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Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
In The Mantle of the Past, Lewis A. D'Ambra creates a rich and immersive epic fantasy that explores the fragile legacy of a recently fallen empire. Following the death of Tekolger, the King of Kings, the vast lands of Kolgennon stand on the brink of chaos. What once was a unified domain inches toward civil war as generals squabble over power, subjugated people plot rebellion, and ancient enemies resurface. Against this backdrop, whispers of ancient forces, long dismissed as myths, begin to emerge, hinting at deeper dangers ahead. D'Ambra crafts a tale of ambition, betrayal, and how history tends to repeat itself, painting a world in flux where old loyalties and grudges collide with the hopes of a new age.
From the very first pages, the appeal of The Mantle of the Past lies in its layered storytelling and the sense of a world teeming with life and complexity. The opening scene, centered on Kalasyar Sisosi and her grandfather Koseun, sets the tone for the narrative with its intimate portrayal of family, politics, and power. Koseun, a former statesman turned teacher, exudes wisdom and resilience, making him a compelling figure. Through his lessons, Lewis A. D'Ambra does a great job of establishing the cultural and political intricacies of Butophulo and its place within the fractured empire. The characters are deeply drawn, their motivations nuanced, and their relationships rich with tension and history. Readers are quickly drawn into Kalasyar's inner conflict and her family's precarious position in a world where alliances shift like sand. Lewis A. D'Ambra’s storytelling is intricate and so are the worlds he creates, with detailed descriptions that bring the settings and characters to life. The narrative flows effortlessly between personal struggles and sweeping historical events, balancing grand battles and moments of quiet reflection. This is a masterful start to the Scattering of Leaves series, promising readers an epic journey filled with intrigue, emotion, and a sense of timeless wonder.
