Heather’s Bookshelf: The Prince of Tabor
Author: W. Penn White & Keven G White
Released: 10/24/22
Genre: Adult Fantasy
“The Prince of Tabor” is book 1 of the Brotherhood of the Black Arrow Trilogy. While it is part of a trilogy, it has been reviewed as a standalone novel.
Set in the ancient kingdom of Tabor, the story introduces several characters including Nathaniel and his brother Jacoby. Nathaniel was born to be a prince, but when his parents die and the enemy comes, he’s hidden away. Many years later, Nathaniel and his brother, Jacoby, war comes for Tabor.
The brothers and their friends set out to learn the truths about their pasts, save Tabor, and save themselves, but Crepitus, a dark necromancer has other plans.
Will the brothers and their friends band together to do what needs to be done or will they succumb to the many obstacles and dangers along the way?
Trigger Warning: violence, domestic violence, death
Overall, I was a bit torn on this book. I enjoyed the main characters and their backstories. Each of them seems to be a bit destined for their current adventures. I enjoyed learning how the character’s pasts and family histories resulted in their current situations. Jacoby and his brother Nathanial are likable in different ways. Jacoby is optimistic and helpful, hoping for and believing in the best. Nathanial is damaged and often too emotionally immature to deal with revealed truths. Their dichotomy, love for each other and their friends are all quite engaging. However, between the races of characters and the found-family on a wandering mission vibes, I found this book to be super reminiscent of another blockbuster trilogy featuring elves and man. The story is also told through multiple POVs which add to back story but can also be very repetitive and the voices of the POVs are not always different enough to prevent a hard case of deja vu. I listened to this book on Audible and there were two distinct occasions where I thought my Android Auto flipped back or repeated a chapter. One of those occasions seemed to actually counter the other POV depiction of the same events. The last couple of chapters seemed to only serve the purpose of setting up the next book. I wish it would have ended prior to the next journey, it felt much more resolved then. And if you’ve read some of my previous reviews, you know I’m not a fan of a cliffhanger.
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review and checked out the story via Audible. The narrator did an excellent job and a had a soothing tone to his voice that seemed to fit the tale.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A book 1 of a fantasy trilogy with strong protagonists and compelling backstories. The structure of the story results in unnecessary repetition that takes away from the tale.
Want to learn more about the authors?
Check out my interview with Dr. W. Penn White
Interested in checking out the book for yourself?
Find it for purchase here
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