Media Received for Heir to the Crown Series
July 2019: Mercerian Tales: The Call of Mgic Reviewed by The London Review and Elgin Life
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This book is riveting. From the first time you meet Albreda, till she arrives back home, you won't want to put it down. You may even be inspired to beg the author for another installment, because she is such a compelling character; full of sass, feisty, and an extremely resourceful woman. What is even better is that you DO NOT need to have read any other books in the series, as this is a complete tale in and of itself.
Mercerian Tales: The Call of Magic is set within the Heir to the Crown world about a character very involved in the main books, but takes you back in time to her beginnings, sharing what made her who she is and how she came to discover the magic within her. You'll feel as if you are reliving her life with her, wanting to shout out warnings and protect her from the evil that is coming. Once again set in a comfortable medieval style period, author Paul J Bennett creates an easy to read tale that is anything but ordinary. His ability to craft characters that defy stereotypes, while seeming so genuine, invites the reader to lose themselves in the world he has created. He doesn’t just introduce plot points, hitting the reader over the head with facts, he threads them seamlessly throughout the story, inviting everyone to accompany Albreda on her journey of self-discovery, rooting for her success the whole time! Bennett is a masterful storyteller who is not afraid to do things his own way. Where other authors would wait until a series is complete before tackling side stories, he dares to be different. This is the second time in his Heir to the Crown series where he has featured the history of a character, and the series is that much richer for his efforts. Flawlessly inserting personalities from his past books into this one, while introducing others at the same time, he develops a storyline that does not rely on knowledge of the world he has already created, at the same time as he builds even more into future storylines. This short novel is packed with action, intrigue, humour, and raw emotion, drawing you in the moment you meet Albreda and her father. One can only hope that Bennet feels that Albreda's past adventures warrant another book, as this is just too good to be the only one! |
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May 2019: Fate of the Crown Reviewed by The London Review and Elgin Life
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The Heir to the Crown series has steadily been building to a climax, and Fate of the Crown: Book Five definitely delivers that and more! Fortunately, for those who have grown to know and love these characters, although this storyline is complete, Bennett has announced that he is writing a Grand Trilogy; three parts each consisting of five books. This means only the first part of the trilogy is complete, and there are still many more adventures to read about as the series continues in future books, up to fifteen, according to his blog.
Bennett slowly, through each book, has introduced the reader to how magic works, steadily increasing its importance to the plot. The gradual addition of those elements has created a compelling storyline that allows both those new to fantasy and those already enmeshed in the genre to enjoy the world he has created! The realm of Merceria that Bennett has developed now feels almost real, so authentic are the personalities and places that populate it. Over time and books, the characters that inhabit his stories have come to earn a place in the hearts of his readers. And yet, as well developed as they are, Bennett is still able to draw us in with their secrets, bit by bit, compelling the reader to turn the page. Fate of the Crown is, at its base level, about a civil war in which good fights evil for the future of the kingdom. But it is so much more than that! Starting with Aubrey, an apprentice mage absent from the last book, who now has a critical part to play, to the seamless insertion of so many familiar faces from past, it all comes full circle. The tension is built as each character has their moment in the spotlight, the plot inextricably drawing them closer to each other, chapter by chapter. Bennett chooses to recount the battles through the eyes of individuals, pulling the reader into the action, making them feel as if they are there, in a shield wall as the Orcs repel another cavalry charge. Nor does Bennett shy away from the grittiness of battle. Instead, he used the stark realities of death to compel his characters to think of the cost of lives lost before embarking on a new plan. In fact, in one scene, the General of the Army is informed that he is respected because of how much he regrets the loss of his men's lives. Readers will go from celebrating the success of their favourite character to laughing out loud, to, at some moments, feeling a tear run down their cheek as this book does not hold back. Bennett, thankfully, is not one to shy away from emotions, and uses them to create some of the most poignant scenes in the book! After reading the Epilogue to Fate of the Crown, having to wait until September for Burden of the Crown is truly unusual and cruel punishment! |
January 2019: Shadow of the Crown Reviewed by The London Review and Elgin Life
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In an epic fantasy series, it is the grandness of the evil schemes that the heroes fight against which pulls you in, making you want to read book after book. In Paul J Bennett's Shadow of the Crown, the fourth installment of his compelling Heir to the Crown Series, the evil finally reveals itself, and it is far worse than anyone could have imagined!
