In this world Hyam is a young, normal farmer, who has just buried his beloved mother. Honouring her last wish, he travels to the Long Hall, the only places left in the land where magery is allowed to be taught and practiced, to inform his father that she has gone. But upon his arrival, Hyam's entire existence is questioned, for he discovers that the people he thought were his parents, are not. Confused, Hyam's life becomes further changed when he turns twenty-one, and is flooded with powers beyond his dreams. Combined with his exceptional grasp of ancient languages, Hyam is determined to uncover the truth.

Leaving behind his village, for their own protection, Hyam sets out on a journey of self discovery. But among ancient races such as the Ashanta and the Elves, Hyam realises that his heritage is only part of the puzzle. For there is evil stepping forth into their towns and cities, in the form of the crimson mage, and he is hunting Hyam. With an old mage for an ally, and the beautiful Joelle fighting by his side, Hyam must harness all the power that he has to face the enemy, but in doing so will he destroy himself? And what will happen to all those who believe in him, and are willing to fight in his name?

EMISSARY by Thomas Locke transported me into this wonderful, dangerous world, with many exciting cultures and unique characters. Hyam is so kind hearted and is willing to do anything to protect those that are innocent. I enjoyed watching both him and Joelle find comfort and love together, and by doing so heal each other. The story flows seamlessly from one dangerous adventure to another, and we are effortlessly painted a picture of this imaginary land.

EMISSARY by Thomas Locke is an amazing fantasy novel, and I look forward to the next in the series.

Book Summary

With his twenty-first birthday, Hyam begins a journey that will lead him to his destiny--or his doom.

Hyam has always shown a remarkable ability to master languages, even those left unspoken for a thousand years. But now the shadow of suspicion that was cast upon him as a child prodigy at Long Hall is lengthening, and he must keep his identity hidden--or face annihilation.

As Hyam's mother slips toward death, she implores him to return to Long Hall before he settles down to farm his land. This journey born from duty becomes an impassioned quest for the truth. War is coming swiftly, and Hyam must rely upon his newfound powers and the friends he meets along the way in order to unravel the puzzling past and ensure that he--and the realm--will have a future.