The Adventures of En Mariner and Ibella

The Adventures of En Mariner and Ibella by James Westly tells the story of En Mariner, who, after being imprisoned in Plague Prison on ToraIsla Island for eighty-seven years–trapped by a witch’s curse that entailed having a giant blackbird’s talons wrapped around his neck–finally escapes when the witch is killed. En Mariner’s only desire is to find his true love, Ibella.

After battling his way through some warring factions on leaving the prison, En Mariner embarks on his journey to find Ibella and the man who betrayed him, Captain John Bach. His journey takes him to several towns on ToraIsla and the surrounding islands.

His travels take him to many places where he is joined by some colorful characters on the way. The Adventures of En Mariner and Ibella certainly paints a vivid picture of the landscape for the reader, with its two moons, many coves, and haunted lagoons. Also, between Skulltip Road, Ancient Way, and Bastard’s Pelt, there are certainly some interesting place names!

Throughout the book, Westly leaves many questions in his wake that any reader cannot help but ask. It appears that En Mariner’s crimes may have been fabricated. If so, why had the people of the lands, who also believed this and knew where he was for almost ninety years, not bothered to assist him? Did they fear him or someone else? Westly appears to be a master at weaving mystery within mystery, leaving his readers questioning almost every twist and turn. Together with fabulous descriptions and intense battles, this is a book that many will love.