Title: Icon of Strength
Author: J.C. Henry
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1664149984
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Pages: 506
Reviewed by: Tony Espinoza

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Whether you are a fan of actions movies or have always dreamt of being a hero who rushes into the action and puts your life in the line of fire to protect others, many have felt the call to become a warrior in their own right. Heroes are a constant source of both inspiration and entertainment in our modern world, but throughout history warriors have been called upon to serve either their country or their families in order to protect innocents. As American writer Phil Klay once said, “Resilience is, of course, necessary for a warrior. But a lack of empathy isn’t.”

In author J.C. Henry’s Icon of Strength, the author explores the concept of warriors through an epic tale of fantasy and action. A warrior who made a name for himself in a long-fought Crusade and became known as The Crimson Flash suddenly left behind his life of duty serving his kingdom, and instead became a mercenary for hire. Years later however, he is once again called into service, hired to work through yet another conflict. Yet he finds his job may unravel long held secrets about the Crusade he once fought in, and the dark truth behind the sacred artifact they were sent to find – and the truth of The Crimson Flash himself.

This was a truly gripping and engaging fantasy-driven narrative. The author does a spectacular job of delivering detailed backstory, world-building and mythology to this narrative, giving readers a story that is action-packed and as magical as it is dark and gritty. The shock to the readers as the protagonist renounces his title and power within the kingdom sets the tone for the twists and turns the narrative takes throughout the novel, while the pacing, while lengthy, also delivers an atmosphere of tension and power which defines the epic fantasy genre to the letter. The balance of character and world building is phenomenal to see unfold here, as the balance of heroism and ancient prophecy with the life of a mercenary and camaraderie was felt throughout the entirety of the narrative.

This is the perfect read for those that enjoy genre fiction, in particular epic fantasy driven narratives which explore the classic good versus evil in a very complex and thought-provoking way. As a fan of the genre, I was immediately drawn into the power struggle and fight for freedom that so many excellent fantasy novels and series have represented in their narratives over the years, drawing me further and further into this world.

A brilliant, creative, and entertaining fantasy-driven story, author J.C. Henry’s Icon of Strength is a must-read novel. Filled with action, magic, and tales of heroism and secrets all blended together in a masterfully paced and deep fantasy world, this novel will draw longtime fans of the genre further and further into the fictional world the author has brought to life beautifully.