Review: A Curse of Kings (The Trials of Oland Born) by Alex Barclay

A Curse of Kings (The Trials of Oland Born)
by Alex Barclay

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Young Adult
Publication:  January 31st 2013
Format: Paperback, 427 pages
Source: Own
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 Fourteen-year-old Oland Born lives in dark times, in a world ruled by evil tyrant, Vilius Ren. Vilius and his fearsome, bloodthirsty army have wrecked the prosperous kingdom of Decresian, once ruled by good King Micah. Oland himself has been kept as Vilius’s servant in grim Castle Derrington, and he knows little about his past – or why Vilius keeps such a sharp, close eye on him.

One night, Oland finds a letter addressed to him, from the long-dead king. No sooner has he read the message than a mysterious stranger tries to kidnap him. Oland runs, the dead king’s warning ringing in his ears…

If Oland is to live he must restore the shattered kingdom. This is his quest. This is his curse. Let the trials of Oland Born begin. . .

I’m not sure what made me pick up this book from the book store. I guess, the blurb kinda attracted me. A Curse of Kings started with King Micah being betrayed by Villius Ren. Years later, Oland Born, a servant to Villius Ren was introduced. It was said that Oland was born on the night that King Micah was overthrown with a note from his mother that said she’ll be back for him someday. One night, Oland found a letter addressed to him from the late King Micah, instructed him to run.

I didn’t have much expectation when I start reading this book. There weren’t a lot of reviews for it when I purchased the book, so, I didn’t know what to expect. 

The first part of A Curse of Kings was a bit too long and draggy. My sister started the book, and DNF at page 90++ because of this. But if you were a bit patience, you will find that the second part was way better. I enjoyed the adventure, and the friendship between Oland and Delphi. There story building was quite good. The characters and the supporting characters were great. There were a few twists that I did not expect at the ending. I kinda like the story and will definitely read the second book (if there’s any).