Quirky Cat
The White Tower is the first novel in Michael Wisehart's The Aldoran Chronicles. Having just finished the first novel, I can safely say that this series is perfect for epic fantasy fans. It reminds me of a series I read and loved as a kid, though with significantly fewer problems. Consider me hooked.
In a world where magic is outlawed, those with inherent gifts are forced to hide. Those that cannot hide are hunted, imprisoned, and so much worse. This is the world where our leading characters find themselves, and they'll do whatever they must to protect those they love.
The tale splits into three stories. A boy hunted by the Black Watch, with a loyal family and town defending him. A captive prisoner facing insurmountable pain, and yet determined to find his freedom. A captain fighting to protect his king and everything he stands for. Three very different stories, but with similar themes.
“If those who covet power can make you afraid of the very thing that can keep them from obtaining that power, then half their battle is already won.”
Wow. It has been a hot minute since I read an epic fantasy as involved and enthralling as The White Tower. I hadn't realized how much I was craving it until I found myself sucked into this story and all the tales it holds.
Personally, I've always been a fan of epic fantasies that consist of many characters. That is exactly what I got here. While I was naturally more drawn to one series of events over the others (no, I'm not going to say which one), I did find myself enjoying all three main plots.
I especially love that all three plots have several themes in common with one another. It makes it easier to imagine how they might connect in some distant (or not so distant) future. I'm looking forward to seeing how all of that plays out.
What really blows me away is the realization that this was Michael Wisehart's debut novel. That is incredibly impressive, and I can't wait to see how his writing evolves over the years. I also can't wait to read the next book in the series (Plague of Shadows).
Thanks to Podium for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks