Review: Immortal Friends and Enemies
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 24, 2013
Judas Iscariot, formerly William Barrow and Emmanuel Ortiz and other yet unrevealed names, is an Immortal wandering the world in ways we could never imagine.  He has lived centuries, soaking up knowledge straight from the times themselves.  He has amassed an awesome fortune, stored in many places.  Throughout the years he has met other immortals who have become good friends in great times of danger and peace.  He has also met other immortals who are out to skin him alive.  Aiden James' novel The Dragon Coin centers around one such immortal who has it out for Judas and his friend Roderick Cooley.  This immortal's name is known to nearly all of us.  He plans a stake for their future and is the most powerful vampire that has ever existed.  Adding to the allure engulfing our two friends is the power of illusion.  Is what they are experiencing real or the crafted delusions of a most powerful and vengeful enemy?Right from the start the reader knows our intrepid immortals are stepping into something beyond them, for the moment.  What I like about AidenJames is that his heroes are heroes willing to face impossible odds, using their inner cunning and courage, doing the best to save those they love.  Personal sacrifice may be a last resort, but considered nonetheless.  The villains are classic: evil, manipulating, gloating and not above killing the innocent to inflict pain.  In the true vein of movies I grew up with, the action is fast, the dangers are heart-pounding, and the tricks to defeat the villainous are breathless.  In true movie fashion, you will laugh, cheer, and hold your breath a spell.  And yes, Judas will add another coin to his eternal collection to redeem himself.  Unlike true movie fashion, the life of Judas and those around him will find one more looming mountain up ahead, leading into the next book.Is the novel worth your time?  Yes, replete with action, adventure, and thrills and spills.  The Dragon Coin calls you and you must answer - the time is now.