Shawn Lamb's Allon ~ Reviewed

Allon
Shawn Lamb
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 287 pages
Publisher: Creation House (January 5, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599798913

Book Description:

ALLON is a fantasy tale about a kingdom groaning under the oppressive rule of King Marcellus. Yet the King is also enslaved - to the evil spirit Dagar. The entire citizenry of ALLON holds fast to the prophecy that a new ruler will come, brought by the Guardians. He will bring peace. He will bring justice. He will bring love.

"He" is teenager Prince Ellis, an exile from ALLON who faces trials to prove himself able to rule ALLON and return it to glory. Ultimately, Prince Ellis must defeat Marcellus and the power behind the throne before ALLON can be restored.

ALLON - a magical tale of adventure, destiny, and faith.


Review:

Shawn Lamb's Allon has all the ingredients of a fantasy adventure ~ a heroic prince, an evil power, mythical creatures, a perilous journey, romance, danger and faith parallels. I appreciated the effort put into this story but a more simple approach would have made for an easier to follow story. A multiplicity of characters and overly complex storyline left me feeling a little confused in the first half of the book. The second half picked up the pace and the loose ends are brought together in a climactic finish. Aimed at a young audience, I hope the subsequent stories flesh out many of the positive themes introduced in Allon, with a less complicated approach.

Reviewed by: Rel Mollet