An epic tale and entire series: My review of "King" by R. J. Larson

about the book....

Akabe of Siphra, I have brought your enemies low and lifted you from the dirt.

Against his wishes and desires, Akabe Garric has been chosen by his people to be king. A warrior at heart, he'd never dreamed of such a swift, unexpected rise to power. Determined to prove his worth to the citizens of Munra and honor his Creator, Akabe undertakes a monumental task: to rebuild the Infinite's Holy House in Siphra.

Only this I ask: Restore My temple and let Me dwell again among the people.

Akabe soon discovers that the land he needs is held by the Thaenfalls, known Atea-worshipers who will give up their claim only if he marries into their line. Though he seeks direction from the Infinite, his pleas are met with silence. Frustrated, Akabe makes an impulsive decision, sweeping his nation into a lethal storm that threatens his plans for the temple. As questions of love and faith become tangled with lies, ancient feuds, and treacherous plots, can Akabe, his mysterious queen, and his trusted friends Ela and Kien Lantec find the Infinite's path...or will they fail as so many others before?

Will your faith hold strong when I am silent?

Child, can you be My king?

my review....

I have been extremely impressed by R.J. Larons's debut into the fantasy fiction realm, and I have enjoyed the entire series that is concluded with the wonderful novel "King". All of the characters I have come to love have returned in fine form in "King", a novel that pulled me into the story from the first few pages and didn't let me go until the satisfying conclusion. Larson has done a wonderful job at creating a believable fantasy world, complete with a map that will help you picture the world that the characters live in. The book is very well-written with vivid descriptions, interesting characterization, and unique elements that make the story special. I love the many creatures that Larson has created, especially the huge "destroyer" war horses that play such a big role in the stories. The scenes explode with action and drama, with elements of romance woven into the story as well. Although I have grown to care for all of the characters in the story, the prophet Ela continues to be my favourite, and I loved watching her as she embodied faith in action. "King" finds her at her best, faithfully following where the Infinite leads her, no matter what he has asked of her. Although this is a fiction book, I couldn't help but reflect on the way I talk with God and hear his voice, and I found myself longing to have the same type of intimate relationship that Ela displays.

"King" brings all of the plot elements introduced in the first book full circle, and I have no doubt that other readers will be just as satisfied with the end of the book as I was. In fact, my only disappointment with this book was seeing it come to an end. I can absolutely promise that I will be going back and re-reading this entire series in the future, because it is probably one of my favourite series to come along in some time.

I encourage readers who don't normally read fantasy fiction to give this book and the entire series a try. They will be thoroughly entertained and also find themselves pondering their own interactions with their infinite creator!

5 out of of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

 about the author....

R. J. Larson is the author of numerous devotionals featured in publications such as Women's Devotional Bible and Seasons of a Woman's Heart. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with her husband and their two sons.Prophet marks her debut in the fantasy genre. Visit http://rjlarsonbooks.com/ for more information.