Book Review: Heroes of the Fallen by David J. West

When I first heard about the release of David West’s upcoming novel, Heroes of the Fallen, I was intrigued. I’ve seen fictional accounts of LDS scripture stories turned novels before, but this one is different because I have never seen a scripture-based novel set in this particular time period. David has done an excellent job of researching this culture and utilizing it in his story. I find it interesting how he has taken many historical characters and brought them to life, given them fears and goals, love and anger, hopes and discouragements so that we are better able to see them in a human light, rather than a written one.

The prologue is written in a different style than the rest of the book. It’s literary, heart-wrenching, and simply beautiful. I almost wish the rest of the book was written in the same style, although I understand why that would’ve been next to impossible, considering the complexity of the story and multiple points of view. This story is well developed, and it’s clear David has gone to great efforts to get to know each character well.

My nitpick on this particular book would have to be that because there are so many characters involved, and the point of view changed so often, it was sometimes hard to keep track of who was where and what was going on. I suspect, though, that it will get easier with the next book in the series.

Here’s the blurb:

In a world at war, who will rise to become the heroes of the fallen?


It is the last days of the great Nephite nation as they battle for survival against their sworn enemies, the Lamanites. As the conflict unfolds upon this ancient American landscape, sides are taken and weapons are drawn.


Stand alongside daring heroes with swords bared against sinister villains, never knowing which will fall—Captain Amaron and his Ten Scouts, Zelph the White Lamanite, or Anathoth the Lamanite general, agonizingly loyal to the despised King of Tullan—all must face the chillingly evil Gadianton Master Akish-Antum and his many followers.

Witness the plans of mighty kings and lowly thieves. Follow the murderous intrigue of the Gadianton grand master and his wife, the beautiful sorceress Lilith. See the dreams of Bethia, a prophet’s daughter, as she leaves home seeking independence, only to find confusion and wickedness in a land at war.

And if that doesn’t sound intriguing enough for you, check out the trailer:


To read more work by David J. West, check out his blog.

To purchase your copy of Heroes of the Fallen, click here.


**FTC FYI I was given a free copy of this book in order to read and review. Neither this nor my friendship with the author has in any way affected my opinion of the book itself.