The Dangers of Being Brave & True
By J.M. Goldie
First, the title intrigues with its promises of action and moral dilemma. Right at the beginning of your reading, though, it takes on more significance as you learn Brave and True are the names of the two main characters, unknown to each other till they are thrown together in a remote location alien to them both.
Brave and True are young – just coming into their own as mages. True attends a secret boarding school learning skills in the magical arts. This may sound familiar and one could look for similarities with Hermione and Harry, but the world of Avalonia is far removed from Hogwarts in place and time.
The story develops quickly, revealing many tropes of fantasy and science fiction literature – spells, superpowers, kingdoms lost to unscrupulous usurpers, wormhole-style portals that transport between worlds. Add to those, flying horses and pigs.
J M Goldie has conjured much besides, in her imagination. The technology of this world’s Web is contrasted with the nature-based Web of Avalonia; the principle of natural balance being a recurring motif.
Her writing style is easy to read with colloquial language, references, and particularly dialogue geared to the YA target readership who will find this a most acceptable mixture of fantasy and familiar, with drama lightened by age-appropriate humour. But its appeal isn’t limited to that age-group so many adults will also find it a satisfying read.
For all who do, the story of Brave and True continues in a follow-up title.
By J.M. Goldie
First, the title intrigues with its promises of action and moral dilemma. Right at the beginning of your reading, though, it takes on more significance as you learn Brave and True are the names of the two main characters, unknown to each other till they are thrown together in a remote location alien to them both.
Brave and True are young – just coming into their own as mages. True attends a secret boarding school learning skills in the magical arts. This may sound familiar and one could look for similarities with Hermione and Harry, but the world of Avalonia is far removed from Hogwarts in place and time.
The story develops quickly, revealing many tropes of fantasy and science fiction literature – spells, superpowers, kingdoms lost to unscrupulous usurpers, wormhole-style portals that transport between worlds. Add to those, flying horses and pigs.
J M Goldie has conjured much besides, in her imagination. The technology of this world’s Web is contrasted with the nature-based Web of Avalonia; the principle of natural balance being a recurring motif.
Her writing style is easy to read with colloquial language, references, and particularly dialogue geared to the YA target readership who will find this a most acceptable mixture of fantasy and familiar, with drama lightened by age-appropriate humour. But its appeal isn’t limited to that age-group so many adults will also find it a satisfying read.
For all who do, the story of Brave and True continues in a follow-up title.
Review by Alderaan Hoth
Title: The Dangers of Being Brave & True
Author: J.M. Goldie
Publisher: MCP (Massive Crush Press)
ISBN: 978-1-7385955-7-0
RRP: $25
Available: Amazon (eBook and paperback); paperback direct from the author at www.jmgoldie.com; or request from your bookstore.
Author: J.M. Goldie
Publisher: MCP (Massive Crush Press)
ISBN: 978-1-7385955-7-0
RRP: $25
Available: Amazon (eBook and paperback); paperback direct from the author at www.jmgoldie.com; or request from your bookstore.
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