Harbinger by C. F. Bellairs

Sure to satisfy even the most finicky reader.

Willem Harrow is the bastard son of the feared and revered immortal Harrowlord. Just shy of 21 years, Willem’s days are numbered. Every son of the Harrowlord must face their father in a duel on their 21st birthday. If the challenger can last just five minutes against their father, the reward is their life and a seat on the royal council. In over 500 years, few Harrow sons have survived the duels. His destiny doesn’t sit well with Willem so he determines to find his father’s weakness… if it exists. With time quickly running out, Willem forges an uneasy alliance with three of his siblings in the hopes of finding a path to victory.

Harbinger is a refreshingly unique entry in the fantasy genre. The idea of a father-son battle to the death is chilling. The hierarchy that develops as son after son is groomed and doomed for battle is both twisted and thought-provoking. Bellairs slowly adds in a mysterious magical element as the siblings consider what might be lurking in the basement. Harbinger perfectly portrays the inner struggles Willem faces as he balances pride for his lineage with the will to survive. Harbinger is an epic first book in a series that will be sure to satisfy even the most finicky reader.

Amazon

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