Jack L. Chalker Archives

Science Fiction Worth Reading: Exile at the Well of Souls by Jack L. Chalker Book Review

Jack L. Chalker’s wild imagination keeps Well World spinning in book two.

I just finished reading Exile at the Well of Souls, the second book in Jack L. Chalker’s Well World series, and it was another brilliantly imaginative adventure. While a few characters from the first book—Vardia and Ortega —make appearances, this story isn’t a continuation of book one. There’s a mention of Nathan Brazil, but the plot centers on Mavra Chang, who’s hired to put a damper on Antor Trelig’s plans. Their actions lead them to Well World where a war breaks out because of their arrival.

As with Midnight at the Well of Souls, the writing is engaging, the pacing is excellent, and the world-building is incredible. Chalker’s imagination is on full display, and the characters are fascinating, each with their own quirks and depth.

That said, I have to admit that the reasoning behind the war didn’t fully click for me. The logic and motivation were thin and could have used more development. But honestly, it’s a minor flaw in a story that is otherwise so entertaining and inventive that it’s easy to forgive.

I’m eager to see what happens next, especially with Mavra Chang and the Zinders. So I’ll be hunting down book three soon. Chalker’s Well World is a delight to explore, and I’m thrilled to continue the journey.

Science Fiction Worth Reading: Exile at the Well of Souls by Jack L. Chalker Book Review Read More »

Midnight at the Well of Souls by Jack L. Chalker

Sci-Fi Worth Reading!

My husband gifted me this book for Valentine’s Day, saying my stories always remind him of Chalker. So he made sure I read some Chalker.

This story is a wild ride from start to finish. Imaginative, creative, and well put together, Well of Souls is interesting, fun, and a page-turner. The stuff Chalker comes up with sometimes is mind-blowing. It’s also well plotted and had me emotionally invested in many of the characters.

I don’t think there was such a thing as a boring scene or chapter in this novel. There were twists and turns everywhere. Definitely my kind of story.

I liked this book so much, I ordered book 2 in the series. And a signed copy! I’m excited.

Plus, I find myself thinking of Chalker when writing. If a scene is boring or too predictable, I pause and wonder, What would Jack L. Chalker do?

If you don’t like the same old, run-of-the-mill story, read Chalker.