When I was in college, I was introduced to the fascinating writing style known as Epic Poetry. From Paradise Lost to the Faerie Queen, I was fascinated with the fact that a tale, a lengthy tale at that, could be written entirely in verse. I didn't enjoy the fact that in some cases, the literature was hard to understand and I had to write in the margins what each sentence actually meant. In the end however I learned to appreciate this style of writing, but found it intriguing that contemporary writers were not trying their hand at this writing style. Thankfully, in my travels as a book reviewer, I have come Arx Publishing, an independent publisher, that took a chance and published a fascinating epic poem from by the talented Robert F. Kauffmann.

     The story, The Mask of Ollock was an interesting tale about the world Umbra where powerful wizards, demonic spirits and larger than life figures battle with plenty political treachery. Olgo, the elderly king of Umbra, rules his land with a tender fist. A powerful wizard in his own right, he knows that the land he loves is going to need a new king that will rule the world in the way he has for so long. A land of peace needs a compassionate king who is powerful and will not fall victim to the same illnesses that will claim the aged Olgo. Using his mystical powers, Olgo creates a golden mask that will give his son, Ollock power unbound, allowing him to rule forever free from death. Olgo's strength as a king and all he has done is ruined once he gives his son the mask, for his love for Ollock is his only weakness and the destruction of Umbra.

     Ollock is not the good son, as his father believes. He lusts for the power of a king and his greed is nurtured to maturity once he realizes what power comes from the mask he has been presented with. Ollock becomes a ruthless dictator ignoring his father's rule; Ollock uses his powers to sway the armies and his citizens into battle with neighboring countries. Barbarically killing who he claims are his enemies, everything Olgo has worked is ruined. Olgo realizing his error create another powerful tool, the Skull of Olgo, the only thing that can battle the powerful mask and save Umbra.

     I just couldn't put down the book. This book reminded me of the tales of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, but with magic thrown in for fun. The story does not drag at all and each characters adds a dynamic plot twists on every page. There is plenty of alliteration and foreshadowing to leave the reader intrigued to the end. The inclusion of maps, a glossary of people and place names and illustrations from the author himself, help readers keep abreast of this fictional historical epic.

     If you like action, war, adventure, revenge and conquest with the wonders of sorcery, then The Mask of Ollock is a must read. The Mask of Ollock resounds Epic poetry is back and it is better than it ever was before. It's not every day that blood, murder and hatred can sound so beautiful.

     Send your comments and or questions about this article to JMinners@ybfree.com.

Related Articles

• The Fix: The Fix in Overtime Comedy/Sci-fi/Adventure
• Murphy's Lore Fantasy/Mystical/Adventure
• Destiny's Door Drama/Sci-Fi/Fantasy
• Padwolf Presents Science Fiction/Fantasy Magazine

Return to YBFREE.com's Main Page