The Key is set in a fantasy world at a time when a new Empire is being forged.  The Mages of this world have fallen victim to the new world order and are in danger.  Marianne – although a Mage, has lived a sheltered village life and has no idea what is happening in the wider world.  All that changes with the arrival of a persecuted Mage named Aeryn.

The story is still in its infancy, only three chapters have been posted so far and the author advises that it is her intention to post new chapters weekly – despite some earlier delays.

It is obvious from the website that the author is dedicated to her story.  Time and effort have gone into making a visit to the site a pleasant experience for the reader.  Several character illustrations have been posted and a forum has been opened.  The author has even taken the time to write about the origins of the story and her passion for writing, “I realized I should just go ahead and write instead of waiting for the day when I am a "better writer.””

At this early stage the characters are still emerging with one or two already showing the signs of strong personalities and little quirks.  The dialogue however is stilted at times; the phrases used seem out of place for simple village folk and feel unnatural for the environment.  There is little in the way of physical description or atmosphere, and there are also a few issues with grammar.  In places, the story switches from the present to the past, but it is not always obvious—at times I found myself confused and had to back track.

The Key is a work in progress.  It is possible that the writing may improve as the story develops and at a future date I may need to revise my rating.

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