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

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

Post by Olga Markova »

[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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In We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies by Matthew Tysz, the author takes us on an excursion to the fantasy kingdom of Voulhire. The sea around Voulhire is owned by the Emperor of Lullabies who gifted to his sons four islands to the southwest of Voulhire. This generous gift was meant by the Emperor to divert from himself the threat of being killed by his sons as they aspire to take his throne. Since then, these islands, known as The Lands of the Princes, have been in a constant state of war unleashed by the Emperor’s sons against each other. The desperate fugitives were fleeing to Voulhire from the warring Lands of the Princes, wreaking havoc in its cities, and troubling the citizens of Voulhire. Eventually, the Voulhire's king had to close immigration from the Lands of the Princes, except under special circumstances. Against this backdrop, a shimmer of luck brightens the life of Galen Bray, a twenty-eight-year-old native of the Land of the Princes. As the sole heir of his late great uncle who owned a forge in Voulhire, Galen is granted the citizenship of Voulhire, and he boards a boat to flee The Lands of the Princes for Voulhire. Reading this book, we join Galen on his travels and discover Voulhire and the incredible adventures that lie ahead for him.

We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies is a fascinating fantasy. The author masterfully develops and connects several threads of the plot, giving the readers a wholesome picture of life in Voulhire. Reading this book, I felt as if I were out there in Voulhire, experiencing the adventures alongside Galen on his quest to learn the trade of a blacksmith in this fantasy world. From the outset, I took instantly to Galen, not least because in his life he tries to follow his grandmother’s advice – “See the good in everything, and the best of it will find you.” (page 15, the fourth paragraph) – no matter what adversities and perils confront him in his life. This is my favourite thread in the story.

In parallel with the adventures of Galen, the author develops other threads that kept me captivated. The two worlds - Cosmos and Caromentis - that co-exist in Voulhire; the mystery surrounding the eviction of Lord Meldorath; the supernatural events that unfold in the Meldorath's castle; the gift to Galen of a lactis iron rod by a mysterious mage; and how all these events are connected – all these and more distinct yet connected threads drive the plot, making this book a gripping and enjoyable read.

I also liked that this book is more than simply a well-written fantasy. The author bravely exposes the problems of pedophilia and immigration from warring states.

Last but not the least, I liked that this book is the first book in the We are Voulhire series of nine novels, and I look forward to my reunion with Galen in the next book of the series.

I did not dislike anything in this fascinating book.

The book is exceptionally well-edited, and I did not find any errors. I thoroughly enjoyed every episode, so I happily rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

I recommend this book to a wide adult audience of fans of fantasy and adventure. The book’s title and cover do not look unquestionably “adult”, and young teenagers may feel tempted by the unusual word “Voulhire” and by the intriguing mention of “New Arrival” in the book’s title. So I ought to mention that the book has mild sexually-charged scenes. Likewise, the book has very few and mild instances of profanity. These instances make the book unsuitable for children.

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We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
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Patty Allread
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Post by Patty Allread »

I don't know exactly why, but I have avoided looking into this novel to read or review. It might be the name "Voulhire" because I have no clue what it means. Your review is so well-written that you've sparked my interest in this book! Thanks.
Rosandra Hosein
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Post by Rosandra Hosein »

Thank you for your review of this book! I'm thinking of giving it a read.
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Bercus Florica
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Post by Bercus Florica »

Recommended for a broad adult audience who enjoys fantasy and adventure. Despite the title and cover not distinctly appearing "adult," it's worth noting the presence of mildly sexually-charged scenes. While there are few instances of mild profanity, it remains unsuitable for children. Young teenagers may be enticed by the unique world of "Voulhire" and the intriguing mention of a "New Arrival" in the title.
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Post by Boonepre2 »

I don't know exactly why, but I have avoided looking into this novel to read or review. It might be the name "Voulhire" because I have no clue what it means. Your review is so well-written that you've sparked my interest in this book! Thanks.
Mathapelo Legae
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Post by Mathapelo Legae »

I think this book can be turned into a series or a movie as i took time to read what it is all about it really intrigued me it is quiet interesting i would recommend it to any book lovers like myself...
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Carol McCoy Phelps
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Post by Carol McCoy Phelps »

Check what the author says. He wrote this book as the first of a series. Also, he gives a link to additional online reading that helps tremendously. :)
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Jennifer Chisom
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Post by Jennifer Chisom »

"We Are Voulhire" is an engaging fantasy novel with intricate world-building and well-developed characters. The author skillfully blends elements of magic, politics, and adventure, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked. The plot twists add an exciting layer to the story, and the descriptive prose enhances the immersive experience. Overall, a captivating read for fantasy enthusiasts.
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Finnah Thaelo
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Post by Finnah Thaelo »

It would have been better if i had known what Volulhire means and it would be easy to give a clear review in the book.The books seems interesting though,i like the fact that the author skillfully blends elements of magic, politics, and adventure, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked. The plot twists add an exciting layer to the story, and the descriptive prose enhances the immersive experience. Overall, a captivating read for fantasy enthusiasts.
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Yahyawriter
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Post by Yahyawriter »

"Delving into 'We Are Voulhire' unveils a captivating fantasy tale adorned with meticulous world-crafting and rich character arcs. Seamlessly weaving magic, political intrigue, and adventure, the author crafts an enthralling narrative that grips readers from start to finish. Intriguing plot twists elevate the story's allure, while vivid descriptions further immerse readers into the fantastical realm. In sum, a spellbinding choice for aficionados of fantasy literature."
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Dyllon Itch
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Post by Dyllon Itch »

This book sounds captivating, especially when it had lords and kings. In my opinion, this is a great book to read.
oriesha campbell
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Post by oriesha campbell »

It would have been preferable if I had understood what Volulhire meant, as it would have been easier to provide a clear critique in the book.However, the book appears to be engaging, and I enjoy how the author deftly integrates elements of magic, politics, and adventure to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged. The storyline twists give an interesting depth to the story, while the descriptive wording heightens the immersive experience. Overall, a compelling book for fantasy fans.
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Post by Tuki-Martina »

Imagine stepping into a world where hope and chaos are woven into every corner. "We Are Voulhire" introduces you to Galen, a refugee escaping war, only to find that his new home, Voulhire, is just as dangerous or even worse—filled with dark magic, corrupt power, and hidden monsters. As Galen discovers the mysteries of this kingdom, you'll be pulled into a breathtaking tale of survival, trust, and fate. With heart-pounding twists and vibrant characters, even the most reluctant reader will be hooked, unable to resist the allure of this strange, captivating land.
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