A Journey Through Ternival: A Review of Once a Castle (Carrick Hall, #2)
When I first dove into Once a Queen, the initial installment of the Carrick Hall series by the talented author, J.M. Arthur, I felt like I had stumbled upon a beautiful spark—a promise of magic reminiscent of Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. But as much as I enjoyed it, there was a lingering desire for more depth and immersion. Fast forward to Once a Castle, and it’s clear that Arthur has truly delivered the full banquet I was craving. This sequel is not just a continuation; it feels like a cherished family heirloom that has been polished to brilliance, ready to shine across generations.
Set in the enchanting realm of Ternival, Once a Castle invites us back to the thin spaces where our world meets this captivating domain. Arthur does an outstanding job of expanding on the magic we glimpsed in the first book. While Once a Queen served as a delightful appetizer, this sequel is a sumptuous feast filled with rich characters, thrilling action, and profound themes that resonate deeply.
The narrative alternates between our world, where we reconnect with characters like Arash, Jack, Tilly, and Elspeth, and the vibrant landscapes of Ternival, predominantly narrated through the eyes of Zahra. The heartbreaking yet lovely tone during the Ternival chapters reminds me of Lewis’s poignant storytelling, as if each word carries the weight of timeless wisdom. The parallel journeys of Arash and Zahra tackle difficult subjects like racism and xenophobia with a grace that feels both necessary and poignant. Arthur artfully balances empathy and honesty, ensuring that prejudice is depicted with all its messy complexity without being excused. This approach left me with a fuller understanding of their struggles, and I appreciated the authenticity with which it was portrayed.
The pacing of Once a Castle is impeccably crafted; I found myself hanging on every chapter. The unexpected twists, especially one that transforms the narrative in Part One, mark the moment when Carrick Hall emerges as a unique story rather than a homage to Narnia. I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of a character who evokes the spirit of Reepicheep—a delightful nod that added a familiar charm to the new adventures.
Arthur’s writing style strikes a lovely balance, mindful of both young readers and adults. Life lessons woven naturally throughout the story make it accessible and relevant for everyone. Whether it’s about learning when to trust your instincts or the humble recognition of our fears, these themes resonate strongly and linger long after reading.
One of my favorite aspects was the compendium of fables at the end of the book, each one echoing truths woven throughout the narrative. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds depth and enriches the reading experience, making it one I savored thoroughly.
In a world where stories like Once a Castle thrive, I find myself grateful to be part of this literary journey. If you’re a fan of Narnia or simply appreciate tales filled with heart, bravery, and the eternal battle between light and darkness, this book is for you.
Once a Castle invites readers of all ages to rediscover wonder and courage within themselves, reminding us of the beauty in differences while celebrating the magic of storytelling. It’s an experience I wholeheartedly recommend—one that can evoke nostalgia while inspiring new dreams and connections.
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