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Redemption of the Hero
The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch follows Merlin in the modern world; who is living in Oxford as a history professor as he awaits the return of Arthur. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration lies in the original mythos. The story of King Arthur and Merlin has always ended in tragedy with Arthur fated to die after the Battle of Camlann. The legend of the “Once and Future King” I felt was left unfinished. This book, and ultimately this series, picks up after that tragedy and changes the story into optimism…and ultimately redemption of the hero.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?
I approached this from many viewpoints, but most importantly, it was done by meticulously creating each character first. Moreover, characters originally from the legend such as Merlin, Morgana, and Arthur needed to be “resurrected” and then “modernized.” Once each character was breathed into life, then it became easy to let the interactions flow, because they were natural.
This sets up the novel to deliver some very entertaining scenes. What scene was the most fun to write?
There are too many scenes! A magical fantasy such as this is all fun to write! But if I really had to choose one it would be the flashback scene where Merlin obtains the Scepter of Avalon. It is cosmic, humble, and rewarding. As far as heroes go, it is a major part of Merlin’s origin story.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will that be published?
It’s entitled The Future King | Rise of the Sorcerer. There’s more magic, spells, adventure, fun, thrills, and developments carried over from the first book. The sequel provides some answers to questions left open-ended in Return of the Once Monarch. The characters develop as the main story arc continues. Moreover, the sky is the limit for the characters as the series evolves! Stay tuned!
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Merlin’s Magical Comeback!
Imagine a world teetering on the edge of darkness, its only hope locked away in a dusty Oxford classroom. That’s right, Merlin—the most legendary wizard ever—is now Professor Limren, who’d rather talk about ancient books than cast ancient spells. But can he really stay in the shadows when the world needs him the most?
The King Returns?
The Battle of Camlann left Merlin stunned. Morgana bested him by devising a plan to have King Arthur mortally wounded. This left the prophecy of the once and future king only half fulfilled. Merlin waits for the day that the Lady of the Lake’s words will come true.
The World is Full of Magicals!
So many beings possess magical powers in the world. Some want to protect the world, while others want to control it. Join Merlin on his journey as he comes across the most mystifying creatures, including his encounters with the Order of Rhamnusia…
The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch
The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch by Vishnul Jain is a compelling reimagining of the Arthurian legends, focusing on the enigmatic figure of Merlin. In this narrative, Merlin, endowed with the gift of longevity due to his magical nature, endures the centuries following the demise of his cherished companion, King Arthur. Haunted by the Lady of the Lake’s prophecy of Arthur’s destined rebirth, Merlin, now living as Limren, a seemingly young history professor at Oxford University, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of supernatural challenges.
Jain’s novel intricately weaves the past with the present as Merlin navigates the modern world while awaiting Arthur’s prophesied return. The character of Merlin is skillfully developed, endearing in his eccentricities, and deeply relatable despite his supernatural origin. Jain’s portrayal of Merlin’s fondness for sleek cars against his discomfort with other aspects of modernity adds a touch of humor and depth to his character. The narrative also commendably celebrates cultural diversity, emphasizing that the reborn Arthur is destined to lead a myriad of peoples, not just a singular group. The story is enriched with humor and humanity, showcasing these legendary figures’ lighter moments and friendships, adding a layer of realism to their mythical stature. The inclusion of a glossary is a thoughtful addition, aiding readers in navigating the complex web of characters, artifacts, and events integral to the story.
For enthusiasts of Arthurian lore seeking a fresh and vibrant take on these timeless tales, The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch is a highly recommended read. Jain’s novel is a kaleidoscopic journey through a world brimming with diverse cultures and extraordinary creatures, offering a unique reinterpretation of beloved characters that will captivate readers until the very last page.
Pages: 325 | ASIN : B0CK5YM9VG
LITERARY TITAN 