Book Review
Azrar and the Tale of the Curse by AKR
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| Azrar and the Tale of the Curse by AKR |
Author: AKR (Ayush Kumar Rajput)
ISBN: 978-9385440540
Genre: Fantasy
Length: 232 Pages
Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2WT19wX
About the author:
Ayush Kumar Rajput writes under the pen name AKR. He is
currently pursuing his MBA and has completed his graduation from KCMT. Besides
studying, he loves reading about various mythologies of the world and wishes to
present them with a seasoning of fantasy. AKR lives in Bareilly and is
presently working on the next book in the Azrar series.
REVIEW
Summary
Azrar and the Tale of the Curse is a fantasy novel, set in the small village of the Leothe ─
perfect reflection of the Earth─
a world wonderfully created by the author, where the protagonist from the Earth
becomes the guardian of Azrar; an ingenious and creatively plotted story about
bravery and determination of the main character who selflessly sacrifices everything
to protect Azrarians and reinstate power and splendor of the Azrar; that will
fire your imagination and would excite you at times.
Narration
Azrar is actually a diary written by Henry Smith, containing his adventurous life story. It is narrated in first-person POV and follows the lead character, Henry. The writing style is pretty fantastic, which is compatible with the setting and the environment. The novel is divided into 21 chapters, where the reader gradually explores the world of Leothe. The language is simple and comprehensible including a lot of author-invented and strange-sounding nouns.
Location and Setting
Azrar is, well, set in a small village called Azrar, the
residents of which are suffering from a curse. The story takes place in the
year 2016 when Henry unknowingly travels from the Earth to the Leothe. The
infrastructure and functioning of this kingdom are portrayed elaborately. Currently,
it’s in ruins and indicates very little of what it used to be. Watchtowers, a
cave protected with a password, enormous and beautiful castle, sculptures, royal
gardens, ponds and a magical forest are some remarkable places you can find in this
book. The Derindoras forest is visibly the source of magic for this land that
possesses mystifying creatures and unfathomable structures and it is what sets
Earth and Leothe apart.
Theme
It is commendable how seamlessly the author AKR has narrated the
sequence about Henry finding himself in the whole new world. Indeed, it comes with
shocks and surprises. As the story progresses, Henry comes to know about Azrar,
the residents, their culture and most importantly, why he is supposed to be
there. Every day is a new adventure for him until he sets Azrar free from the
curse. Macwood, an important supporting character helps him through this. Henry
learns fighting with the sword, gets familiarized with Azrar, fights massive
saber-toothed cats called Narzies, becomes more knowledgeable about Azrarians
and the curse, fights horned fiery monsters and gets to know more of the
secrets concealed from him. Each chapter is packed with absolutely new things
and a fresh adventure.
Plot
Children began to born dead in Azrar due to the curse. While
some availed the privilege of life, but none could survive beyond the age of
20. There only remain 9 youngsters now who are waiting for their death. Although,
when Henry came, Azrarians developed faith in him, as he could be the possible
guardian according to the prophecy. He shares an intimate relationship with Meriul,
daughter of Macwood. Meriul is one of those nine youngsters, which motivates
him further to conquer anything that stood between them.
My Opinion
I personally loved this book and the world of Leothe. I have
never read such high fantasy by an Indian author. The mechanism and functioning of
this world are what captivated my attention, that not everything is
magic-driven. You may find syntax errors here and there in this edition.
Otherwise, it’s completely fine. The idea of this story becomes very clear
after a certain point and delivers a strong message. The otherworldly setting and
creatures don’t overshadow the human feelings and the accomplishment of the
protagonist. Narzies are my favorites from Azrar.
Lastly, I would say, this could have been better. It lacks
something. The bond between Henry and others seemed illusory.
I wish there were other prominent supporting and opposing characters.
Happy Reading!
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