A couple of weeks ago I published a guest post by this author. He talked briefly about how he comes up with his characters and the magical world that you read about in his books. Today I have my review of the book, Tools of Prophecy, the second book in The Prophecies series.
The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.
In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.
Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.
The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.
As with the first book, Heirs of Prophecy, I also enjoyed this one. It picks up from where the first book left off and new things about Trimoria and its people are introduced. Of course, there are also new characters (and new creatures!) that come into play. The characters have grown and are slowly coming into their powers and more things are revealed about the prophecies that surround them. Although, like the first book, the pace is slow and easy, things are definitely getting more exciting. Where the first book was all about the characters discovering new things–a new world, unique creatures, and special abilities–the second book is all about preparation–everyone and everything gearing up for that epic battle between good and evil.
I can’t help but compare this series with the Percy Jackson series (’cause that’s the only kids’ fantasy series I’ve read that’s comparable). I have to say the first two books haven’t been as fast and action-packed as each and all the Percy Jackson books, but this doesn’t derail the series from being interesting and exciting in its own way. There are always new characters, storylines, and pieces of the prophecy introduced along the way so I’m kept interested and curious. I just hope it doesn’t drag on too long. I have high expectations for the third book. I’m hoping it will be like what Return of the King is for me–an epic conclusion! :P
Read my review of the first book, Heirs of Prophecy, HERE.
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions and views expressed here are my own.
Giveaway
Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour. For more chances of winning, visit the other tour stops! You can find the links HERE. The more you comment, the more chances you have at the $50 Amazon GC! :)
About the author

I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.
Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of “Fiction” that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.
I’ve learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic.
Connect with Michael on his website, on Goodreads, Twitter, and Facebook.
Nice review. The book sounds good.
bn100candg(at)hotmail(dot)com
Great review. Sounds good. :)
Becky01x(at)gmail(dot)com
I am looking forward to reading this series, with my daughter. I know she will enjoy it too.
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Very informative review!
eai(at)stanfordalumni(dot)org
Thanks and thanks for dropping by!
I love that this book picks up from where the 1st one left off. I’m always left feeling a bit behind when a 2nd book starts so and so time later. I’m really looking forward to starting this series!
justforswag(AT)yahoo(DOT)com
Hi Chelsea! I should’ve said the 2nd book picks up some time after the first one but I’m not talking years & years. It won’t feel that way! I think the 2nd book can also stand on its own although reading the first book is always better so you get to know the whole back story. :)
Thanks for dropping by!
I enjoyed the review.
Kit3247(at)aol(dot)com
Thank you! Thanks for dropping by. Don’t forget to check out this fun fantasy series! :)
Loved the tease, and love the sound of all the books. I am really interested now.
MomJane, it’s a good series. If you like fantasy, you might like this one. :) Thanks for dropping by!
Would it surprise you to find out that the first scene of book 3 has:
First scene is in front of Castle Riverton (which is now under construction)……
Ryan and Arabelle are to be married one week hence.
All of Arabelle’s people (that giant caravan) are stationed not far away for the upcoming festivities.
Arabelle had asked Ryan to arrive early – she had some things that were weighing on her mind that she had to confess.
(Some of it has to do with why she evidently had such amazing skills with the dagger. That is by no means an accident.) ;-)
Prior to the sequel, my intent is to publish the prequel. It is a story with a focus on Arabelle. The Rivertons have not yet arrived in Trimoria – but the timeline does overlap with the first book.
(And yes, Book 3 is intended as the concluding book of this storyline – yes all things are tied up in a bow nicely – but that doesn’t mean more things aren’t in store for Trimoria..)
Sorry for the tease…..but there is lots more to the stories in Trimoria. ;-)
I can’t wait! Thanks! :)
Thank you for hosting Michael today.