Title: The King’s Death
Author: Ed Cannon
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 978-1796019858
Pages: 558
Genre: Fantasy/Sword & Sorcery Fantasy
Reviewed by: Anthony Avina
Pacific Book Review
Even in matters of royalty, politics is a powerful force that influences the outcome of many events in the world. Aristotle once said, “Politicians also have no leisure, because they are always aiming at something beyond political life itself, power and glory, or happiness.” In author Ed Cannon’s novel, The King’s Death, a hero finds himself seeking allies as a coup for the throne begins in his absence, leading to an impending battle for the fate of the world.
The sequel to The King’s Assassin follows up on the partial victory of the Illician Sillik. Facing a battle on multiple fronts, Sillik seeks out allies such as the fliers of Aceon and the schools of Salone, where his cousin is set to be married soon. However, upon being attacked by dark creatures, Sillik must find powerful artifacts to battle the demons. All the while, a coup is being organized which will force everyone who has supported his rule to flee for their lives, just as the Dark Masters of the council of nine begin to rise to oppose the rule of Illician.
This is a well written, thoroughly detailed epic fantasy novel. A fantastic world of mythology, politics and action, the author has created a world just as engaging and entertaining as series in the genre like George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones or J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. The sheer amount of detail which the author has put into the world building is something fans will instantly engage with.
This is a book for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy tales with heavy doses of politics, sword and sorcery level fantasy storytelling and powerful world building that creates an interactive kingdom and characters that make the world feel alive. As a fan of the genre, it was great to see the character interactions that spoke of a long-standing kingdom and relationships that elevated the fantasy element of the world itself. From the mythological creatures of this world to the backroom politics and battle for power that ultimately corrupts, Sillik is the perfect protagonist to help bring this story and this world to life.
Readers who enjoy fantasy novels filled with powerful magic, shady politics and a vast cast of characters that make the world feel as large as it was meant to be will not want to miss out on author Ed Cannon’s The King’s Death. This book is a wonderful read that not only includes epic battles and mythological creatures that all fantasy fans can enjoy, but intimate and secretive moves behind the scenes that influence events beyond the protagonist’s control, making for a more engaging and influential story. Be sure to grab your copy today.