THE WHITE TOWER is your first installment of a fantasy epic in the classic sense. Straight-forward, memorable characters, and headlong action that flows seamlessly with just enough plot twists that definitely kept my interest. There are enough surprises and inventive sequences to whet my impatient interest for the next volume.
Quite impressed by the world Mr. Wisehart has created. The politics, culture, magic system, and background are well constructed and cohesive - well done.
Supported by a bevy of solid characters, the world of Aldor feels natural and well-developed. Too many writers take these aspects for granted, and DO NOT take the time to develop the background and history - this is what separates the good writers from the wannabees. Mr. Wisehart has thoughtfully done his homework and given us a rich tapestry on which to enjoy the march of personalities you quickly get invested in.
I’ll be upfront here - I was privileged to read the first beta version of this. The basic style then was solid. The rewrite took EVERYTHING to the next level. One of the questions he asked beta readers was - ‘Use 3 words to describe your impression’.
My answer at the time? ‘Intriguing - character-driven - inventive’.
Nothing’s changed for me - except the excitement of seeing the maturation of the finished product!
My favorite character - Ferrin - has a wicked edge in his magical abilities. He has the potential to become an exceptional major character. Not just in The White Tower series - as a memorable character in the world of Classic Fantasy lore. Recently, Mr. Wisehart finished a ‘prequel’ story describing the events that landed Ferrin in the Tower where we find him in the novel. This story exposes one of Mr. Wisehart’s best talents - character development. I’m pumped. Mr. Wisehart had a few rough spots in the beta edition of The White Tower, but he smoothed those out exceptionally - the proof in the pudding that reveals the maturity in an author is when you get the beta for a follow up story/sequel - and find yourself at the end of it... with nothing to say except "Please, sir, may I have some more?" No edits required. THAT, my friends, is why the 5 Stars for this offering.
This also gives me EXACTLY what I’d been waiting to hear - that the author is committed to the series and the characters in it. I'm a series junkie, and have no qualms admitting it in public. The White Tower delivers.
As for the first installment here, the ending is a quintessential cliff hanger. Nicely timed and leaving us all wanting more. Don’t ever consider slowing down, Michael - you’ve got a winner here!
For those of you who’ve been sitting the fence - hesitating to jump in - don’t let this one pass you by. Get in on the ground floor. Satisfaction isn’t easy to find. You’ll find it here.
The White Tower: The Aldoran Chronicles, Book 1
4.5
| 6,124 ratingsPrice: 26.24
Last update: 08-12-2024