Review: A Great, Unique Fantasy Novel
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 9, 2013
When I first heard about this book I was really excited to read it as it was being marketed as a New Adult fantasy novel, a combination of my favourite category and genre. I was expecting great things from this book and it did not disappoint. Starting the book I was slightly concerned that it would not be what I was expecting due to its opening that seemed slightly immature. Luckily the book quickly redeemed itself and was nothing like what the opening led me to expect; the opening scene is not a good reflection as to what the rest of the book is like.This book is very unique and stands out amongst the many NA novels that are currently available. Not only is it one of the few NA fantasy novels that exists but its fantasy world is unique. It is set in a world quite like ours except supernatural creatures roam and everyone knows about their existence. Collectively known as mystics, there are four different types - shifters, vampires, mages and elementals. King Hall is set at a mystic university that specialises in training the future leaders of the four mystic races.Also adding to the uniqueness of King Hall is the fact that unlike most other NA novels, romance is not the driving element of the storyline. In fact there is minimal romance. However romance lovers don't despair! This book does still have its moments with scorching sexual tension between some of the characters and a definite possibility for romance in future books.A prominent aspect to this book is friendship. Whilst true romantic love takes a backseat in King Hall, other types of relationships are beautifully showcased. The story follows Lily and the three other future mystic leaders through their last year of University whilst learning everything they need to be able to rule. The four have probably the best friendship that I have ever seen in any novel. They support one another through the good and the bad and the best moments in the book revolve around their easy banter.Lily is a great protagonist. She has gone through so much tragedy and she would be killed instantly if it was discovered she was a hybrid but she still has so much strength. She doesn't run away from her problems and take the easy route but instead does what would be best for the good of others. All of the supporting characters are equally as perfect as Lily; from cheeky Jack to beautiful Pearl, sexy Ezra and even the four kings each character is well crafted and developed.I'm not sure if the author plans to do anything like this but I think King Hall would greatly benefit from a prequel. This book launches you into the action and there are clearly lots of important things that happened before the timeline of the book started. I fully understand why the author wrote the book the way she did as it does work the best but there is so much stuff alluded to that I would have loved to see. Whilst all past events that were necessary to help understand the story were mentioned throughout the book; I would love to see how Lily's story started, especially her meeting and mating with Dominic.The ending to this book was explosive, astounding and left me wondering what direction the author will take the story in the next book. If you like frilly, fluffy books King Hall probably isn't for you but if you like gritty, raw and powerful novels then you will most likely love this book. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series as soon as I can possibly get my hands on a copy. I would definitely recommend King Hall to all urban fantasy, paranormal or NA fans.*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, this has not influenced my opinions or rating in any way*