Having been left on such a cliffhanger in the previous story, Heart of the Crown, one may have feared that Bennett might once again implement his now familiar opening salvo, introducing us, via a flashback or two, to a new character. But, thank Saxnor (the God from his tales); he instead uses an inspired twist of genius, both picking up where he left off and giving a new viewpoint, allowing us to jump right back into the thick of things. The story opens with Nikki, the one character whose motivation has been masterfully left unexplained, watching as the previous epilogue unfolds. The choice she next makes, changes everyone's future, with the ramifications of her actions having far-reaching consequences. And yet, this story is about so much more than her, leading to another action-packed, battle-filled, heart-felt continuation of a most spellbinding tale. Of course, in true Bennett style, the epilogue, after the nicely finished ending, will have you shaking in your boots as the shadow of the crown spreads even further across the land. There is much in this novel that harkens back to past adventures, and yet it all seems new. Battles are mounted on an epic scale, far eclipsing those of previous books. You will feel as if you are standing beside your favourite characters, part of the action, grinding your teeth in anticipation of the outcome. Bennett even reuses a plot but adds an unexpected twist that works so well because of your familiarity of past exploits. This telling of a story from any angle while holding the reader's attention is why this series is such a great find. Throughout the saga, Bennett has displayed an unerring ability to tell what appears to be a simple tale while weaving so much into the background. Characters that you met in the first books return in this one and turn the tide of more than one battle. There is a real sense of a well-thought-out epic storyline that is just beginning to reveal itself, and based upon the author's website, this tale will continue for many more books. He has already listed the next books in the series, with three release dates in 2019, and the rest in 2020. With five books already under his belt, Bennett has permanently etched himself a place in the world of epic fantasy. Based upon his many 5-star reviews on Kindle, Kobo and Apple Books, he now has a following of devoted fans who eagerly await the next book in this exciting series. |
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October 2018: Heart of the Crown reviewed by Elgin Life
The third book in Paul J. Bennett's Heir to the Crown series introduces the reader to a new land and new characters, while continuing to expand upon the storyline he has so carefully constructed through his previous works. Having set a precedent of telling the Mercerian heir's tale through others, choosing an unknown foreign prince seems a bit of a stretch, yet Bennett knew exactly what he was doing. Within the first pages, the stage is set for what is the best book of the series, so far!
Creating a character that begins as unsympathetic, and chronicling their journey to becoming an integral part of the story, is a strength that Bennett has shown in each of his books. In this one, it opens with Prince Alric, the youngest son of the Weldwyn King; a youth who wants more out of life than simply being royal. He seeks adventure, glory, and to win the favour of a fair maiden, only to discover one should be careful what they wish for!
As the cast of characters grows, so does the author's masterful story-telling. With such well-developed personalities, you know who is speaking before reading who said what! It takes a certain skill to ensure that the reader not only follows the pace of a book, but is able to embrace the main characters and accept new additions. Bennett has a real knack for drawing the reader into his world and making them care deeply about the lives of the people he has created, and then he cleverly tests those feelings without driving a knife completely through your heart!
What is even more interesting is the manner in which romance is subtly hinted at throughout; neither overwhelming the story nor being lost in the epic battle scenes that are in just the right spots to keep the plot charging forward. This novel is ingeniously crafted to flow smoothly from action to humour to emotion, and back to action, again and again, without missing a step!
This series is cleverly set in the historical fantasy genre, appealing to both historical fiction and fantasy readers. Bennett uses the first book to craft a new world through a familiar medieval backdrop, while the unobtrusive inclusion of fantasy elements draws even the newest fantasy reader in. As the plot grows more involved in each new book, Bennett layers history with fantasy in a way that leaves you begging for more.
The Heir to the Crown Series is like an old friend that you haven't seen for a long time; the moment you get back together, it's like you've never been apart. Even though each of the books reads well as independent novels, to truly immerse yourself, starting at book one is the way to go. While Heart of the Crown answers many questions from the two previous books, it foreshadows even more to come. Waiting for the next installment is going to be torturous!
Creating a character that begins as unsympathetic, and chronicling their journey to becoming an integral part of the story, is a strength that Bennett has shown in each of his books. In this one, it opens with Prince Alric, the youngest son of the Weldwyn King; a youth who wants more out of life than simply being royal. He seeks adventure, glory, and to win the favour of a fair maiden, only to discover one should be careful what they wish for!
As the cast of characters grows, so does the author's masterful story-telling. With such well-developed personalities, you know who is speaking before reading who said what! It takes a certain skill to ensure that the reader not only follows the pace of a book, but is able to embrace the main characters and accept new additions. Bennett has a real knack for drawing the reader into his world and making them care deeply about the lives of the people he has created, and then he cleverly tests those feelings without driving a knife completely through your heart!
