60-Second Critic: The Prophecy


The Prophecy
By Shane Simon
(Simon & Son Publishing; $22.95)

Simon, an 18-year-old kid from Doylestown, self-published this novel with help from his dad. I expected it to be a fantasy novel about a hero who surpasses all odds to complete his quest. But as the story unfolds, it’s less Lord of the Rings than


The Prophecy
By Shane Simon
(Simon & Son Publishing; $22.95)

Simon, an 18-year-old kid from Doylestown, self-published this novel with help from his dad. I expected it to be a fantasy novel about a hero who surpasses all odds to complete his quest. But as the story unfolds, it’s less Lord of the Rings than Romeo and Juliet, with lovers from two separate kingdoms caught in the middle of a war between the “Menace of All Beings” and the righteous human alliance. Toward the end, the romance becomes less noticeable and the adventure aspect moves to the forefront. The writing is more elegant than I can manage, the descriptions are good enough that I could visualize the action, and the characters come alive. If you’re looking for a gift to give a fantasy lover, this is a good bet. —