Choice by Lucius Tarquinius takes readers through a complex and morally ambiguous world set in a medieval-like era filled with power struggles, political maneuvering, and personal dilemmas. The narrative centers around the Archbishop Gerhard and other key characters as they navigate issues of war, leadership, betrayal, and the ethical conflicts that arise when faith and power intersect. With a plot that shifts between deep philosophical conversations and intense, sometimes violent, confrontations, this book dives deep into the nature of free will, authority, and the consequences of our decisions.

One thing that stands out in this book is the intricate world-building. The lore is rich and full of historical references to events like the “departure of the Gone God,” creating a unique backdrop for the characters’ actions. The author also does a great job of using dialogue to reveal the moral complexities the characters face. Archbishop Gerhard’s conversation with the order knight is both cunning and morally perplexing. You can’t help but get sucked into the twisted, almost manipulative reasoning characters use to justify their actions. It’s fascinating to watch characters like Gerhard skillfully navigate these tense moments, even if his choices often left me unsettled. Tarquinius has a tendency to jump between formal language and colloquialisms that sometimes feel out of place in this historical setting. These abrupt changes in tone distracted me from fully immersing in the world at times. However, I also found these quirks amusing, giving the characters a weird relatability in an otherwise dark and distant world. Emotionally, the book isn’t afraid to make you uncomfortable. One of the hardest scenes to read was when Lina, a young girl, is poisoned as part of a grim necessity in a power play. The chilling rationale behind the act—choosing the “least bad” option—sticks with you long after you’ve put the book down. It’s not a comfortable read, and often, the characters’ decisions are morally gray at best. This complexity makes the book stand out from more traditional fantasy novels where good and evil are clearly defined.

Choice by Lucius Tarquinius is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of power, morality, and the consequences of our decisions. The vivid world-building, complex characters, and the moral dilemmas they face create an immersive reading experience that kept me hooked from beginning to end. While the writing style can sometimes be unconventional, it adds a unique charm that makes the characters feel relatable, even in such a dark and fantastical setting. If you’re a fan of rich, morally complex stories that challenge you to think deeply about human nature, this book is a must-read. I’d highly recommend it to readers who love dark fantasy with layers of philosophical intrigue.

Pages: 413 | ASIN : B0D62GB532