Readers of all ages, both young and young-at-heart, are in for a thrilling adventure in Russell Jay Parker’s “Requiem, Changing Times.”
In her review for The US Review of Books, Kat Kennedy bestows “Requiem, Changing Times” a well-deserved RECOMMENDED rating. This young adult fantasy gem draws readers into a compelling world where the ordinary and the extraordinary collide.
The story follows Clint Holden, a middle school boy whose typical concerns about school and crushes pale in comparison when he is attacked by a fearsome being known as Fury. As he faces this dangerous new reality, a group called the Salvation Alliance arrives to protect him. Both sides in this conflict are after something known as the Requiem, and they believe Clint holds the key. But even Clint himself has no idea what it is!
The premise itself screams twists and turns, which Kennedy emphasizes in the review.
“Parker’s novel is an innovative fantasy with a twist. The world of fantasy and its creatures come to the world of humans in a quest for the Requiem rather than humans entering the realm of the fantasy world.”
Yet, as mentioned, the hero himself does not know anything about this highly-coveted object. This, according to Kennedy, is “one of the most intriguing aspects” of the novel.
“[N]o one seems to fully grasp what the Requiem is or even looks like. It remains a mystery throughout the novel, and the only thing known about it is that Clint Holden has it. There are hints that it has something to do with a top-secret government project involving Clint’s stepfather, but it is never fully explained or described. Even those who are searching for it aren’t certain what it is. This leads to a cliffhanger in which one hopes all will be revealed in a future book.”
Such an element just makes the book all the more gripping and entertaining. Kennedy also praises the book’s interesting scenes, like a battle that unfolds during a school dance, and the author’s masterful balance between tension and humor.
“There are moments of both intense drama and comedic antics that help to move the story along. … Not only does Parker create interesting characters who grab the reader’s imagination, but he is also a master at building fascinating worlds.”
Indeed, Parker has a way with words that even for a book of over 400 pages, readers will be eager to turn each page. The characters also have their magic touch in it; for instance, Clint may bravely face powerful foes, but he is tongue-tied around the girl he likes.
For every fantasy reader who craves a book that is “well-written, with gripping, detailed battles” yet still wants a cast of characters they can relate to, “Requiem, Changing Times” is an absolute must-read. As Kennedy concludes, “This is one not to be missed by lovers of good storytelling, mesmerizing characters, and epic battles.”
Read the full review here: www.theusreview.com/reviews-1/Requiem-Changing-Times-by-RJ-Parker.html