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The Dark Province: Son of Duprin
Sitting in the honored stalls of the Crystal Sanctuary, Calvin Gooding should be rejoicing in the message he receives from the Holy King of Duprin. But his heart is heavy. He awaits the carriage in which he must ride to deliver the fated news to his family. Time has run out. In the midst of this sorrow, exhaustion, and uncertainty, a sorceress from the Dark Province appears to Calvin. She promises to make his terminally ill twin sister, Marilyn, well again. As twins, Calvin and Mari share a special bond, and Calvin will do almost anything to save his sister's life. But in order to free Mari from death's grip, the sorceress claims that Calvin must travel to the Dark Province-a land where souls and flesh are devoured by the lawless and the spirit of man is bound in shackles. It's a reckless land dominated by morally corrupt warlords and open sexuality. Wrapped tightly in his religion, Calvin must make a life-altering decision. He can choose to follow the sorceress into the sinful abyss to save his sister, or he can accept a life of guilt and certain torment over Mari's death.
392 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2010
12 people want to read
About the author
William H. Johnson
29 books5 followersWilliam H. Johnson was born and raised in Fairfax, Virginia, the grandson of an Apostolic Pentecostal preacher and the son of an educator.
His dream of becoming an author began in the eleventh grade after he wrote his first short story entitled Brenda, a tale about a mother who lost everything in life only to regain it all upon ascending to heaven.
He received his bachelor’s degree from James Madison University where he developed a profound passion for the theatre. Since relocating to Southern California in 1997, William has directed numerous plays from David Ives one acts All in the Timing to Samuel Beckett’s masterpiece, Waiting for Godot. In 2004 he began training and developing The Magic Meathands improv comedy ensemble, a performing company whose mission of com-mune-edy outreach has been blogged about on idealist.org and featured on CNN Headline News: Local Edition.
In 2009 he began writing essays on race in America and political commentary that have been published in three different regional newspapers. William’s first novel, THE DARK PROVINCE: SON OF DUPRIN, was released in March 2010.
William currently lives in Southern California with his wife and two children where he teaches and directs improvisational theater.
His dream of becoming an author began in the eleventh grade after he wrote his first short story entitled Brenda, a tale about a mother who lost everything in life only to regain it all upon ascending to heaven.
He received his bachelor’s degree from James Madison University where he developed a profound passion for the theatre. Since relocating to Southern California in 1997, William has directed numerous plays from David Ives one acts All in the Timing to Samuel Beckett’s masterpiece, Waiting for Godot. In 2004 he began training and developing The Magic Meathands improv comedy ensemble, a performing company whose mission of com-mune-edy outreach has been blogged about on idealist.org and featured on CNN Headline News: Local Edition.
In 2009 he began writing essays on race in America and political commentary that have been published in three different regional newspapers. William’s first novel, THE DARK PROVINCE: SON OF DUPRIN, was released in March 2010.
William currently lives in Southern California with his wife and two children where he teaches and directs improvisational theater.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 10, 2010
From the first moment I read the prologue, I was intrigued and anxiously awaited the story as it unfolded. I stood alongside Calvin's mother in the Dark Province to discover the fate of Mari. Although, it was a fantasy, I felt the pain that Calvin endured as he longed for guidance as to whether to rely upon the religion that he had been taught, embraced, and followed; or take a different path and follow his faith. At that moment, I realized that Dark Province was far more than just a fantasy.
I was fascinated by how uniquely descriptive the author was when conveying his first encounter with a car [motorized vehicle], the shape of a woman's body, his first intimate encounter, and the moment he fell in love. I could visualize his surroundings and the imagery filled me with anticipation, excitement, dread, and downright fear. I found the characters wonderfully vivid and the storyline believable. This fantasy captured my imagination and I was whisked away to another land where Ghosts, Dragons, and Sorcerers all seemed real.
In the Dark Province, Calvin found a world he wrestled with all his might, not to embrace. A love he'd lived all his life to find, and ultimately, pain that he'd fought so hard to avoid. He encountered the best in others and was forced to acknowledge the worst in himself. Every belief was challenged and his faith was transformed. During his journey he found that what he sought most almost eluded him, but what he fought hard to resist engulfed him. Calvin risked everything for a never-ending love, more powerful than death itself.
