As part of the book tour, I was sent all three books in the series to review so I thought I'd do something along the lines of 'mini-reviews' for all three.
About Heirs of Prophecy:
The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land. The Riverton brothers quickly realise that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself - the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world. The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde. Only one thing stands in their way. The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence.
My thoughts:
I have to say I found this book incredibly easy to read. It reminded me a lot of the fantasy books I started out with when I had just started high school - definitely brought back a lot of memories.
What was really refreshing was the fact that the whole family is involved. It made the characters so much more loveable because of the way they interacted as a family and helped each other.
It's also the kind of book that delves straight into the deep end. It wasn't too long before the action started to get going and the adventures began. Always a plus with this kind of book.
One thing I didn't like so much was that the characters seemed to adapt too quickly to their powers and surroundings.
Overall it was definitely a lovely read suited to the whole family.
About Tools of Prophecy:
The Riverton brothers are the tools of a prophecy that has them destined to face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago. Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny. The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord's minion who holds a personal grudge. He plans to witness the young boys' deaths.
My thoughts:
I read this one straight after the first and it definitely ups the pace a little. The characters have grown and with that the story gets a little darker and more action packed.
As with any series I was a little apprehensive I wouldn't like the characters as much as I did in the previous book. I have read series where the main characters have had some kind of identity crisis and just become utter brats but thankfully I liked the characters just as much as before. I enjoyed how the characters are slowly developing and getting a little more depth - they became a bit more well rounded individuals I felt.
The plot was enjoyable. It was simple but the book was no less intriguing - I was still sucked right into the story.
About Lords of Prophecy:
The time of the final battle approaches as the barrier that’s kept the demons at bay for centuries crumbles. The prophecies have promised the emergence of two brothers, lords of the prophecies who are destined to lead Trimoria’s forces against those of the demon lord Sammael. Yet, the challenges that the Riverton brothers face are none that anyone could have anticipated.
Assassins seek the end of the king’s reign, debilitating madness overwhelms many of the wizards, and the sudden appearance of an emissary from a long-lost civilisation brings with it unexpected consequences. The Riverton brothers must overcome the challenges arrayed before them, for the demon lord’s minions are amassing at the border.
The future of Trimoria hangs in the balance.
My thoughts:
Well the story all came together in this book that's for sure. The final battle where everything is decided...
I still loved the relationship between characters. They really seemed to shine more than in the previous books because so much more is at stake. They were really endearing so I ended up not getting enough of them.
The plot was a little too predictable for me but I still enjoyed it nonetheless. What I like about these books most of all though, is that the plot includes a little of everything. It has the perfect mix of fantasy, action and romance which, personally, kept me from getting bored and kept me turning pages.
Overall I think this was my favourite book of the series. I've already persuaded my little sister to start reading them and so far she's enjoying the books too!
My rating: 7/10
About Michael Rothman:
I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books.
Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of "Fiction" that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.
I've learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic.
