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What If A Hero Is A Monster
Drakomunda follows three unlikely heroes who must navigate treacherous paths, face overwhelming adversaries, and unravel their destinies to save their realm from forces that threaten to unravel reality. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Most fantasy worlds are about a straightforward battle between good and evil. With Drakomunda I wanted to do something different. Here, the overarching conflict is between two different types of evil, and the various characters that employ those forces. That is not to say there is no goodness in this world; only that it comes purely from the hearts of individuals, and not some great army dressed in white.
Your characters are intriguing. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
It is often said that characters go on a journey, and by their experiences become someone different. I much prefer the idea that people do not become anything; deep down, they already are everything, and it is only in the unfolding of events that their hidden truth is uncovered.
In a sudden relationship, each can draw out the buried qualities of their other: light from a dark soul and its converse.
Some achieve self-mastery, but only in darkness. Even these blackest souls, however, retain the capacity for mercy.
A laggard and a clown might just have a hero inside them, but who would ever know? Only when driven by selflessness does an insuperable courage appear.
What if a hero is a monster and a monster is a hero? If they are an inverse reflection, perhaps they are destined to meet.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The mythos of the serpent is primaeval. To prehistoric people the spirit of the Earth found its form in that of a snake. Legends of winged serpents with magical powers that guard fresh water springs are amongst the most ancient to be found in human culture. Snakes, with or without wings, hold the power of destruction and creation, resurrection, and contain both the male and female principles.
The serpent is a creature of both light and darkness. For us humans, born from the Earth, it mirrors our innermost nature. It is ours to draw upon… if we but dare.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I originally intended for Drakomunda to be a two volume work. It now looks set to run to three. The next part will see the conclusion of Spider Heart, following Prince Yvain and his bloodcurdling desire for revenge. When the full nature of his archenemy’s sorcery is revealed I hope people will be as horrified and disgusted as I was.
With a bit of luck, it should be ready next year.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Over millennia, lives interconnect. Their interweaving paths are shaped by a clash of mystical forces: the conflicting powers of a poisonous star and the serpentine soul of the Earth itself.
Drakomunda
Drakomunda by Guy Quartley takes readers on an exhilarating journey as they bear witness to the valiant struggles of three distinct characters against the forces of darkness. This captivating dark fantasy novel immerses readers in a realm teeming with multiple perspectives, heart-pounding action sequences, and enchanting sorcery, leaving an indelible mark on the mind. Right from the opening pages, the story unfolds with an elderly protagonist traversing treacherous paths and engaging in fierce battles. The arrival of Rabisha, a desperate woman seeking aid against her alleged highborn father, adds a thrilling twist to the narrative. However, the ensuing revelation that Rabisha orchestrated the very catastrophe she sought help for propels the plot into unexpected territory, intertwining the fates of our protagonist and his newfound servant. As the tale progresses, the spotlight shifts to two captivating sorceresses, Bronwyn and Phaedra, whose ardent love for each other becomes the fulcrum of their courageous battle against overwhelming adversaries. Amidst these enthralling arcs, the inclusion of intriguing short stories further enhances the tapestry of the narrative. However, it is the perspective presented in the Spider Heart that deserves special mention, as Prince Yvain, fifth in line to the throne, embarks on a perilous quest to reclaim Flengum. Facing ambushes from Kronarians and a wielder of dark magic, Yvain, and his comrades valiantly endeavor to maintain control over the city, their unwavering determination defying the encroaching forces of evil.
The writing style of this book is a remarkable feat, seamlessly transitioning between past and present tense to lend an added dimension to the diverse viewpoints. Quartley’s prose is imbued with a distinctive charm, showcased through an extensive and captivating vocabulary. However, it is worth noting that the initial exploration of the three intertwining stories can be a little disorienting, but towards the latter part of the second section, the true coherence of their fusion becomes apparent.
This story contains a remarkable blend of adventure, complex storylines, and the allure of magic, creating an immersive experience that is simultaneously enthralling and challenging. While the multitude of perspectives and subplots may, at times, feel overwhelming, the intrinsic value lies in the unique tapestry they create.
If you possess an appetite for literary adventure and are captivated by intricately woven narratives brimming with mysticism, then Drakomunda is an undeniable gem. Guy Quartley’s masterful storytelling and the vivid world he has crafted will transport you to realms where heroes and villains clash, and the very fabric of reality hangs in the balance. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more.
Pages: 703 | ASIN: B0BMZJVHW1
LITERARY TITAN 