Midway through the book I realized that Calvin represented most of us. We have been raised steeped in our cultural traditions and religions, and ignorantly bias towards all who do not share our beliefs. For Calvin the Dark Province forced him to eradicate his prejudices and change his belief system. He found astonishing courage, friendship, love, spirituality, forgiveness, and redemption among those he'd previously considered heathens. Unfortunately, he also discovered an unyielding aversion to change among his own people.
The story ends with Calvin's fate hanging in the balance. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this unforgettable story and long to explore the Dark Province further. A sequel is demanded and a series would create an adoring fan base. I closed the book with an eagerness to nudge the author forward in completing the next saga as soon as possible.
Dianne Rosena Jones
Author of "Tragic Treasures: Discovering Spoils of War in the Midst of Tragedy"
African American Literature Editor @ BellaOnline ~ the Voice of Women
I was fascinated by how uniquely descriptive the author was when conveying his first encounter with a car [motorized vehicle], the shape of a woman's body, his first intimate encounter, and the moment he fell in love. I could visualize his surroundings and the imagery filled me with anticipation, excitement, dread, and downright fear. I found the characters wonderfully vivid and the storyline believable. This fantasy captured my imagination and I was whisked away to another land where Ghosts, Dragons, and Sorcerers all seemed real.
In the Dark Province, Calvin found a world he wrestled with all his might, not to embrace. A love he'd lived all his life to find, and ultimately, pain that he'd fought so hard to avoid. He encountered the best in others and was forced to acknowledge the worst in himself. Every belief was challenged and his faith was transformed. During his journey he found that what he sought most almost eluded him, but what he fought hard to resist engulfed him. Calvin risked everything for a never-ending love, more powerful than death itself.
Midway through the book I realized that Calvin represented most of us. We have been raised steeped in our cultural traditions and religions, and ignorantly bias towards all who do not share our beliefs. For Calvin the Dark Province forced him to eradicate his prejudices and change his belief system. He found astonishing courage, friendship, love, spirituality, forgiveness, and redemption among those he'd previously considered heathens. Unfortunately, he also discovered an unyielding aversion to change among his own people.
The story ends with Calvin's fate hanging in the balance. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this unforgettable story and long to explore the Dark Province further. A sequel is demanded and a series would create an adoring fan base. I closed the book with an eagerness to nudge the author forward in completing the next saga as soon as possible.
Dianne Rosena Jones
Author of "Tragic Treasures: Discovering Spoils of War in the Midst of Tragedy"
African American Literature Editor @ BellaOnline ~ the Voice of Women
June 18, 2011
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
My Summary: The novel starts off with Calvin addressing a crowd of people and telling them that he isn't sorry for the things he's done. Calvin is being accused of treason against the Holy Nation of Duprin, and he knows that his executioner is somewhere in the crowd...
Calvin's twin sister Marilyn (Mari) has been his best friend since the moment they were born. They spent their childhoods together, being raised by their two faithful Duprinite parents. Even after they go their separate ways, Calvin and Mari keep in touch, writing countless letters back and forth, discussing every topic under the moon.
Then Mari falls ill. She sends Calvin a vague letter, telling him she is ill and requests his presence. Calvin heeds these instructions and sets off to visit his sister, finding her bed-ridden and sickly. After meeting with the doctor responsible for Mari's care, Calvin's worst fears are confirmed - his sister is fatally ill, and there is nothing anyone can do to save her.
But then Mari has a dream, and Calvin is convinced that it contains a prophecy of sorts - if he fulfills it, Mari will be healed. With only his faith and a promise to his sister to keep him going, Calvin sets off, hoping he will be able to succeed before he loses Mari forever.
My Thoughts: The Dark Province: Son of Duprin was an amazing novel. The ability of the author to create such a rich setting was amazing - I felt like I was right there with Calvin, struggling to maintain my faith amid all the corruption. The author is extremely talented; you would never guess that this is his debut novel!
