Zafiil Volume 1: FireBorn UnPainted

Every so often, I run across a book that speaks to me, on levels deeper than the surface storyline. Stories that hold examples of humanity’s hope and hubris, of innocence and pride, of sin and redemption. I’m not a fan of being preached at by my reading material, unless I specifically seek out something for this or that purpose, or for general edification. Usually, I read fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, as sheer escapism and to enjoy a lovely story.But every so often, I stumble across something that is More. Something that tells a good story, provides escapism and a good time, yet still sneaks in references to Reality, that tear down, lift up, humble, and edify the reader. Something that makes me aware of my own self, reflects my beliefs back at me, allows me to examine What Is, What Was, and What Should Be in my own life.We all know the old adage of “the curtains are blue!”, and in this regard, one does not need to “get that something extra” out of Zafiil. It’s a really good story on it’s own, and stands on it’s own merits that way without any reading-in assistance of viewer-dependent allegories. Yet, when considering the possibility of allegories, I found something, several somethings, incredibly powerful layered into this book.For a little background, Zafiil takes place in her wider “Peltedverse” setting, which is a futuristic science-fiction / science-fantasy universe. Filling this universe are Mark One Humans, the “Pelted” – anthropomorphic animal people tracing lineage to humanity, and a couple of truly alien races. Politics, spaceflight, and a rich and well developed history for this universe provide a backdrop for various stories, snippets, vignettes, and a couple epic sagas. Zafiil herself is a member of one of those alien races, but I won’t go into detail here, so as to avoid true spoilers.If you’re looking for a David Weber esque deep dive into technology and the mechanics of spaceflight, this isn’t the universe for you. But if you like character-driven stories, written by someone with a deep understanding of Who People Are and How People Work, then it’s right up your alley. From alien civilizations making first contact and all the problems that can accompany, to fireside cozy tales of characters dealing with daily life and the small dramas and worries we all have, there’s something for everyone who appreciates believable characters in the Peltedverse.Against that setting, Zafiil tells the tale of one such alien civilization, and their own first contact with the greater universe. The titular character, in fact, happens to be an ambassador, sent out in hopes of discovering alien life. Fortunately – unfortunately – she finds it, and is nearly killed in the process.The story goes on from there, following Zafiil as she travels across half a galactic arm, lands on multiple planets, listens to echoes of long gone interstellar wars and some more recent, sparks diplomatic tribulations, and inspires religious quandraries.among her own people and those she meets. In the process, Zafiil discovers what she really is, but more importantly, who she is. Meanwhile, the reader learns more about her people, the Faulfenza, about their faith, their history, and their innocence.Far from being preachy or message fiction oriented, any analogies or allegories made in the story run deep, and can be overlooked. It can be read and enjoyed simply for what it is and appears to be on the surface. But maybe, just maybe, the reader may see some reflections of themselves and the world we live in as well.A tale of innocence lost, of naivete shattered, of childhood departed. A tale of loyalty proven, of faith regained, and hope for the future. Zafiil is a masterpiece well worth the time – and tears – and laughter - involved in the reading.I highly recommend this series, as a standalone and as an entry into the greater Peltedverse world.

Contrasts religion with science, leans into the religious, almost mystical, side.Lots of soul searching and processing, bad things happen in the midst of a time of celebration, and the main character who witnesses the best and worst of a First Contact situation gone very, very bad.Seeing the Pelted through the (very judgy) eyes of an alien beings fresh perspective. Glad she’s religious but not self righteous.Got a little plodding in the inner monologues and processing trauma and disappointment, but therapy is work.

I am still not sure if I like this story or not, even while realizing that it is well told. Zafiil's innocence was painful to read for me, during the segments where she's out in the world. I wished she didn't have to go through these things, but are the same time, the veil had to come off sometime

The difference between a very good author and a really spectacular author is beyond words to describe, but you know you have found one with MCA Hogarth. Her books are just special.

Yay, I'm so happy that the Faulfenzair got their own origin story. Zafil was brought up in the Pelted-verse novels and she was an intriguing character. To think of an entire group of people who do not have "evil" people among them is difficult to believe, though they have gone through hardship. Love the world's that M. C. A. Hogarth creates.

Oh, to have an endless supply of stories from this universe. I’m so pleased to be getting first hand accounts of its history. I’m enjoying it immensely.

I loved the intricacy of Hogarth's universe and how intriguing the characters are. This is the first part of a two-volume series, and I'm eager to read the rest!

Deals with alien religion, prophecy, and revelation in a fascinating, luminous way. Really excellent.

I have read many of the pelteverse stories and I am always sad when the come to an end and this was no exception. I loved this first volume and await the next eagerly. I get totally caught up in the worlds described, and totally invested in the characters. I feel I get to know them… they have depth. And beneath the story is woven something deeper. What would an ‘unfallen’ world look like? Is forgiveness trivial without real evil existing? How involved are gods with our lives? Lovely!

a bit too mystical and religious for me...great for fans of the pelted universe...too speculative and faith-oriented, but well written and well argued...looking forward to volume two...