To End Every War by Raymond W. Wilkinson is the first installment in a mystery fantasy series that introduces a world rife with war, political intrigue, and an intriguing blend of humans and non-humans. Set in 1901, the story follows six women navigating their new lives at the Vespa Academy of Science while one of them, Esmeralda, also grapples with the responsibilities of being a Duchessa. With war looming in the background, these characters are swept into a larger conflict filled with assassinations, alliances, and hidden agendas.

One of the standout elements of this novel is its diverse cast of characters. Each character is given space to breathe, with the narrative switching perspectives by dedicating each chapter to a single character. This clear structure allows the reader to become familiar with each of the women and their unique traits without feeling overwhelmed or lost. The characters themselves are a fascinating mix. There’s Viatrix, the dwarf; Kirsi, a selkie; Zabel, an elf; Alya, an abraxas; Kamilla, a changeling; and Esmeralda, the human Duchessa. What makes these characters intriguing is how Wilkinson reimagines familiar fantasy races in new ways. For example, the elves are not the noble, wise figures often seen in fantasy but a race that has enslaved others and created subservient beings to carry out their will. The depiction of selkies and changelings also strays from traditional lore, offering fresh takes that add complexity to the world-building. Despite the strong cast, I found it difficult to truly connect with the characters on an emotional level. While they are likable and well-developed, I didn’t feel the deep attachment that usually pulls me into a story. However, their uniqueness kept me intrigued enough to want to see where their stories lead. Wilkinson does a good job of laying the groundwork for potential character development, and I’m curious to see how their arcs will unfold in future installments. The mystery at the heart of To End Every War is another element that left me intrigued but slightly unsatisfied. While it’s clear there’s something larger at play, the slow pacing makes it hard to piece together the bigger picture. This made for a slower read, and I found myself unsure why I should be fully invested in the characters’ fates just yet. Even so, the potential for a deeper unraveling of the mystery in future books keeps me interested in continuing the series.

To End Every War offers a unique take on familiar fantasy elements, with a diverse cast and a world brimming with intrigue. Though the pacing felt slow at times and emotional investment was lacking, the fresh interpretations of fantasy races and the underlying mystery make it worth following into the next book. Fans of slow-burn fantasy with political complexity and unconventional world-building will likely enjoy this novel.

ISBN: 978-0-9906501-9-5