But from Tom, there now came words, spoken as if the entire forest were speaking, "I am now your Drachma! Heed well these words, Master Gilsen. Your life and your work have been a blessed gift to these, my people. They shall be given the power to protect you. Accept the help, then of Hermes and Alex but also of Marilyn. You shall need the assistance of all!" In The Healer's Defense, the quiet world of fifteenth century Shepperton is suddenly turned on its side as three threats from outside suddenly appear. As Craycroft and Kerlin determine the nature of the threats, Robert Gilsen and his pregnant bride, Judy, get sent into the interior of the island for protection. And Tom, grandson of Drachma, is dispatched toward the winds of time for help. So now, we have a new set of characters to do battle with the likes of Antoine LeGace, Emile Patronis, and the nefarious Count Gregorio. And they include the likes of Diego Monteverde, the seafaring prince; Alexandra, the six-year-old great-granddaughter of Cartho; and the mysterious Chauncey. And who is it, but Marilyn Gilsen, Robert's former spouse from the twentieth century who now comes across the chasm of time to aid their cause. And now can Tom, as the new Drachma, properly set up his defense of the realm so precious to his grandfather?
I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A note to those reading, this is the first book in the Heir Of Drachma Trilogy, which is a continuation of the Book Of Drachma Trilogy. I recommend you read those three books before you pick up this one. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!
In Mr. Cook's books, science and fantasy go hand in hand and weave a spell around you, capturing you into their world. I love stories the older they're set, and the 1400's is a very interesting time in medicine (as the main character, Robert Gilsen, was a doctor in the twentieth century), and I think I actually learned more than I thought I would.
As a fantasy fan, I found this to be less "fantastical" than others, but somehow that makes it better. This is somehow believable, and you feel like somehow you could enter the story yourself. I love the characters, the scenery and the writing style. While this series is nothing like J.R.R. Tolkien (whom I consider to be the godfather of fantasy), Mr. Cook's writing style reminds me of his. It's whimsical, mysterious, a little dangerous and it gives you characters you can come to love. He also proves that you don't need excessive sex or bloodshed to make a dent in the fantasy literary market in the twenty-first century!
Even if you think you don't like fantasy, give this book a try! I had so much fun reading it and can't wait for the next book!
5/5--excellent modern fantasy!
Purchase Heir Of Drachma Book One: The Healer's Defense on May 19th via Amazon!
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