Zodak is a coming-of-age epic fantasy novel that plucks the sympathetic cords of the heart from the opening chapter. Author Max Moyer’s invitational writing style pulls his readers into the world with such finesse that the details shimmer and character development plunges the heart straight into the core of the story.

With descriptions that paint a vivid picture of the challenging living conditions faced by the main character, Zodak, readers are poignantly connected to the narrative. Moyer threads the novel with themes basic to human nature – especially that of rooting for the underdog.

The characters are relatable and the world-building effectively folds the adventure around you. Through evocative storytelling, Moyer captures the basic struggle between good and evil, insecurity that paralyzes, and destiny that refuses to be thwarted. The connection forged with the protagonist engages the reader in such a way that you want to find out what happens next in this fast-paced narrative about a simple boy facing a complicated challenge.

Zodak would be a welcome addition to any fantasy library. I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review. The opinions expressed are authentically my own.