Review of The Elfkin Journals
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Fola Moni
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Review of The Elfkin Journals
[Following is a volunteer review of "The Elfkin Journals" by JDeVereS.]
The Elfkin Journals by JDeVereS is an engaging fantasy book bound to make true fantasy fans glued to the pages till the end. It is the second book in the series.
King Flamic of the Razorclaws clan might look old and infirm, but looks, as they say, can be deceiving. Cold, brutal and savage, he is known as the mad king because of his evil machinations. His 1,000-year rule of a galactic cluster of worlds has only made him more dangerous. His recent quest after reading ‘The Book of Recounted Millenium’ is to sacrifice all the planets under his care to obtain the darkness protecting their universe. He believes no one can stand in his way even though King Knightfall of the Graywings clan and his allies would try and stop his evil quest, but he was born ready for them. Let the battle begin.
I like how it has the correct elements of a fantasy book; magic, adventure, mythical creatures, portals between worlds, e.t.c., that would fuel the imagination of readers, grab their attention and keep them hooked. Characters are described with creative and specific details to give the reader a good picture. Fascinating concepts like travelling mists, promise partners, and mindstones make the book thrilling. The names of some characters, like Gentle Breeze, Strong Oak and Long Shadow, are reminiscent of indigenous American Indian traditional names. The book is indeed a fantasy fan’s delight.
I love how the book has many philosophical truths hidden in its depths. Knightfall and his allies were full of wisdom and perception. A particular one that captured my attention was in Chapter 17, page 144 :
“In times of darkness, it is often nothing more than our faith that keeps us sane.”
These words, though simple, are profound and can be interpreted in several ways. You could say it means there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. For me, it means no matter what I am going through; my faith will pull me through.
The characters are a tad many, but they are all unique in their ways. Ala is easily my favourite. With capabilities that allow her to cross realms and dreams, her character leaves you in no doubt of her strength and powers. Knighfall is the kind of leader that everyone looks up to. Wise, loyal and powerful, he exudes a presence that is fierce and noble. Flamic is not your everyday antagonist. His character comes with such extreme barbaric savagery that is only indicative of an insane mind.
The only thing I would have loved more about the book is if there were illustrations to depict the characters in their full glory. Please note that this is simply an observation and, perhaps, wishful thinking on my part and not an issue.
Overall, I would rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Even though it is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone book. There were no errors, so it is exceptionally well-edited. Its strong themes of love, loyalty, leadership and teamwork make me want to recommend it to readers of all ages. However, I believe lovers of the literary fantasy/sci-fi genre would appreciate it the most.
******
The Elfkin Journals
View: on Bookshelves
The Elfkin Journals by JDeVereS is an engaging fantasy book bound to make true fantasy fans glued to the pages till the end. It is the second book in the series.
King Flamic of the Razorclaws clan might look old and infirm, but looks, as they say, can be deceiving. Cold, brutal and savage, he is known as the mad king because of his evil machinations. His 1,000-year rule of a galactic cluster of worlds has only made him more dangerous. His recent quest after reading ‘The Book of Recounted Millenium’ is to sacrifice all the planets under his care to obtain the darkness protecting their universe. He believes no one can stand in his way even though King Knightfall of the Graywings clan and his allies would try and stop his evil quest, but he was born ready for them. Let the battle begin.
I like how it has the correct elements of a fantasy book; magic, adventure, mythical creatures, portals between worlds, e.t.c., that would fuel the imagination of readers, grab their attention and keep them hooked. Characters are described with creative and specific details to give the reader a good picture. Fascinating concepts like travelling mists, promise partners, and mindstones make the book thrilling. The names of some characters, like Gentle Breeze, Strong Oak and Long Shadow, are reminiscent of indigenous American Indian traditional names. The book is indeed a fantasy fan’s delight.
I love how the book has many philosophical truths hidden in its depths. Knightfall and his allies were full of wisdom and perception. A particular one that captured my attention was in Chapter 17, page 144 :
“In times of darkness, it is often nothing more than our faith that keeps us sane.”
These words, though simple, are profound and can be interpreted in several ways. You could say it means there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. For me, it means no matter what I am going through; my faith will pull me through.
The characters are a tad many, but they are all unique in their ways. Ala is easily my favourite. With capabilities that allow her to cross realms and dreams, her character leaves you in no doubt of her strength and powers. Knighfall is the kind of leader that everyone looks up to. Wise, loyal and powerful, he exudes a presence that is fierce and noble. Flamic is not your everyday antagonist. His character comes with such extreme barbaric savagery that is only indicative of an insane mind.
The only thing I would have loved more about the book is if there were illustrations to depict the characters in their full glory. Please note that this is simply an observation and, perhaps, wishful thinking on my part and not an issue.
Overall, I would rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Even though it is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone book. There were no errors, so it is exceptionally well-edited. Its strong themes of love, loyalty, leadership and teamwork make me want to recommend it to readers of all ages. However, I believe lovers of the literary fantasy/sci-fi genre would appreciate it the most.
******
The Elfkin Journals
View: on Bookshelves
Latest Review: Moonlight Serenade by Terry Mark
