Review
I will not deny that upon reading the first chapter of this novel, I felt a strong sense of dread. Fearing that perhaps I will not enjoy this novel. I wouldn’t say it to be the strength of the first character introduced, but more an effect of choice. I dare not say it is a bad choice. Some would find it to be quite intriguing—provoking a strong sense of curiosity and fervor to know more of the story. For myself, though, it was a catalyst that could’ve broken my pacing if not for my testing the chapters forthcoming.
It is mesmerizing how Tom Dumbrell effectively wrote this novel. Each chapter has a consistency so good that it felt like reading it was as natural as breathing. With a highly accessible writing, it makes you feel at ease. Although, in all honesty, I was looking for a little bit of that purplish prose. However, it is in the author’s best interest that it wasn’t at all present; taking into consideration how purple prose can be quite…vexing.
Something that I was impressed as well is the narration of the story. It began with a neutrality (at least in my perspective) that I found to be engaging. As the story progresses, it introduces the reader to the vastness of the world, the peculiarity of each characters, and the intrigues riding behind the shadow of the story. Moreover, the use of storytelling as a gateway for readers allows a strong connection that made it feel like you are part of the narrative and not just a bystander.
Unfortunately, as much as I enjoyed reading the novel, I wasn’t particularly tethered to any of the characters. I would’ve easily said that I felt for a certain queen, but there wasn’t much to her that warrant my saying that. I do think that they’re all well-written. It was more in the background that I think lack flavour for me to say that I wanted to be best friends with the characters. In addition, I believe that there are insufficiency with some characters’ story. I wanted more from them, really.
The Look of a King was a quality read through and through. If you fear reading it for the YA tag, I can guarantee you that the characters are not at all tiring. There are obvious personality traits of a young adult, but it did not drag them towards that exasperating level whereas you just want to throw the book in flames. Also, the story was not at all arid. It was overall entertaining and it didn’t feel short, however I think that it can do a little work with the intensity and pacing of climatic events. All that being said, I am very much looking forward to what happens next in the story.
About the Author
Tom was born in 1987 in Chelmsford, Essex. As a boy, he fell in love with the fantasy worlds of video games and those written by the likes of J.R.R Tolkien and Philip Pullman.
Despite an early passion for storytelling, Tom obtained a BA in Tourism Management before a varied career in the travel industry, bringing to life another of his passions. When he is not working, Tom is an avid fan of his beloved Ipswich Town. He also writes and performs music and enjoys long walks with his wife and dogs.
Tom currently lives near Colchester, Essex, and The Look of a King & No Place for Peace were both written during the coronavirus pandemic with huge influence and editing support from his wife, Breana.
Contact Tom: tomdumbrell@aol.com
