Book Review: Dark Sands (The Darkworlds Saga, #1) by J.S. Harman
From the moment I heard about Dark Sands, I felt a magnetic pull toward it. A sci-fi horror debut promising both imagination and ambition? Count me in! J.S. Harman graciously gifted me an ARC, and I can’t express my gratitude enough. Rest assured, though, this review is a reflection of my genuine thoughts—no strings attached!
As a devoted fan of sci-fi and horror, I’m always on the lookout for that exquisite blend of tension and existential dread. I’ve devoured works like Annihilation, Paradise-1, and The Luminous Dead, and with great enthusiasm, I can comfortably place Dark Sands in the same thrilling company. It offers an enchanting exploration of new worlds and the dark shadows that loom over them.
At the heart of this narrative is Tarlo, an introverted scientist battling imposter syndrome among a crew of elite explorers. His journey is not just about discovering and terraforming the planet Cahros; it’s about self-discovery amid the chaos of the unknown. The supporting cast is a beautifully crafted mix of personalities, from a cold yet caring doctor to a brusque veteran and an adventurous explorer—each embodying unique facets of human resilience and tension.
The pacing of Dark Sands is deliberate but rewarding. While it takes a bit for the drama to erupt (approximately 28% into the book, as per my Kindle), once it gets going, hold onto your hats! The tension escalates rapidly, and just as you think you’ve got a handle on the mystery—a “thing” emerging from the sand—the story expands into even deeper layers of intrigue. The atmosphere is thick with uncertainty, a web of doubt and panic beautifully portrayed through the characters’ actions. Harman has excelled in making their responses feel authentic, often eliciting a sense of discomfort that kept me on edge.
One of my favorite moments was discovering journal entries that unravel key plot points; that heart-sinking feeling as a truth dawns is simply unparalleled. It’s these touches that deepen the reading experience and keep us rooted in the characters’ turmoil.
Tarlo and Ashelyn emerged as standout characters for me. Tarlo’s adorably awkward nature is endearing, and Ashelyn’s relatable humanity makes their interactions feel genuine. The slow burn of their relationship is handled seamlessly, making me invested in their evolving dynamic without diminishing the story’s primary focus on exploration and survival. And can we talk about Terrus as well? What a legend! I wouldn’t mind seeing him pair up with Tarlo either—Harman has crafted a versatile relational landscape.
J.S. Harman has poured his heart and soul into Dark Sands, and the result is a masterful setup for the continuation of this saga. As I eagerly await the sequel, Dark Tides, set to release next year, I can’t shake the excitement for what’s next in this thrilling universe.
For fans of atmospheric sci-fi horror, Dark Sands is a must-read. If you relish tales steeped in mystery and character-driven narratives, this book is bound to resonate with you, leaving that delicious tingling sensation of anticipation long after you turn the last page. It certainly affected me—I’m already itching to dive back into that world!
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