The Book of Names

by: D. Barkley Briggs

Published by: Navpress

Reviewed by Alex McGilvery

The Book of Names is the debut novel by D. Barkley Briggs. It is the first in a trilogy set in the Hidden Lands. The protagonists are brothers Hadyn and Ewan Barlow. They, with their father and twin younger brothers, have moved to Missouri after the death of their mother. Though their grief over the loss of their mother is key to the story, the plot is much more complex and satisfying.

While Hadyn is completing a chore for his father, he and his brother find a stone arch. An invitation to adventure is delivered by four strange birds, and they soon find themselves in the Hidden Lands. They meet up with the Grey Monks and are sent to the capitol where they may find answers to why they were called. Their journey is filled with trials and betrayal, but the boys also discover magic within them. They are caught up in the battle against an evil witch who is stealing the names–and hope, from the young people of the Hidden Lands.

Briggs has a very light touch with the morals. Sorge, the grey monk who guides them on their journey is a wellspring of riddles and sayings, but he let the riddles speak for themselves. The Book of Names is published by NavPress as Christian Fiction, but it would be a pity for anyone to miss this terrific story because of the Christian label. The story is a tale of the struggle between good and evil. God, church and prayer are mentioned, but author Barkley Briggs does not let them overwhelm the story. There is no preaching here.

I very much enjoyed this book. I will be watching eagerly for the next book to be released.

Armchair Interviews says: An excellent first book in a trilogy set in the Hidden Lands.

Author’s Web site: http://www.HiddenLands.net