Their Battle for the Throne Has Just Begun.
But Will It Matter if the World They Rule Collapses Into the Sea?
The gods are angry.
Volcanic eruptions, sinkholes, ground shakers–everything points to their unhappiness. At least that is what the king of Armania believes. His son Prince Wilek thinks his father’s superstitions are nonsense, though he remains the ever dutiful First Arm of Armania.
When a messenger arrives and claims that the town of Farway has been swallowed by the earth, the king sends Wilek to investigate. But what Wilek discovers is more cataclysmic than one lost city. Even as the ground shifts beneath his feet, Wilek sets out on a desperate journey to save his people and his world. But can he do it before the entire land crumbles?
Review
So to say I was excited to get my hands on this novel is a complete understatement (please note that the author is also releasing this book in three parts electronically, you can get started on reading it right now!). Let me tell you, I read the first chapter and my first thought was this feels like an Old Testament Bible Story. Folks, later I found out that apparently Jill was inspired by the Old Testament (I hope you’ve been reading about the old kings!). My thoughts:
What I liked:
No shying. I immediately noticed and liked that there is no shying away from real life stuff here. Some of these guys have concubines. People die. And while the author is in no way graphic, she does not ignore that kings and princes who did not follow God…did not follow God.
The characters. There are a lot of characters in this book. To be honest, more povs than I truly care for. But Ms. Williamson handles them all with a deft hand. Props to her for having different characters who felt different. There were some points of view I really loved. And may I just say that Ms. Williamson does the male pov fabulously.
Romance. There is romance. For one guy and gal it’s fairly obvious that they should end up together. For another guy, I’m not sure which gal, it depends on how this series plays out. It’s not a love triangle (at least not yet) and I am enjoying the journey.
Court politics. I love court politics. Several characters must navigate the intricacies of court life; who to be nice too, who not to speak to, who might try to kill them…
The plot. Honestly, there is a lot going on: mysteries, destruction, court politics. But I was thrilled with where Ms. Williamson ended it. A lot happens in this book, but yet when it ends it’s totally fulfilling.
Spiritually, the novel deals with the concept of multiple gods and finding, believing, and recognizing the true God. Each character’s spiritual journey keeps you on your toes.
What I didn’t like:
Some characters povs were kind of boring to me. I skimmed. And some strange spiritual weird things (people who served false gods) happened. Like weird stuff. It wasn’t necessarily bad, but really weird.
Romance scale: 7
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to what’s going to happen next. Williamson really writes characters that make you feel.
**I received a copy from Netgalley. My opinion was not affected in anyway.**
remaininhislove 