Honest review of Darkness Rising: Book One of The Kinjúe Garr

by Ross Daniels (Author)

Updated at: 13/02/2025

In Ross Daniels' Darkness Rising, the first book of The Kinjúe Garr series, a seemingly ordinary farm boy, Darion, hides a powerful secret. Born of three races, he possesses unimaginable abilities, destined to confront a looming demonic invasion. His younger brother, Brevan, unexpectedly wields an ancient elven weapon and displays extraordinary talent, while their mother, a renowned warrior, fiercely protects their heritage. As the Demon Lord's shadow stretches across The Lands, Darion, Brevan, and their mother, aided by unlikely allies from various races, must master their powers and face a desperate battle against overwhelming odds. Their journey is fraught with peril, testing their courage and the strength of their family bonds in a world where magic and darkness collide.

Darkness Rising: Book One of The Kinjúe Garr

5 / 4 ratings

Review Darkness Rising

Wow, "Darkness Rising" completely blew me away! I went into it expecting a good fantasy read, but it surpassed all my expectations. From the very first page, I was captivated by the richly detailed world Ross Daniels has created. The Lands, with its blend of Druids, demons, Elves, and Dwarves, felt so vibrant and real, teeming with a history that you could almost taste. It's the kind of world-building that makes you want to spend weeks just exploring its nooks and crannies, learning more about its lore and its inhabitants.

The characters are equally compelling. Darion, a seemingly ordinary farm boy with a hidden, powerful heritage, is instantly relatable. His struggle to control his abilities, his fears, and his fierce loyalty to his family – all of it felt incredibly human, even within this fantastical setting. And his brother, Brevan, with his incredible elven skills, provided a fantastic counterpoint, highlighting the diverse strengths within their family. Their mother, Kléanna, a warrior turned protector, is an absolute badass, and her fierce love for her sons forms the emotional core of the story. Even the supporting characters, the Druids, Dwarves, and Elves, were well-developed and memorable, each with their own unique personalities and contributions to the narrative.

The plot itself is a whirlwind of action, intrigue, and suspense. The looming threat of the Demon Lord, Yreka, keeps the tension high from beginning to end. The pacing is perfect; the story never drags, yet there's enough time dedicated to character development and world-building to keep you fully invested. Daniels masterfully weaves together elements of high fantasy, dark fantasy, and even a touch of romance, creating a truly immersive and engaging reading experience. The magic system is original and fascinating, blending seamlessly with the world’s established rules and cultures, making it feel both believable and extraordinary.

I especially appreciated the attention to detail in the descriptions. The battles were thrilling, the landscapes breathtaking, and the emotional moments truly heart-wrenching. I found myself completely engrossed in Darion and his family’s journey, cheering them on as they faced unimaginable challenges and celebrating their small victories. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel all the emotions – fear, excitement, hope, sorrow – and leaves you breathlessly anticipating the next installment.

I’ve read a lot of fantasy books, and this one stands out as exceptional. It's not just another story about a chosen one; it’s a story about family, courage, and the fight against overwhelming odds. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If you're looking for a fantasy book that's both exciting and deeply moving, "Darkness Rising" is an absolute must-read. Seriously, go get it. You won’t regret it.

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