I am new to the world of furry visual novels and glad to say that Lyre is one of the first FVNs I've already read.
NEXT PART CAN CONTAIN DIRECT/INDIRECT SPOILERS, BEWARE!
First and main reason why I'm so fond of this novel is it's plot. Story of a stigmated love amidst hostile environment of courtier games, treachery, deception and hypocracy. It's certainly a trial of will both for Knight and his Lord. And it's fascinating to see that they've chosen happiness, striving to it no matter what. Situation is gloomy for them, but they're certainly not left alone. Good Leif, righteous Eliza, Kadaj (Ambassador Floppa) who is loyal to Tygren and fair blacksmith Edan are amongst their allies as well as something beneath mortal's understanding.
Speaking of characters, they all of them are well-written. I think we all agree how interesting and relatable Richter and Lyall are, how caring and merciful Leif is, etc.
But let's talk about young heir Adrius, who is without any doubt a complete dastard. Yet his character is sort of understandable. Yes, his methods are awfully brutal, he doesn't mind getting rid even of closest people, if they are in the way of achieving goals.
Nonetheless, giving a better look on his personality, we can understand Adrius' motivation and relate to it.
Let's look from his perpective. In the past he was a cute little fawn, playing in royal garden. Everyone loved him and he loved everyone, and there was a person who shared the strongest bond with Adrius. His own mother, which was everything for him. And he lost her to some rascals, a member of royal family, the queen and his world were brutally slayed because politicians can't and seemingly don't even want to reach an agreement.
Everyone are so slow, indifferent and not caring. Even Lyall, so tall, a growing warrior, was so slow, proved to be uncapable of fulfilling his one and only duty, to protect the queen. This wolf doesn't even deserves a name. It's a dog!
That is why Adrius has to be swift, desicive and determined. Even it mean wiping out everyone on his way. He doesn't want to be anything alike this slackers all around him.
I'm not sure if he truly wants peace for the people of Lyre, but a complete change of personality is most certainly connected with his gestalt. And for that Adrius needs MORE POWER (He is the tempest that is approaching, provoking)!
Great character designs, as well as pleasant artstyle, picturesque views and great music creates a truly bewitching experience overall.
Also I find it funny enough that the game and most characters has some sort of parallel parallel with Adastra's cast :D :
Adastra-Lyre (both names given after places where plot is going on)
Parents-Tygren (divine forces playing around main scene)
Amicus—Lyall (Big caring black wolfs, both of noble families. One is himbo, other one is Geralt of Rivia)
Whole fragment where MC being imprisoned by a mad ruler and saved with his Wolf and providence itself.
Virginia—Eliza (Strong women characters, fair and capable of ruling country)
Cassius—Adrius (Vile lads with understandable motivation, both heirs)
etc.
By the way, Lyre is clearly offering us a different story. I am not 100% sure, but the inspiration by Adastra can be seen here, or vice versa.
Nevertheless, I am fond of this epic story and only looking forward for it's continuation in the next books. 8,5 of 10. Which is "Touching piece of art". Absolutely in love with it!