Series: A Talisman Series Novella 2.5
Publication Date: 27 November 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure
Book Description:
Mr. Jones is a brilliant wizard who can magically teleport people, cripple a Nocturn with his knowledge alone, and provide some of the best mythological creature-based outbursts you’ll ever hear, but what he can’t do is master modern technology. So, when he receives a cryptic email responding to his old, online post about finding a willing dragon to perform The Great Synergy, he’s rightfully cautious to follow up. With Rome and Julian studying abroad in England, Mr. Jones is on his own to figure this puzzle out. The mysterious respondent, IceEyes27, has sent him meeting coordinates that place him directly in the middle of frigid nowhere, Antarctica. It could be a trap. Or it could be a joke. But whatever it is, Mr. Jones better pack his long underwear and settle in for white-knuckle plane rides, encounters with dragon hunters, and potential visits to a dragon den lost to legend. Surrounded by empty miles of unyielding desolation, will our intrepid librarian save himself and open his eyes to the reality of his world? Or will he remain, like so many others, blinded by the snow?
SUMMARY
Snow Blind by Brett Salter is a novella set in the enchanting world of the Talisman series, centring on the intriguing wizard Mr. Jones. Renowned for his magical prowess but often flummoxed by modern technology, Mr. Jones embarks on a solo mission after receiving a cryptic email concerning "The Great Synergy". The coordinates provided lead him to the frozen expanse of Antarctica, where he encounters perilous challenges, including dragon hunters, enigmatic new allies and a hidden dragon den steeped in legend. Amidst the icy desolation, Mr. Jones must confront both external threats and his own understanding of reality while uncovering secrets about dragons and the Valanche family. The narrative beautifully intertwines humour, action and heartfelt character moments with fantastical elements.
MY THOUGHTS
As a long-time admirer of the Talisman series, I was absolutely delighted to see Mr. Jones take centre stage in Snow Blind. This novella surpassed my expectations by delivering an engaging solo adventure featuring one of my favourite characters. Mr. Jones’ blend of wit, wisdom and vulnerability made him a captivating protagonist. His struggles with modern technology not only added humour but also made him relatable amidst his otherwise formidable persona as a wizard.
The Antarctic setting was vividly depicted, creating an atmosphere of isolation and danger that heightened the stakes throughout the story. The introduction of new characters like Glyph, the charming ice dragon, and Dia Valanche from the Den of Iglacia enriched the narrative further. Quint St. George, the Shakespeare-quoting villain with a Southern drawl, was an outstanding antagonist whose presence injected tension and intrigue into the plot.
What I appreciated most was how this novella balanced intense action sequences with moments of levity and introspection. The pacing was excellent, keeping me enthralled from start to finish. Salter's ability to weave intricate lore into the story without overwhelming the reader is truly commendable. Additionally, exploring Krysta Valanche's family history provided fresh insights into familiar characters.
Overall, this is a delightful addition to the Talisman series that showcases Salter's talent for crafting immersive fantasy adventures. With its perfect mix of humour, action and heartwarming moments, this novella is a must-read for fans of dragons, magic and daring quests.
VERDICT
Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Author
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