Calvin was a great character - I love the idea that he starts off with a solid, unnerving faith, and by the end he is questioning everything he thought he knew, because I think everyone can relate to this is one way or another - who can honestly say they haven't struggled with their faith, especially in times of hardship? Watching his struggles makes Calvin seems so much more real to the reader, and I'm glad the author didn't try to make Calvin seem like some unchanged, perfect saint throughout the novel. And unlike some authors, Johnson's other characters didn't pale in comparison to the main character - they were well-developed and added extra depth to the novel.
Final Thoughts: The Dark Province: Son of Duprin is definitely one of my favourite adult novels. I recommend it to anyone looking for a deep read that really makes you think. I'm eagerly waiting the sequel!
My Summary: The novel starts off with Calvin addressing a crowd of people and telling them that he isn't sorry for the things he's done. Calvin is being accused of treason against the Holy Nation of Duprin, and he knows that his executioner is somewhere in the crowd...
Calvin's twin sister Marilyn (Mari) has been his best friend since the moment they were born. They spent their childhoods together, being raised by their two faithful Duprinite parents. Even after they go their separate ways, Calvin and Mari keep in touch, writing countless letters back and forth, discussing every topic under the moon.
Then Mari falls ill. She sends Calvin a vague letter, telling him she is ill and requests his presence. Calvin heeds these instructions and sets off to visit his sister, finding her bed-ridden and sickly. After meeting with the doctor responsible for Mari's care, Calvin's worst fears are confirmed - his sister is fatally ill, and there is nothing anyone can do to save her.
But then Mari has a dream, and Calvin is convinced that it contains a prophecy of sorts - if he fulfills it, Mari will be healed. With only his faith and a promise to his sister to keep him going, Calvin sets off, hoping he will be able to succeed before he loses Mari forever.
My Thoughts: The Dark Province: Son of Duprin was an amazing novel. The ability of the author to create such a rich setting was amazing - I felt like I was right there with Calvin, struggling to maintain my faith amid all the corruption. The author is extremely talented; you would never guess that this is his debut novel!
Calvin was a great character - I love the idea that he starts off with a solid, unnerving faith, and by the end he is questioning everything he thought he knew, because I think everyone can relate to this is one way or another - who can honestly say they haven't struggled with their faith, especially in times of hardship? Watching his struggles makes Calvin seems so much more real to the reader, and I'm glad the author didn't try to make Calvin seem like some unchanged, perfect saint throughout the novel. And unlike some authors, Johnson's other characters didn't pale in comparison to the main character - they were well-developed and added extra depth to the novel.
Final Thoughts: The Dark Province: Son of Duprin is definitely one of my favourite adult novels. I recommend it to anyone looking for a deep read that really makes you think. I'm eagerly waiting the sequel!
May 23, 2011
Let me start by saying that the premise of The Dark Province was promising. The idea that a character has to separate faith from religion in a fantasy setting sounded like a great read. I enjoy books that challenge thought and spirituality, that take the reader on a journey of discovery, along with the characters. However, I was disappointed in this book. Primarily, I just did not like the main character, Calvin. He was so biased and judgmental. With his roots firmly entrenched in a certain religious ideology, he had a difficult time having an open mind, and it struck the wrong chord in me. I was brought up in a very strict religious household, and I was more sensitive to this than most people probably are.
The Dark Province started off alright, however I began to struggle once Calvin reached the Dark Province. It wasn’t only character issues I had here, I was often confused by plot turns. For example, at one point Calvin was supposed to meet the King, and suddenly, events changed. The nature of this event was confusing and changed the storyline from then on. There were a few instances where I was left confused about events, or felt that some events just didn’t make much sense, or that there were gaps in the plot.
I held high hopes that the end would be more fulfilling. Instead, the book ended with unresolved questions. The main issue here is the question of who had Calvin been narrating to this whole time? The book begins (in the prologue) with Calvin telling his story to an unknown group of people, however, the reader never finds out who is in this group, and the book just stops. Unfortunately, upon finishing the novel, I was left with a sour feeling.
The idea of this book was intriguing, and I admire the efforts of this new author. However, I found The Dark Province missed the mark of a noteworthy novel.
The Dark Province started off alright, however I began to struggle once Calvin reached the Dark Province. It wasn’t only character issues I had here, I was often confused by plot turns. For example, at one point Calvin was supposed to meet the King, and suddenly, events changed. The nature of this event was confusing and changed the storyline from then on. There were a few instances where I was left confused about events, or felt that some events just didn’t make much sense, or that there were gaps in the plot.
