Seeker
Noble Warriors series, No. 1
by William Nicholson
Seer, the title of the new fantasy
by William Nicholson, is more than just the name of the principal
character. It describes the inner and outer journey that the young
scholar Seeker After Truth, the shepherdess Morning Star, and the
river pirate the Wildman undertake. All three are touched by the Nomana,
the Noble Warriors, who protect the holy god, the Lost Child, who
is also known by many names. The Lost Child calls to all three disparate
characters, compelling them to the holy island of Anacrea to ask permission
to become members of the Nomana. Complicating their callings are Seeker's
and Morning Star's departures from their fathers' expectations for
their futures. The Wildman also disappoints his fellow pirates by
becoming a spiritual seeker.
That quest alone would make an interesting exploration into the
nature of being called to a vocation as well as the character building
involved with growing up, training, and dealing with their own inner
doubts. But the story is further complicated by a mysterious plot
to kill the Lost Child and destroy not only the Nomana but all of
Anacrea, warriors and villager workers alike.
Nicholson, who has written The Gladiator and The Shadowlands
screenplays, knows how to build action and create character. He
also has written another series, The Wind on Fire Trilogy. The Noble
Warriors series combines martial arts, mental and psychic abilities,
and court intrigue. And, who could resist the reformation of the
dancing pirate, the Wildman?
Nicholson is to be applauded for the start of a fine new fantasy
series. The characters were so interesting that I can't wait to
find out what happens in the next volumes.
Due to the graphic nature of combat and warfare, as well as the
complexity of the plot twists, this series is best suited for young
adult readers, age 12 and up. |
The Book |
Harcourt Children's Book Division |
May 2006 |
Hardcover |
0-15-205768-4 |
YA, fantasy - Age Group: 12 and up |
More
at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: Some violence |
The Reviewer |
Janie Franz |
Reviewed 2006 |
NOTE: Reviewer Janie
Franz is the author of Freelance Writing: It’s a Business, Stupid!, Relaxation
Techniques for Children, Relaxation Techniques for Adults; Co-author of The
Ultimate Wedding Reception Book and The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book. Coming
Soon: The Ultimate Wedding Workbook, Get Rich on Love, and Sacred Breath
(a sound recording of relaxation meditations). |
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