A review by jlreadstoperpetuity
Senlin Ascends by Josiah Bancroft

5.0

"Senlin Ascends" by Josiah Bancroft is a breathtaking masterpiece that defies genre conventions and offers a truly unique reading experience. This novel, the first in the Tower of Babel series, combines elements of steampunk, fantasy, and adventure in a captivating narrative.

The story follows the journey of Thomas Senlin, a mild-mannered schoolteacher who finds himself lost in the immense and enigmatic Tower of Babel while on his honeymoon. Bancroft's world-building is nothing short of astonishing, with each level of the tower presenting a new and imaginative world, filled with eccentric characters and challenges.

What sets "Senlin Ascends" apart is Bancroft's lyrical prose and his ability to delve deep into the psyche of his characters. Thomas Senlin's transformation from a timid intellectual into a determined and resourceful adventurer is both compelling and relatable.

The novel's pacing is superb, blending moments of tension and introspection seamlessly. Bancroft weaves themes of identity, ambition, and the human spirit into the narrative, making it more than just an adventure story.