Equivalent Exchange (Grimdark Fantasy)

Self-Published

Community Rating

Description

King Filleon Jura’s only heir is dying.

For seventeen long years, the echoes of her blood-curdling cough have haunted the halls of the palace; draining the kingdom’s coffers and carving anguish deep into the king’s mind. No holy rite, no priestly miracle, no alchemical breakthrough from the highest echelons of science has slowed her decline.

The restless kingdom took notice.

A distant but formidable threat gathers strength beyond the borders, while unrest festers within. The nobles whisper and conspire. The very factions that held balance within the kingdom prepare to swallow each other whole. They watch as their once-vigilant king unravels, pouring the realm’s fortune, security, and future into futile cures.

Now, with a coup rising and assassins closing in, Filleon faces an unthinkable choice. A single lead remains. One last chance to save his daughter.

But to follow it, he must do the one thing a king must never do. Leave.

And the one that offers salvation? He may demand a price far greater than the crown, but would it be equivalent to what he's prepared to lose?

Chapters(7 total)

Reviews

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Community Reviews(3)

  • drewclaarRoyal Road
    ★★★★★ 5.0
    I was totally hooked from chapter 1. The characters are dynamic and interesting. The action is believable and really pulls you into the story. I can't wait to read more and get the whole story. Definitely not what I am used to for a protagonist, a middle aged king down on his luck and with a dying daughter he has to save? Such a great new change of pace from the teenager we are all so used to in these types of stories.
  • JTAckerRoyal Road
    ★★★★★ 4.5
    Overall Score: 4.5 stars
    I was thoroughly engrossed in the chapters provided, finding myself drawn into a rich and intricate fantasy world that brims with political intrigue, personal struggles, and a desperate quest for a remedy. From the outset, the story captures the imagination and refuses to let go.
    Style Score: 4.5 stars
    The author's style creates a deeply immersive experience. Through carefully chosen words and vibrant descriptions, the narrative conjures vivid scenes of the kingdom's decay, the somber throne room, and the raw emotions of the characters. This distinctive style skillfully sets a dark and grim atmosphere that wonderfully matches the story's tone.
    Story Score: 4 stars
    The unfolding plot is undeniably captivating. The concept of a dying heir, a kingdom teetering on the edge, and political factions vying for power sets the stage for a gripping tale. The story is brimming with tension, as the characters navigate their own struggles while the kingdom's fate hangs in the balance.
    Grammar Score: 4.5 stars
    The writing is impressively polished, with only a handful of minor errors that do little to detract from the overall reading experience. This polished execution ensures that the narrative flows smoothly, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the unfolding events.
    Character Score: 4 stars
    The characters exhibit depth and complexity that breathe life into the narrative. King Filleon's multifaceted personality, laden with responsibility and personal turmoil, makes him a compelling protagonist. His interactions with his daughter, Sarai, and the royal advisor, Thomas, provide insight into his struggles and relationships. Sarai's illness adds an emotional layer to the story. While the characters are well-developed, further exploration of their backgrounds and motivations could deepen their complexity even more.
    Final Thoughts:
    These initial chapters hold promise for a captivating fantasy narrative. The unique style, engaging story, polished gramm
  • Stark GottoRoyal Road
    ★★★★★ 4.5
    So far it is beautifully written, with amazing characters and pacing that keeps you engaged. A minor flaw is that some chapters are relatively too short, in a way it actually adds to the anticipation for the next chapter. Overall, it has an amazing potential, I can not wait to see more.