Chivalry & Malevolence

(Nine Realms: Alfheim) (Volume 1)

Fiction - Fantasy - General
94 Pages
Reviewed on 10/16/2013
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

In Chivalry & Malevolence, Princess Morgana is an elven princess who detests the old laws of Alfheim that blindly punish the innocent lesser beings. She is abused, physically and mentally, by her mother, the Queen. Drust, a dragon, asks for her hand in marriage in order to protect her. When a human knight accidentally enters the realm of Light, which is strictly forbidden for his race, the elves are quickly inclined to punish him by death. With Drust’s help, Princess Morgana vows to save him and herself. The first installment of Nine Realms: Alfheim series, this ethic-driven fantasy tale is written by Rae Z. Ryans.

It is easy to fall in love with Chivalry & Malevolence, as two of my favorite ethereal beings – elves and dragons – are in it. Unfortunately, the elves here have a ridiculous sense of self-worth. They simply look down on other races, with the exception of Morgana, better known as Mori. This is not your typical fantasy story with magic and sword fighting action. Readers that heavily crave this classic aspect might be a little disappointed, but the strong characterization is more than enough to compensate for this. I was delighted to see the transformation of Mori from the abused and insecure elven princess to the strong, powerful elf she is destined to be. Coupled with its comfortable length, this is a quick but solid read from Rae Z. Ryans. The Nine Realms: Alfheim series is definitely worth following as its depth in ethical lessons is irresistible.