In T.J. Farlow's thrilling alternative history novel, The Cyclone's Eye, the legendary King Arthur rises from the grave in 1940s England, just as Hitler's forces threaten invasion. Welsh physician Bleddyn Kendrick and classics scholar Sophie Edwardson are tasked with deciphering the ramblings of this seemingly delusional man who claims to be the once and future king. Their mission: to determine if Arthur's fantastical claims hold any truth and, if so, how a Dark Ages warrior can possibly help repel the Nazi war machine. This first installment of the Artorius series blends Arthurian myth with the brutal realities of World War II, creating an action-packed and intriguing tale of hope against overwhelming odds. Can one man, even a legendary one, deliver a miracle?
Review The Cyclone's Eye
"The Cyclone's Eye" by T.J. Farlow is a fascinating blend of historical fiction and fantasy that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The premise itself – Arthur, resurrected to face Hitler's Germany – is audacious, and Farlow pulls it off with a surprising amount of grace. While my own historical interests lean more towards the Roman era, I found myself completely engrossed in the author's weaving together of Arthurian legend and the desperate reality of WWII Britain. The discussions surrounding Arthurian lore were a highlight; Farlow clearly did his research, and the details were both engaging and enriching, even for someone not deeply steeped in the subject. I particularly appreciated the level of detail – it felt like I was genuinely learning something new amidst the thrilling plot.
The characters are another strong point. Bleddyn, Sophie, and even the enigmatic Arthur himself, felt incredibly real. Their individual hopes, fears, and flaws were beautifully portrayed, making them relatable and sympathetic despite the fantastical circumstances they found themselves in. I connected strongly with their reactions to the escalating conflict and the weight of the situation – their vulnerabilities felt genuine in a way that made the high-stakes action all the more impactful. Their interactions felt natural and believable, adding a layer of human connection that grounded the fantastical elements of the narrative. The relationships between them evolved organically, adding depth and emotional resonance to the story.
The historical backdrop of WWII is vividly depicted; Farlow manages to convey the atmosphere of dread and uncertainty that hung over Britain in 1940 with remarkable effectiveness. The descriptions of the impending invasion, the looming threat of the Nazi war machine, were both chillingly realistic and powerfully evocative. The author’s skillful use of language brings this period of history to life, complementing the imaginative storyline. It's arguably the most vivid depiction of the war I've encountered in fiction.
However, I did have a minor reservation. The book employs a degree of presentism, projecting modern sensibilities onto characters in a past era. While this might make the story more accessible to a contemporary audience, it occasionally felt a little jarring. Personally, I tend to prefer a more historically rigorous approach, but I understand why an author might choose this path to foster greater empathy with the characters and streamline the narrative. It's a stylistic choice, and one that didn't ultimately detract significantly from my overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, "The Cyclone's Eye" is a highly entertaining and well-researched read. While the presentism is something to note, the compelling characters, the intriguing premise, and the vivid historical setting more than compensate. Fans of alternative history, Arthurian legend, and WWII fiction will find much to love in this exciting debut novel. It’s a book that sparked my imagination and left me eager for the next installment in the series. It's a fun, powerful read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.7 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 276
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Dramatis Personae
- Part One: Avalon
- Part Iwo: Dynamo
- Acknowledgements
- Coming Soon
Preview Book
