Katherine Rawson

The Ruthless Ring: anti-hero dark fantasy by Jessica Kemery

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


“The Ruthless Ring: Anti-Hero Dark Fantasy,” the first installment of “The Cursed Heirlooms” series, lays the groundwork for a gripping and multifaceted epic. Within the tumultuous backdrop of the 50-year war between the formidable Maldavan Empire and the resilient Stovan Kingdom, Jessica Kemery introduces readers to a world steeped in power, curses, and moral ambiguity.
The Ruthless Ring follows three main characters, introducing the reader to their characters and motivations before they obtain the objects. Jord, an ordinary farmer thrust into the Maldavan army, yearns for nothing more than a return to his betrothed. Rae, consumed by a desire for vengeance following her fiancé’s tragic death, wields the sword. Leo, the misfit son of a wealthy innkeeper, finds himself with the shield in a Medieval battlefield, far removed from his comfortable life.
Throughout the narrative, “The Ruthless Ring” meticulously documents Jord’s transformation from a loving, principled individual into a vengeful, power-hungry man, as the malevolent influence of the ring takes hold. Rae, linked to the sword, and Leo, guardian of the shield, are inexorably tied to Jord as he ascends the ranks to General, their fates forever intertwined.
Kemery’s strength lies in her vivid portrayal of realistic battle scenes and the heart-wrenching aftermath of war. The cost of conflict is palpable in every page, as the characters grapple with the moral complexities of their actions. However, the narrative’s numerous characters and shifting points of view, while adding depth to the world, can be a tad overwhelming, occasionally detracting from the reader’s connection with the central protagonists. Yet, it’s evident that a tale of this magnitude necessitates such character development and perspective diversity.
The morally complex characters, intricate plots, and rich world-building, make this book is an entertaining fantasy read. It sets the stage for a promising epic that’s sure to captivate fantasy enthusiasts. I eagerly anticipate the next installment to delve further into the enigmatic Rae and the sympathetic Stovan King.



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