Review: "The Verkreath Horror"... stronger writing throughout... 5 Stars
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 24, 2014
"The Verkreath Horror" is the second book in the 'Deathsworn Arc' by author Martyn Stanley. This Kindle e-book was approximately 236 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 <spoilers>Having just barely defeated the noble dragon in Book 1, our group of adventures turn towards home with the 'Heart Stones' for Empress Jade. However their journey is anything but easy. The fanatical cult followers of the slain dragon are on their heels looking for blood, so in a effort to escape, the group decides to go through some old abandoned underground tunnels (warrens), built in ancient times by the dwarves... a decision that puts our heroes in great peril.Thus the journey of Saul, Korhan, Vashni, Brael and Votrex continues.Some thoughts on "The Verkreath Horror"...1.) a vast improvement (IMHO) over the first novel. As evidenced by more character development, better dialogues and a substantially less word repetition.In essence, the overall writing was much better.2.) lots of action, but not at the expense of some excellent character development. The final battle in book 1 that nearly ended in disaster, has lead to a degree of internal soul searching and some bonding between surviving members. Allowing the party members to show some traits of compassion and empathy, while at the same time exposing some of their individual vulnerabilities... and maybe none more important than Vashni.3.) some gruesome horrors... graphically described. There are no punches pulled or soft landings in this little gem.4.) important characters can be severely injured of even killed. Adding a degree of realism to this fantasy adventure.5.) map... there is a map to give readers a sense of distance, direction and topography.Impressions:A great D & D style fantasy adventure.Exciting, tense and fast paced.I eagerly await the next installment.As it is... 5 Stars.Ray Nicholsonraynicholsonsreviews@hotmail.com@ralannicholson