The Eternal’s Will

P.J. Ashton’s The Eternal’s Will, the final book in the Ravenslayer trilogy, provides an exciting, though imperfect, conclusion to the saga. The world-building remains a standout, with vivid landscapes and a deepened mythos that enrich the dark fantasy elements of the story. Emotional arcs, particularly Lily’s journey, add complexity, while the developing bonds between characters, such as Tharan and Korelia, offer moments of warmth in an otherwise grim narrative. The novel also explores the complexities of intimacy, delving into transactional relationships and means of survival shaping characters’ experiences and choices. These elements keep readers engaged, especially those already invested in the series.

However, the pacing and depth of the lore can be a double-edged sword. Some readers may find the dense backstory challenging, especially if they haven’t read the previous books. The writing occasionally suffers from ambiguity, with unclear plot points, sequencing, and motivations that can confuse or disengage readers. Additionally, while the explicit content is relevant to the characters’ struggles, its repetition can feel excessive and detract from the overall narrative flow. There are also moments where the book feels bogged down by clichés, limiting its impact.

The Eternal’s Will offers an adequate end to the Ravenslayer series. While it excels in world-building and emotional depth, the flaws in pacing, repetition, and clarity may be a hurdle for some readers. It’s a solid read for fans of the series but might not resonate as strongly with those seeking a more refined novel.

The Eternal’s Will | Rating: 3 Stars | Genre: Fantasy | Tags: Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, Elves | Author: P. J. Ashton | Publisher: Chopper Publishing | Pages: 295 | ISBN: 979-8343034332 | Purchase
Author: P. J. Ashton
P. J. Ashton is a pseudonym chosen by the author. They harbor a deep affection for fantasy literature, particularly the darker realms of the genre. Among their cherished reads are titles such as 'Lord of the Rings', 'Malazan', and Neverwhere'.

Originally from London, they have traversed multiple countries, including Australia, Russia, and Germany, before settling in Thailand.

As a debut author, they eagerly anticipate readers' enjoyment of "The Eternal's Chosen" and the unfolding escapades of Marcus, Elara, and Isabella.