Publication Date: 9 November 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure
Book Description:
Ah-hah! Nothing like the pungent smell of an ancient cave and the thrill of the hunt for a pair of mangey Garms to really make you feel alive, huh? In this canon novella of The Talisman Series, “Slumber of Silence”, Rome and Julian find themselves out on a mission for The Alliance, tracking a couple of Garms through a cave system that seems as old as the mountain range that shadows it. At first, it’s just another heroic operation to protect our world from the invasive Darkbrands, but the boys from Georgia quickly determine that these dank and cavernous passageways are so old and mysterious that they may have never even seen a human or dragon before. Or have they? What long-forgotten riddles hide within the pressing darkness of the cave? What silent and slumbering secrets have been kept for eons undiscovered? And without any backup from The Alliance, will Rome and Julian even survive to tell them?
Slumber of Silence is the latest instalment of The Talisman Series by Brett Salter. In this book, Rome and Julian, two central characters, are dispatched on a mission by The Alliance following the events of The Battle for Verdana, Book 4. Tasked with closing a newly opened portal and dealing with the emergence of dangerous Garms, the duo ventures into a mysterious cave. As they navigate its depths, battling Darkbrands along the way, they uncover ancient secrets that challenge their perceptions of history and the world around them. Throughout their perilous journey, Rome and Julian reveal a more vulnerable side, emphasising the depth of their bond as they confront the dangers lurking within the cave's shadows.
This instalment offers an exhilarating addition to The Talisman Series, delving deeper into the dynamic between Rome and Julian while introducing captivating new elements to the overarching narrative. Salter expertly balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, providing readers with a nuanced portrayal of the characters' growth and resilience. The exploration of the cave not only adds an air of mystery but also expands the series' lore, hinting at the existence of ancient and enigmatic beings. This subtle revelation adds an intriguing layer to the story, leaving readers curious and eager for further exploration of the depths of this newfound mythology.
Furthermore, the evolution of secondary characters such as Jericho, Krystal and Mrs. Case adds depth to the narrative, enriching the ensemble cast and contributing to a more immersive reading experience. The palpable camaraderie between Rome and Julian is a highlight, underscoring the importance of friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity. By showcasing the characters' vulnerabilities, Salter humanises them, making their triumphs all the more rewarding for readers invested in their journey.
Overall, this book is a compelling addition to the series, offering a captivating blend of adventure, mystery and character-driven storytelling. Salter's adept storytelling and rich world-building ensure that readers will be eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating saga.
