A review by nclcaitlin
Paragon Exordium by Mikel Melwasul

3.0

The end of the world brings more than anyone thought. 

Set in modern-day Georgia, one day the earth shook and the sky shattered, leaving the citizens ruined after explosions, debris, injured, and dead. As if things weren’t bad enough, there are mysterious, talking predators roaming the city of Paragon. There is no power and no means of communication.

Captain Peter from a private military organisation is the one to take control, unbelievably killing a basilisk with a strange sword gifted by Dr. Walker, an old lady and family friend. As it turns out, she is an ancient dwarf thousands of years old.

This follows an adventurous story of good vs evil where dwarves, elves, orks, vampires, and tree people suddenly exist, armed by their own form of magic, spells, and traditions. The humans must learn to adapt and learn to navigate the new world. 

The book combines classic magical elements with a modern-day setting full of non-stop action and more touching, primal, humane character moments. 

I did find the military expeditions sometimes dragged on too long and certain explanations were delivered in information dumps with the wise old dwarf educating the new mage. However, there is light humour throughout which keeps it more engaging. 

I do think the first 2/3 felt a lot tighter than the last 1/3. 

I preferred the quieter moments where characters had to envision their future, or connect to others, or learn to use the new world to their advantage such as in weapon making, healing, agriculture, etc. 

The narrator does a phenomenal job giving accents, personality, and distinct voice to each character! 

Thank you to the author for providing me the audiobook in exchange for a review!