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THE GRAND DESIGN
When it finally came time to review The Grand Design, I was thrilled. I am not a fantasy reader, but I do like unusual stories, and after reading John Marco’s first book in the Tyrants and Kings series, Jackal of Nar, I just knew this one was going to be just as good. I was right. Honestly, most fantasies tend to leave me confused, but not this series. It’s not only easy to follow and comprehend; it’s hard to put down! Just as with Jackal of Nar, it is full of never-ending action, villainy, politics and fabulous technology! The story begins with General Vorto, the Supreme Commander of the Legions of Nar bombarding the walls of Goth with the War Machines of Nar (Descriptions of these are fascinating). Duke Lokken of Goth flies the Black Flag of Nar and misses the Black Renaissance. Having shredded Harrith’s Banner and sent it to Nar City, he now finds Vorto Bombarding his walls. The Empire now suffers a war of religion between religious fanatics Bishop Harrith (Light of God) and Count Biagio (The Black Renaissance). Richius Vantran, the Jackal of Nar, is now considered a traitor. He is in exile with his wife and daughter. When he becomes involved in the religious fanatic war, his old enemy the Count, who wants total control over all, makes plans to take Richius and Dyana’s only child. The Grand Design has a futuristic atmosphere, yet also carries an historical feel. The characters are great. Besides the remarkable main characters, Harrith, Biagio, and Vantran, there are the even more impressive secondary characters like Lorla, The Mind Bender, Simon, Duke Enli, Duke Eneas (The Raven Master) and many others. Each character is intriguing, well written and impressive. It’s an impressive fantasy series; expect to be entertained throughout. |