A fast-paced, gritty journey with a unique mix of the supernatural and realism, as an elite squad try to protect what’s left of their lives.
Evolution of Vision: The Power of Sight by Robert Andrew Sturm centers around the “Four Shadows of Light”—Nicolaus, Akari, María, and Dodge—an elite squad with powerful abilities that go beyond regular military skills. Tensions escalate as they face external enemies and internal struggles tied to painful pasts. The stakes feel personal and high, as the team battles not only for survival but to unravel the secrets behind their abilities.
Sturm delivers action in spades, from the explosive opening mission to intense one-on-one combat scenes, all vividly described. Each character is distinct and engaging, with motivations that feel genuine, especially María’s journey in dealing with her mother’s legacy and her unexpected powers. The book doesn’t shy away from the darker realities of their world, giving the story a sense of grit and realism that is both compelling and poignant. Readers get the sense that there’s more to each character than just their combat abilities—loyalty, love, and loss are woven into every action they take. Additionally, the supernatural layer adds depth and intrigue, as their powers hint at a larger destiny that makes the reader curious about the full story behind their abilities.
While the action is intense and the pacing fast, the transitions between scenes can sometimes feel abrupt, particularly when moving from action to introspection. This can make it challenging to fully settle into quieter moments before being pulled back into the thick of battle. The antagonistic forces, like the UFE and GREC, are intriguing, but they lack some depth and motivation. I also struggled a little with the backstory of the Divine powers; introduced in bits and pieces, I found it hard to synthesize it all. A more cohesive integration could strengthen the narrative flow. That said, I still raced through this book and enjoyed it immensely.
I’d give this book 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a captivating read for those who enjoy tactical action mixed with the supernatural. For readers drawn to military thrillers with a twist or stories that explore the tension between duty and personal legacy, Evolution of Vision: The Power of Sight is well worth diving into. Just be prepared for some intense scenes and a story that doesn’t hold back on exploring the complexities of its characters.
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