Book Review: "Fireblood" by Jeff Wheeler

Tyrus of Kenatos has made it his life’s work to banish the plagues that ravage the kingdoms. He believes the answer to ending the devastation lies in the Scourgelands. Yet, Tyrus’s first expedition into the cursed woods failed after being defeated by mysterious minions who stalked and killed most of his band.

Now a prisoner in his own tower, Tyrus has summoned his nephew Annon—a Druidecht possessing innate magic called the fireblood—on the guise of finding a hidden treasure with which to purchase his twin sister Hettie’s freedom. But in reality, Tyrus is using his niece and nephew, and their magic, as an opportunity to escape and resume his desperate mission. And to aid them, he has enlisted the warrior-monk Paedrin—who is almost as green as the siblings when it comes to traveling these troubled lands. The trio is determined, and along the way they grow to trust each other—and new additions to the group—in order to accomplish their missions…whether or not those missions are one and the same.

But the Arch-Rike—ruthless ruler of Kenatos—has learned of these plans, and has sent the fearsome Kishion to destroy all those that oppose him. Now Tyrus and his unwitting allies must face down not only the plague, but this new enemy—and fulfill their quest before a fresh horror is unleashed on the world… - from Amazon.com

I was anxious when I saw that Jeff Wheeler had this book published, as I had just read the three books of Muirwood within the past few months. The story description sounded good, and I looked forward to diving into his world(s) again. I was a bit surprised once I started reading though.

The first few chapters are fine, they feel like it moves along sort of slow, yet it is setting the background of some of our main characters, the world around them, et cetera. But I felt it dragged on quite a bit, probably a good two-thirds of the book. Character descriptions were vague. I mean, a Finder is like a hunter in a RPG game, so we have to imagine one as how they would dress, weapons they must carry, etc. as there is never a good description. Same with the druid-types, monk-types, and of course the Kishion. Other than maybe a color of clothing being mentioned, no other note of style, etc. Either way, for most of the book, I just couldn't get into the characters, or the story. 

After getting two-thirds through, then I felt pulled into the book. The final chapters left me wanting more, and looking forward to the next installment when it does come out.