The Assassin, the Traitor, and the Prophecy

A Four Kingdoms Novel

Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
512 Pages
Reviewed on 03/14/2025
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Assassin, The Traitor, and The Prophecy by Jeff Altabef introduces readers to a vividly crafted fantasy world. This first installment in Altabef's series invites readers on a thrilling journey packed with intrigue, betrayal, and a quest for power. The narrative pivots around a trio of distinct characters, each ensnared by their destinies and the heavy yoke of their pasts. Cassara is a relentless assassin with a heart seeking redemption; Nero is her mentor, wrapped in mystery and ambition; and Mateo is a figure torn between loyalty and his inner demons. As their paths intertwine, the stakes escalate with every chapter, weaving a strategic and action-packed story.

Jeff Altabef excels at creating a world where the line between right and wrong blurs. The setting is vivid, unforgiving, and steeped in magic that teeters on the brink of revival. As ancient powers awaken, Cassara and her companions must navigate the dangers of a kingdom where magic and political intrigue are interwoven. The book’s pacing is relentless, and Altabef masters the art of suspense and unexpected twists. Yet, the deep moral questions about power, control, and freedom elevate the novel beyond fantasy thrills. The Assassin, The Traitor, and The Prophecy is a strong foundation for what promises to be a compelling series. Altabef’s skillful storytelling, robust character development, and mesmerizing setting make this book stand out among fantasy novels. It will appeal to readers of high-stakes fantasy and those who enjoy tales of espionage and inner turmoil. Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and Mervyn Peake will enjoy Altabef’s writing. As the first book concludes, it leaves several questions unanswered, setting the stage for the next adventure, which promises to be as engaging as the first.

K.C. Finn

The Assassin, the Traitor, and the Prophecy by Jeff Altabef is a fantasy story packed with magic, deep conflicts, and tough choices. In a kingdom where magic has been wiped out and those who have it are hunted, Cassara is one of the last of her kind. Being a Wingless Magic Shaper puts a target on her back, so when she’s forced to save a prince she absolutely hates, things get even more complicated. There’s an ancient prophecy hanging over everything, war is on the horizon, and Cassara has to figure out who she can trust before it’s too late. Along the way, she’s forced to redefine herself, her enemies, and the magic she’s spent her life trying to survive with. The story is also packed full of political drama, unexpected friendships, and tough choices, and Cassara’s journey is just as much about understanding herself as it is about saving the kingdom.

Jeff Altabef's characters feel real because they're flawed, complicated, and impossible to put in neat little boxes. It’s one of the things that makes this book so interesting. If you’re looking for a book that’s both exciting and thought-provoking, this one is worth picking up. The world itself is rich and layered, with magic and politics blending in a way that makes everything feel high stakes but also believable. I also really liked how the book tackled themes like prejudice and destiny. The twists in the story caught me off guard in the best way, and nothing ever felt predictable. Even the magic wasn’t just there for show—it played a meaningful role in both the plot and Cassara’s personal struggles, making it a natural part of the world. Overall, The Assassin, the Traitor, and the Prophecy is a great read for fantasy fans who love magic, complex characters, and a story that keeps you guessing, and I definitely recommend it.

Frank Mutuma

In The Assassin, the Traitor, and the Prophecy by Jeff Altabef, the Wingots made a deal with the evil Shadow Creatures to eradicate magic from the world, which left the Sorcerers without protection, resulting in the enslavement of the Wingless. The rule by the Wingots was merciless and involved a lot of suffering. After many years, there is hope to restore their powers since magic is starting to come back slowly from the black forest. Another thing that comes into play is when a seer informs people about the plight of Prince Phelan, who betrayed his kind and fell in love with a Wingless. Will they be able to gain his trust, and how will he be of help to them?

The Assassin, the Traitor, and the Prophecy by Jeff Altabef is wonderfully written and takes the reader on a gripping journey filled with unexpected directions and dilemmas that leave one looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. The seamless flow of the plotline left no room for confusion, and I loved how the well-crafted dialogue brought the story and the characters to life. I also loved the strong female characters like Cassara, who, despite being in a male-dominated world, become very effective in what they do. The characters were well-developed, and the excellent narration also added to the overall beauty of the book. The reader will also appreciate the easy-to-understand language used, which makes the work accessible to all kinds of audiences. This was a good read, and I look forward to reading something else by Jeff Altabef.