Title: Compass: Book 1: Search for Serenity
Author: R.A. Burke
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 978-1796021462
Pages: 392
Genre: Fantasy Romance / Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Anthony Avina
Pacific Book Review
One of life’s ultimate questions is whether or not humanity’s fate is set in stone or if it’s something that is malleable. It was the great Joan of Arc who once said, “One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.” Yet what if one life wasn’t all a person had? In author R.A. Burke’s novel Compass: Book 1: Search for Serenity, one young woman’s life fades away as the real world sets in, and destiny comes calling.
In the novel, a young woman named Lily discovers the world she thought she knew isn’t real, and soon the real world begins to pull her back into reality. Confused and unsure of what has brought her to this world, Lily discovers that myth and legends are this world’s history, and she must face threats in a world where magic has reawakened, and she is stuck in the midst of turmoil and chaos as a prophecy looms over the world.
Not since Dorthy found herself taken from the field of Kansas to the fantasy driven world of Oz has a novel captivated readers so quickly. This fantasy driven narrative sees a world of magic and wonder come to life beautifully, while also filling it with untold danger that drives the narrative forward smoothly. The mythology takes center stage from the first page as the author expertly crafts this magical world filled with untold creatures and magical happenings, and naturally ties it into the events of the world the reader knows all too well.
Anyone who is a fan of the fantasy genre will absolutely love this novel. As a fan of the genre myself, what really was great to see was the author’s use of not just a handful of different creatures, but several fantasy driven species that typically get their own story. Yet here these entities live amongst one another, and humanity itself is the rarity of the land. The way the author blends the past and the future and infuses it with fantasy driven narratives make this a truly compelling read.
This is a fantastic first book in a must read fantasy series. Filled with entertaining and engaging characters, a highly developed mythology that captivates the reader instantly, and a climatic ending that leaves readers on the edge of their seat, this novel is a must read for anyone who enjoys the fantasy genre. Magic, mythical creatures and a rising villainous threat that opens up secrets to Lily’s past and her importance to the world make this a brilliant read, so be sure to grab your own copy of Compass by R.A. Burke now and find out all about this magical world protagonist Lily finds herself thrust into.
