Review of We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies

[AnnaMarie Collins]

[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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We Are Voulhire: A New Arrival Under Great Skies by Matthew Tysz is the first in a series of nine books set in a fantasy world. The story begins in the Lands of the Princes, a war-torn country composed of multiple islands. Here we find Galen, a kind-hearted young man desperately trying to escape the turmoil and find safe passage to his newly-inherited blacksmith forge in Magnum Caelum. As the story progresses, it chronicles the politics at play in a world where growth and instability are at odds. This is a tale of magic and new beginnings, laced with betrayal and vengeance.

While I wouldn't claim this book to be action-packed, it has many different plotlines intricately woven together in a masterful way. Matthew Tysz has an exceedingly pleasing writing style, expertly crafting a world that is both easy and delightful to visualize. The characters are many and all very distinct. Each plays a comprehensible role as the story progresses. As new characters are introduced, the perspective of the story changes, adding to the depth of the narrative. What the story lacked in action, it made up for with humor and clever storytelling.

For some, the slow pace of this book could be a problem. I saw it as an opportunity for the author to spin his tangled web of complex world building, but I know some people prefer books to move along quickly. It also should be noted that this book has both discussions of religion and a few dirty jokes, so be cautious if those are triggers for you. It also ends on a cliffhanger, which I understand is annoying to some people.

The enchanting composition and complexity of the characters drew me in immediately. I was able to place myself in the settings that were described and it was such a joy for me. I rate this book four out of four stars. It was an easy decision to rate it so highly, because the story was delivered in such a lovely way. Matthew Tysz has a true gift with words and his storytelling abilities are rare.

I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone who doesn't like keeping up with lots of characters and plotlines, as this book has both in spades. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone with a passion for real storytelling and beautiful imagery. True lovers of fiction and fantasy will most likely adore this book.

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We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
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[Ace John]

You explain the book wonderfully that it makes me want to read it. I'm glad you loved it and I may choose it next. Nice review.

[Frank Mutuma]

I love a book with different many plot lines. This might be next read