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Wildmind by Clive Anthony

http://www.amazon.com/Wildmind-Clive-Anthony-ebook/dp/B00IK4UBH0/re...

I do appreciate an author of fantasy that also has a knowledge of our own world history. Wildmind limits its delve into the fantasy genre to the use of magic of the mind. Beyond that, this intriguing story draws parallels to a period of history known as The End of the Roman Empire.

Anthony creates new characters and places in an empire known as Searleddon. However, the story itself draws upon a part of the history of one of the mightiest empires the western world has known. Rome had conquered lands and grown its empire into vastness, but eventually fell to invading hordes of Huns and Vikings. How could such a fate befall such a great empire?

The answer lies in a false sense of security. What had at one time made an empire strong had been lost through generations of those that had become decadent and arrogant. Under appreciation for those talents and skills and strong minds weakens the very fabric of a society. When the strength of outsiders and invaders is united on a grand scale, the once all powerful empire will crumble.

If you are like myself and enjoy an original story that combines fantasy with parallels to our own history, then Wildmind is the book for you. The only fault I could find in this well written epic is that due to the large cast of characters, at times I found it difficult to remember who was whom. Perhaps a little more individual character development could help remedy this. That said, the action sequences are impeccable, the story line is faultless and Anthony certainly does a good job of world building.

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Comment by Joleene Naylor on November 18, 2014 at 1:42pm: Looks good!

Comment by Elizabeth Foshee on September 22, 2014 at 1:40pm: That sounds very epic 4-Lan. I agree with Anthony that it is fascinating to watch the rise and fall of such vast empires. It seems to say that no matter how big you are, your contributions (whether good or bad) will not last for eternity. Everything can be destroyed no matter how solid and powerful it may seem. Perhaps, because of our very human egos, we are not able to wrap our minds around this awful and awesome concept. It's like watching that show Life After People!

Comment by Clive Anthony on September 22, 2014 at 2:12am: 4-Lan, thanks for the insightful comments. I was indeed inspired by the downfall of huge historical empires. It’s fascinating to me that such big and powerful forces that change the face of the world, can evolve to the stage where they are ruled by arrogant and complacent leaders who allow fatal fragilities to develop. Hence even a subtle amount of magic can have dramatic consequences.

Thanks also for the constructive feedback, I’m working on book two now (well over half way) and as the story develops, the characters have been developing and also revealing a little of their back story to help understand their motivations.

I'm really glad you enjoyed the story!

Clive Anthony

Comment by Nate Fleming on September 21, 2014 at 7:40pm: Wow! What an intriguing idea. Like 4-LAN, I also think it's a fascinating concept, mixing history and fantasy. Also, nice cover design. Thanks for the review!

Comment by E. G. Manetti on September 21, 2014 at 4:17pm: Another intriguing one. Thanks 4-lan. (liked and shared)

Comment by Daniel James Miller on September 21, 2014 at 1:59pm: I have an interest in historical fiction, especially titles concerning the periods of the Roman Empire and the American Revolution (Simon Scarrow, Ben King, Conn Igulden, etc.) that come with some kind of twist. This title looks looks like something right up my reading alley.

Comment by Janis C. on September 21, 2014 at 11:38am: Hmm this peaks my interest. I do like Roman history too. Might give it a shot, props to Clive! Tweeted and pinned it!