THE SHADOW OF WHAT WAS LOST

Time Lord Of The Rings

released 10 November 704 pages | Hardback/ebook

Author James Islington

Publisher Orbit

In many respects The Shadow Of What Was Lost is a traditional coming-of-age, saving-the-world epic fantasy, in the vein of Tad Williams and Raymond E Feist (and yes, Robert Jordan). But it also has the flavour of something new, mostly due to its intriguing use of various magical abilities, including time travel.

Previously self-published, the book has gone through a quick edit with Orbit and come out looking shinier. That’s not to say it doesn’t have its faults, however. The book hops around from major event to major event, feeling a little rushed, and yet still runs to just over 700 pages.

The characters are a familiar but loveable bunch: Davian with his prodigious latent magic; Wirr with his affable nobility. Most of all, Asha stands out. Tough, level-headed and pragmatic, she’s a bit of a badass in training.

The overarching story can be frustratingly vague as the plots within plots are teased out, but this does have the desired effect of keeping you hooked, so can be forgiven. Hooked enough, even, that at the end of the book you’ll be left wanting more – if only to explain what the hell is going on... Bridie Roman

The origin of Princess Karaliene’s name won’t need any explanation if you’re Latvian – it translates as “queen”.