Strong Characterization in Reins of Time

STORYLINE:  In the distant future, three factions pit their strength against each other in a race to acquire an energy source that will make the holder all-powerful in the galaxies. To do this, they must have the help of a young man who can travel through time and space. The question is, which faction will emerge triumphant and at what cost?

PLAYERS: Meerak is young and hot-headed. He's also the treasure that the superpowers all wish to control. He's thrown into a war that he doesn't understand, but must grasp quickly to save the world from destruction at the hands of those fighting for control.

Davvishen is a fiercely loyal career soldier, who is forced to shift allegiance from his former liege to the exploited Meerak. He makes a formidable enemy and a wonderful ally. He too must choose wisely or be destroyed by those who would take advantage of him and his new liege.

I LIKED: the world-building that went into Reins of Time. The society, flora and fauna are much different from the way we know it and yet somewhat familiar. The other life forms are strange—sometimes grotesquely so in looks and behaviour—yet interesting and varied.

I COULD HAVE LIVED WITHOUT: the graphic battle scenes that sent my imagination into overdrive. I felt every slash and grievous injury alongside those who were receiving them.

OVERALL COMMENTS: This book is not for the faint of heart. It begins with action that continues throughout the story. The protagonists are never at rest and are pursued continuously in a battle that rages hotter with each page. At the end, there is a respite, but I suspect things will get going again as there is a planned sequel. Although the novel covers the exploits of the warring factions, there is a romantic thread which also keeps things interesting. The characters also grow and change as the story develops.   

At first, it was challenging to keep the non-human characters straight, but as the story progressed, it was easier to remember who was who. Reins of Time is a fast, action-filled read that those who like Fantasy and Sci-Fi will enjoy.

COVER NOTES: The dagger and planetary rings are a good representation of what the novel is about.

SOURCE: I received the novel from the author in exchange for a review.