Review of Dark Sands (The Darkworlds Saga, #1)
By J.S. Harman
As I dove into Dark Sands, J.S. Harman’s ambitious debut, I was instantly hooked. I mean, how could I resist a tale that marries the eerie allure of horror with the expansive possibilities of sci-fi? This book was gifted to me as an ARC, and I’m thrilled to share that it didn’t just meet my expectations—it soared beyond them. If you’re a fan of atmospheric narratives like Annihilation, Paradise-1, or The Luminous Dead, then Dark Sands is definitely a ride you want to strap in for.
We follow the journey of Tarlo, an introverted scientist grappling with imposter syndrome, which I found relatable on so many levels. His self-doubt is palpable as he navigates a cast of diverse characters—from the cold yet nurturing doctor to the brusque veteran and the adventurous explorer. Together, they embark on a mission to terraform Cahros, but it quickly becomes clear that not everything is as it seems—and oh, what lurks in the sands is chillingly unpredictable.
The pacing took a moment to pick up, but I appreciated the deliberate buildup. It wasn’t long before the tension spiked, dragging me right into the chaos. Just past the halfway mark, as we uncover the “thing in the sand,” I thought maybe the story’s mystery was reaching its conclusion. But I was happily mistaken—Harman keeps the suspense bubbling, proving this is only the beginning of something far more intricate.
One aspect that particularly fascinated me was the cave discovered early in the expedition; it was a tantalizing echo of the infamous Tower from Annihilation. Harman may not have drawn inspiration from that classic, but I found this coincidence deliciously serendipitous. The cave exudes a magnetic pull that feels hauntingly familiar, intensifying the reader’s connection to the narrative.
The characters shine in their reactions—riddled with doubt and fear—as they grapple with unsettling situations. These responses are not just believable; they’re eerily reflective of how we might act in panic, trauma, and unrest. A standout moment for me involved journal entries that gradually unveil the dark truths of their mission. That raw, page-turning tension left me breathless.
Tarlo and Ashelyn became my emotional anchors throughout the saga, their budding friendship feeling organic and satisfying. I’m not usually one for romance in sci-fi, but their chemistry felt genuine. Tarlo is utterly endearing, and the dynamic they share made me root for them throughout the story. I found myself pondering potential paths for their relationship and even entertained the idea of Tarlo’s bond with the charismatic Terrus. Let’s just say: I’m open to whichever direction it takes!
Harman has poured his heart and soul into Dark Sands, creating a thrilling setup for a sequel that I can hardly wait for. It’s a book that reflects the struggles of self-doubt, the mystery of exploration, and the intricacies of human relationships under pressure. I highly recommend it to anyone who thrives on tension, adventure, and a sprinkle of existential dread.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a gripping read full of dark intrigue and thoughtful character dynamics, Dark Sands is your next obsession. This debut sends a clear message: something remarkable is brewing in J.S. Harman’s mind, and I’m here for it!
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