5 Star Review
Reviewed by J. Williams
A Riveting Start to an Epic Journey
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"The Last Keeper" by J.V. Hilliard is a captivating tale that vividly combines elements of prophecy, magic, and high-intense adventure. Set in the wonderful realm of Warminster, this book embarks the reader in what is set to be the beginning of an exciting series.
The story revolves around main character Daemus Alaric, a young boy who could not see at birth but is blessed with the extraordinary gift of prophetic Sight. As one of the Keepers of the Forbidden, Daemus is charged with using his powers to relinquish the evil plans of Graytorris the Mad, a fallen Keeper. This sets the stage for a riveting narrative. Hilliard takes things a step further by introducing us to Princess Addilyn Elspeth, an elven diplomat with a shocking secret of her own. That secret will redefine how we envision fantasy as a whole.
The world-building in "The Last Keeper" is nothing short of fantastic. Hilliard creates a rich and immersive fantasy world filled with magical creatures, hidden realms, and a political backdrop that will keep you guessing with every page. I found the home of the Vermilion elves, Eldwal, to be mysterious and wonderful. The vivid descriptions breathe life into this whimsical setting that made it feel like a place one can truly lose themselves in.
The characters in this book are relatable and endearing. Daemus, with his blindness and prophetic abilities, is a compelling protagonist. His struggles and determination to fulfill his role as a Keeper of the Forbidden make him someone that you want to cheer for. Princess Addilyn is just as engaging, with her unique personality and the weight of her secret burdening her every step.
As the plot unfolds, Daemus dives into a perilous journey that I simply could not get enough of. The anticipation builds throughout the story, in a heart-thrilling adventure that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The fate of the Keepers and the realm itself hang in the balance, creating an atmosphere of tension and excitement.
J.V. Hilliard's writing style is engaging, and it is an easy for read for those looking to lose themselves in the pages of this epic fantasy. This book is a promising start to The Warminster Series and a testament to Hilliard's storytelling prowess. Can't wait to get started on Book 2.
About the Author
Born of steel, fire and black wind, J.V. Hilliard was raised as a highlander in the foothills of a once-great mountain chain on the confluence of the three mighty rivers that forged his realm's wealth and power for generations.
His father, a peasant twerg, toiled away in industries of honest labor and instilled in him a work ethic that would shape his destiny. His mother, a local healer, cared for his elders and his warrior uncle, who helped to raise him during his formative years. His genius brother, whose wizardly prowess allowed him to master the art of the abacus and his own quill, trained with him for battles on fields of green and sheets of ice.
Hilliard’s earliest education took place in his warrior uncle’s tower, where he learned his first words. HIs uncle helped him to learn the basics of life—and, most importantly, creative writing.
Hilliard’s training and education readied him to lift a quill that would scribe the tale of the realm of Warminster, filled with brave knights, harrowing adventure and legendary struggles. He lives in the city of silver cups, hypocycloids and golden triangles with his wife, a ranger of the diamond. They built their castle not far into the countryside, guarded by his own two horsehounds, Thor and MacLeod, and resides there to this day.