This was a great read. The macro plot seems a bit generic at first. Ancient evil is showing itself, and it's up to a select few heroes and anti-heroes to save the world. But as you keep reading, you realize this novel is anything but generic. It's way more complicated than "good" vs. "evil". Often enough, the characters have a harder time figuring out where to point their swords, rather than fighting the enemy itself. I love a plot that keeps you guessing! Can't wait for the sequel!
Characters:
There are 3 main characters, whose plot arcs intersect in organic and compelling ways! They are written in dynamicall, filled with flaws and regrets that seperate them from characters in a generic D&D novel.
Ryne Waldron -
This guy is the bad-ass of the book. And I mean that in every sense of the word. When you first meet this 8-foot giant, wielding a sword as big as most people, and covered in tatoos that give him supernatural power, you might even think he's TOO bad ass. That is, until you quickly find out he's a bit like the Incredible Hulk. When he gets pissed off, people die and cities burn. The tension of this character is a combination of his desire to control the darker part of himself, in addition to combating the destructive forces that threaten the and destroy the only things he cares about. Oh, and he's got a mysterious bodyguard, who brings a lot of surprises of his own to the story.
Ancel Dorn -
Ancel is a real interesting character. Young, intelligent, moral, talented, athletic, a warrior-born, and cocky as hell. He goes through women more often than he does sparing partners. The chink in his armor is "the one that got away", Irmina, who has her own plot arc taking place in a different area of the world. He has a lot of growing up to do real quick when things become dangerous, and it's really interesting to see how he matures (or doesn't).
Irmina Nagel -
This book ain't a sausage fest! Irmina is a warrior just like Ancel. Unlike Ancel, she's applied herself and become an elite soldier for one of the world powers. Her position and skills landing her the assignment of finding Ryne Waldron himself, to enlist his aid in the wars to come. A shame Ryne would sooner see her dead than help her or the people she works with.
World Building:
Denestia is no joke. Terry Simpson clearly spent YEARS designing the geography, nations, politics, system of magic and history that serve as a backdrop to an epic plot. The magic is a lot of lingo, but worth taking the time to figure out. The magic is a big part of the world, about as common in our world as electricity. Even so, many people are way better at it than others, and there are plenty of specialities to keep surprises coming. Despite how common it is, the author always takes the time to present magic's prescense in understandable and vivid ways. In fact, Terry Simpson has a talent for description that any fantasy author would be jealous of. Whether it's a battle, or a city coming into sight beyond a hill, a marching army, or just a six-legged dartan hauling goods across a town square, there's always a stunning visual in your head.
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