One Beginning can be filled with war, shadow creatures, and ancient prophecy, yet at its core, it’s a healing story, both personal and societal. Robin Song threads faith, forgiveness, and purpose throughout each chapter, infusing the fantasy genre with a welcome spiritual richness.
Every lead character has emotional scars. Dasan keeps hurt from a secret history. Shani disguises loss with fierceness. Jamil struggles with abandonment, and Nani, as sweet as she is, wants to know her real place in the world. But as they make their journey, we watch them each start to mend, not necessarily through acts of heroism, but through exposing themselves, taking care of one another, and letting themselves hope.
There is also a powerful undertone of fate woven throughout the book. The prophecy in the prologue mentions forgotten truth, waking dreamers, and the return of the lost. In doing so, the novel reminds us that our history does not determine us, what we do with our future does.
Even in the midst of chaos and confusion, the characters seek purpose and direction, frequently resorting to faith and prayer during pivotal moments. Almaga, a kind divine presence, provides gentle reassurance and insight throughout the story, repeating the theme that light is never far off no matter how bad things become.
One Beginning is not merely an adventure; it’s a call to recall who we are and who we might become.