I held high hopes that the end would be more fulfilling. Instead, the book ended with unresolved questions. The main issue here is the question of who had Calvin been narrating to this whole time? The book begins (in the prologue) with Calvin telling his story to an unknown group of people, however, the reader never finds out who is in this group, and the book just stops. Unfortunately, upon finishing the novel, I was left with a sour feeling.
The idea of this book was intriguing, and I admire the efforts of this new author. However, I found The Dark Province missed the mark of a noteworthy novel.
August 3, 2011
Usually I would reiterate the premise of the novel, but William H. Johnson gives you everything you need to know right in the blurb.
Favorite Quote:
“Let me first say that I apologize for nothing – not an action, not even a thought. “
The Dark Province isn’t something I normally would have chosen to read, but I am happy I did. It was complex & totally threw me out of my normal comfort zone, as I tend not to read anything with religious undertones.
This book really is an adventure, through caves, cellars & Provinces. With all sorts of magical elements, it truly does have a little something for everyone.
The detailing was amazing, as was the world building. I can totally see the two Provinces in my minds eye. I’m still on the fence as to if I liked Calvin or I just tolerated him. The quest to save his sisters life made it tip the balance ever so slightly. It shows how strong family bounds are, among other things.
The Dark Province has all sorts of elements, from romance to spirituality to morality. And it’s all told brilliantly, kudos to Mr. Johnson on his debut.
But the way the story ended left this reader wanting more.
Favorite Quote:
“Let me first say that I apologize for nothing – not an action, not even a thought. “
The Dark Province isn’t something I normally would have chosen to read, but I am happy I did. It was complex & totally threw me out of my normal comfort zone, as I tend not to read anything with religious undertones.
This book really is an adventure, through caves, cellars & Provinces. With all sorts of magical elements, it truly does have a little something for everyone.
The detailing was amazing, as was the world building. I can totally see the two Provinces in my minds eye. I’m still on the fence as to if I liked Calvin or I just tolerated him. The quest to save his sisters life made it tip the balance ever so slightly. It shows how strong family bounds are, among other things.
The Dark Province has all sorts of elements, from romance to spirituality to morality. And it’s all told brilliantly, kudos to Mr. Johnson on his debut.
But the way the story ended left this reader wanting more.
July 31, 2010
Lush is the word that comes to mind when I reflect on my impression of William Johnson's debut novel. The book is a sprawling tale of morality, spirituality, and personal choice, taking the reader on a wild yet thoughtful ride through the worlds of Calvin Gooding. Although fantasy novels are not high on my reading list, I was a huge fan of the late Octavia Butler. I could not help but think of her while indulging in the fantasy world Johnson has created. The Dark Province, as a fantasy landscape, was epic in its scope. The book is a sensual read, as Calvin struggles with his faith and his mission, while exploring and quesioning his ideas of sexual morality and love. The characters we meet along the way with Calvin are memorable and well developed, leaving the reader with a sense of wanting to know what makes them "tick." The biggest recommendation I can give for this novel is when it was over, I was ready for a sequel.
September 10, 2011
Johnson does an excellent job describing situations and places. I really enjoyed walking through the forest and cities with his characters. His descriptions of places brings me right there and lets me enjoy or fear right along with his people. The way he creates a whole world with words I amazing to me. Well worth the price of the book right there!
I liked reading this book but at times I got over whelmed with too many things. The characters were well established and easy to associate with.
Generally this is a good book to curl up with and take your time reading. One you will find yourself drifting off to Johnson’s world and wanting to help with the character’s quests.
I liked reading this book but at times I got over whelmed with too many things. The characters were well established and easy to associate with.
Generally this is a good book to curl up with and take your time reading. One you will find yourself drifting off to Johnson’s world and wanting to help with the character’s quests.
May 15, 2011
Very captivating and engaging book. Enjoyed every moment of it's thrilling scenes. Creatively brings together various walks of life in an interesting dialogue in different societies. Highly recommend and looking forward to the next book!
April 25, 2011
You can read my review of this book here:
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March 11, 2011
Can't wait for book 2
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews