Tinderbox by W. A. Simpson
A grisly murder, a missing box, a dangerous task, and a cranky magical talisman. Expect betrayals, intrigue, peril, and romance in this smartly moving fantasy.' — Jacey Bedford, author of the Psi- Tech and Rowankind series
Isbet returns home to find the witch who raised her murdered and her prized possession, the Tinderbox stolen. She discovers a common man has used it to seize the throne. The same who conquered Prince Bram’s kingdom. Isbet’s goals are vengeance and reclaim the Box. For Bram, it is to free his homeland. When they are summoned to an underground kingdom, they must set aside their personal desires as they learn dark fey are bringing an ancient source of magic back to life. If they cannot halt the rise of the old magic, it will tear apart the Riven Isles.
About the author
I’ve been writing since the age of five after a family friend gave me an old typewriter, when she saw I enjoyed creating works of mystery and suspense that only a five-year-old could. I completed my first novel and started shopping it at fourteen.
In later years, I figured out mystery wasn’t my thing. It was a story by Ray Bradbury that I enjoyed that turned me towards fantasy. After writing an unpublished science-fiction epic, I completed a young adult fantasy, published by a now defunct small press. I chalk it up to a learning experience and it developed a need for me to be more cautious with my works. I feel that as an author, we must continue to learn about our craft. Then came Tinderbox.
On a more personal note, I am a Breast Cancer Warrior and a staunch supporter for women getting mammograms. I like to think I am the world’s biggest bibliophile. When I’m not writing, I indulge in my favorite pastimes, which include working in my garden, and video gaming and streaming. Come see me on Twitch as Runic Nightshade. I share my home with two cats, Cinnamon and Spice, and my oldest brother, whom I affectionately call Big Brother.
Review
‘Tinderbox’ is a brilliant debut fantasy that easily creates a magical and exciting world, with strong protagonists and an engaging storyline. I was hooked from the start - a talking staff, a witch and a quest for vengeance! What is there not to love about that set-up?
Isbet returns home to find her grandmother has been murdered and that her prized possession the tinderbox has been stolen by a mortal who now rules over the land. This man also seized control of Prince Bram’s country and has been holding him hostage for many a year. When their paths meet their stories merge to help save the underground world that forms part of the Vine.
The characters are what makes this book from Isbet and Bram to Seth and Gaemyr - all have strengths separately but come together to make this super team. I would easily read more about any of these characters and surely there must be more to come… I enjoyed the plot, especially the aspects with the Vine as I felt this was quite unique. I did feel that the final battle could have been drawn out and extended a bit more as I could tell there weren't that many pages left and that the big finale still had to come. I did like the resolution as it leaves the option for more to come - I would love a story based around Seth!
Let me know if you pick this one up.
