What do you get when you mix Abrahamic religions and Malay legends in a blender and bake it in the oven of hellfire? You get “Asmaradana” by Hilmi Loma. But is it an awesome novel? Let’s dive in and find out.
Getting to Know the Story
The story is pretty wild. It’s about a bad guy named Tuan Ju, who’s set on a journey to bring the world to an end—a literal biblical apocalypse. Like any other apocalypse story, there are barely any main characters. However, I can safely assume that there are three key characters in the story. First, we have Lilith, the first demonic figure who is supposed to be the first wife of Adam. Then we have Lucy, as in Lucifer, the fallen angel who tricked Eve. Lastly, we have Eve, who is very different from how she’s normally depicted in the Abrahamic religions. I don’t want to ruin the fun for you guys.
Among these three characters—Lilith, Lucy, and Eve—two of them will try to stop Tuan Ju, and one of them is working with him. Trust me, there’s a huge twist there.
Although the story takes place in modern times, there are tons of flashbacks. Eras such as the creation of Adam and Eve, the Salem Witch Trials, and even the legend of Puteri Gunung Ledang are explored in this novel. It’s really interesting to see how these seemingly unrelated points in time are connected.
Non-linear Storytelling
Reading through reviews on Goodreads, one common observation stands out: the novel features an overwhelming number of plots and non-linear storytelling. Is this true? Absolutely. Flashbacks occur without warning, and the narrative jumps between various sets of characters. In fact, it can feel like there isn’t a main character at all. Despite this, all the subplots are intricately interwoven, coming together in a climactic finale that ties up most of the loose ends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
However, this intricate storytelling can be both a strength and a weakness. The novel keeps readers hooked by withholding explanations for much of its length. But during the climax, the frequent flashbacks can disrupt the momentum, diluting the impact of the final showdown.
Intense Themes
Twisted approach on Abrahamic religions (illustration by Canva)
This is not a story for the faint-hearted. It’s gory, brutal, and emotionally intense. The novel takes a twisted approach to Abrahamic religions and Malay legends, challenging readers’ perceptions and beliefs.
Controversial Elements
This novel would offend some people, so be warned (illustration by Canva)
The novel is undeniably controversial. It contains extreme gore, blasphemy, and profanity. If you’ve picked up a Fixi book before, you know what you’re in for. The portrayal of biblical characters is unconventional—good characters turned bad and vice versa.
Edginess and Excess
Some scenes and dialogues are too edgy–cringe, even (illustration by Canva)
The edginess, while sometimes compelling, can feel excessive. Scenes involving adultery, nudity, and even bestiality seem unnecessarily provocative. Random lyric snippets ending some chapters also feel out of place.
Worldbuilding and Lore
Again, the twisted approach on the Abrahamic religions is heavily featured as the base of its lore (illustration by Canva)
Despite these elements, the lore and worldbuilding are top-notch. The story is wild, unpredictable, and satisfying in its unraveling of mysteries. Yet, it’s not without flaws. Some plot points, like the Aegis Curse and the character Woe, raise questions. Why create a curse or a child that, when eliminated, causes the world’s end and rebirth?
Ambiguous Ending
So the world just ends like that? Or not? (illustration by Canva)
The ambiguous ending leaves readers pondering the ultimate point of the story. Did the world end or not? The conclusion seems to undermine the efforts of the characters.
Or perhaps the ending seems ambiguous because a sequel is planned? Who knows?
Conclusion
“For matured readers”
In summary, “Asmaradana” is a thrilling, albeit flawed, read. Its strengths in worldbuilding and lore outweigh the convoluted storytelling and controversial elements. We rate it a solid 7 out of 10.
If you read and like this book, we recommend you to pick up other Fixi books such as Galat, Tujuh, Tualang, and Pembelot. And remember: Be cautious for yet another dark story.
