Author: Brian G. Turner
Publisher and Copyright: Brite (www.brite.co.uk) © 2016 Brian G. Turner
Price: $10.99 (paperback) $4.99 (Kindle)
Cathbad’s Rating: 9 of 10
Release Date: November 15, 2016
A Review by, Cathbad
Chronicles of Empire: Gathering
The first thing I noticed about this book is that the technical aspects of the writing puts mine to shame.
It’s clean. The pace is near perfection. Grammatical errors are non-existent. The characters have identifiable differences, and the author is consistent, not only with the character’s personalities, but with the complex storylines. I was 20% into the book before I found an editing error – even if it was merely the juxtaposition of two words! And it’s saying something that that’s the only one I found in a tome this large!
In short, this is a professionally produced book. Very impressive for any first-time Self-Publisher!
Though the early descriptions and intrigue kept my interest, some might find the lack of real action through the first 20% of the story off-putting. I’d advise, however, for the reader to persevere! Starting with a workhouse explosion – using explosives that weren’t supposed to be in use in that time – the pace of the action starts to increase!
The story is indeed complex. One group – the ‘Adventurers’ – have come to the great city of Corianth, ostensibly to get work, though at least one had other reasons: Erin was seeking to further her career in the Ministry.
In another storyline, General Adoras seeks to advance the cause of the Emperor’s Guard – through an act of treachery! With the help of accomplices – including those who don’t even know they’re accomplices – he hopes to restore their pride and status – and enhance his own!
Then there is the most intriguing storyline: Councilor Molric has devised a complex scheme to ‘save the Empire’ – and all of humanity. He has come from a different time, to save a world he saw burn.
Of course, he hasn’t come alone. Unbeknownst to Molric another, an albino going by the name Ezekiel now, had followed him through the fissure into the past. And he intends to stop Commander Molric – and save Earth!
As the story progresses, things don’t go well for… Anyone. Or, at least, things don’t go as expected for Anyone. Now, normally, I’d be rolling my eyes, and saying to my cat, “Oh, come on, now!” But these things are presented in such a way that they are neither forced nor cliché, and actually seem like logical, expected events! I mean, do any serious, complex plans – or even our lives - ever go perfectly? In this case, I think the story is only enhanced by the troubles each group – and individuals – have; especially seeing how they respond to those challenges!
The action – and the emotional feel – becomes intense. I found I was unable to pull myself away – even to have lunch – and that’s saying something, indeed!
But the book is all about the characters – and few can write so diverse and complex characters, all of whom grab your attention, and make you want to follow their individual stories! Bravo, Brian!
The part of the ending of this book that surprised me was Molric’s fate. But, as Daria said, “Surely you didn’t really believe it could end any other way?” As for the rest? I can’t wait for the next book, AWAKENING!
I give this novel a strong 9 out of 10 rating.
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