The Lost King: Wings of Valenia Book Two
Adult; Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror; (Market)
It is autumn in Valenia, and times are hard. The queen is no longer herself after the tragic events of the spring. Wild animals have ravaged crops, and Princess Kiar worries about a lean winter for the kingdom. After her sister Adana returns from the swanfolk with a cryptic warning from the Swan Queen, the nearby bog seems to take on a life of its own, and a young girl from an eastern farmstead brings news of a band of inhuman, seemingly invincible attackers. Local legend tells of mysterious bog-walkers, souls suspended between life and death and lurking between worlds.
Her father, the king, is wounded in battle, and the intruders seem to fear nothing and no one-except Kiar. But she cannot be everywhere at once. Along with her swanfolk friend, Willow, her future mate, the valiant and loyal Tuan, and a former enemy turned ally, Kiar enters the perilous heart of the bog to confront the dark magic within. Everything is at stake-the life of King Tir, her future as ruler, and the peace of Valenia.
Plot/Idea: 9 out of 10
Originality: 8 out of 10
Prose: 8 out of 10
Character/Execution: 10 out of 10
Overall: 8.75 out of 10
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The Lost King, the second book in the Wings of Valenia series, is a bold and dynamic fantasy thriller with well written characters and a compelling plot. Themes of family, betrayal, magic, and tragedy abound in a breathtaking adventure full of unexpected twists and turns.
Prose: Creith's text deftly creates tension and suspense through simple, involving and descriptive storytelling. Delicately observed characters, coupled with detailed, creative and imaginative worldbuilding combine to produce a deeply impressive and highly enjoyable reading experience.
Originality: The Lost King is a stirring fantasy epic which features incredible worldbuilding and a glut of interesting characters. Steeped in the land of ancient fairytales and myths, Creith's sensitively written characters are both intriguing and memorable.
Character/Execution: Creith's protagonist, Princess Kiar, is the focal point of the story, bravely confronting the perils of the dark magic contained within the bog. In addition there are several beautiful, gentle, yet powerful creatures and shapeshifters that round off and impressive array of supporting characters.
Date Submitted: August 08, 2024
