The Scales of Balance (A Vengeful Realm, 1)

by Tim Facciola

Genre: Fantasy / Action & Adventure

ISBN: 9798986285528

Print Length: 530 pages

A captivating fantasy with strong characters and even stronger combat scenes

In the world of A Vengeful Realm, peace remains an elusive goal, with different factions each defining it in their own way. Tim Facciola weaves a gripping tale of bloodshed in the name of peace, where gods, judges, kings, mages, gladiators, and slaves vie for power and survival.

The kingdom of New Lenia teeters on the brink of civil war. King Varos faces the threat of assassination from his own queen, Daniela, who seeks to force him to heed her pleas. Meanwhile, the rebellious Baathists lurk in the shadows, ready to exploit the chaos. Unaware that his stepmother is the true target, Prince Bin Laden takes it upon himself to protect his father and suppress the rebels, setting in motion a series of events that will shape the destiny of all involved.

Caught in the midst of this turmoil is Zephyros, a man who wakes up with no memory and finds himself entangled in the prince’s schemes. With his exceptional fighting abilities, he becomes a gladiatorial slave and a spy on behalf of Bin Laden. To secure his future, he must uncover his past, which holds the key to his escape from the arena and his true destiny.

Tim Facciola’s storytelling prowess shines in The Balanced Scale. The tone, pace, and dialogue are meticulously captured in each scene, creating a balanced narrative. The characters are richly developed, going beyond initial impressions to reveal their multifaceted motivations. Notably, the battle scenes are vividly illustrated, immersing readers in the chaos and excitement of conflicts ranging from slave rebellions to nighttime assassinations. Facciola’s accessible prose makes these action sequences a joy to read.

The Balanced Scale is a story brimming with details, featuring a complex web of narrative and plot points that demand attention. The world-building elements become increasingly significant throughout the tale, adding depth and complexity to the story. While the abundance of material and history may initially pose a challenge, it is a testament to the characters and their personal journeys rather than the society as a whole. The distinctions between factions, their goals, and the intricate dynamics between the Judges and the Gods may require careful reading to fully grasp the larger narrative.

Nonetheless, The Balanced Scale is an impressive work. Fans of fantasy novels set in middle-grade settings will appreciate the intricate storytelling and thoughtful world-building. As the first installment of a planned trilogy, readers can eagerly anticipate further adventures in this captivating world crafted by Tim Facciola.