In the vast realm of fantasy literature, Eric Highwater’s debut novel, Metorm: The Secret, stands out as a refreshing departure from traditional tropes. Set on the fictional planet Antoria, this book is the first installment in the Journals of Metorm Series, offering readers an epic journey that is both captivating and thought-provoking. With inspiration drawn from various ancient civilizations and a unique narrative style, Highwater crafts a story that promises to enthrall fantasy enthusiasts.
A Unique Setting: Antoria
Metorm: The Secret introduces us to Antoria, a planet far removed from the Anglo-Nordic influences commonly seen in fantasy literature. Highwater’s world-building draws heavily from the Roman, Greek, Hebrew, Middle-Eastern, Indian, and Chinese empires, creating a rich and diverse backdrop for his story. This unique setting provides a fresh perspective, steering clear of typical fantasy elements like elves and dwarves.
The narrative centers around Sagiron, a young hunter who stumbles upon a mysterious Secret in the Silwoods. This discovery sets off a chain of events that threatens to upend the established order of Antoria. The Secret is a coveted piece of knowledge, capable of granting immense power to anyone who learns it, thus making it a difficult entity within the story.
The Struggle for Freedom
The oppressive Perillean Empire holds a tight grip over the Yoneians, who yearn for liberation. Highwater intricately weaves this struggle for freedom into the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The legend of the Temple Ark and the emergence of the Heir, thought to be lost, provides a glimmer of hope for the Yoneians.
However, the quest for the Temple Ark is fraught with danger. A cunning Perillean knight detective is hot on the trail of the Heir, turning this journey into a high-stakes chase. As the Heir seeks to prevent the Secret from falling into enemy hands, Sagiron’s discovery becomes a pivotal moment that could alter the fate of Antoria.
The Enigma of the Secret
Central to the plot is the enigma of the Secret. Highwater tantalizes readers with glimpses of its potential and peril, making it a focal point of intrigue. The Secret is not just a source of power; it embodies knowledge that could either save or doom Antoria. This duality adds a layer of suspense, as characters grapple with the moral and ethical implications of wielding such power.
Sagiron’s journey from a simple hunter to a key player in this unfolding drama is both compelling and relatable. His character development is meticulously crafted, reflecting the themes of courage, responsibility, and the burden of knowledge.
Highwater’s Fresh Take on Fantasy
Eric Highwater’s journey to becoming an author is as fascinating as the story he tells. Hailing from Finland and transitioning from a career as a maritime engineer, Highwater brings a unique perspective to the fantasy genre. His dedication to writing, despite the challenges and interruptions over the years, culminates in a novel that is both original and engaging.
Highwater’s narrative style is accessible yet profound, making Metorm: The Secret a compelling read for both seasoned fantasy readers and newcomers to the genre. His ability to draw inspiration from diverse cultures and historical periods enriches the story, offering a fresh take on the classic battle between good and evil.
The Journey Ahead
Metorm: The Secret is just the beginning. The Journals of Metorm series promises to take readers on an epic adventure, with subsequent parts titled The Chosen, The Treasures, and The Empire. Each installment will delve deeper into the mysteries of Antoria, exploring new facets of the world and its inhabitants.
Eric Highwater’s debut novel sets the stage for a series that is poised to make a significant impact on the fantasy genre. With its unique setting, intricate plot, and well-developed characters, Metorm: The Secret invites readers to embark on a journey that is as intriguing as it is inspiring.
In conclusion, Metorm: The Secret is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts looking for a fresh and original story. Eric Highwater has created a world that is rich in culture and history, populated with characters that resonate with readers. As we turn the pages of this first book, we eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead in the Journals of Metorm.
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!