Review: "Crimson and Cream"... one of the best FA I've read this year.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 5, 2014
"Crimson & Cream" is the first book in 'The Oxbow Kingdom' trilogy by author C.M.Skiera. This Kindle e-book was approximately 254 printed pages and sold for $2.99 at the time of writing this review.Please Note: I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.General theme <minor spoilers>A pair of orphan twins, Elvar and Eidryn Lothyrn (better know to their ne'er-do-well brethren as Flotsam and Jetsam) set out on a daring escapade to celebrate their birthdays. Little do they know, but this risky prank is the opening gambit that will lead them to embark upon an adventure of a lifetime... but unfortunately, for only one of them.Some thoughts on "Crimson and Cream"...1.) well written and superbly edited. Quality prose that's easy to read and comprehend.2.) an intriguing tale featuring several interesting persons. The characters of both Jetsam and bounty-hunter, Yduk Thiern, were fleshed out particularly well. The author use italics to demonstrate ongoing thoughts... a technique I've always found very effective in giving a personal touch to the main players in any story.3.) lots of tense and thrilling encounters, graphically described.4.) many characters that can be severely injured of killed... adding a sense of realism to this story. Nothing detracts from a great fantasy adventure as having a group of heroes that are virtually untouchable... sacro-sanct if you will.5.) the flow of this tale had an impeccable sense of pace and timing. Not rushed, yet was not dragged out with fluffy or useless detail.6.) glossary... a list found at the end, giving many extra details of persons, places and things encountered in this adventure. Bravo, a small but much appreciated addition by this reader.7.) maps... two maps. One was a global map of the realm of Tythania, the other featured a little more detail on the area were most of the story took place. To me, maps are the icing of the cake of a great story, especially fantasy tales that involve travel.8.) cover art... maybe a bit generic and bland given the quality and scope of tale between the covers.Impressions: <some spoilerish material)A tale any fantasy adventure lover will relish sinking his/her teeth into... it had everything; a believable hero on the run, an intriguing villain who is a relentless tracker, some intense dungeon sequences, epic battles and a satisfying ending to lead into the next book.Easily one of the best fantasy adventure books I've read this year.I look forward to the sequel.As it is... 5 Stars.Ray Nicholsonraynicholsonsreviews@hotmail.com@ralannicholson