A World Without Trees by Joseph Blackhurst is a compelling dystopian novel that explores a post-apocalyptic Earth ruled by angels in the city of New Eden. In this world, an otherworldly creature has rendered the planet almost uninhabitable, enslaving all redheads by decree. Alizard, the determined daughter of powerful families, faces a devastating future when her hair turns red, jeopardizing her aspirations for leadership. As she embarks on a harrowing journey, she confronts childhood trauma and the impending return of the world-devouring creature. Blackhurst's narrative examines themes of sacrifice, identity, and resilience amid a harsh landscape.

Author Joseph Blackhurst excels at creating a richly imagined dystopian world that is uniquely described and deeply unsettling. This world of dark power dynamics and oppression is visceral and bold, and Blackhurst’s writing style is evocative when balancing action-packed scenes of sudden violence with poignant, quiet moments of introspection. This stylistic choice amplifies the intensity of the narrative while maintaining a focus on Alizard’s plight throughout the journey and, as such, the violent elements are suitably shocking, but never feel gratuitous or overdone. Alizard’s journey of self-discovery and the exploration of childhood trauma are portrayed with emotional nuance, allowing readers to empathize deeply with her character as she navigates a treacherous landscape, and also offering an underlying theme of survival and healing that is inspiring. Blackhurst’s exploration of themes like identity, discrimination, and societal roles encourages readers to reflect on real-world issues of prejudice and power, making a significant commentary on how people treat one another at first glance. Overall, A World Without Trees is a highly recommended read for fans of gritty, intelligently penned dystopian novels.

One hundred and twenty-six years ago, the Godmonster nearly wiped out the human race. Gabriel, Arthur, and a host of other angels defeated the being. They also saved three hundred babies, who became the progenitors of the present race of men and women that inhabit New Eden. Alizard, daughter of Thenewt the Warrior and Arat the Candle, looks forward to the day she will take up her parents' leadership mantle. Everything changes overnight when her hair turns red, and she goes from royalty to outcast. She chooses the path of a warrior to reclaim her lost status. When rebels known as Thorns capture her mother, Alizard takes it upon herself to rescue her. She has no idea that this journey she is about to embark on will force her to question everything she considers canon in Joseph Blackhurst's A World Without Trees.

In Joseph Blackhurst's A World Without Trees, dystopian drama and breakneck action collide. The setting is an intriguing mix of extreme science fiction and biblical end-times. The characters' origin stories are carefully crafted and gradually inserted into the narrative to coincide with critical moments with significant effect. The dialogue takes the conventional and expertly turns it on its head, with the humans sounding like ancient beings. In contrast, the angels appear to be in tune with modern times, complete with the odd pop culture reference that lets readers know there is more to this adventure than meets the eye. The combat scenes are impressively detailed, making readers believe they are experiencing Alizard's battles firsthand. The deeply woven drama shows her struggle for acceptance among her peers and her unusual reaction when she finds what she seeks among the most remarkable bunch of traveling companions. A World Without Trees is an impressive and perfect introduction to a finely balanced developing series.

A World Without Trees by Joseph Blackhurst revolves around Alizard, the daughter of Thenewt and Candle, who grows up in a place dominated by strict rules, angelic figures, and ritualistic violence. Her red hair marks her as Stained, a group condemned to servitude and violence, setting her apart from the elite lineage of her birth. After a violent altercation, Alizard is allowed to be trained as a warrior. It is intense due to the looming threat of the “Godmonster,” and Alizard faces constant struggles between her training, her identity, and her connection to her mother, Candle. When Candle is taken by the Thorns, a rebellious faction, Alizard enters the most horrible apocalyptic unknown. Along the way, she is in continuous conflict with other warriors, uncovers dark secrets about her mother's past, and is up against the bloodthirsty violence that defines New Eden, all with a young boy in tow.

Joseph Blackhurst's A World Without Trees is a spectacularly dark look into the haves and have-nots of the world, and the lengths everyone is willing to go to survive. For all her troubles, Alizard is incredibly lucky not to share quite the same fate as other redheads, but Blackhurst holds nothing back in showing us what that is. There are two scenes in particular, one with a muzzled and bound Stained child, and another where an atrocious act to prevent the spread of infection is inflicted. Blackhurst's social structure and settings are atmospheric, almost textured, and that very real line between the sacred and the profane is constantly blurred. My favorite character turned out to be the free-born, second-generation survivor named Kingking, who is a very welcome breath of fresh air. The book’s blend of mythology, philosophical weight, and brutal action makes it a unique, unforgettable read, and I look forward to seeing what Blackhurst comes up with next. Very highly recommended.

A World Without Trees by Joseph Blackhurst is a thought-provoking and vivid dystopian novel. Set in a future world, the story is driven by the intricate dynamics between the "Named," who live under the guidance of angels, and the "Stained," who exist in subservience. Alizard, the central character, navigates this harsh reality, where the remnants of humanity struggle in a world ravaged by the monstrous Godmonster. The prose is rich and immersive, with a balance of detailed world-building and emotional depth, making it a compelling and layered read.

Joseph Blackhurst’s narrative explores themes of power, control, and survival, with the angels' dominion over the fragile remnants of human civilization as a sharp commentary on the nature of governance and religion. The characters are well-crafted, particularly Alizard, whose journey from innocence to a hardened warrior mirrors the decline of the world around her. The novel’s stark imagery and exploration of human frailty and divine expectations create a haunting atmosphere. The author's use of mythology and religious motifs adds a complex layer to the story, prompting readers to reflect on the cost of obedience and the fragility of hope in a world without the sustaining force of nature, symbolized by the absence of trees. The ending leaves space for introspection about humanity's future and its potential rebirth. A World Without Trees is a unique and evocative read for fans of dystopian fiction who appreciate deep moral questions and intricate world-building. There is some graphic violence, so those sensitive to grim themes might want to approach it cautiously. Still, I highly recommend it.