I recently came in contact with new-to-the-scene, Fantasy Author, Kasper Beaumont, via Twitter several months back. During the introductions, Kasper had also asked if I would be interested in reviewing Elven Jewel, Book One of a new trilogy: Hunters of Reloria. Being that I thoroughly enjoy the Fantasy genre, I agreed; practically sight unseen.
In retrospect, I’m happy that I did because Elven Jewel turned out to be a good read. It was interesting, entertaining, and easily able to capture my imagination, plus the storyline became more engrossing as I continued further into the tale. That’s about the only “downside,” so to speak, of multiple book stories – the sometimes longish introductions to the various characters and the multiple plot lines. This was really the only area where Beaumont’s newness to the writing world actually showed. However, as Elven Jewel progressed, Beaumont seemed to grow more confident in writing ability and more at ease within the world being created.
Now, for some information about this book…
Elven Jewel is set on a world called Zumar, in a land known as Reloria. It’s a beautiful place; magically protected but sadly, over the course of time, its inhabitants have drifted apart. Some of this drift can be attributed to continental distance, some due to the evolution of their race’s intelligence, and some … because of chosen isolation; believing that they had been betrayed. Wherever, and however, these various races each chose to live though, life was still good.
Yet the same cannot be said for Vergash, the home continent on Zumar for the reptilian race known as the Vergai. Because of the cruel, warmongering nature of these cold-blooded people, their lands are dying. Barren, dry, and desolate, Vergash can no longer support their needs. However, the Vergai are well aware of the bounty Reloria holds; having previously attempted to conquer it, but without favorable outcome.
Upon the successful defeat of the Vergai army, the elves of Reloria immediately created a magical shield designed to protect the entire continent. Neither man nor weapon could penetrate this barrier … until now, that is.
This is where readers will begin their journey; with the discovery that this impervious barrier has just been breached via a dimensional portal created by sorcerers; prisoners of the Vergai. And those are the only details with which I will provide you… (Awww)!
Rest assured though, if you’re a fan of fantasy literature, you will enjoy reading Elven Jewel. It’s a good book; full of intrigue, surprises and unique plot twists. Beaumont has done a great job of laying the trilogy’s foundation. Of course, upon reaching the end of this first volume, I was quite disappointed to realize that I was, in fact, at the end. But wait! There isn’t any more?!?
Overall, Elven Jewel is a great start to the Hunters of Reloria, and I’m certainly looking forward to reading the second installment. Four stars…
Review first published: http://blogcritics.org/book-review-elven-jewel-by-kasper-beaumont/