Blurb:
George is a legendary hero… wait, no. George is an incredibly powerful sorcerer…also, no? Okay, fine. George is an unremarkable human bard who made a promise a long time ago. A promise that set him on a path to find the remains of Simantiar, the greatest wizard who ever lived. Though all that was left were bones, Simantiar was still very much alive and quite…underwhelming. This is their story: The Fantastically Underwhelming Epic of a dead wizard and an average bard.
Review:
I am unable to think of any better way of starting this review, other than saying that I absolutely loved this book! It gave me everything and more from a standalone novel, one of my best reading experiences this year.
Let me first talk about that title – The Fantastically Underwhelming Epic of a Dead Wizard and an Average Bard. A bit of a mouthful, I think you’ll agree. What does it say to you, apart from the obvious – it’s fantastical, epic, there’s a dead wizard and an average bard, but wait, what… it’s underwhelming? Now, I know from one or two discussions and comments, here and there on social media, that this has put off some readers from picking the book up, thinking it might be a parody, a satirical take on the epic fantasy novel. I would like to put that misconception to rest; this is an epic fantasy quest, which has some very well-placed humour, but at its very core is a brilliantly constructed fantasy story with wonderful characters, adventures galore, and a whole lot of heart.
This book has many strings to its bow to satisfy the most die-hard fantasy fans out there. There’s the unlikeliest of protagonists, George, the Average Bard of the title, whose fanciful quest holds the wonderfully woven plot and characters together throughout. The rest of the makeshift band who follow Goerge on his quest are excellent. Kendrith is a man on his own personal quest, trying to find his own path, in the shadow of the heroic quests of his mother and grandfather before him. Then we have Kristen, Kendrith’s partner, a former assassin, Logan, a stoic giant of a man, who is very handy with a giant hammer. But my favourite character of the book, the most interesting and fascinating facet of the story, is Simantiar the Dead Wizard. Simantiar is one of the most unique characters I have read in a very long time.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention the animal companion that joins the group too. You’ll have to read the book to learn more about Pecky though.
The way in which the plot unfolds is brilliantly done. I really enjoyed the way the author uses flashbacks of memory and dreams to provide background for the characters and to world-build. These moments perfectly break up the action-packed moments of the story, where the band are faced with all sorts of dangers, from monsters to murderous mercenaries. Again, my favourite flashback moments are those involving Simantiar. His history is wonderfully woven throughout the book and could easily be a book all on its own.
The writing is superb, with wonderful descriptions of the world, vivid depictions of the monstrous creatures, and great dialogue. It is all brilliantly brought together to a poignant ending that left me very satisfied.
I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are a lover of all things fantasy, then you will absolutely adore this story. It is a big cosy fantasy hug of a book – packed with action, adventure, emotion, some dark moments balanced with good humour, and fantastic characters you will love. If you are looking for a standalone fantasy epic that really does have it all, then look no further. You will be far from underwhelmed.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review.
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