Member Reviews
This story has romance and also is magical and mystical.
Umai has taken a celibacy vow and when she meets a cowboy she feels attraction.
This is a book showing self discovery and how the internal struggle is handled by Umai.
It is a well paced book it is well written with plenty of descriptions.
It definitely makes you think about your own life choices.
I really enjoyed it.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.
Umai stands out for its focus on the often-overlooked Mongol peoples, particularly their shamans, which piqued my curiosity right away. The inclusion of a contemporary Wyoming cowboy added a fascinating layer to the narrative. The story shifts between a rich folktale atmosphere and a modern romance, creating a compelling juxtaposition. While the overall concept is intriguing, I felt that the execution could have been more polished. Nonetheless, the unique blend of cultural elements and engaging storytelling kept me turning the pages. It's definitely a worthwhile read!
I was encouraged to read this book. I wasn’t sure it was for me from the description. Fantasy is a favourite genre of mine, and I’m glad I listened because I really enjoyed it he story. A female shaman picked and directed by spirits protects the natural world. In Wyoming a cowboy attracts her attention, and even more so vice-versa. As she comes into his life he is captivated. When she leaves he searches for her. She starts returning, spending time with him. But a mortal life span is too short for one of her ilk, and the spirits are not happy at all. Umai finds herself in a battle of her own making between love and duty. One would bring joy the other pain. This conflict is at the centre of this fantasy book. Thank you to Tagai Tarutin, LiterallyPR, Michael Terence Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Umai
By Tagai Tarutin
An interesting mix of genre.. Western, science fiction and Mythology.
The odd turn of events makes a compelling statement on the husbandry of horses in the United States.
The idea of explaining the lost of horses during the end of the ice age is compelling theory. The beautiful deception of Asian and American culture and environs make an embellishment of the story.
Umai by Tagai Tarutin is an interesting cultural read that is an unexpected detailed read. I easily got caught up in the story and charismatic way this was portrayed. So thankful for the opportunity to read !
I read this courtesy Net Galley and Michael Terence Publishing. You rarely see any stories using any Mongol peoples, let alone the shamans, so I was immediately drawn to this novel. Then I found out that there’s a Wyoming cowboy in contemporary times in the mix, and I had to find out more. The story goes between a narrative more suited for a folktale and one for a modern-day romance, and while the story itself is better than actual execution, I found it interesting and it kept my interest.
#Umai #NetGalley
Umai by Tagai Tarutin is a mystical tale set across the vast expanse of Eurasia. It introduces the concept of Shamankas, rare female shamans chosen by spirits, and the legend of an immortal super Shaman/Shamanka who has protected the natural world for ages. This epic narrative blends shamanism, mythology, and adventure as it follows the journey of this extraordinary being through time, exploring their role in safeguarding the delicate balance of the world.
I certainly had a lot of fun with this book. I will be looking for more from Tagai Tarutin. Solid 4 star read...