Official Review: A Brief History of Va`meria in the time ...

[Manang Muyang]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Brief History of Va`meria in the time of the Princes" by John Wheatley.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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In A Brief History of Va’meria in the Time of the Princes, author John Wheatley creates Vastameria, an island in the Western Sea. The island is home to two nations separated by a natural border of mountain terrain, the progressive Va’meria and the more backward Karagia. The book begins in the year 18**, with the two nations at peace for the last 65 years, “though tensions often run high, particularly over the Western Province – or 'Disputed Territories', land annexed by Va'meria after the war of 1744-61.”

The main protagonists in this wonderful period piece are: Jakkr (a corporal of the Border Guard), his sweetheart Saryl (barmaid at the Inn at the Top of the World), Princess Linsl (Prince Lemyr’s wife, chosen for him by incumbent Prince Namren), and Prince Lemyr (son of reigning Prince Namren and heir to the throne). The tumultuous relationship of Jakkr and Saryl, unapproved by Saryl’s father, and the trouble-laden marriage of Prince Lemyr and Princess Linsl unfold against the backdrop of the growing unrest in Va’meria. The unrest eventually escalates into a war with Karagia over the Disputed Territories. Will Jakkr and Saryl survive the hindrances to their union? Will Prince Lemyr and Princess Linsl withstand the challenges to theirs? Will the war drive them all apart? Who will win the war?

The first four chapters begin with valuable background information about the two nations, with emphasis on Va’meria where most of the action takes place. This is skillfully done by quoting excerpts from a history book, giving the novel the right ambiance.

The book, classified as historical fiction, presented a realistic tableau of life in the 19th century in a monarchy, complete with palace guards and chamberlains, royal carriages and impressive palaces, and the affluent lifestyle of their Highnesses, as opposed to the drudgery of the humble peasants. The author successfully transported me to his fictional world. I was enthralled with how he brought to life the pomp and pageantry of royalty, the treacherous machinations of a secret society out to topple the government, and the misery and despair attendant to war.

The author uses very vivid descriptions and maintains a lively pace throughout the book, effectively employing chapter breaks to heighten the reader's anticipation. One can almost see the scenes jumping from the pages, as well as picture the characters in their joys and laments. There are many unexpected plot twists that keep the reader mesmerized. The unrelenting suspense makes one hold his breath and cheer the characters up to the exciting final pages until the very satisfying end.

The four major characters are extremely relatable, with strengths and weaknesses like the rest of us. Each character is fully fleshed out by the author and given ample time to elicit empathy from the reader. The secondary characters are likewise memorable and play pivotal roles in the story. The book has many endearing humorous scenes and conversations. I also like the fact that despite the many sexual references in the story, there is no explicit love scene that may alienate some readers. Also, despite the war, there are no gory details that can turn off the squeamish. There are many lessons to be learned from the story, too. The healing power of love, the timeless beauty of friendship, the importance of family, the dignity of honest labor, the prize of loyalty, the reward of bravery – all these are brought to the fore.

I had a fun time consulting the dictionary for the many terms that were old English, enhancing the feel of an earlier time. The characters’ names were likewise made to conjure a unique race (although it was quite a challenge to remember the unusual names like Stavanz Curin and Nephest Aldrn.) I commend the author for the obvious effort at period and character authenticity.

Most readers will find something to like in the novel as it offers an array of genres: romance, crime and mystery, humor, and history, albeit fictional. I do not recommend it for young readers, though, as there are some sensitive issues discussed.

I found the book a very absorbing read and difficult to put down. While there were many grammatical lapses, mostly missing articles and prepositions, and inappropriate punctuation marks, these did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. (The correction of these minor errors would definitely further the book’s likability. I do have a list of the errors I noted if the author or publisher wishes to know them.) However, I strongly recommend a shorter title as the present one is hard to recall and does not grab attention. I initially wavered from choosing the book because I envisioned a drab read from the title. The present title may be used as a subtitle to retain the historical feel.

All in all, I cannot help but give a rating of 4 out of 4 stars for this beautiful work that made my day. I am looking forward to reading more from this author who obviously knows how to give his readers a great time.

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A Brief History of Va`meria in the time of the Princes
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Like Miriam Molina's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Jaime Lync]

Very insightful review as usual Miriam. This sounds very intriguing - I applaud authors who are able to make up a really good historical background for their stories.

[kandscreeley]

I agree about the title. I didn't want to read the book based on that, but your review makes it sound wonderful. I'll put it on my list. Thanks.

[Manang Muyang]

Thanks Jaime and kandscreely. The book was really a pleasant surprise. I couldn't keep turning the pages. Thus, despite the grammatical lapses, Is felt I couldn't give it less than 4 stars, knowing that the title will not appeal to readers. I hope you will both enjoy the book as much as I did.

-- 04 Jun 2017, 14:45 --

Thanks Jaime and kandscreely. The book was really a pleasant surprise. I couldn't keep turning the pages. Thus, despite the grammatical lapses, I felt I couldn't give it less than 4 stars, knowing that the title will not appeal to readers. I hope you will both enjoy the book as much as I did.

[Spirit Wandering]

I too passed this one by because of the title. Just goes to show you shouldn't judge a book by its cover (or its title)! Thanks for the review and its detailed description.

[Manang Muyang]

Yes, you should give the book a chance. However, the last time I checked, there was no sample online yet.

I really hope the author can give it a more catchy title when it becomes available online.

[baley]

Thanks for sharing, I also judged it by the glance of the title but having reviewed it like you did gives me a compel to give it a chance to make my day.

[Manang Muyang]

Go ahead baley and tell me what you think about it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

[John Cand]

Your review makes this sound really great but I am not sure that this is my type of book. Thanks for the nice review though.

[Manang Muyang]

Hi John. Thanks for commenting. I cannot recommend this book enough so I really hope you can read it too.

[Amagine]

This sounds like an educational historical fiction. Especially since you had to pull out your dictionary. I like the fact that even though there are four major characters, the author makes sure to take the time to flesh out every single one of them.


Great Review! ?

[Manang Muyang]

Thank you for reading and commenting on my review, Amagine. I hope more people will get the chance to read this book. I truly enjoyed it.
(I checked your bookshelves and found a lot of children's books there. I also know you teach. So I guess you teach kids. And you also have a baby brother whom you love dearly. All the kids around you keep you young at heart. I enjoy trading compliments with you.) ?

[Ficninja]

The only thing that makes me shy away from this book is the names of the characters, because they will slow me down and hamper my enjoyment as I read. I always enjoy historical fiction, however, and judging by your wonderful review, and the 5 stars, this sounds like a book that shouldn't be missed.

[Manang Muyang]

Haha, you added another star! This was a really enjoyable read, Ficninja. I assure you the names will not bother you at all as the story enthralls you.

[juliusotinyo]

Sounds just like my kind of book. Very enthusiastic review Molina