The Fire of Heaven Trilogy
by Richard
(Venice, Fl., U.S.)
The first novel in the trilogy.
These three books written by Russell Kirkpatrick, the first of which is Across the Face of the World, is an excellent, interesting, and well-developed story. The story tells of a small village boy named Leith whose father was sent on a mission from the king years ago, and none believe he will ever return.
When tragedy strikes, Leith, his brother Hal, and a small group of villagers from their town and the area around must go on a mission to rescue Leith's mother and father from certain death, and possibly save the world in doing it; the knowledge his father has could determine the fate of the world.
It has a very Tolkien-like feel to it; the world has a sharp realism and the characters are all so well-developed that by the end of first novel they seem to breathe.
It is slow to begin, but once this story starts going, it's hard to put down. Kirkpatrick's world has a vibrant history, extravagant places, and the maps of this world are created by Kirkpatrick himself, who is a map-maker by profession. I highly advise giving this trilogy a try!