Publisher: Charisma House (May 9, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1591856655
ISBN-13: 978-1591856658
Shadowmancer is the story of Thomas Barrick, and Kate Coglan, who live in 1700s Thorpe, England. When an African name Raphah arrives, on the hunt for the Keruvim, an item stolen from his people, things change fast. Because the man whom has stolen it, happens to be Obadiah Demurral, a respected but corrupt vicar who wants to use it to gain power. Throughout the book, Kate and Thomas become engulfed in another world, as creatures they've never even believed in threaten their lives, as well as a God they've never believed in, Riathamus, shows himself.
Thomas, has been dealt a bad hand. He has no father, his house has recently burnt down, and his mother is dying in the hospital. Instead of staying bitter he doesn't even consider not helping Raphah. He has a good heart.
Kate, is completely unlady-like and actually carries a gun on her. Because of an abusive father, she distrusts mostly everyone accept Thomas. I liked her because although she is the anti-girly girl, she doesn't come off as stereo-typical.
Raphah is fully devoted to Riathamus but because we don't know learn much about his past, he is slightly a distant character.
Demurall is completely believable as the villain, a man who uses a religion for his own gain.
His henchman, Beadle, is realistic in his portrayal as a man influenced and weakened by Demurall, but not completely taken in by selfish desires.
Crane is a cynical smuggler that is rather hard to understand throughout the book. He's neither likeable nor unlikable. But he is crucial to the plot.
There are some odd points throughout the story where you are spared reactions that seem crucial. I found myself asking, why didn't they show his of hers reaction? Also, I felt as though we could have gotten to know the main characters better. There was no explanation about the events that Kate and Thomas had gone through together as kids. Just the explanation that they had always been friends. Some history would have deepened the story and it's characters greatly. Finally, the main characters are thrown into danger, but never even question abandoning Raphah. Although Thomas has a dream that leads him to God, Kate seems to have no real motivation. It could just be her friendship with Thomas, but like I said, that lacked depth.
With all these flaws, I still say it's worth the read if you enjoy the "fantasy" genre. There are so many odd and scary creatures throughout this book that make it enjoyable. There are angels, demons, witches, Varrigal, and a raven of gold...just to name a few. My favorite scene is when we see Thomas with his mother; I found his vulnerability a very compelling part of his character, making up for the lack of history and development in many of the others.
I admit, at first read, this book didn't stand out to me, but the second time around I really started to notice it's strong points. I'd give it three stars, for potential (this guy writes non-stop) and originality.
If you want to read it yourself, you can get it at Amazon for only $8.
You can learn about G.P. Taylor's other books at his website.
Next review, Book one of the Vadelah Chronicles, "Arana's Visitor" by Julie Rollins.
No comments:
Post a Comment