Review of On the Trail of the Unseen

[Osvaldo Borghese]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "On the Trail of the Unseen" by Lynne Armstrong-Jones.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Lynne Armstrong-Jones’ “On the Trail of the Unseen” is a fantasy novel that takes readers on an epic journey through a world ravaged by plague and filled with magic. With its rich narrative and complex characters, the book offers an escape into a realm where the battles are not only against external foes but also against the unseen forces of nature.

“On the Trail of the Unseen” is the third book of the “On the Trail Series”, after “On the Trail of the Ruthless Warlock” and “On the Trail of the Wind's Tears”. Although it is written as a stand-alone novel, I suggest reading the previous two episodes to enhance your overall understanding.

The story centers around Nico, a seasoned swordsman who has faced countless adversaries and emerged victorious. However, when a devastating plague threatens his family, Nico finds himself in a battle where his sword cannot aid him. Forced to flee north to his homeland along with his wife and daughter, Nico hopes to escape the reach of the disease.

Their journey is full of peril, not just from the plague but also from the uncertainties and dangers that lie in wait. As they travel, an old friend joins them, also fleeing with his family. Together, they navigate through the treacherous landscape, seeking safety and solace.

Meanwhile, the sorcerers Xyron and Giever, along with the Witch, Creda, head north after their failed attempts to halt the plague. Their path converges with Nico’s, leading to a union of swords and sorcery against a common enemy.
Back at the sorcerers’ tower, the sorceress Aislinn discovers a potential solution to the plague. But implementing her plan could cost her everything, forcing her to weigh the price of her future against the survival of many.

Armstrong-Jones excels in world-building, crafting a setting that is both fantastical and eerily reminiscent of our struggles with global pandemics. The characters are well-developed, with Nico’s warrior spirit and Aislinn’s magical prowess providing a compelling contrast. The narrative is engaging, with a pace that keeps the reader invested in the characters’ fates.

The book’s exploration of themes such as sacrifice, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit adds depth to the fantasy elements. The language is simple yet evocative, making the story pleasant and accessible to a wide audience.

Some readers might find the plot’s parallels to real-world events a bit too close for comfort, potentially overshadowing the escapism typically sought in fantasy literature. Additionally, the pacing, while mostly well-measured, occasionally dips, particularly during the more introspective passages. These are the only things I dislike, in a book otherwise excellent.

“On the Trail of the Unseen” expresses how the enduring power of fantasy can reflect our realities. The book is perfect for magical worlds, sorcery, and epic adventure lovers. Armstrong-Jones has woven a tale that is both a thrilling adventure and a poignant commentary on the human condition.
The book received professional editing and I give it a 5 out of 5-star rating.

******
On the Trail of the Unseen
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[NetMassimo]

A fantasy novel full of magic and adventure that at the same time mirrors our world and its problems seems interesting. The fact that it's well constructed and well edited is a big plus. Thank you for your great review!