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Asa can’t afford to be a child anymore. Perhaps he never was, considering the terrible toll that perpetual wars have taken on his community. Boys as young as thirteen are being called to fight the malicious Black Knights. Most died, and those who return are never the same. Women are left to manage the local economy and home. A somber pall has descended on the vale of Sharon.
Asa tries to focus on his studies, but he worries that he will be sent to fight soon. The Elders, undergods of this world, have more important plans for him. Asa is selected for an extraordinary mission to bring ancient, sacred relics back to the Order of the Rose and the Elders. It is their only hope of stopping the Black Lord’s advance and the endless cycle of wars. As he prepares for his quest, the veil of youth’s naivete is lifted. There is more darkness than he ever imagined. His mentor, Lord Hartland, equips him with knowledge and sage advice. In the end, though, Asa will have to accomplish this on his own.
McInnis has crafted a rich, compelling story with colorful settings. His use of dialogue paints vivid portraits of characters. He is a skillful writer with a poetic flare that invokes the spirit of classic bards or storytellers. However, this is to be expected as McInnis is also a musician and songwriter. The pages turn quickly as the language flows easily. Themes of mystery, magic, and peril are enhanced by the author’s descriptive style. Readers will be enthralled by this first installment and will be eagerly awaiting a sequel.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review