Review by Claude Belemu -- We are Voulhire: The Fires of...

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Claude Belemu
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Joined: 07 Jun 2020, 10:36
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Latest Review: We are Voulhire: The Fires of Virko by Matthew Tysz

Review by Claude Belemu -- We are Voulhire: The Fires of...

Post by Claude Belemu »

[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: The Fires of Virko" by Matthew Tysz.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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We are Voulhire: The Fires of Virko by Matthew Tysz is the second novel in the entertaining saga that is the ‘We are Voulhire’ book series.

As per my previous review on the introductory book in the series, the books in this series should be read in consecutive order to really understand the context in which events are occurring and why they are. The backstory of the series found in the earlier books offers a big picture understanding that makes for a more enjoyable and less confusing read.

Despite the several different but related storylines occurring that are told through the various characters, it is evident that this book series’ main protagonist is Galen Bray, who we are introduced to in the first book. Galen is a refugee who has escaped his war-torn home and has since immigrated to the seemingly prosperous kingdom of Voulhire. However, things have quickly changed in the land with its many towns; none more so than the industrious town of Virko where a new era has been ushered in. An era where industry and autonomy from feudal aristocratic rule are being championed. Leading this movement is the sickly lord, Velden. However, it seems Lord Velden’s son, Hans, also known as Folcro, has deviant plans and devices of his own.

The novel is unfiltered. There is a very gruesome nature to it, especially towards the end. The author is bold and original. This second installment in the series is not as slow-paced as its predecessor. It is not necessarily fast-paced, however, there is an enjoyable steady buildup to its climax at the end. The climaxes are usually at the end of the books in this series. The stories may seem to end abruptly but that is because they are part of a wider story that continues in the succeeding installments.

The book deals with paranormal and ‘magical’ elements in a mature and plausible way. The darkness of the spirit world interacting with the natural world is an interesting element that drives the story. The characters are unique, complex, and multi-dimensional with distinct personalities.

The book is professionally edited and without any observable typos. It is well structured and coherent despite drifting between different storylines. The author has provided a map of Voulhire and an index at the beginning of the book with a list of the various places, characters, elements, and so on used in the book to help readers traverse the complex world that is Voulhire. There is no explicitly erotic content. However, there are some instances of strong profanity in the book. There are some really graphic and rather gruesome scenes in the book. This is an adult’s fantasy book and I would not recommend it for children.

All in all, We are Voulhire: The Fires of Virko by Matthew Tysz is a wonderful follow-up from the first book. It is entertaining and promises more intrigue, development, and action to come in the next novels within the series. It is professionally written and edited. There is an originality about it that is commendable. I rate the book 4 out of 4 stars.

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We are Voulhire: The Fires of Virko
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