What is even more interesting is the manner in which romance is subtly hinted at throughout; neither overwhelming the story nor being lost in the epic battle scenes that are in just the right spots to keep the plot charging forward. This novel is ingeniously crafted to flow smoothly from action to humour to emotion, and back to action, again and again, without missing a step!
This series is cleverly set in the historical fantasy genre, appealing to both historical fiction and fantasy readers. Bennett uses the first book to craft a new world through a familiar medieval backdrop, while the unobtrusive inclusion of fantasy elements draws even the newest fantasy reader in. As the plot grows more involved in each new book, Bennett layers history with fantasy in a way that leaves you begging for more.
The Heir to the Crown Series is like an old friend that you haven't seen for a long time; the moment you get back together, it's like you've never been apart. Even though each of the books reads well as independent novels, to truly immerse yourself, starting at book one is the way to go. While Heart of the Crown answers many questions from the two previous books, it foreshadows even more to come. Waiting for the next installment is going to be torturous!
April 2018: Sword of the Crown reviewed by The London Review
'Sword of the Crown' is the second book in local author Paul J. Bennett's 'Heir to the Crown' Series. The first installment of this medieval fantasy ended in quite a cliff-hanger, and so the expectation was that this new tale would continue from that point, moving the plot forward immediately. Bennett has instead chosen a rather unique way to set the stage for his second book. As was previously experienced, he bases his novels on one of the major influencers of the heir to the crown, and lets the tale unfold through their eyes. Although he continues with this approach, he has successfully taken it to a whole new level in his newest release.
Right from the first chapter, he draws the reader in, enticing them with the richly detailed origins of Dame Beverly Fitzwilliam. Her life unfolds in the pages of the book through a theme of overcoming odds and persevering in the face of adversity. In the author's notes, Bennett speaks to what women of the present day face, and how he used similar obstacles to build a convincing background for his main character. It is interesting to note that being a female knight in a patriarchal society affects Beverly's life every day, yet the tale is so much more than this struggle alone.
Unlike Gerald in the first book, Beverly is a hero, or at least strives to be a hero in everything she does, but like any real person, her moments of grandeur are tempered by the occasional flashes of self-doubt. This ability to create believable and relatable characters is one of Bennett's greatest assets, along with the creation of a well-developed world that has the backdrop of history layered into a fantasy location. This well thought out setting invites the reader to immerse themselves in these familiar surroundings, while at the same time, the unexpected plot twists entice them to keep the pages turning.
What is noteworthy about this series so far is the ability for each book to stand on its own merits, while the overarching theme of good versus evil plays in the background. Bennett does an excellent job of ensuring the secondary characters are introduced in both books, allowing the reader to start with either book, but those that read this book first will definitely want to grab the series starter next.
Bennett's writing style is like a fine wine; it is getting better with time. His first work was a good read, while 'Sword of the Crown' shows a refinement of his craft, as he obviously grows more confident in his writing endeavours. He has come into his own in this book, and the future looks very bright for this author. The series is unfolding like a huge tapestry that will tell a grander tale when all the pieces are combined. The only downside is the time the reader has to wait until book three is released in the summer.
Right from the first chapter, he draws the reader in, enticing them with the richly detailed origins of Dame Beverly Fitzwilliam. Her life unfolds in the pages of the book through a theme of overcoming odds and persevering in the face of adversity. In the author's notes, Bennett speaks to what women of the present day face, and how he used similar obstacles to build a convincing background for his main character. It is interesting to note that being a female knight in a patriarchal society affects Beverly's life every day, yet the tale is so much more than this struggle alone.
Unlike Gerald in the first book, Beverly is a hero, or at least strives to be a hero in everything she does, but like any real person, her moments of grandeur are tempered by the occasional flashes of self-doubt. This ability to create believable and relatable characters is one of Bennett's greatest assets, along with the creation of a well-developed world that has the backdrop of history layered into a fantasy location. This well thought out setting invites the reader to immerse themselves in these familiar surroundings, while at the same time, the unexpected plot twists entice them to keep the pages turning.
What is noteworthy about this series so far is the ability for each book to stand on its own merits, while the overarching theme of good versus evil plays in the background. Bennett does an excellent job of ensuring the secondary characters are introduced in both books, allowing the reader to start with either book, but those that read this book first will definitely want to grab the series starter next.
