Original Title: Tools of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.
In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.
Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.
The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.
In a war against Gods, the Riverton family has a job to do. For those who are new to this series, there might be some spoilers in this review.
The story starts right where "Heirs of Prophecy" ended - after the Riverton family, along with their friend, Throll, killed the evil wizard, Azazel. Everyone is busy.. Throll is now the King of Trimoria. Ryan and Aaron Riverton are no longer kids..they are more mature now. They are both facing more menacing things than Azazel, which makes more training of their abilities - a necessity. The Riverton brothers are trained by elves and they discover more about their powers. Jared Riverton (head of the Riverton family) is busy forming the proper school for new wizards, which will train them for the war.
Meanwhile, The evil God sends new minion again (as Azazel is now dead) in Trimoria. That minion has set up two assassins to finish off the Riverton family. How are the brothers going to face this new threat?
This book feels like a gentle friend, who will tell you old stories, just to enjoy being the time with you. I am happy that the author has brought out the characters of this novel as so polite and good-hearted, because it will really help kids realize, how things SHOULD be. As decades come and go, the bonding within most families is reduced to nothing. That is the one thing that I want people to consider from the author's view - family bonding! The Riverton family is the perfect family anyone would want. Their manners, their politeness, respect towards each other - everything amazed me.
Okay, apart from the learning that is achieved from the book, the plot was really good. It was simple, but gentle and strong. The characters are endearing. The book was printed in good line spacings and clear font, making it easier for the eyes.
My only small complaint is its slow pace. But, this shouldn't be a problem for younger readers.
Cover thoughts: Excellent front and back cover design. Happy to have received the paperback ARC..I keep looking the covers every time I take a break from reading. Here are the cover snaps for you!
Satisfying read.. Highly Recommended!
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.
In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.
Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.
The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.
REVIEW
*** I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author in exchange for honest review. ***
In a war against Gods, the Riverton family has a job to do. For those who are new to this series, there might be some spoilers in this review.
The story starts right where "Heirs of Prophecy" ended - after the Riverton family, along with their friend, Throll, killed the evil wizard, Azazel. Everyone is busy.. Throll is now the King of Trimoria. Ryan and Aaron Riverton are no longer kids..they are more mature now. They are both facing more menacing things than Azazel, which makes more training of their abilities - a necessity. The Riverton brothers are trained by elves and they discover more about their powers. Jared Riverton (head of the Riverton family) is busy forming the proper school for new wizards, which will train them for the war.
Meanwhile, The evil God sends new minion again (as Azazel is now dead) in Trimoria. That minion has set up two assassins to finish off the Riverton family. How are the brothers going to face this new threat?
This book feels like a gentle friend, who will tell you old stories, just to enjoy being the time with you. I am happy that the author has brought out the characters of this novel as so polite and good-hearted, because it will really help kids realize, how things SHOULD be. As decades come and go, the bonding within most families is reduced to nothing. That is the one thing that I want people to consider from the author's view - family bonding! The Riverton family is the perfect family anyone would want. Their manners, their politeness, respect towards each other - everything amazed me.
Okay, apart from the learning that is achieved from the book, the plot was really good. It was simple, but gentle and strong. The characters are endearing. The book was printed in good line spacings and clear font, making it easier for the eyes.
My only small complaint is its slow pace. But, this shouldn't be a problem for younger readers.
Cover thoughts: Excellent front and back cover design. Happy to have received the paperback ARC..I keep looking the covers every time I take a break from reading. Here are the cover snaps for you!
Quote Time"I wonder my counselor would have predicted "wizard" as a career path, when I was in high school."
- Jared Riverton
Satisfying read.. Highly Recommended!
SERIES ORDER
1. Heirs of Prophecy - Read review here
2. Tools of Prophecy - Read review here
3. Lords of Prophecy
3. Lords of Prophecy
Thank you for hosting Michael today.
ReplyDeleteI like your description "gentle" because it really fits this series! I agree about the pace but I think it's just perfect for young readers. I also love that the series is also about family. :)
ReplyDeleteI liked the review. Thank You.
ReplyDeleteKit3247(at)aol(dot)com
I am looking forward to starting this series-- and perhaps reading aloud to my brother, who I think would adore it :-) Thank you for the great review!
ReplyDeletejustforswag(AT)yahoo(DOT)com
Great review. These stories sound really great.
ReplyDeleteI love the back cover; very cool.
ReplyDeleteBecky01x(at)gmail(dot)com
I think you've snared me with that "wizard as a career path" crack...
ReplyDeleteeai(at)stanfordalumni(dot)org
A lovely review thank you. I love the presence of family in this series.
ReplyDeletemarypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Minor correction - the quote is missing an 'if' I think.
ReplyDelete"I wonder if my counselor would have predicted "Wizard" when I was in high school."
- Jared Riverton
:)
Thanks for the kind words on the review - it is appreciated.
I've cross-linked this review from my blog. If possible, I'd love to see this review show up on Amazon too.
Thanks,
Mike