Discover the Enigma of the Secret in Eric Highwater’s New Fantasy Novel ‘Metorm: The Secret’

In the rich tapestry of fantasy literature, Eric Highwater’s debut novel, “Metorm: The Secret,” marks a spectacular entrance, veering away from the well-trodden paths of elves and dwarves to explore a universe teeming with the essence of ancient civilizations. This review delves into the unique elements that make this book not just a journey, but a revelation in the fantasy genre.

A Unique Setting: Antoria

At the heart of “Metorm: The Secret” is the planet Antoria, a world distinctly different from the usual Anglo-Nordic settings of its genre. Highwater’s creation is an amalgamation of influences from the Roman, Greek, Hebrew, Middle-Eastern, Indian, and Chinese empires. This rich cultural mosaic provides a vibrant backdrop to the story of Sagiron, a young hunter whose discovery of a mysterious secret in the Silwoods sparks a series of events that could change the world.

Antoria is not just a setting; it’s a character in its own right, with vividly described landscapes and a history that feels as deep and real as any character in the book. This world-building prowess shows Highwater’s commitment to giving fantasy fans a fresh perspective.

The Struggle for Freedom

“Metorm: The Secret” weaves a compelling narrative of oppression and rebellion. The Yoneians, under the harsh rule of the Perillean Empire, yearn for freedom—a theme that resonates deeply in today’s global climate. The story is enriched by the legend of the Temple Ark and the prophecy surrounding an Heir, who could overturn the oppressive regime.

The chase that ensues after the Heir, with a Perillean knight detective in relentless pursuit, adds a layer of suspense and urgency to the plot. Highwater effectively captures the desperation and hope of a people on the brink of revolution, making the readers’ hearts race with every close call and narrow escape.

The Enigma of the Secret

At the core of the novel is the Secret itself—a source of immense power that could either save or destroy Antoria. Highwater masterfully plays with this duality, presenting the Secret not just as a plot device, but as a philosophical question about the nature of power and knowledge.

Sagiron’s transformation from a simple hunter to a pivotal figure in Antoria’s fate is handled with finesse, his growth mirroring the escalating tension of the narrative. This character development is a testament to Highwater’s ability to create relatable, multidimensional characters who evolve with the story.

Highwater’s Fresh Take on Fantasy

Eric Highwater, a former maritime engineer from Finland, brings a unique lens to the fantasy genre. His transition from engineering to writing is a journey of passion and perseverance, qualities that resonate throughout his narrative style. Accessible yet profound, the storytelling in “Metorm: The Secret” is sure to appeal to both aficionados of fantasy and newcomers alike.

His novel not only entertains but invites readers to think, to question, and to explore alongside the characters. By integrating diverse cultural elements, Highwater challenges the conventional boundaries of fantasy to craft a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

A Journey Worth Taking

“Metorm: The Secret” is more than just a novel; it’s the first step in what promises to be an exhilarating series. The Journals of Metorm, with titles like “The Chosen,” “The Treasures,” and “The Empire,” suggest an expanding universe that is rich with potential and intrigue.

Eric Highwater’s debut is a bold, imaginative work that promises to carve a unique niche in the fantasy genre. For those yearning for a novel that combines the depth of ancient myths with the thrill of an epic adventure, “Metorm: The Secret” is a must-read. As the saga of Antoria unfolds, readers can only eagerly anticipate the wonders and challenges that lie ahead in the next volumes of this promising series.

 

We had the privilege of interviewing Eric Highwater. Here are excerpts from the interview.

Hi Eric, It’s great to have you with us today! Please share about yourself with our readers.

Hi! I am an aspiring fantasy author from Finland. Apart from my normal boring life, I write and read a lot – in two languages, of course.

Please tell us about your book.

My first book, Metorm: The Secret, is the first part of a fantasy series set on a fictional planet called Antoria, and in a pivotal role in its history is something called the Secret, sought by many, which Sagiron, a young hunter, discovers, and it initiates events that will change the entire Antoric order, but not necessarily for the good in the long term once the Pandora’s box is opened. I’ve gone to great lengths to distance the story and world from classic Anglo-Nordic fantasy, and it contains little to no “Tolkienian” elements typically found in the genre. So no elves and dwarves here. I’ve gained inspiration mostly from Roman, Greek, Hebrew, Middle-Eastern, Indian, and Chinese empires, with some twists along the line.

Please share your journey with our readers.

The story dates back to 2004, when I first decided to write a book – and the funny thing is, it actually started as a science fiction story. The main reason why it took so long is that I wrote the series in fits and starts, sometimes covering large chunks, while in between, years went by without progress because I had little confidence in finishing anything. The rest of the four-book series will be released this fall.

Any message for our readers?

I hope my book will both intrigue and inspire, and I wish to bring my own take on the fantasy genre. We all start from somewhere. 🙂

Thank you so much, Eric, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!