Why do we choose to be heroes? What’s the cost of being one?
Said themes are expressed in many iconic stories about heroes, but shine deeply in Davis Madole’s debut novel, Titanious Book 1: Rise of the Titans, an epic, easy-to-read story (about 213 pages), that sees the epic world of Greek Mythology combine with traditional Japanese superheroes, such as Ultraman and classic robo anime. There’s a ton of influence and love for these franchises and their characters in this book, but it’s not shallow & just littered with pop culture references. There are some fun ones, like “Till All Are One” being uttered early on in the book. I see what you did there, Davis. But really, there’s genuine love for everything referenced within these chapters. It’s ‘Clash of the Titans’ meets ‘Mazinger Z’!
What more could a tokusatsu fan ask for?
The novel sees Hestius, the son of Hephestus, embark on a journey to defeat Ares, the Greek God of War, after a millennia in slumber. He is joined by overly enthusiastic Tokusatsu nerd Andy, and surprisingly, the God of the Underworld himself, Hades. The pair of three provide an interesting team dynamic that balances the old-fashioned, Shakespearean-esque delivery of Hades with the Otaku nerding out of Andy. It’s amusing to see play out, and the dynamics there provide much fun. On the character front, in real life author Davis Madole is also a fitness instructor and very passionate about bettering one’s health, so seeing that aspect of the author’s identity ooze directly onto the page was nice to see. If I were to nitpick just a tad, I know my Greek mythology well and could follow along, but if you do not know the names, you may be a little lost in the shuffle. Just be ready to know the names of the Titans and who they are, and you will be fine.
The book is paced briskly; an apt comparison would be Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, in a good way. There is a fight or action sequence in nearly every chapter, keeping readers on their toes, save for a few moments to let the characters breathe and engage in their own individual philosophies.The constant breakneck pace will be a treat for kaiju book enthusiasts, continuing the trend of fast-paced, fun books that inhabit the independent side of the community. If compared to other kaiju novel peers, such as the Project Nemesis series, with swift action, sweeping kaiju battles, and overall action-oriented tone, then Davis has succeeded on all of those marks. Kaiju readers will not be disappointed in the amount of battle that leaps off of every page. With the Greek Mythology aspect, one would quickly refer to Percy Jackson, but I would present the argument that Davis’ tale is a bit more mature and heavy-handed for a YA novel. For instance, preferring to instead deliberate on the clear weight that comes with killing a living creature, even if for the greater good.
I find the particular blending of worlds fascinating. Davis understands that the tales of Ultraman or Mazinger Z are our modern mythology – filled with tales of epic heroes vanquishing evil, epic villains and monsters at our doorsteps that we must face head-on, and great journeys that shape us all into better people. On paper, it sounds like themes you’d find in traditional mythologies around the world from centuries ago. Titanious: Rise of the Titans proves that we carry these traditions in storytelling, no matter the genre or approach, and I am excited to see how Davis develops as a writer and storyteller as the tale of Hestius continues. You can find this book on any major online bookseller, and I recommend it to anyone who loves these wonderful independent kaiju books.
Order ‘Titanious’ on IngramSpark HERE
Order ‘Titanious’ on Amazon HERE
Order ‘Titanious’ on Barnes & Noble HERE
Check out the ‘Titanious’ LinkTree HERE
