M. H. Woodscourt

What an action packed journey of light against darkness. Very clear that the author is a “Lord of the Rings.” fan, which I cannot blame them – as I am too. Before I jump into the author’s writing I want to take a moment to appreciate some of the other details of the book.

I love a good map in a fantasy book when there are multiple lands, such detail helps breathe life into the story giving the illusion that the lands are real. Plus maps are good reference material to better visualize where things are taking place.

From an information design standpoint, I loved the use of symbols to represent each character’s chapter. There are many viewpoints in this book which may be off-putting to some, but for me, I enjoy seeing the plot unfold from different perspectives. I want to see how the author is going to tie the stories together. If multiple storylines is not your thing because other authors let you down with connecting the stories, rest assured this author will not leave you hanging.

“The Shattered Arch,” can feel a little overwhelming in the beginning as you are inundated with a lot of information from the start. Do not be alarmed, soon you will be immersed in the battle against darkness. In fact you may feel as though you too are in battle, feeling a little weary from all the action, longing for a moment to rest. However, for this book I feel the constant action works because you can feel the darkness rising, surrounding you, suffocating you with its ever growing reach much like the characters would be feeling.

I did have a few qualms with the book. Jinji is mentioned quite a bit, but little back-story is given as he is part of another writing of the author’s. I found myself wondering more at times about why everyone loves Jinji so much than about finding the Arch. Which speaking of the Arch, I would have wanted a little more history about them. Were they just simply entry ways into the magic realm, were the Arches created as guarded checkpoints, why are there several…

Overall this book hits the mark for young adults, and delivers what is promised. I would not be opposed at all if the chance arose to jump back into Nakania and see how the story continues to unfold.… (más)