REVIEWS: The Strains of Malice
(formerly The Strains of Malice - Part One: Spite)
LoveReading Review:‘The Strains of Malice: Part 1: Spite’ by Andrew Beardmore is the first in a five book series that follows the people of Thera. A great threat is coming, but amongst this are the trials and tribulations of Emperors, Princes, Princesses and men. This first book is a solid foundation that introduces you to the different storylines the series will follow, from Emilya and Jake’s run from the vindictive and sinister Prince Magnus to Coal Cutters Davy and Will’s life working in the mines. As it is the first book in the series, we do not yet know if, when or how the stories of these 10 different characters will cross.
The book begins with some in depth world building. You don’t just get a map at the start of this book but information about temperatures and climates across Thera, the planetary system and the light, solar cycles and seasons. This sets the tone for the rest of the book, and demonstrates the time and dedication put into creating a very believable world. Because of the order that the key characters in this series are introduced, I find I am more drawn to some stories than others. As we learn more about Emilya, Jake and Alicya for example, I feel I have more of a connection to them and want to see where their stories lead. For the characters such as Draxaelen, a former general now enslaved and Princess Madeleina, being trapped into a marriage of political value, although we haven’t learned too much about them yet, I am curious to see where their stories lead.
This is an authentic and well developed epic fantasy world with lots of heroes to root for and villains to dislike. I think this may be of interest for fans of ‘The Song of Ice and Fire’ Books in terms of format and genre, and Prince Magnus certainly seems to give Joffrey a run for his money. The overarching feeling this book left me with is curiosity about what is to come and how the different storylines will tie together. However, I think that this is a strong start for the rest of the series.
Here is the link to the review on the LoveReading website.
onlinbookclub.org Review:This epic fantasy novel titled The Strains of Malice by Andrew Beardmore begins with Emily Luca and her escape from the cruel Prince Magnus of Ghantiss. The narrative perspective revolves around different storylines, sizzling activities across Thera's significant regions, and the impending threat that spells an end to the Theraeon world.
The first of five series, this book opens in Glennad and to the terrifying encounter of young Emilya Luca with the dreaded Prince of Ghantiss, Magnus. Aware of the Prince's lack of limits, Jack Oscom intervenes and flees with the girl to safety across the lands of Thissibriles. As the story continues, the author interweaves storylines ranging from a cross-section of activities within the world of Thera. From Bramcia, there was Davy, the coal miner, and the mega event that changed his lives and his buddies. In the lands of Lendria, we follow Arran Reed and his sighting of a dangerous body on a path to destroy their world. At the hilt of Thera itself, there is the rise of Calidius, the 316th emperor of Thera, and his callous activities in firmly reigning his world against impending doom. What future lies in wait for Thera? Pick up a copy and follow this exhilarating story.
Andrew Beardmore is a fantastic storyteller with a penchant for meticulous details. He crafts a world so humanistically flawed and tremendously intriguing that it could pass for a kingdom that once stood. I am in deep awe of the depth of creativity and high-ended cultivated discipline to see this complex story through. The characterization was terrific! The interaction of personalities and the development of characters shaped the story crudely and gave life to the plot.
From the start of this book, I was instantly captivated. The precautionary part of me couldn't help but wonder why Emilya would challenge a prince so dreadful or why Alicya would dare her brother to his face, knowing his capability and the flashing red signs. But then, without their strong-willed personality, evil would have continued undercover, and the story wouldn't move forward either. I did learn and pick courage from their brazen defiance against evil, despite what the consequences may have been. Courage is the main takeaway for me.
The interwoven stories were a lot to keep track of, but I enjoyed reading from the character's perspectives. I am also curious how these characters and their stories would finally interlock, as they seem far from each other. Among the characters, I found Davy Sheerin to be my favorite. He was a pure soul with a stellar reputation that preceded him and drew people to his side. His protection over young Will Lowe and his brother, Dylan, even in the face of danger, spoke volumes about his selfless personality. I am fascinated by the character of Elyse too. Something magical about her and her homeland gave her character shine and stability. Although I wouldn't say I liked her manipulative coercing in getting Emilya to stay off meat, I loved her character and motherly instincts to bits.
I am bouncing in anticipation of the second book, as this story ended on a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read about the fate of the cold Calidius, Prince Magnus, Dax, and Arran's love interest. This book was birthed with creativity and finessed with research. It is also exceptionally edited. However, I don't particularly appreciate that there is so much to keep up with while the story unravels. As much as that is thrilling, it is also a time bomb of confusion as the storylines seem to expand in different directions. For this reason, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. Besides that, there is nothing to dislike about the book.
I would give an arm and a leg to have this book directed into a movie series. It would be ideally suited for adventure and fantasy fans. While we keep our fingers crossed for that, why not grab a copy and get lost in the blood-curdling adventures of the Theraeon world?
Amazon Reviews:
