Review: `You are not alone. You have all of us, your friends, all working with you. Together, we can defeat the enemy.'
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 12 28, 2013
Reading this initial novel for young adults by Australian author Calvin Gomes gives notice that there may be a successful new young adult fantasy series  on the horizon. Gomes holds degrees in Engineering and Environmental Management and has served as a primary force on projects in the mining industry. So what brings this young man to the arena of writing? First, he has always loved writing and reading outside of the technical realm, and second, he is the father of five living in Perth, Western Australia - among them, a daughter with a deep interest in young adult fantasy. This book is his first in what Gomes states will be a trilogy, and if this first installment is indicative of success, there likely will be more trilogies in the future! In Gomes' words, `I have read a number of young adult fantasy novels and found many characters did not behave sensibly, whilst some events were just too convenient. I have worked hard to make my characters believable and have avoided being too convenient. But remember, it is a fantasy tale, so magic does happen. A note on my evil characters--everyone likes them. I enjoyed creating them and making them credible. Many of their driving thoughts and emotions are what we may experience in life, either in us or in our colleagues.'Griffin and Cassius are student Caladons, priest-like warriors, tasked with a mission beyond their capability - to seek the legendary Orbis, prophesied in their ancient text to have the power to save their world. The two students in tandem with their tutor and other survivors discover many things about themselves and evil. They come to understand why their creator chose them for the mission. The tale is rich in bizarre and evil creatures, dangers at nearly every turn, and the omnipresent Evil.The quality of Gomes' writing is as crystalline clear as the finest engineering renderings. Spoiler alert: Example: `Griffin frowned. How could they defeat the Krolls without further violence and bloodshed? "Griffin," Esor said. "I wish as much as you to stop this conflict before others are hurt. But you must remember the prophecy. Sodin said the war would continue for decades, until his return to defeat Molloch." Esor placed a hand on his shoulder, "You are the Orbis, the one who has come to help us withstand Molloch's forces until Sodin's return. You must continue training and help with the battle ahead of us." Griffin heart sank, "But I feel inadequate for such responsibility." "I feel inadequate at times with my responsibilities. What is one person against so many?" Esor looked deeply into his eyes, "Griffin,it is important you remember that you are not alone. You have all of us, your friends, all working with you. Together, we can defeat the enemy."For lovers of young adult fantasy this book rates very high on the scale of competitors. Calvin Gomes likely has a major secondary career in the making. Grady Harp, December 13