the past level, the protagonist is Samuel Longhorn Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. In the present, it is a terminally ill elderly woman who wants to spend her last days here. Both have fantastic events that are based on Hawaiian mythology. In the present, it is also about the threats to these paradisiacal islands. And of course, the volcanoes also play a role.

I was fascinated by the exoticism and Simmons is indeed a very good storyteller. I remember the novel as a mostly exciting read. It's not Simmons' best novel, I liked others better, but it's still good entertainment.

Overall, this novel offers an interesting combination of history, mythology, and current events, set in the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii. It's a book that can transport readers to another world and keep them engaged from beginning to end.

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Seasons of Horror #3

Fires of Eden

dan simmons

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