Book Review of Illume, Ashes and The Wind

Author – Ankit Kumar

Format – eBook (sample copy provided by the author)

What’s This Book About?

Illume, Ashes and The Wind is a book based in the fictional world of Illume which is divided into three groups with their own set of thinking and culture. The book begins with a sneak peek into the soldiers and their discussions amidst the battle. The soldiers’ point of view of the war is shown to us. Along with these, there is also mention of slavery and how it impacts the army. There is a certain division in the army between those who are the soldiers of the continent and those who are slaves fighting beside them.

There is a hint of plotting and politics in this fantasy world. The brilliant way in which one of our protagonists unravels the plans of the conspirators gives an indication of a bigger conflict for the same character in the upcoming pages. It was an interesting way to upgrade the lowly soldier to a higher rank despite him being an outcast.

Writing Style of The Book

The writing style of the book is easy to read and delves into the mythological world of Illume. The characters are well developed, and the brief sample that I read provided ample information related to the characters to arouse the interest of the readers. Shoun Palpak and Ricmar’s sister Sana have my special attention. I would love to know more about them in the upcoming book.

Plot and Book Review

The plot of the story is indicating an upcoming war that is going to divide and unite the world of Illume simultaneously. The parallel plot running along with the battle-worn soldier story was intriguing as well. It would be interesting to read about the reaction of our soldier protagonist, Aryan Aatmaj, after both of the plots coincides together. Although the heart of the soldier is with his tribe, his duty bounds him with another. This conflict might bring out the similar dilemma that was there in Mahabharata.

However, the first few pages felt a bit chaotic. They are a good source of information regarding the background of the world of Illume, but at the same time feel like an information dump for the readers. When the characters are discussing the matters at hand, it is a continuous flowing story, but when the details regarding the Illume world are being explained, there is a very thin strand connecting the two.

The character of Abhaya gives a mixed vibe of an old philosophical man and a pessimistic young man. After reading his monologue a few times, both the personalities of the man began to clash together in the book. He is bitter and philosophical, choosing to show different sides at different times.

‘Even the winds whisper the tales but none can understand. The clouds cry in pain but none console them. The three moons try hard to sooth the inflamed lands marred with miseries, but in vain. For they all had witnessed a consequence of misunderstanding, selfishness, and lust for uncontrollable power…The Gods, the Gods are to blame! They ruined it…Two thousand years and we are still suffering for their mistakes!’ hollered Abhaya.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, I liked the story. I will give this book (the sample copy) 3 out of 5 stars. This is because the discussion between the characters really was interesting bits to read, especially when their personal and professional choices conflicted. It is sure to turn out to be an intriguing fantasy book with intense background for its characters. A war is already looming in near future in the story and it will soon lead the characters into a moral dilemma.

So, if you are a reader who loves reading ancient war stories with conflicts and chaos and multiple plot lines running parallel, then this will be a good reading experience for you.

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