Title: J.J.J. The Ambassador From Hell
Author: Larry L. Smith
Publisher: TBA
ASIN: B07PM3QBQY
Pages: 302
Genre: Metaphysical Science Fiction/Science Fiction
Reviewed by: Anthony Avina
Pacific Book Review
Whether you believe in a physical plane of existence known as Hell, or approach the topic from a more spiritual or metaphysical stance, the concept of Hell has been around since the dawn of human civilization. Whether it was the ancient Greeks and Tartarus or the clash of scalding heat and blistering winters in the depths of Christianity’s Hell, a dark and desolate place somewhere underneath our feet where the wicked and worst of humanity dwells after life, has been debated for centuries. As Virgil once said, “It is easy to go down into Hell; night and day, the gates of dark Death stand wide; but to climb back again, to retrace one’s steps to the upper air – there’s the rub, the task.”
In author Larry L. Smith’s J.J.J. The Ambassador From Hell, the author explores the concept of hell not from a place of religion, but of science fiction and metaphysical fiction. Exploring the creatures humanity has deemed to be “devils”, the book shows one such devil, who comes to Earth in search of a “soul,” and instead finds her own humanity, and must explore what it is being of two very different worlds.
This is such a unique and different perspective for the author to take on such a loaded question, and that is what happens to the soul when the body fails. The mythology and history of Hell which the author develops is incredibly creative and touches upon many of the metaphysical studies that so many people are starting to integrate into religious interpretations. The approach to the protagonist and Hell itself was very unique, coming across less like a hostile and evil dimension, rather instead an alien world with very different living beings, or what humans have come to call devils. The descriptive imagery and metaphysical nature of the narrative is incredibly thought-provoking and engaging for the reader to get into.
This is the perfect read for those who enjoy sci-fi and metaphysical science fiction, especially those which put a different spin on the classic religious narratives. As a fan of sci-fi and metaphysical studies, I was absolutely fascinated with the thought-provoking details the author put into the characters’ arcs. One note I will make for readers which is more about preference than any criticism, is that there is a minor character interaction that involves reliving memories from childhood of some abuse from a family member, so anyone who may be triggered by that should be aware going into it, as this book also does feature some adult narratives and storytelling.
A highly creative, thoughtful, and entertaining read, author Larry L. Smith’s J.J.J. The Ambassador From Hell is a brilliant stroke of storytelling. Flipping the script completely on what most faith-based storytelling devices would view “devils” and “hell” as, the author explores the concept of the universe and how the “soul” acts as a form of energy, and explores the overall theme of what it means to be human and to hold onto meaningful connections of hope and love in life. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
