Book Review: Blades of Wolfsbane by Jon Cronshaw

Ragnar is the heir of Wolfsbane, but he's not the soldier his father would wish. Bullied and lacking his father's respect, Ragnar discovers a unique fighting form that can turn his lack of physical strength into a skill of speed and agility. However, he must practise in secret, and his best friend risks trouble by helping him.

This narrative serves as an excellent prequel to a series I'm eagerly anticipating. The characters are well-formed, and the emotional pull of Ragnar's predicament is highly effective. The journey of Ragnar, struggling against both his physical limitations and the emotional turmoil of his strained relationship with his father, is compelling. His determination to prove himself despite the odds adds a rich layer of depth to his character.

The friendship between Ragnar and his best friend provides a heartwarming counterpoint to his otherwise difficult life. Their bond, forged in secrecy and mutual support, underscores the themes of loyalty and courage. Ragnar's friend's willingness to risk trouble for the sake of helping him is both touching and inspiring, adding an additional layer of emotional resonance to the story.

The action sequences, especially Ragnar's secret training sessions, are vividly described and add a thrilling element to the narrative. His development from a bullied youth into a skilled warrior using speed and agility is both believable and exhilarating. The challenges he faces and the ingenuity he displays in overcoming them make for an engaging read.

However, I did feel that the resolutions at the end happened a little too easily. The climactic confrontations and the subsequent resolutions seemed to fall into place with minimal struggle, which slightly undercut the tension that had been built up throughout the story. Despite this, the battle to get there was epic, filled with intense moments that kept me on the edge of my seat.

 I've read two previous series by Jon Cronshaw, and they never disappoint. His ability to create immersive worlds and complex characters is evident once again in this prequel. I'm looking forward to diving into the full series and exploring more of Ragnar's journey. I might have to work my way through Cronshaw's backlist to tide me over until the next instalment.