The Deer King
By uehashi nahoko, 上橋菜穂子
4 volumes
2014
Description
Van is the leader of Lone Horn, a group of soldiers on a hopeless mission to defend their country from the encroaching empire. Van had expected to die in the war, but somehow he ends up a prisoner, chained with other s*aves in a salt mine. A sudden vicious attack interrupts this hopeless existence. Wild dogs with strange skill and purpose race through the mine attacking everyone in it. Van defends himself, but he too is bitten. The dog runs off; but the bite carries an infection. When Van regains consciousness, apparently some days later, he finds that all his fellow prisoners are dead. Breaking free of his chains he searches the camp. The guards, prisoners and other workers are all dead. But in one hut, a woman had died hiding her baby daughter from the dogs. With this little girl, whom he calls Yuna, Van sets off out of the camp.
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Publication Information
- Original Publisher
- kadokawa
- English Publisher
- yen press
- Original Language
- japanese
- Type
- Published Novel
The Deer King Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator
My Thoughts on The Deer King
"The Deer King" is a novel that drew me in with its intriguing premise and award-winning pedigree. While it's not a perfect read, it offers a unique blend of adventure, drama, and mystery set against a backdrop of ancient times that feels both familiar and foreign.
First Impressions
Initially, I was captivated by the world-building and the promise of a sprawling narrative. The story kicks off with a mysterious disease and a protagonist, Van, who seems to be at the center of it all. However, I quickly realized that the narrative is split, dedicating a significant portion to a doctor's perspective as he grapples with understanding and combating the disease. This dual focus, while interesting, definitely contributes to a slower-paced start.
What Works Well
The world-building is definitely a strong point. The author paints a vivid picture of the setting, immersing you in the culture and the challenges faced by the people. I found myself particularly drawn to the medical aspects of the story. The doctor's struggle to introduce germ theory to a society that doesn't understand it is compelling and adds a layer of realism to the fantasy elements. The relationship between Van and the child he adopts also provides heartwarming moments amidst the darker themes.
Areas of Concern
The pacing, as I mentioned earlier, is a bit of a hurdle. Van, while a central figure, spends a considerable amount of time being passive and introspective. This can make the story feel slow-moving at times, especially in the early chapters. I was hoping for a bit more action and agency from him, but I understand that this might be a deliberate choice to build character development over time.
Final Verdict
Overall, "The Deer King" is a worthwhile read if you're looking for a fantasy novel with depth and a unique perspective. While the pacing might not be for everyone, the compelling world-building, intriguing medical storyline, and heartwarming character interactions make it a rewarding experience. I'm curious to see where the story goes and how Van's role evolves as the narrative progresses. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a slower, more character-driven fantasy with a touch of mystery.
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