Review of We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies

[Neil Prince]

[Following is a volunteer review of "We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies" by Matthew Tysz.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies by Matthew Tysz
This novel is the first book in the series, and serves as an introduction to the characters and environment of the series. The story follows several characters as they make their way in the kingdom of Voulhire, all aware to some extent that a dark and sinister power is forming in the south, and many assume it to be the rumored to be deceased wizard, Meldorath. The nation is enjoying a tenuous peace, following an era of violence and corrupt officials, and the people are striving to return to their normal lives, trusting that the good king Wilhelm has their best interests at heart. As the story progresses, we come to know the characters better, such as Galen, a fledgling blacksmith determined to make his recently departed uncle's ambitions a reality, and the newly appointed Lord of the port town of Hillport, Eldus Alderman a d his family, who see a bright future for the small town and possess a resolve to protect it's secret from the rest of the kingdom at all costs. Soon enough, however, the secret refuses to be contained and everyone must decide what they will do when facing an uncertain future.

Pros and cons:
I genuinely enjoyed this book, I found it's use of magic, such as biomagic, as well as the idea of two separate worlds for the physical and the ephemeral to be creative and intriguing. I can't wait to see how it evolves throughout the series. I found the characters interesting, especially the blacksmith, Galen. I don't mind admitting that I'll be reading the rest of the series just to find out what happens to him. I noted only one or two errors, this novel appears to be quite well edited.

My only real issue with this book is that the dialogue and slang is modern in nature, and contrasts rather harshly with the dark ages/steampunk land it's found in. Granted, it is set in a fictitious world, and as such assumptions about the language can't be made, I simply felt that it was out of place.

With all the above taken into account, I give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Due to some of the adult themes and language, I reccomend this book for adults ages 18-30 who enjoy high fantasy and magical elements, and those with an interest in political intrigue of historical style.

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We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies
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