The Age newspaper’s review of “The Hidden Realm”
The Hidden Realm – First Fiction
Reviewed by Dianne Dempsey of The Age newspaper
I rather liked the economy with which this fantasy/quest novel is written. Instead of the thousands of pages that typify the genre, first time novelist Lyn Willmott has restrained herself to 300 pages. In the first part of the novel 16 year old Rod Oaken is exploring a cave complex in the Kimberley Ranges when he comes across an alternative universe within a hidden rainforest. Rod soon discovers that he has a mission in life.
He is part of a prophecy; he must not only save the Earth but a hidden forest kingdom. The people of this kingdom colonized the Earth countless years ago. They were responsible for altering man’s genetic structure, which in effect resulted in mankind outgrowing the inhabitants of the forest kingdom and generally running amok. According to the prophecy the two universes must align again before catastrophic forces destroy the planet.
In the forest kingdom Rod meets Chaldee, a powerful princess who becomes partner in his quest to save the planet. Other offsiders include Robar, an ape-like Chewbacca character, who is loyal to Chaldee, up to a point, and Cypher, who is a sort of spiritual Tinkerbell.
In the second and third pates of the novel Rod takes on the burden of a great warrior who is prepared to sacrifice himself in order to save the kingdoms.
Willmott is a skilled writer who has much to say about environmental issues, Unfortunately, I must prophesize that her novel will struggle to compete within a crowded market of young adult fantasy.
Posted by Lyn on April 18th, 2010 :: Filed under Creative Writing