Title: The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch
Author: Vishnul Jain
Publisher: Raj Bhavish
ISBN: 979-8989150977
Pages: 321
Genre: Fantasy
Reviewed by: Liz Konkel

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Everyone knows the story of Merlin, but not everyone knows the story of Professor Limren. Merlin is known for being the wizard from Arthurian legend and now in the modern day, he can be found working as an Oxford professor. He’s put his time into casting spells and helping King Arthur in exchange for teaching students books from the past. Merlin has left the consequences of the Battle of Camlann behind him, along with the classic prophecy, or so he thought. The prophecy is not over and now it would seem it might be coming true. Enter this world of magic coming to life, where magic is used by those who wish to see the world saved and those who have much darker plans in mind.

The prologue establishes the tone for the whole story by taking you directly into the midst of a scene from Arthurian legend. The rain pouring down in this scene creates a grimmer tone, while quickly highlighting the importance of this prophecy, the battle, and King Arthur. The tone is largely reflective of the perspective of a modern Merlin who has an extensive past which impacts current events. The setting is a modern society that finds Merlin having created this new life for himself and how he’s blended into our current climate, such as using an iPhone and being concerned with healthcare centers. This creates some originality in the story and crafts a unique perspective on this well-known character. Professor Limren is an important element as he has found something grander for himself that still connects to history through ancient books. Limren is a way to navigate a modern version of this wizard which adds creativity to the structure and progression of the story.

Multiple characters are integrated into Merlin’s life and these interactions bring out different elements of who he is. Of these characters is Raman, who is a reflection of Merlin as he has his own intricate and tragic past that creates a bond between the two. His tragic backstory helps to establish the magical world author Vishnul Jain has created with magical warfare, black magic, and tragedy. Another character which highlights similar aspects is Elysiana, who matches Merlin’s wit through lively banter. A prominent theme is this connection to the past, which is seen in these immortal characters who have atrocious pasts, among which they also harbor terrible memories. This past is a presence that follows these characters and is being recreated through the prophecy being brought to life. The world is an interesting blend of historical, magical, and modern which manifest a unique backdrop akin to high fantasy with elves, demons, and wizards among the various fantastical beings included.

Though told through the perspective of Merlin, the prophecy and importance of Arthur is a story that underlies the plot. The prophecy of his return is at the core of the premise and impacts how the events progress. There are fun inclusions of classic figures such as Morgana and Gwenevere. Illustrations are featured that add a timeless quality to the story with black-and-white images that add various inklings such as “The Last Sleep of Arthur” painting, horses, and a castle. These are few though provide visuals to key moments that add more depth to the story.

The Future King is an original take on Arthurian legend with a modern Merlin and a unique twist on the prophecy of King Arthur in this new perspective that has magic, humor, and danger.