Review: A classic tale of high fantasy quest
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 22, 2014
In “The Protector,” Author Matthews sets out to start the telling of a classic quest tale set in a high fantasy world bursting with sword fights, archers, sorceresses, and evils Faders. The hero, Barrett, has been chosen to lead a band of brave warriors deep into enemy territory to secure a sacred key that unlocks the gates to the underworld. Like most great heroes, Barrett accepts his new responsibility with a healthy dose of distrust and fear. Nevertheless, he is The Protector and he must deliver — whatever the cost.Like a many of the other reviewers, the budding romance between Barrett and one of his traveling companions felt inauthentic and at times distracted from the meat of the story. As is sometimes the case with high fantasy, the pace of the story can be slower than modern readers are used to.On the other hand, there is much to like in this first book in the Outerworld Key series. For one, Matthews sets up a compelling meta-story that will certainly carry into subsequent books. He also has a real talent for scene setting, often so crucial in this type of story. Managing the cast of characters that comes along with a quest tale can be a challenge. I felt Matthews developed a few of his characters exceptionally well. My favorite character hands-down was Tylor, the Fader, a type of shape-shifter.If you’re in the mood for a classic quest tale, then “The Protector” is for you.