Welcome to Elsewhere: Paul Jackson’s Immersive Fantasy World
Step into the world of Elsewhere, the brainchild of artist, storyteller, and author Paul Jackson. This fantastical universe, brimming with intricate lore, captivating characters, and dramatic landscapes, invites readers to lose themselves in an immersive experience unlike any other. Jackson's Elsewhere series is much more than just a collection of fantasy books – it’s an entire world brought to life through rich narratives, detailed illustrations, and meticulously crafted maps that guide the reader through the magical Realms of Elsewhere.
The Story Begins: Book One – The Hidden Destiny
The journey into Elsewhere starts with The Hidden Destiny, the first book in a series of nine. The Lord of the Shadows, an immortal being of immense power, threatens to plunge the Realms of Elsewhere into darkness. His armies are sweeping across the lands, leaving destruction in their wake, and it seems no force can stop his reign. However, the Elvish Queen offers her life in exchange for a magical legacy for her newborn son. This child, marked by a hidden destiny, holds the key to the world's salvation but he is not yet ready to fulfil his role.
While the child grows, an Uprising begins. The forces resisting the Lord of the Shadows are made up of those not typically accustomed to war, including ordinary citizens and even nature itself. The struggle to protect the Realms is both external and internal, as characters grapple with their roles in a world falling into chaos. The story weaves elements of mystery, prophecy, and sacrifice into a narrative that unfolds gradually across the series.
The Hidden Destiny is not just a written story but a visual feast. The book’s hardback edition is adorned with lavish gold-embossed symbols, setting the tone for the treasure within. Inside, readers will find four full-colour illustrations, ten black-and-white pieces, several line drawings, and a full-colour pull-out map of Elsewhere. Each of these elements enriches the story, offering glimpses into the world and the characters' journeys. This book, the first of nine, sets the stage for an epic tale that spans multiple realms and introduces unforgettable characters.
The Uprising: Book Two
As the series progresses, the stakes rise in The Uprising, the second book. The Merchant of Storms, a formidable antagonist, has set his sights on the island of Humble, where he believes the powerful Master Key is hidden. As his armies close in, a prisoner on the island realises that the secret they’ve been keeping about the key is a lie. This realisation comes at a steep cost – if the lie is exposed, it could spell disaster not just for the island, but for the world at large.
The plot thickens with the introduction of more complex characters, each with their own roles to play in this unfolding saga. Master I, who first appears inside a giant egg atop an ancient tree, becomes an important figure as he discovers his identity as an inventor. Alongside him is Feather, a curious and quick-growing character who starts out as a wing attached to Master I, but soon develops his own personality and importance.
Characters like Sammsy, a young boy with a booming voice who fiercely protects the Hills of Humble, and Eldrin, a ghost who holds vital knowledge from the past, add layers to the story. Each new character brings their own strengths, flaws, and histories, contributing to the larger arc while also shining in their individual stories.
A Rich World Full of Intrigue and Adventure
Paul Jackson’s Elsewhere is more than just a setting—it’s a living, breathing world. The series takes readers through the Realms of Elsewhere, each with its own unique geography, history, and culture. The detailed maps scattered throughout the books help guide readers through these different lands, adding to the sense of adventure.
Jackson’s background as an artist is evident in the vividness of his storytelling. Every scene is meticulously crafted, drawing readers deeper into the story with each turn of the page. His attention to detail extends beyond the plot to the physical design of the books themselves. The illustrations are not just decorative; they are an integral part of the reading experience, offering visual cues that help flesh out the narrative.
The Realms of Elsewhere are populated by characters who feel fully realised, with distinct personalities, backstories, and motivations. Heroes like Findorian, a central figure whose destiny is intertwined with the fate of the world, and villains like the Merchant of Storms, who seek to bend the realms to their will, make Elsewhere a dynamic and compelling setting.
What’s Next in Elsewhere?
With nine books planned in the series, Elsewhere is just beginning its journey. Each book offers a standalone adventure, but together they form a larger epic that will continue to unfold with each new instalment. Fans of richly detailed fantasy worlds like Middle-earth or Westeros will find much to love in Elsewhere. The intricate world-building, combined with the emotional depth of the characters and the high-stakes drama of the plot, ensures that this series will keep readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
For those looking to dive into a new fantasy series, Elsewhere promises a deeply immersive experience. Whether you’re drawn in by the epic battles, the complex characters, or the stunning illustrations, Paul Jackson’s world is one that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. Keep an eye out for updates on future books and prepare to embark on a journey into the unknown – into Elsewhere.
