ASULON REVIEWS

From Reviewers:

Bill McGrath’s Asulon is the first book of a fantasy trilogy entitled The Sword of Fire. Aimed primarily at young adults, the book is written in such a way as to make biblical history and Christian morality exciting to a notoriously difficult group to reach. 

Read the full review at Breakpoint.org

Asulon is currently being reviewed on the Christian Fiction Review Blog web ring. Here are some samples:

Back to the Mountain

Cathi's Chatter

Bibliophile's Retreat

RebeccaWire

Reader Reviews:

Asulon is mainly, in my opinion, a work about the mythos and ethos of the warrior and his role in society. Reminiscent of Joseph Campbell, Mr McGrath has created a world in this book that has vestiges of myriad hero texts all the way from the ancient world through recent works by Tolkien and Lewis. The mythos of warriors such as Beowulf, David, Aeneas, Arthur, and others are replayed here. While some may find this to be derivative, others may argue that it is precisely the “timelessness” of these stories that makes them valid. Each culture re-interprets the myth of the hero to suit their social outlook. I enjoyed the personal touch that the author weaves into the action scenes, which also works to negate the fact that all “hero” stories are, in actually, the same story. Because Mr. McGrath’s real-life expertise in close combat techniques and concepts, the action sequences are fresh, vivid and lend verisimilitude to an otherwise fantastic story. One word of caution, however, readers with little knowledge of these techniques may find the action confusing at times.  

The code of the warrior is an integral part of the tradition. The Greek epics justify the existence of the warrior through the concept of “klayos” (immortal glory), for example. Asulon relies on a more Judeo-Christian ethos. Warrior ethos is, typically, personified in a mentor-figure, and this book is no exception. The relationship between Moor and Daniel is an important part of the maturation of the books’ hero. In addition, the author attempts to “mentor” the reader in certain passages, which I found interesting. As a teacher, I was particularly intrigued with the debate in the novel as to who has the priority of responsibility for educating the young – the state or the parents? Obviously a timely discussion for modern readers.           

Asulon is to be the first in a trilogy, and I can’t wait to see the other two novels. It should be fun to watch the progression of the story, as well as the elevation of the author’s art which can only come with experience.

The opening chapter of Asulon gripped me from the moment I started reading.  The scene opened in my mind and I could see everything.  I must admit that when Moor was introduced, he terrified me and I thought for sure that Daniel was in for it. 

Book One of The Sword of Fire, Asulon, was written with male teens in mind.  There is no doubt that they will enjoy this story because they will relate easily with Daniel.  He is a prince, but not unapproachable.  It’s clear to me that J. R. R. Tolkien was your “mentor.”  The Sword of Fire is an epic unfolding. 

The story contains a lot of political intrigue which I found very interesting; however, I don’t know if the male teen is sophisticated enough to catch the nuances and be able to compare the course of events with today’s events.  What will certainly happen, though, is as the teenager matures and becomes more aware of current events, he’ll remember this story.  He’ll go back and read it again to get a fuller understanding of the story.  That’s what every author wants - someone to read their story again and again. 

The language of the story will appeal not only to teens but to adults.  Anyone who loves reading fantasy/adventure stories will enjoy this.  I look forward to the rest of the series.  I want to know what happens!