Child of a Mad God (Coven, #1) Book Review

Child of a Mad God: Tale of the Coven

Author: R. A. Salvatore
Published in 2018
Publisher is Tor Fantasy
Available in eBook and print (mass market edition is 656 pages)
Book 1 of 3
Epic Fantasy | Dark Fantasy Horror Fiction | Magical Fantasy

I like the cover image on Child of a Mad God. A sole female, standing with her back to us while she looks down over the land below. It is a powerful image that tweaks the curiosity. It also matches the story details.

The following review was originally post on Goodreads: January 2022.

What is a fossa? Have you ever heard of a fossa before?

“Child of a Mad God” is the first novel by R.A. Salvatore that I have read. My first impression as I read those initial pages was that this is a dark world with curious but deadly creatures and characters. However, for readers like me, looking for a spark of light in that darkness, keep reading. There are a number of sparks and one in particular that grows into a brilliant light.

R.A. Salvatore creates characters that draw powerful emotions from the reader. For example, two characters that draw opposite but powerful emotions are Tay Aillig and Aoleyn. Both characters are fundamental to the story, with one of these characters being hateful and the other rallying the reader’s fondness and support. Regardless, as a reader, I want to learn more about both characters and their journeys. That said, this story is about more than just Tay Aillig and Aoleyn. There are several other excellent characters.

I found R.A. Salvatore’s description and portrayal of magic to be refreshing. Gemstones and crystals fit into the tribe and coven environment perfectly. There is potential for many kinds of magic and unknown abilities that help shape the characters, world and storyline.

My first experience reading R. A Salvatore has created a fan of me and I look forward to reading book Two in The Coven Series. I would recommend “Child of a Mad God” to fantasy readers.

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shari-marshall