Bennett's writing style is like a fine wine; it is getting better with time. His first work was a good read, while 'Sword of the Crown' shows a refinement of his craft, as he obviously grows more confident in his writing endeavours. He has come into his own in this book, and the future looks very bright for this author. The series is unfolding like a huge tapestry that will tell a grander tale when all the pieces are combined. The only downside is the time the reader has to wait until book three is released in the summer.
January 2018: Paul J bennett Interview with OurLondon.ca
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Whitney South, of OurLondon.ca reached out to me for an interview in December. This article appears in the January 2018 Issue of the newspaper. Click on the image to view the article in full screen
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November 2017: Servant of the Crown reviewed by The London Review
‘Servant of the Crown’ is the first book by a new Canadian author, Paul J Bennett. According to his author notes at the end of the book, this is the first in a series called ‘Heir to the Crown’. Overall, the book moves along at good pace, interjecting both humour and emotion to draw the reader into its fantasy setting. It is easy to follow the plot and characters in their development as the book uses a familiar medieval setting interlaced into a new world. Through an interesting descriptive writing style, the world unfolds, giving the reader time to understand the differences between a past earth and this new land of Mercia.
The novel has multiple themes intermingled to create a compelling story arc. It begins with a military scene that sets the tone of strife for the common man, in a land ruled over by a tyrannical King. Even with evil reigning, the setting of the main story reveals humanities kindnesses through everyday occurrences and interactions. When you meet more of the characters, there is the feeling of a coming of age thread, but it does not overpower the storytelling and remains as a background theme.
With a new world, some authors tend to spend pages describing things, reminiscent of the opening scene in ‘Star Trek: The Motion Picture’. Bennett uses descriptions sparingly, allowing the reader to use their imagination. It is noticeably bare of detailed descriptions of the main characters, making it very inclusive and open to interpretation. However, the realistic well-detailed fight scenes can be quite gritty at times, but that is what makes it a compelling read.
The main character seems to be the unluckiest hero, yet at the same time, his relationships with those around him inspire him to achieve so much despite his past tragedies. He is a common man who makes mistakes and realizes that those mistakes at times have very undesirable effects. He even talks about this immediately after losing his temper, foreshadowing future strife in the book. His interactions with those around him reveal his character slowly, in a natural way, instead of just being told what his quirks are.
The author does an excellent job of surprising the reader numerous times throughout the book, making this a difficult review to both share the excitement of the tale while ensuring there are no spoilers. The plot itself is unlike others, but it has elements reminiscent of these authors: Mercedes Lackey, Katherine Kurtz, Robin Hobb, Frank Herbert, and Terry Brooks.
If you are looking for a new series that will keep you enthralled and waiting impatiently for the next book to be released, then ‘Servant of the Crown’ should be added to your reading list! For those who like the extra addendum's and appendixes at the end of a book, there is a website with copious amounts of notes about the religion, magic, nobility and military structure along with a list of release dates for future tomes in the World of Mercia.
The novel has multiple themes intermingled to create a compelling story arc. It begins with a military scene that sets the tone of strife for the common man, in a land ruled over by a tyrannical King. Even with evil reigning, the setting of the main story reveals humanities kindnesses through everyday occurrences and interactions. When you meet more of the characters, there is the feeling of a coming of age thread, but it does not overpower the storytelling and remains as a background theme.
With a new world, some authors tend to spend pages describing things, reminiscent of the opening scene in ‘Star Trek: The Motion Picture’. Bennett uses descriptions sparingly, allowing the reader to use their imagination. It is noticeably bare of detailed descriptions of the main characters, making it very inclusive and open to interpretation. However, the realistic well-detailed fight scenes can be quite gritty at times, but that is what makes it a compelling read.
The main character seems to be the unluckiest hero, yet at the same time, his relationships with those around him inspire him to achieve so much despite his past tragedies. He is a common man who makes mistakes and realizes that those mistakes at times have very undesirable effects. He even talks about this immediately after losing his temper, foreshadowing future strife in the book. His interactions with those around him reveal his character slowly, in a natural way, instead of just being told what his quirks are.
The author does an excellent job of surprising the reader numerous times throughout the book, making this a difficult review to both share the excitement of the tale while ensuring there are no spoilers. The plot itself is unlike others, but it has elements reminiscent of these authors: Mercedes Lackey, Katherine Kurtz, Robin Hobb, Frank Herbert, and Terry Brooks.
If you are looking for a new series that will keep you enthralled and waiting impatiently for the next book to be released, then ‘Servant of the Crown’ should be added to your reading list! For those who like the extra addendum's and appendixes at the end of a book, there is a website with copious amounts of notes about the religion, magic, nobility and military structure along with a list of release dates for future tomes in the World of Mercia.