"The Battle of Crystal and Water," by Clyde Andrews

LGBTQ+ Contemporary Sci-Fi

Book Blurb

Arty Tekken has a problem.

Of all the presents in all the world, Tobias’ first anniversary gift should be special. Which is why Arty is going to get him something wonderful, fabulous, even…otherworldly.

Luckily, Arty can open a wormhole and hitchhike to the ends of time and space, but what should he get?

A bumbling attempt to find the perfect present lands Arty on Atashaal, a strange planet where the Living Crystals can be found. Unfortunately, he also finds himself smack bang in the middle of a civil war.

Desperate for the secret to Arty’s abilities, aliens capture him, seeking the answers.

But Arty can no more explain this than he can the garbled voices he alone is hearing. When they start to make sense, Arty’s past begins to trickle in, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. All he wants to do now is get off Atashaal no matter what. But with his failing legs, his escape from capture is also hindered by the fact he’s swamped in the voices and the burning desire to get back to Tobias.

As Arty grows weaker, he doesn’t know if he will ever see his beloved Tobias again or whether he’ll remain stuck on Atashaal, a prisoner forever in every sense of the word…

My Review

I’ve been champing at the bit to get my hands on this week’s read for months. Every time I see one of Mr. Andrews covers, I’m constantly itching to pick up my Kindle and read. The Battle of Crystal and Water is Clyde Andrews’ first full-length novel, and also the first of his works I’ve had the pleasure of reading. Be sure to stick around until the end… there’s a special surprise awaiting y’all after all my prattling!

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I dove headfirst into this story. I tend to enjoy going into reads blind so even the non-twisty things feel a bit twisty, and I’m super glad I did with this one. I had a blast reading it. I didn’t know what to expect from one page to the next. What more can you ask from a read, am I right? Kept me on my readerly toes, for sure! 😊

Then there was Arty and Tobias and their wonderfully adorable relationship. I fell for them both from page one. And Arty’s journey takes on such a different tone and an increased intensity because of his drive to be with Tobias. Plus, the positive representation in this book abounds. Tobias is Muslim, Arty is paraplegic, and they’re happily together as a couple. Fist bumps all around for diversity!

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone who adores a feel good read. There were some more serious topics tackled but for the most part this had a light and enjoyable tone. And the Australian setting? Divine. Truly.

So, what are you waiting for? The Battle of Crystal and Water, Book 1 of the Arty Tekken Chronicles, is available for your immediate reading pleasure! It’s also available on Kindle Unlimited!

But guess what, folks? There’s more!!! The lovely Mr. Andrews has agreed to offer a FREE eBook of this delectable tale to one lucky winner! Click here (or on the image below) to enter! And be sure to check out the opportunities for bonus entries!! Good luck, my lovelies!

Until next time,

E💕