Imagine a world where legends are real, magic flows like the wind, and treachery lurks behind every alliance. Mary Ting’s Once Upon A Kingdom is exactly that kind of fantasy adventure. Known for her richly layered worlds, Ting once again brings her readers into a realm full of mythical landscapes and vivid characters. Following her previous work in Once Upon A Legend, this sequel continues to deepen our immersion in a fantastical universe that’s as dangerous as it is enchanting.
In this book, we journey alongside Prince Merrick, Idris, and their companions as they flee from Dumonia, seeking refuge with Empress Elora of the Whisterfield Empire. Here, they uncover not only their world’s hidden history but also their own mysterious bloodlines. Soon, they find themselves wrapped in a dangerous game where allies and enemies emerge unexpectedly, all while preparing for Uther Pendragon’s descendant to reclaim the throne. The stakes? An epic clash with Ravana’s terrifying creatures, forged from the Tree of Life and Death. What makes this story especially intriguing is its blend of Arthurian legend with original fantasy elements, setting it apart from typical genre offerings.
Ting’s prose is evocative and imaginative, pulling you right into her intricately crafted world. Her descriptions are full of sensory details that make it easy to picture each empire’s landscapes and cities. The short, punchy chapters keep the pacing brisk, making it easy to stay invested in the unfolding action. Ting has a knack for shifting perspectives smoothly, letting us experience the plot through multiple viewpoints without confusion.
The characters are richly developed, with personalities that feel both realistic and magical. Prince Merrick and Idris are the story’s emotional anchors, but even the supporting characters, like Empress Elora and the enigmatic Ravana, have depth and intrigue. This book dives into themes of loyalty, power, and self-discovery, adding a level of relatability to the characters. Idris and her band of orphans bring a fresh twist, and their arc of courage and unity gives a sense of hope amidst the larger, darker conflicts.
Ting’s plot moves quickly, carrying readers through a series of twists and turns. While the setup might feel like classic high fantasy, the story structure has a modern touch—shifting between scenes of conflict and quieter moments of reflection. The careful organization lets readers process the layered plot points and keeps the narrative from feeling cluttered, even when it reaches its intense action sequences.
This book tackles themes that resonate on both a personal and societal level, such as discovering one’s heritage and fighting for a just cause. The allegorical touches, like the moonstones gifted by the Ladies of the Lake, symbolize hope, resilience, and the interconnectedness of life. These themes deepen the story, making it not just an adventure but also a tale with meaningful reflections on identity and destiny.
As a reader, the book felt like a roller coaster. Certain moments—like the characters’ poignant reflections on loyalty or their fear facing Ravana’s creatures—brought out real emotion. This story offers more than just thrills; it’s peppered with moments that make you pause, think, and even empathize with the characters’ journeys.
One of the book’s strongest aspects is its world-building. From the mysterious Cambria to the imposing Whisterfield Empire, each setting is vivid and adds a unique layer to the story. Additionally, the emotional depth of the characters stands out, making it easy to root for their successes and feel the weight of their struggles. Not to mention, Ravana’s army from the Tree of Life and Death is an unforgettable touch of fantasy horror!
If there’s a drawback, it might be that the many alliances and enemies introduced could be hard to track for some readers. A glossary or brief “who’s who” might have helped clarify the relationships and kingdoms involved, especially for those new to the series. A little more time fleshing out the supporting cast would add even more to the story’s richness.
This book hit all the right notes for me as a fan of fantasy with heart. I loved how Ting weaves her characters’ personal growth into the epic stakes of the story. It’s a tale that balances adventure with introspection, making it both exciting and meaningful.
Once Upon A Kingdom is a must-read for fantasy lovers who enjoy a mix of action, myth, and heartfelt themes. Ting’s immersive storytelling and layered characters make this book hard to put down, and I’m already excited to see where the story goes next. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that combines suspense, mystery, and emotional depth, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.
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