The Amarisian Prophecies: The Reckoning by Zoe Nauman

What worked:

The evil Queen Sathariel controls Amaria with her dark magic but she’s worried the Yasha Prophecy will arise and end her reign. She decides to have all boys killed or imprisoned when they come of age to prevent the Chosen from appearing. This creates a captivating conflict for readers. They’ll follow the prophecy coming to pass despite the queen’s efforts but the author includes some uncertainties within the prophecy itself. The Chosen will have four defenders transported through the Thura Gate but the prophecy says one of them might be turned to the dark side, thus allowing Sathariel to remain in power. The queen’s demise isn’t explicitly foretold in the prophecy which leaves doubt as to exactly how the conflict will be resolved.

The four kids transported into this mystical world come from all walks of life so readers should be able to connect with at least one of them. Nadia’s parents suffer from substance abuse and she maintains a kind heart despite the dismal conditions in her London neighborhood. Afsana comes from a refugee camp on the Turkish border with Syria. Yibanathi has moved from Sydney, Australia, hoping to find a town more accepting of a rich black kid who likes to surf. Finally, Min-Ji is an obsessed gamer living in Seoul, South Korea, who suffers from anxiety attacks. All four of the kids have been treated differently by society and their experiences are necessary to bring change in Amaria.

The issue of religious tolerance is a major part of the plot. Sathariel’s arrival in Amaria alienates different factions in the realm and their concepts of a supreme being vary. As a result, the people/creatures have been isolated within their own regions and tensions rise when they interact. However, Nadia and her friends realize the groups’ beliefs are very similar but the names they use for their gods are the main difference. The kids must find a way to unite the vastly diverse sides if they have any chance of stopping Sathariel.

What didn’t work as well:

The book introduces many points of view early on which makes it more challenging to immediately connect with the characters. There are seven different setting changes in the first few chapters as the author introduces the Chosen, the four kids transported into the world to defend him, the antagonist, and the divine interpreters awaiting the arise of the Yasha Prophecy. The changes are clearly defined, which helps, and the events and settings become more focused once the characters come together.

The Final Verdict:

Faith is the true power. The adventure is entertaining although there are missed opportunities where the author might have added twists to create suspense. Stories with prophecies and inexperienced heroes are always engaging and I recommend you give this one a shot.