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Diverse Selection of Characters
Black Mass follows the Servants of the Wheel as a threatening black mass attacks their world, and they must use all their magical abilities to try and stop it. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration for Black Mass came from an image I saw of a cocoon enveloping an animal, and I thought what a great idea for a story.
What was the inspiration for the culture of your characters? Is it modeled after any particular society?
I wanted a diverse selection of characters, with different personalities, backgrounds, and views. It was important for me to include a mix of ethnic origins and physical attributes, from the heroic to the (almost) pathetic. The Servants are a mix of races and are comprised of humans and elves.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes explored in most of the Fantasy books are relationships, team support, heroism, and empathy.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The next book focuses on a different problem plaguing Gardia- the curses that affect people’s everyday lives, some of which are trivial, others which are lethal. Each book focuses on a different problem, and Book 4 (currently being written), called Dark Realms, brings together the Outer Worlds into the mix when a terrible war threatens everyone’s survival.
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Can it be eradicated? Or will hundreds of people die before its discovery? What, or who is behind this evil?
Black Mass – Book 2 in the Servants of the Wheel series
In Beth Schluter’s Black Mass, the second book in the Servants of the Wheel series, readers are transported back to the fantastical realm of Gardia. Here, the protagonists, led by Blender, confront a menacing black mass threatening their world. As servants of the wheel, they utilize their magical powers and artifacts in a valiant effort to safeguard the towns and villages.
The narrative begins with an intriguing premise, as the characters realize the land they believed to be secure is now at risk. This installment, while standalone in its story, might benefit from some familiarity with the first book for a deeper understanding of the complex world Schluter has created. The magic system in Gardia appears whimsical and boundless, attributed to divine origins, which might raise questions about its internal consistency but fits within the realm of high fantasy.
In Black Mass, the characterization charmingly emphasizes the magical abilities of its characters, with the enchanting romance between Blender and Causia shining as a central theme. This focus is complemented by other heartwarming romantic relationships among the servants, adding a layer of endearing sentimentality to the narrative. The plot is captivating from the start, with its pace gathering momentum towards a swift and efficient conclusion. This brisk wrap-up of the central mystery, while leaving readers yearning for more, particularly from a compelling character central to the climax, adds an element of dynamic energy to the story.
Black Mass invites readers on an enthralling journey through a world where magic and heroism beautifully intertwine. Its approach to character depth and plot intricacy, though delicately handled, contributes to its vibrant and engaging addition to the Servants of the Wheel saga.
Pages: 270 | ASIN : B09SZP17G7
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