Book Reviews

Book Review: Heirs of Prophecy

Media Type: Print Book
Title: Heirs of Prophecy
   *Series: Prophecies Series #1
Author: Michael A. Rothman
Publisher: M&S Publishing L.L.C.
Pages: Hardcover; 368
Release Date: April 3, 2012
Source: TLC Book Tours
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Intended Reading Group: Middle Grade / Young Adult
Content Screening: Mild Violence
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HDB Rating: 4 Keys to My Heart
Recommended to: Middle grade readers, or lower YA readers, who enjoy an adventurous fantasy story.

Add it on: Goodreads / Shelfari / Amazon / B&N

The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land. The Riverton brothers quickly realize that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself – the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world. The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde. Only one thing stands in their way. The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence.

I picked up Heirs of Prophecy on a whim one day, and two hours later I was done with the book. Let me say, before anything else, that Michael A. Rothman can most definitely tell a story! The Riverton family is one of the sweetest groups of people that I’ve ever met. Aaron, Ryan and their parents face a lot in this book, but they deal with it as a family. If you’re looking for a wholesome read that will still draw in your young reader, this is it!
Aaron and Ryan are definitely great protagonists. They each have their own distinct personalities, but at the same time play off one another beautifully. Their banter made me giggle, a lot. Rothman makes sure to show the story from both boys’ points of view. It’s so much fun to see them grow into their powers, and try to uncover why they are so special in the first place. These boys are true to the age that they are. Underneath the bickering, and the occasional jealousy, they love one another a lot. When things get right down to it, they’ll be there to support one another. Thank you so much Mr. Rothman, for writing believable young people. It made me smile.
In terms of plot line, the story moves at a great pace. There is always just enough action to keep things moving along smoothly. My one complaint, and this is likely because I’m an older reader, was that I really wanted more of Trimoria itself. I’m a big fantasy reader. I love sweeping worlds and descriptive writing. There was a lot of that here, but not enough to really draw me into the world that Aaron and Ryan were exploring. Again, I’m sure it has a lot to do with the reader base this book is aimed at. It didn’t detract that much from my enjoyment of the overall story. This family definitely steals the show anyhow!
At the end of the day I truly enjoyed reading Heirs of Prophecy. I’m so glad to finally see a fantasy book that is tailored to middle grade readers, and yet still completely holds the attention of older readers too. The Riverton family has a special place in my heart now and I cannot wait to see more of them! Wherever these young boys go next, I’ll be there.




FTC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion.