The Shadow of His Hand: Book One of the Markulian Prophecies

Benjamin Patterson

May 2017 · MoshPit Publishing

About this ebook

 For centuries the oft-forgotten Unseen God has seemed distant and uncaring, but when the Realm is threatened by the all-conquering armies from Jerika, an ancient oracle is triggered. Now this foretelling is the only hope of salvation and its fulfilment lies in the trembling hands of a reluctant soldier, a princess and an infant marked by prophecy.

Set in a vivid medieval world, The Shadow of His Hand begins an epic struggle between good and evil, full of danger, romance and despair. Those caught in the grip of destiny will be required to sacrifice all, but even that may not be enough.

Ratings and reviews

A Worthy Contribution to the Esteemed Realm of Fantasy Authors - What a remarkable debut work for this up-and-coming fantasy author! He has successfully navigated through difficult terrain; avoiding the development of another stale tale, with 2-dimensional characters and a generic plot-line that is the fate of many a new writer. Instead the imagery he uses is beautiful; the characters are authentic, the plot constantly expanding; twisting and turning. I encourage all lovers of fantasy to grab a copy and immerse themselves in this engaging tale. I can't wait for the second installment…

I don't claim to be a fantasy fan at all but I really enjoyed the story. Multiple different storylines to keep the interest but not so much I can't keep track, and keeps you waiting to see how they all link together. Frederick is a strangely likeable character, with just enough humour and sarcasm to keep it lighthearted - although his many adventures were enough to get the adrenaline pumping in places. His rather unusual predicament or mission tugs on the heartstrings. (Yes, I even cried). I wouldn't normally choose to read much of the political posturing and kingdoms fighting elements, but it's not too heavy. Just enough to set the scene and provide relevant context. Read it twice, now keen for book two. 

Fantastic book with lots of adventure. I loved the detail that went into describing the situations and storylines. Truly felt like I was in amongst it while it was happening.

About the author

Benjamin Patterson lives in North Queensland, Australia with his wife and four children. When not writing, working or volunteering he’s battling a life-controlling addiction to sport, an addiction that his poor wife has discovered is easily passed from father to sons.

The Shadow of His Hand is Benjamin’s first novel, a story he started telling more than ten years before its publication. He gave up on the book many times – literally every time he went back and read what he had written so far - but after much encouragement from friends and family he finally got it done... and the reviews are rave!