Title: Canthany Rising

Author: Kenneth Bliss

Genre: Fantasy

 

Cat awakens on an island oasis and immediately notices how things have changed, such as having been rendered a biped. Cat, along with other animals such as a bear, dog, squirrel, fox, rabbit, and lizard have been sent to the mysterious Canthany as collective punishment for disobeying their creator known as “Three-Who-Are-One.” As the creatures acclimate themselves to their new surroundings, they locate a shelter with food, clothing, and weapons. Cat is curious about the presence of lethal weapons in their new surroundings. A guardian known as “Hashomer,” who watches over Cat and the others, while being very wise, can only advise Cat and the others to wait. However, the appearance of the fallen angel Ashtoreth, and her attempts to coerce the critters into veneration leads to an all-out war.

A fantasy novella with elements of spiritual allegory, Canthany Rising is both pensive and exciting from the outset. Kenneth Bliss has authored an intriguing tale unfolding in the wake of Adam and Eve’s eviction from the Garden of Eden where the focus is on a group of animals that similarly failed their Creator in their disobedient actions. Canthany Rising showcases a pithy story with an ensemble narrative and features battle scenes that are thrilling and reminiscent of an all-consuming role-playing game.

The assembly of animals owes their current state due to a lack of faith in their creator and allowing themselves to succumb to temptation. Their newly acquired knowledge of Satan and fallen angels allow for them to realize that their faith is being tested once again, and they must unite to fight the forces of evil. While the author allows Hashomer to serve as a capable mentor to the fallen, the story picks up steam as the animals each learn to put their trust in their creator and fight a campaign to save their souls. As artfully illustrated in the story, faith acts as a unifying force in the war of good and evil.

Remorse is a perceptible trait that runs through the animals’ compelling story arcs as they embark on their path to redemption. They were evicted from Utopia and hurt the one who made them and gave them nearly everything, their need to atone is understandable and identifiable. The nefarious entities the heroes face are formidable, but the author imbues Cat and the other fallen with a resolve and courage that only builds throughout their heated battle. While their belief in their creator is important, their belief in their own abilities is equally significant to achieving victory.

A transformative journey wherein prodigal sons and daughters of the animal kingdom fight to affirm their devotion to their creator, Canthany Rising is fast paced and thought provoking. While alluded to throughout the narrative, “Three-Who-Are-One” (God) and Satan do not physically manifest in the story, an appearance could further propel the story forward.

Canthany Rising is a beguiling and unique yarn providing a sophisticated take on a timeless story trope. Author Kenneth Bliss’s work is engrossing, intelligent, and unforgettable.

 

 

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