Stephen and Angelo, the only lucky survivors of a mysterious blaze that ravaged the sleepy town of Springsboro, charge themselves with discovering and eradicating the source of their livelihood's destruction; they learn, however, that the world is far larger and more diverse than they ever imagined. Up against a megalomaniacal sorcerer and his headstrong apprentice, they travel under the guidance of Stephen's brother and run into Justin, an elven wizard with a bad work ethic who instructs them in the right direction. They must all work together and confront the sorcerer head-on to stop his plans for good, but in the process invoke the wrath of the very forces holding the world from chaos.
Journey to Fire's Keep: The Return to the Temple by Grady L Owens is the first book in a spellbinding epic fantasy series with phenomenal settings and skyrocketing conflict. After a devastating fire that reduces their hometown to ashes, a young man, in the company of a half-elfin friend, sets out on an unusual adventure to locate the source of the fire and avenge their people. But what awaits them is worse than anything they could have bargained for. Apart from facing the unwavering wrath and wickedness of an unforgiving sorcerer, they are held in contempt by the magical organization responsible for the balance of the world.
One of the things I always want to see in epic fantasies is a powerful setting. Yes, I want to be uprooted from my immediate world and carried away to a world that is unique and believable, and Grady L Owens has created such an exciting setting in this compelling work. The story begins in the midst of action and the reader is immediately introduced to a crisis. It is interesting to note how the author integrates powerful and vivid descriptions of the setting into the action. The reader’s senses are awakened to great smells, sights and objects. The writing features very colorful descriptions and plot-driven dialogues that will mesmerize readers. I couldn’t help but eagerly follow the characters, because they are well-imagined and developed with mastery. Journey to Fire's Keep: The Return to the Temple will take readers on an adventure to a magical world where humans and other magical creatures coexist.
