The Onyx Crown is an exciting foray into the world of African fantasy. From the searing heat of the desert to the vastness of the savannah, it tells the story of three children–Sania, Gesi,and Jorann who grow up in a pre-medieval era of wars and successions, not fifteen years after the greatest king in the history of the continent has been deposed and assassinated. They must overcome the … traumatic circumstances of their birth as well as many dangerous trials to fulfill the destiny estowed upon them as infants. Can mere children use their courage, wits, and uncanny abilities to defeat legendary warriors, entire tribes, provinces, and kingdoms–allowing them to lead the worthy to the greatest prize of all, the Onyx Crown?
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Oooh, The Onyx Crown is a really unique African fantasy and if you know me, you know I love a good fantasy!
In typical fantasy fashion, there are a lot of characters and a lot of things happening. We follow three main characters, and in the beginning, it’s a little difficult to follow. It doesn’t take long for the pieces to start falling into place though, and suddenly, we have an epic fantasy going on.
I’m really impressed with Alan Hurst’s writing style. In the intense moments, he’s able to grip the reader with realistic images and it is really compelling to read. Highly recommended!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with R&R Book Tours. All opinions are my own.*
In the Onyx Crown, by Alan Hurst we follow Gesemni, Jorann, Sania, three kids, marked for greatness, who must learn who they are and what their destiny is, to bring back the rightful heir to the throne and save Numeria.
This book is a fast-paced action adventure, packed with great characters. Even though the story could seem familiar at first (young children who possess dormant “gifts” and must train to fulfil their destiny…) Alan Hurst introduces enough new elements, so that we don’t feel like we’ve seen it before. Mainly, the fact that those three kids powers are “complementary” … you’ll have to read to see what I mean.
There is also a lot of politic and backstabbing going on, and that really makes for a truly engrossing read.
Speaking of backstabbing and motives, the characters are not unidimensional, they all have flaws and backstories, and we don’t feel like it’s the eternal “Good Vs Evil” battle once again, but it is so much more.
To conclude, I would totally recommend this book, and the following ones (yet to be released, as it’s a trilogy)
I’m glad this book is part of a trilogy because this beginning is intriguing. It can read slow but there is much information to gather. The origins of Chaos, Conflict, and Calm hold the interest but I am looking for more. I feel like the plot is set for the next book but not so much for this one. I do believe the next book will deliver because the characters are well written and I do want to know what happens next.
The hype around this book Alan Hurst’s thriller, “The Onyx Crown”, has been unquestionable and,admittedly, fascinating that it made me both eager to get my hands on it and terrified to read it. Isn’t it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every horrific, nail-biting moment of it? I knew this one was a must-read, so I was ready to set my fears aside and dive in. The Trio’s and their epic journey had me anticipating their every move, it completely draws you in the fantasy,where magic contains truth and the world as it appears is false, where just about anything can happen, particularly in the pages of a very good book. It’s a captivating a must read. Alan Hurst really did “Great job” with this book, If you haven’t got a copy I encourage you to purchase this book.
Few things excite me more than coming across a new black fantasy book :). This one did not disappoint with the many plot twists, subtle references to current societal issues, and relatably flawed characters. I shared it with my 17 year old son who finished it over the weekend and loved it. A truly compelling story and great read. I’m looking forward to following this author’s work.