Tuesday 24 September 2013

YOUNG ADULT REVIEW: Allies and Assassins - Justin Somper

Release Date: 19/09/13
Publisher:  Atom

SYNOPSIS:

They killed his brother. Now they're coming for him...As the second prince of Archenfield, Jared never expected to rule. But behind the walls of the castle is a dark and dangerous court where murder and intrigue are never far below the surface. Now his older brother is dead. The kingdom is his. And the target is on his back. Can he find the assassin before the assassin finds him?


REVIEW:

A new fantasy series from the author of Vampirates and to be honest whilst I was expecting something a little different I wasn’t quite sure if the book would live up to the expectations that I had, after all when you’ve got used to one series and loves what’s been done its always hard to adjust your feelings when something new lands.

What this book does is bring a story of a young prince to the fore, thrust into the seat of power at an early age with no real training where political machinations vie against and also the maintain of peace is a case of carefully juggling a whole host of poisonous snakes praying that one doesn’t choose to bite.

Its definitely something different to what has come before yet the Somper magic is within, the prose is great, the pace solid and the crime aspect with the twists and turns works well on so many levels. Add to this a solid lead character that the reader will not only sympathise with but also root for and you think you might have it all but for me, it’s the supporting cast that really make this book. Everyone has secrets that they don’t want revealed and the hunt for the truth will shine light into the dark places where those in power do not wish. All round a great book and definitely a magical new offering that will more than entertain especially with its cliffhanger ending. Damn you Justin, I want the next outing now…

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