Review of Universal Mirror

The Universal Mirror

Gwen Perkins

Hydra Publications 2012

Kindle Edition

   On the island of Cercia, the gods are dead, killed by their very own followers and replaced with magic. The magic has very strict rules. No one is allowed to leave the island on penalty of death. No one can use the magic on another human being for harm or for healing. Do these laws apply to all? 

   Quentin, a young nobleman questions these laws. He along with his best friend, Asahel, set out to test these laws. How far will they go to prove their ultimate quest? Will their discovery get them what they want or will they risk their souls in the process? The Universal Mirror is the journey these two friends take in order to find the knowledge they seek.

   This is an excellent fantasy story. A bit unusual in that magic cannot be used on humans for good or evil. Quentin, the main instigator in this book is determined to help his wife return to her former physical beauty that was lost due to scarring from the plague. He hopes to get her to love him as he does her. Throughout most of the book she is indifferent almost to hating him. My only problem was how she suddenly turns her feelings when she discovers him in danger and finds out why he is using his magic. There was little communication between the two  which I would have liked to seen more of. Quentin, on the other hand, considered Asa his best friend; but yet he was never permitted into his home. 

   Felix, another nobleman, had been cruel and unjust to Asa in school. Asa turns to him now and Felix seems a better friend then Quentin. He is freely welcomed into his home all hours of the day or night. Felix willingly helps Asa when asked even without knowing the whole story. Felix turns out to be a major player in this story and helps to bring the story full circle.

   If you are into fantasy and magic, I highly recommend this story. Even if you are not into fantasy, I think you will still enjoy this book. There is a bit more involved in this story then just magic. It is a story of friendship and love and the extremes that some people will go to to get what they desire in life. The story is well written from the beginning until it culminates at the end. It ends in such a way that you are led into what hopefully will be the next installment.

   I wish to thank the author for giving me a copy for reading and reviewing purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in any way except for receiving the book to review.

I give Universal Mirror 4 out of 5 stars