Just finished reading the first few chapters in When the Heavens Fall by Marc Turner. This is the start of a swords and sorcery epic fantasy with magic, Gods and plenty of swordplay.

This is an odd review to write because at the moment I’ve only read an excerpt of the story but I can already say that this is a story that I would definitely continue with as this got off to a very promising start.

The plot begins with a stolen book. A powerful book that in turn attracts powerful people in it’s search. We are introduced in fairly quick succession to a number of characters who all have a part to play. Lurker is a Guardian, he is pulled into the search for the book against his better judgement and also because he needs to find a friend who seems to have gone missing in connection with this missing artefact. He will be accompanied by a female friend and assassin called Jenna who seems to join the search in order to escape her own problems. We have Ebon, a prince and heir to the throne who begins his introduction to us in a daring rescue mission. Ebon is undoubtedly being set out as the hero of the piece, his status is raised just within these few short chapters however he himself is plagued and tormented by strange voices. The other two strands are those of a Priestess called Romany who has been set on a course to find the Book by her master and separately the storyline of Parolla who – well, more about in a moment

So, in terms of first impressions. The writing is appealing and flows quite well although for a fairly short introduction there are a lot of new characters introduced with different undertones and politics. Turner doesn’t hold your hand but basically throws you straight into the story and you’re left to gather what you will through conversation and character observations. The plot is quite interesting and there is no shortage of action. For me personally I would have liked more character development, although this is only the first part of the story so there is still room for more in that area. I would say that Parolla has captured my attention primarily. She’s an intriguing character that I’m keen to learn more about – especially why she seems to have incurred the wrath of the antlered God! She comes across almost as a delicate blossom and yet she is very capable and indeed seems to wield powerful magic. Interesting and I’m keen to know what her story will turn out to be.

For me, and I wish I had a better phrase, this comes across ‘old school’. It doesn’t have the feel of the more modern grimdark type of fantasy reads and doesn’t contain the witty dialogue that we come across in more recent stories but gets back to good old fashioned chases, sword fighting and magic with a few underlying currents and a feel of never being given the full picture. In that respect it undoubtedly in some areas put me in mind of elements of other stories but not, I hasten to add, in a copied sort of fashion – just more a gentle nudge in certain directions.

I don’t usually rate books but I would say that this would warrant a 3.5 – 4 stars review for me. I thought it was a good introduction with a promising story, I definitely want to learn more and I think there’s plenty of room for development.

I received a copy from the publishers through Netgalley for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.