An immersive, high-stakes tale of duty, identity, and the corrosive effects of power…
Ar-feinial’s latest installment in Dawn of Forest Black series delves into the fraught intersection of duty, identity, and the volatile politics of an intricately rendered elven world. “Protect the Goddess’s forest. Protect all who dwell within.” These are the oaths Teyerian swore as acting leader of the rangers. But when the king forges a dark pact, unleashing magical amulets that amplify violent spellcasting, the forest descends into madness. Elves, consumed by lunacy, turn against the Goddess and set their ancient kingdom ablaze. Can Teyerian shatter the spell and save the elves’ only true home?
Ar-feinial’s world-building is excellent. Kerina, with its festivals, guild politics, and cultural traditions, pulses with life. The forest kingdom’s layered hierarchy and the fraught relationship between the Rangers’ Guild and the Royal Tree heightens the narrative’s stakes. Against this backdrop, Teyerian’s struggle feels visceral. His vulnerabilities—particularly in moments with Supesien—cut through the larger conflict, anchoring the story in personal stakes. King Gergo’s decree enforcing the use of the amulets drives the story into moral and political territory, exposing fractures within the elven community. The amulets themselves, sinister and alluring, symbolize the dangers of unchecked power. Supesien’s visceral reaction to their discovery amplifies the narrative’s tension.
While the pacing occasionally stumbles under dense exposition, these moments serve to deepen the story’s emotional and political intricacies. The balance between introspection and action remains taut, ensuring the climactic moments land with impact. Themes of responsibility versus freedom resonate throughout, adding a universal dimension to the story. With its immersive world, morally complex characters, and gripping stakes, the book makes for a page-turning read. Fans of epic, character-driven fantasy will want to have a look.
Pub date February 4, 2025
Holy Grail Publishing
ASIN B0DHSNYK2L
Price $2.99 (USD) Kindle edition
