Blurb:

On the peak of the Mountain Pass, the Four-Front War takes its final breaths.

The walls are closing in.

The allies are dwindling.

The last front is on its knees.


Review:

A Compelling Journey through a Unique World.

Joshua Walker's novella "The Rest To The Gods" offers a engrossing glimpse into a world both familiar and refreshingly original. Spanning approximately 100 pages, this concise yet impactful tale weaves together themes of power, sacrifice, and self-discovery.

Crafting an epic fantasy novella poses a distinct challenge for authors due to the vast scope of the genre. However, Joshua Walker rises to this challenge with admirable skill, showcasing his ability to weave a great story within a limited space.

Despite the constraints of the novella format, Walker's storytelling prowess shines through, creating a plot that is both engaging and coherent. With each word holding significance, Walker demonstrates a keen understanding of pacing and economy of language, ensuring that every aspect of the story serves a crucial purpose.

At its core is Nishia, the main character that emerges as a rich character with complex motivations, allegiances, fears, and goals. Her role as a healer aiding troops in conflict and her involvement in pivotal missions, tells the story of a journey marked by a sense of agency and determination. Walker skillfully portrays her internal struggles and external challenges, fleshing out a character whose growth and development that never fails to be captivating, from start to finish, yes.

As Nishia grapples with the weight of her responsibilities and the consequences of her actions, her multidimensional nature shines through.

And through her eyes, readers gain insight into the complexities of loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of truth, making her a character worthy of both admiration and empathy.

"The Rest To The Gods" introduces readers to a setting both fresh and unique, anchored by the presence of a colossal tree that serves as the lifeblood of its inhabitants. This tree, spanning an entire nation, forms the focal point of a symbiotic relationship between the people and their environment. Walker's world-building prowess shines as he paints a vivid picture of a society intertwined with nature in ways both profound and practical. The intricacies of this relationship, from the cultural reverence for the tree to the practicalities of living among its branches, add layers of depth to the narrative. 

One of the novella's notable strengths is its adept handling of multiple timelines. Despite the potential for confusion, Walker navigates these temporal shifts with finesse, ensuring that each thread of the story contributes to the overarching narrative. Additionally, Walker's attention to detail lends authenticity to Nishia's world, grounding the fantastical elements in a sense of tangible reality.

However, while "The Rest To The Gods" excels in many areas, it is not without its shortcomings. Certain aspects of the story, such as the introduction of a new race of speaking animals, feel underdeveloped and in need of further exploration. Additionally, the novella's climactic moments may leave some readers craving a more substantial resolution.

Overall, "The Rest To The Gods" is a fascinating preview to Walker's skill as a storyteller, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a world ripe with potential.

While it may leave some questions unanswered, of course, its concise yet impactful narration leaves a lasting impression, setting the stage for future installments in what promises to be an intriguing series.