I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A powerful being must traverse time to block a great tragedy and save an innocent family in author James R. Bateman’s “Savior of Lost Souls”, the first book in the Retribution series. 

The Synopsis

In a world where the threads of fate are woven with the hands of ancient gods, one divine being must step into the lives of a seemingly perfect family to prevent a tragedy that could shatter their world forever.

Since the dawn of humanity, the ancient god Lavek has been around, listening to the anguished cries of souls taken before their time. In the purgatory existence of Ul’Den, these restless spirits yearn for a second chance.

Every so often, a spirit’s plea is so loud it stands out above all else. Lavek is drawn to the time and place leading up to their death. His mission is to save them before that fateful moment and deliver retribution to those responsible. He is merciless to the guilty and a savior to the innocent.

In 1986, the Williams family seems to have it all – a good house, stable jobs, and a perfect daughter. They are the epitome of happiness. But their world is about to be shattered.

Lavek must piece together the clues, as he races against time to prevent a tragic loss. His journey tests his resolve and wisdom at every turn. Can he alter fate and save them from their darkest hour?

Experience a tale where the stakes are high, and the outcome hinges on the choices of one powerful being striving to bring justice to the world. Get your copy today and dare to unravel the mystery and see if fate can truly be rewritten in Savior of Lost Souls.

Savior of Lost Souls is the first installment of the dark fantasy thriller Retribution series.

The Review

This was one of the more compelling and gripping dark fantasy reads I’ve come across in a while. The story balances dark fantasy with a crime thriller reminiscent of stories like the film Prisoners and The Lovely Bones, as readers are plunged into a tale of a family torn apart by tragedy and the lone figure who sees the wrongs that need to be righted again. The detail and the imagery of the author’s writing style felt transportive as readers were plunged into the 80s and a story that felt almost cinematic on the page. 

The dynamic character development and essential themes the author delved into were equally matched with the world-building that brought the whole story together. The cosmic realms and ideas around destiny and fate were so creative in this story, and just as much as Lavek was a powerful and gripping hero to get behind, the family this story focuses on is relatable and heartbreaking in their delivery of the story. The two villains of this tale are haunting and instantly draw the reader’s ire when their story unravels. 

The Verdict

A suspenseful and entertaining dark fantasy and thriller, author James R. Bateman’s “Savior of Lost Souls” is a must-read book and a grand first entry into the Retribution series. The twists and turns the narrative takes, the metaphysical and philosophical themes and concepts the author plays with, and the balance of action with world-building and mythos make this a compelling novel that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Born and raised in Staffordshire, England, James has spent over thirty years working in the IT and software industry. Along the way, his fascination with storytelling and narrative development led him to dive into fiction writing.

James is currently working on a series of novels, blending fantasy, urban fiction, and crime, with his debut book Savior of Lost. His stories explore life, death, and morality, as well as how the human spirit endures through complex and challenging times.

When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family, going to the gym, and indulging in his love for reading and video games. He lives with his wife, two grown-up kids, a dog, and three cats.

https://jamesrbateman.com/