Steeped with rich and detailed language that transports you right to the action, this book is a definite for fans of Shadowmancer and Lord of the Rings. Although the initial chapters of the book created more questions than answers for me personally, my perseverance was rewarded as the story took twists and turns that catapulted me into the otherworldly dimension that Kirsty McKay has cleverly crafted within our own reality.
Set across the United Kingdom, the book takes place predominantly within Middlesbrough and North Yorkshire, a nice change from those English novels usually set in London or on the Cornish Coast. With the characters being a subtle mix of human and mythical, we see those not from our world attempt to navigate human life with its quirks and curiosities, bringing a light-hearted edge to the otherwise quite dark and serious novel.
The story follows the instantly loveable protagonists, the tracker Finn and the independent Rowan as they uncover more of their true talents in an attempt to fulfil a prophecy whilst trying to avoid darkness himself: Kane, the villain who is so well-written, you can’t help but loathe him. I did quite enjoy the fact that there also seemed to be someone more sinister lurking in the background, the master, Kane’s commander, and I expect that as the series continues, we will see more of him and his pure evil.
I believe this book is a strong start to the series and one that will grow in strength as the journey continues. Therefore, due to the fantastic characters and the intriguing questions that have the reader seeking more, I award this story a strong 4 stars.
