MORNNOVIN

This fantasy series starter by debut author Bethancourt is set in the aftermath of a conflict between humans and elves.

It’s been many years since the humans tried to wipe out all the elves on the world of Asrellion, and they thought they’d succeeded. However, a small fraction of them managed to survive and flourish, far away from where humans live. Loralíenasa Níelor Raia knows that she isn’t supposed to stray close to the human lands, but for some time, she’s wanted nothing more than to climb the tallest, most ancient tree in the woods. She never expected to meet a human in the middle of the forest—and especially not one who could speak her language. Instead of fleeing in fear, she stays to talk to the young man, and before long, she saves him from a bear attack. After passing out from her injuries, she awakens to find herself in the man’s home—which happens to be a castle. The man she saved was no ordinary human: He’s Naoise Raynesley, the second son of the King of Grenlec. Now, human royalty knows that some of her people survived, and soon the Crown Prince Dairinn shows up and delivers startling news: war is coming with a group called the Telrishti. In this first installment of Bethancourt’s series, The Way of the Falling Star, she presents characters from rich fantasy cultures—both human and elvish. Readers who enjoy detailed worldbuilding will quickly fall in love with this novel, as the author clearly put great effort into crafting the world of Asrellion. The prose is similarly polished and executed with great care; the even pacing will keep readers engaged, the various players are well developed, and the smooth dialogue feels genuine. The action scenes are also compelling, and readers will be rooting for Loralíenasa, Naoise, and their band of compatriots as the war for the world begins. They’ll also eagerly await the next plannedinstallment in the series.

A fine high fantasy novel with a richly crafted world.