World of Warcraft: Shadows Rising brought me back to the Warcraft universe I always love.
World of Warcraft: Shadows Rising is the prequel lore before events in the latest expansion Shadowland. It revolved around the civil conflicts in Zandalar between the new Queen—Tanlaji and her childhood best friend Apari under the umbrella of Sylvanas Windrunner’s grand scheme against Azeroth.
After killing Varok Saufang in the mak’gora challenge, Sylvanas Winrunner abandoned the Horde and fleed to the Icecrown Citadel. In the meantime, she ordered her champions—Nathanos Blighcaller and Sira Moonwarden secretly infiltrated Zandalar to extinguish the king’s loa—Bwonsamdi to secure the success of her plot.
What I love most in this novel is not about the main plot but the struggles that young heroes must face in order to fulfil their responsibilities while still being authentic to themselves. Shadowland is the landmark of the generation transition as old heroes gradually retreat to save the stage for young heroes like Talanji, Zekhan, and Anduin Wrynn. I have no doubt that the main hero of the Warcraft universe already started to shift from Thrall to Anduin Wrynn. My heart was clenched as witnessing Anduin’s emotional struggles and changes under the enormous pressure upon his young shoulders. However, I am excited to follow this kind, lovely, and wise Little Lion is on his way to becoming a true lion; as Saufang said: “I thought you can stop her (Sylvanas).” Not only beautifully portraying young heroes, but Roux also managed to capture the essences of our all-time favourites characters, such as Thrall, Jaina, Tyrande, Malfurion, and others.
In my opinion, Roux’s modern writing style seems to be more suitable for sci-fi novels than the fantasy genre. However, she did a great job with this book. I like how she acknowledged the work of previous beloved authors like Richard and Christie.
The only thing I dislike about this book is the cover by Bayard Wu. Though it reflects the story precisely, the art looks like the work of an amateur designer. I was caught surprised because Wu’s artwork is extremely exquisite. I do not know if he is behind the whole cover design or just the art itself. However, in my opinion, the cover art is not beautiful.
In general, World of Warcraft: Shadows Rising is definitely a YEAH! Read it now if you have not!
Lucid Realms 