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

This forum is for volunteer reviews by members of our review team. These reviews are done voluntarily by the reviewers and are published in this forum, separate from the official professional reviews. These reviews are kept separate primarily because the same book may be reviewed by many different reviewers.
Post Reply
Mthokozisi Ndlovu
Posts: 3
Joined: 06 Apr 2022, 12:51
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 0
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mthokozisi-ndlovu.html
Latest Review: We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies by Matthew Tysz

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

Post by Mthokozisi Ndlovu »

[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


"We Are Voulhire: A New Arrival Under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz explores the story of a rapidly developing nation governed by King Wilhelm Arcolo. In the midst of overcoming the haunting memories from their tumultuous past, the resilient inhabitants of Voulhire strive to rebuild their lives and vanquish lingering fears. This enthralling tale takes us on a journey filled with thrilling adventures, intricate political intrigues, valiant knights, powerful mages, devout priests, and even moments of joyous dancing. Through the eyes of compelling characters like Galen, King Wilhelm, Lord Eldus, and many others, we are immersed in this new and fascinating world. Set against a backdrop of great skies and intricate world-building, this book offers a fresh and immersive experience for fans of fantasy and adventure. Tysz paints a vivid picture of this fictional world, drawing readers into a breathtaking backdrop of great skies and intricate world-building. What sets Tysz's world-building apart is his ability to seamlessly integrate it into the plot and characters. The setting is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the story, influencing the actions and decisions of the characters. The rich history and diverse cultures of Voulhire add depth and complexity to the narrative, creating a sense of authenticity and making the world feel fully realized.

The plot follows the journey of the protagonists as they navigate the challenges and mysteries of Voulhire. The story commences with Galen Bray, one of the four sons of a prominent ruler in the Land of Princes, a nation torn by war because of its mantra of "death by the sword or slow starvation." Seeking a brighter future, Galen seizes the opportunity and embarks on a voyage to Magnum Caelum in the kingdom of Voulhire. However, upon arriving, he receives news of his recently deceased uncle who resided in Voulhire and had bequeathed his entire wealth to Galen. The reader will be immersed in the world of Voulhire where the immigrant protagonist navigates the complexities of his new circumstances. Unbeknownst to him, Voulhire harbors a dark and disconcerting past. Though Galen takes center stage at the start, we are treated to a multifaceted narrative through various characters. This enables us to catch glimpses into the unfolding events within Voulhire and its rich history.

One such character is Lord Eldus—a pivotal figure who previously served as a judge in Soulhire but now assumes responsibility for fostering growth in the tranquil town of Hillport. Nevertheless, beneath this seemingly unassuming fishing village lurks grave peril. The tragic deeds committed by King Wilhem's former associates, Lord Orlin and General Meldorath, still cast their ominous shadow over Voulhire. Amidst this backdrop, Meldorath and Orlin emerge as central figures, concealing a mysterious disposition that instills fear in those around them. Reminiscent of Lord Voldemort from J.K. Rowling's renowned series, Meldorath's very name sends shivers down spines. Furthermore, an intriguing moment in the library wherein he communicates with Eldus through his enigmatic notes evokes echoes of a scene from "Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets." Just when it appears that these malevolent forces have become remnants of days gone by, an inkling emerges suggesting that they may still pose a threat. Each character has their own unique personality, motivations, and struggles, making them relatable and endearing to readers. Whether it's the brave and resourceful hero or the enigmatic and cunning villain, like Riva Rohavi and her band of ruthless rebels who ceaselessly oppose any prosperity within their despised homeland, Tysz has created a cast of characters that leave a lasting impression.

Overall, the plot and characters in "We are Voulhire" work in harmony to create a captivating and immersive reading experience. Tysz does not shy away from exploring the flaws of his characters. Each one faces their own internal struggles, grappling with moral dilemmas and conflicting desires. These complexities make them more relatable and add an element of realism to the story. Furthermore, the characters' diverse backgrounds and perspectives offer a wider lens through which to view the world of Voulhire. The interactions between characters from different cultures and social classes shed light on societal issues and demonstrate the importance of empathy and understanding. The narrative is easily comprehensible due to the absence of intricate terminology and elaborate storytelling techniques. The book aims to acquaint readers with the crucial characters and provide a comprehensive overview of Voulhire's history and current state. However, these details have contributed to a sluggish progression of the plot. Additionally, the author employs a combination of first-person (Galen) and third-person perspectives. Rather than centering solely on the main protagonist, it delves into individual scenarios within each part of Voulhire in order to mold the narrative.

I rated it 4 because Tysz's attention to detail and ability to craft compelling narratives shine throughout the story, making this novel a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre. Tysz's narrative technique is nothing short of masterful, captivating readers with his ability to craft an engaging and immersive reading experience. From the smallest descriptions to the grandest of events, he seamlessly weaves together the intricacies of the world of Voulhire. Whether it's the breathtaking landscapes or the minute details in the characters' interactions, Tysz's descriptive prowess brings every scene to life, enabling readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

******
We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Post Reply

Return to “Volunteer Reviews”