The author establishes the plot’s foundation by jumping
right into the drama. The prologue finds two evil protagonists standing over an
infant’s crib, frustrated that they can’t penetrate his protection to take his
blood. Readers learn that Abigor wants Fionn’s blood to resurrect powers that
were lost many years ago. The setting quickly shifts to middle-grade Fionn when
he discovers he’s a Lionborn, powerful creatures that were assumed to be extinct.
His first inkling that his life has changed occurs when he sees a reflection of
a lion cub where his own face should be. Fionn slowly realizes the meaning of
being a Lionborn, but it’s later revealed that his best friend, Ella, has an
important role too. A strange new student also appears, and he turns out to be
an elf from the realm of Arborea.
Readers will root for Fionn, as he exhibits many admirable
character traits. His bravery is repeatedly tested as he faces
deadly beasts and other dangerous situations without knowing how he’ll survive them.
He has an uncompromising need to protect others, even when it means he must
sacrifice something he truly wants. He’s intelligent and determined as he
faces seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Readers will feel sympathy for Fionn
when he learns that he was separated from his real mother. Finding out what happened
to her becomes an important quest.
Tiny is an entertaining character, and he becomes a loyal
ally to Fionn. Tiny provides background information about Arborea, Abigor, and
other things that arise. He tells Fionn and readers the dangers they can expect
while Fionn navigates Arborea. He’s also the character able to open portals
between worlds, allowing Fionn to move quickly to new settings. This ability
eliminates the long, tedious traveling that characters and readers endure in
some other books. Tiny adds levity to the story, especially when Fionn first
visits his humble abode.
What didn’t work as well:
Fionn survives several perilous situations due to luck rather than
his own conscious efforts. He can’t control his Lionborn powers early in the
story, and they emerge out of necessity during critical moments. Other
characters might appear at the right moment to save Fionn from being seriously
harmed or killed. Readers might want to see the book’s hero more in control of
his predicaments.
The final verdict:
This book presents an exciting start to a magical adventure
series. It features a virtuous main character on a quest against evil and to
discover an unknown family heritage. The author includes many twists and surprises
to keep readers on their toes! I recommend you try this book for yourself.
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