Shadowborne by Matthew Callahan
The Relics of Antiquity #1
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Two brothers spend their youth preparing to enter another land where magic exists. Their goal, the purpose of all the warrior training their grandfather gives them, is to defeat a villain. But their plans are screwed before they even get to the portal magic world. And once they do get there, it’s only to find out that they’re woefully unprepared and not needed.
This was somewhat of a portal fantasy/sword and sorcery hero type of book, but it’s very unique and unlike most books of those genres. The characters were amazingly portrayed. I felt their reactions and emotions were very realistic. The writing style was very engaging as well. The magic was original & interesting. There were several great plot twists. All in all, it was a really great unique book.
My only complaint was that I was a bit confused by some things like how the portal world works on a different time, and some things about the characters introduced at the end. I’m not sure if the confusion is my own misunderstanding, the characters’, since they don’t understand some of that either, or if it’s the author’s fault. But they didn’t detract too much from the overall book.
Basically, my favorite part was in the brothers’ relationship. It felt so real life and perfectly done. I really really really hope they don’t end up fighting each other in the future.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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