Judgment Day: Kings

by Jonathan Martin

Vampyr and Lycans. Witches and Warlocks. Demons and Gods. Mutants and Humans. Things are chaotic on the planet Terrabelle. There is no order, no laws. Only one rule – survive or be consumed. It’s this mantra that is engrained in Anarchious, a mutant on the cusp of adulthood. He is thrust into a journey to be reunited with his family while simultaneously dealing with his power and suppressed emotions. This adventure proves to be more difficult than he ever imagined as he continuously runs into dangerous obstacles. Judgment Day is the tale of this journey, and with several interesting characters who assist him along the way, Anarchious finds much more than he bargained for.

402 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 24, 2019

Reviews

[Ruchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Judgment Day: Kings" by Jonathan Martin is an action-packed and immersive sequel to the first book in the series, picking up the story with Anarchious awakening from a coma to reunite with his companions Ace and Eva. From the very start, the story plunges you headfirst into a whirlwind of excitement as the characters face new challenges and embark on a perilous journey. The encounter with the enigmatic and powerful new character, Magi, adds an interesting new dynamic to the story, drawing you deeper into the complex plot plot.

One of my favorite parts of this book is Martin’s masterful characterization. Each character is expertly crafted, with well thought out layers of emotions, motivations, and internal struggles. Anarchious grapples with the burden of his brother Abel's transformation into the formidable Dark Apprime, torn between the desire to save him and the necessity to stop his destructive rampage. This internal conflict lends authenticity to Anarchious' character, and I couldn’t help but empathize with his plight.

The dynamics between the characters are another strong aspect of the book. The heated arguments between Eva and Jasen, the enigmatic bounty hunter, provide insight into their contrasting ideals and beliefs. As Eva reveals her desire to aid the group in finding their people, the story explores themes of redemption and the desire for a sense of purpose in the face of overwhelming challenges. This complexity in character relationships increases the emotional impact of the story, making them and their interactions feel real and relatable.

The action sequences in Martin’s writing are nothing short of exhilarating. These are by far my favorite parts of both books – they’re fast-paced, intense, and the way the scenes play out in your head mirrors the action in a great comic book. The vivid descriptions of the battles with shadow hounds, demons, and bats transport you to the heart of the action, evoking a sense of urgency and danger. The pacing is well handled too. Jonathan Martin's adept storytelling skillfully balances the fast-paced action with moments of introspection, allowing you to catch your breath while immersing yourself in the character's inner struggles.

Also, the story delves into the rich lore of the series, building upon the world established in the first installment. The exploration of Anarchious and Abel's unique abilities, coupled with the introduction of the Edenites and their mysterious council, adds to the story and expands the scope of the narrative. The revelation of Magi's connection to the past, particularly her ties to Anarchious' family and the lost prophet, creates an intricate web of connections that leaves you eagerly awaiting further revelations.

"Judgment Day: Kings" not only stands as a worthy sequel but also as a shockingly good adventure in its own right. The themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions resonate deeply, making the characters and their struggles feel grounded in reality. With a perfect blend of action, emotion, and intrigue, this book will leave you eagerly anticipating the next book in this saga.