EDITOR’S CHOICE
Epic, action-packed adventure with vivid characters and mythical creatures. Thrilling storyline, emotional depth, and beautiful world-building. Highly recommend this!
Ryan Berridge’s The Rattler is a gripping adventure that plunges readers into a world teeming with danger, mystery, and excitement. The story’s protagonist, Sam, is forced from the safety of his familiar life when he is captured by pirates and compelled into their ranks. What follows is a harrowing but captivating series of trials and tribulations, as Sam fights tooth and nail to survive and find his way back to his family – particularly his twin sister.
Berridge masterfully creates a vivid world where nothing is predictable, balancing the raw brutality of pirate life with moments of awe and wonder as mythical creatures and stunning settings leap off the page. The narrative flows seamlessly, and every chapter seems to raise the stakes, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Sam is a relatable and resilient protagonist whose determination and courage are inspiring without becoming unrealistic. The depth of his character makes it easy for readers to root for him while being utterly engrossed in his perilous journey. The supporting cast, including the terrifying pirates and mysterious monsters, add colour and intrigue to this impressively crafted universe.
One of the highlights of The Rattler is how it combines fast-paced action with meaningful underlying themes, such as loyalty, family, and perseverance. For fantasy and adventure enthusiasts, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable read that offers both thrilling escapades and emotional depth.
Overall, The Rattler is a highly entertaining start to the trilogy, and I look forward to diving into the next instalments. Highly recommended for fans of high-stakes, action-packed fantasy epics!
