by
Bob Perrill
Long ago, the drow and sylvan elves lived in harmony on the earth’s surface. However, conflict soon arose and the drow race retreated to the Underdark found beneath the earth’s surface. Consumed by hatred and revenge, the drow developed into a vicious warrior species that valued domination and power above all.
Northwood, a sleepy elven village on the surface, was soon attacked by a drow raid led by Roushina. Dradamus, the raid’s youngest and strongest drow warrior, spared the life of one elven maiden named Liana, who had since escaped to Glenspring to start a new life.
Fate would have Dradamus and Liana meet once more. Despite their species’ history of bloodshed and fear, they fell in love and eventually bore a child named Connate. However, due to the differences in their respective natures, Dradamus cannot stay on the surface world for too long without raising suspicion from others. If word gets out that Liana’s husband is a drow, she will risk exile or, worse, death for herself and her son.
Connate, who is half-sylvan and half-drow, grew up to become a skilled healer. After narrowly escaping a murder attempt, he soon finds the truth of his drow heritage and what it means to survive in the Underdark. Will his compassionate nature be an asset or a hindrance as he explores the underground world of the drows?
Bob Perrill writes an evenly-paced yet thrilling adventure in his book, “Son of Light, Son of Darkness.” In a world rich in lore and various magical creatures, the book explores many themes, like discovering one’s heritage, the need for survival in a cutthroat society, and a person’s desire to make a choice.
Connate, the protagonist is a compassionate hero who understands that not their species govern every character. His unique heritage of being part sylvan and drow puts him in a rare predicament not many understand. Nevertheless, his kindness and ability to value life without being naïve are traits we can admire and relate to. As readers continue to read the book, they’ll find that, much like Connate, the “right” choice is not necessarily the easiest.
On the whole, the book is a marvelous gem that readers of various ages can appreciate. While it may take time for readers unfamiliar with fantasy books to get used to them, the author eases you into the world without worry, logically laying out the world’s rules and norms. Aside from great world-building, the book is also chockful of fully realized characters, showcasing that their choices determine their morality and not just their nature.
Suppose you would like to start reading more fantasy books or are looking for a compassionate yet strong male hero. In that case, this book is a definite contender for your library.
– The Moving Words Review
Official Entry: The Most Moving Book Award, Jan. 3, 2024
