The Coming of the King by James Hocking is a riveting and thought-provoking tale that will captivate readers from beginning to end. Set in a fictional world, the author weaves a complex and engrossing narrative that explores themes of power, destiny, and the struggle between good and evil.
One of the standout elements of this book is the vivid and detailed world-building. Hocking's descriptions bring the setting to life, making it easy to imagine oneself in the midst of the story. From sprawling landscapes to bustling cities, every location is meticulously crafted, adding richness and depth to the overall narrative.
The characters in The Coming of the King are equally compelling. The protagonist is a young and unsuspecting hero who discovers his true identity and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and purpose. As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to a diverse cast, each with their own motivations and flaws. These characters feel real and relatable, and their relationships and interactions add layers of complexity to the plot.
Hocking's storytelling is masterful, with a perfect balance of action, suspense, and introspection. The pacing is skillfully managed, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the more intense and thrilling sequences. The plot is intricately woven, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing and engaged throughout.
Beyond the captivating plot and well-developed characters, The Coming of the King also explores profound themes. The struggle for power and the corrupting influence it can have on individuals and societies is a central focus. Additionally, the book explores the concept of destiny and the choices individuals must make when confronted with their true purpose.
If there is one minor drawback to The Coming of the King, it is that at times the narrative can feel slightly predictable. While the execution is excellent and keeps readers invested, some plot points and character arcs may feel familiar to those well-versed in the fantasy genre. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.
In conclusion, The Coming of the King is a thrilling and immersive read that seamlessly blends adventure, fantasy, and introspection. James Hocking's skillful storytelling, rich world-building, and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you are a dedicated fantasy reader or simply seeking an engaging and thought-provoking tale, The Coming of the King is a book that should not be missed.
First Page:
THE COMING OF THE KING By JOSEPH HOCKING
Author of "All Men are Liars" "The Scarlet Woman" "A Flame of Fire" etc., etc.
ILLUSTRATIONS BY GRENVILLE MANTON
LONDON: WARD LOCK & CO. LIMITED 1904
[Illustration: "'My name is Roland Rashcliffe, your Majesty.'" ( Page 130. )]
CONTENTS
I THE COMING OF KATHARINE HARCOMB 7
II THE SECRET OF THE BLACK BOX 17
III THE KING'S MARRIAGE CONTRACT 28
IV THE HAPPENING AT THE INN 39
V A MIDNIGHT MEETING 49
VI THE OLD HOUSE AT PYCROFT 59
VII THE MYSTERY OF PYCROFT 69
VIII HOW I ENTERED PYCROFT 79
IX FATHER SOLOMON AT BAY 89
X THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON 99
XI THE SNARE OF THE FOWLER 110
XII THE COMING OF THE KING 121
XIII AN ADVENTURE ON THE CANTERBURY ROAD 133
XIV HOW I SAW A MAN WHO BECAME FAMOUS! 142
XV MASTER STURGEON, THE GAOLER 153
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