Review by sal corde -- We are Voulhire: A New Arrival un...
Posted: 16 Feb 2021, 13:53
[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz.]
We are Voulhire: A New Arrival Under Great Skies is the first installment of an enticing series written by Matthew Tysz. This is a non-fiction novel that showcases the magical and natural aspects of Voulhire through its cities and people. The book unveils the unstable political system of the kingdom accentuated by several acts of insurgence. These revolts are orchestrated by Lords and Princes that crave for power. We additionally get a clear order that elucidate the unique aspects of the different cities in Voulhire. But most importantly, we are introduced to its people.
The story begins with a coup against Lord Orlin which sees Meldorath ascending the throne as Lord of Hilport. If you think the only daunting Lord to have existed is Voldemort, you definitely haven't met Lord Meldorath. His wicked acts lead to his arrest and conviction. King Wilhem appoints Lord Eldus as the new Lord and gives him the mandate to restore stability in Hillport. The two work together to erase Meldorath from the minds of the people. This, however, proves difficult as it becomes evident that he still has control over the entire city. He was indeed submissive during his arrest showcasing concession, but the greatest mage and Lord may still be alive and growing stronger. Elsewhere, we meet Galen, a young man whose desire to leave the war-zone Land of the Princes is granted. He sets off to Magnum Caelum in Voulhire, where his Great Uncle has made him the sole heir to his fortune. With the help of Rowan, the executor, Galen starts learning the ways of the Voulhirian people. He seeks a new beginning for himself though what he doesn't realise is that he has just immersed himself in another war zone.
What I like most about this book is the originality that has been depicted. Let's begin with the creativity in the plot. The author manages to create a world that is believable and relatable to the reader. In this world we can clearly see an infusion on the Cosmos and the Caromentis ( the magical ). The magical aspect has been incorporated naturally, it's hard to believe it doesn't exist. The plot begins with action, and the author manages to guide us through each unfolding event without losing the reader's interest. The irony and sarcasm embedded in this narrative makes his work even more appealing. Readers, there is a new religion , Destinism. Yeah, am still trying to figure out how he came up with that one not forgetting the Voulhirian names ie. Eiodi, Caromentis, Graylands. This new world is presented skillfully.
In addition to the above, we have the unique presentation of the characters and setting. The characters are distinctly presented. The author adorns each character with traits that clearly set them apart. He has employed satire, humor and contrast in some instances to develop the characters. The setting, which is The Kingdom of Voulhire, has also been presented creatively. The different cities all have outstanding traits. We can decipher the most religious, the well-off, the industrious, the destitute, the fun loving etal. These aspects contribute greatly to the realistic nature of this world as it encompasses all walks of life. The detailed history which allows us to trace the fore — founders of Voulhire solidifies the foundation of the plot.
I would like to give credit to Tysz for employing both first and third person narration in telling his story. This is very well done. The author manages not to interfere with the flow of the narrative. He keeps us glued to the narrative to the very end. The narrations are well-synced such that one wouldn't realise the difference.
In all honesty, I can't state what I did not like about the book. The plot is well presented, the characters well developed. The words are well-chosen and well-edited. Putting all this into consideration, I would rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. I would recommend this book to any reader who is lured and enticed by stories that involve magic and action. I am on to the second installment, enjoy your read.
******
We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
We are Voulhire: A New Arrival Under Great Skies is the first installment of an enticing series written by Matthew Tysz. This is a non-fiction novel that showcases the magical and natural aspects of Voulhire through its cities and people. The book unveils the unstable political system of the kingdom accentuated by several acts of insurgence. These revolts are orchestrated by Lords and Princes that crave for power. We additionally get a clear order that elucidate the unique aspects of the different cities in Voulhire. But most importantly, we are introduced to its people.
The story begins with a coup against Lord Orlin which sees Meldorath ascending the throne as Lord of Hilport. If you think the only daunting Lord to have existed is Voldemort, you definitely haven't met Lord Meldorath. His wicked acts lead to his arrest and conviction. King Wilhem appoints Lord Eldus as the new Lord and gives him the mandate to restore stability in Hillport. The two work together to erase Meldorath from the minds of the people. This, however, proves difficult as it becomes evident that he still has control over the entire city. He was indeed submissive during his arrest showcasing concession, but the greatest mage and Lord may still be alive and growing stronger. Elsewhere, we meet Galen, a young man whose desire to leave the war-zone Land of the Princes is granted. He sets off to Magnum Caelum in Voulhire, where his Great Uncle has made him the sole heir to his fortune. With the help of Rowan, the executor, Galen starts learning the ways of the Voulhirian people. He seeks a new beginning for himself though what he doesn't realise is that he has just immersed himself in another war zone.
What I like most about this book is the originality that has been depicted. Let's begin with the creativity in the plot. The author manages to create a world that is believable and relatable to the reader. In this world we can clearly see an infusion on the Cosmos and the Caromentis ( the magical ). The magical aspect has been incorporated naturally, it's hard to believe it doesn't exist. The plot begins with action, and the author manages to guide us through each unfolding event without losing the reader's interest. The irony and sarcasm embedded in this narrative makes his work even more appealing. Readers, there is a new religion , Destinism. Yeah, am still trying to figure out how he came up with that one not forgetting the Voulhirian names ie. Eiodi, Caromentis, Graylands. This new world is presented skillfully.
In addition to the above, we have the unique presentation of the characters and setting. The characters are distinctly presented. The author adorns each character with traits that clearly set them apart. He has employed satire, humor and contrast in some instances to develop the characters. The setting, which is The Kingdom of Voulhire, has also been presented creatively. The different cities all have outstanding traits. We can decipher the most religious, the well-off, the industrious, the destitute, the fun loving etal. These aspects contribute greatly to the realistic nature of this world as it encompasses all walks of life. The detailed history which allows us to trace the fore — founders of Voulhire solidifies the foundation of the plot.
I would like to give credit to Tysz for employing both first and third person narration in telling his story. This is very well done. The author manages not to interfere with the flow of the narrative. He keeps us glued to the narrative to the very end. The narrations are well-synced such that one wouldn't realise the difference.
In all honesty, I can't state what I did not like about the book. The plot is well presented, the characters well developed. The words are well-chosen and well-edited. Putting all this into consideration, I would rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. I would recommend this book to any reader who is lured and enticed by stories that involve magic and action. I am on to the second installment, enjoy your read.
******
We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon