Charles McGarry
Fantastic Debut
Some of my favorite things in fantasy are great character building, and unique magic. This book has both, and then some. The ember magic is a fascinating power, and there is just enough description of how it works to keep you gripped every time its used, but just enough mystery to tell you there's more to be revealed. As far as characters go, the races are well thought out, and the central characters are engaging and full of back story. Every battle had me on edge too, which isn't always easy to accomplish. To this debut novel I applaud Kelliher for pulling off an exciting and refreshing tale. Bravo!
Intense and Engrossing!
Picture Law and Order Mixed with magic, and you can't help but be drawn to this tale. I'm not normally into Urban Fantasy, save for Dresden files, but this is easily as good and even better in some respects. Gladstone weaves visuals like an artist, painting the scene in your mind. Can't wait to read the next installment.
Absolutely thrilling!
I could not put this book down! If you're a fan of ancient history and myth, then you must read this book! Ashton has deftly crafted a tale reminiscent of American Gods, but aside from a similar subject, the book is completely unique and to itself. The author weaves together myths, tales, and religious pantheons in a way that is truly above par. The battles are breathtaking and exciting, the characters are well written and deep, and the myths behind them are extremely well researched. I can't recommend this book enough!
A Unique and Exciting Adventure
This book really is a unique tale. I've never read a fantasy novel so distinctly Oriental, and it is excellently done. The magic, strongly based in music and tonal vibrations, is captivating and believable. As far as the cultural portrayals, I truly felt like I was there. The ending was satisfying, and definitely makes me want to read more.
Neil Gaiman is like a best friend that you've never met, but will one day, and I fully intend to soon. He has a heart that gazes on life with sheer fascination, and an imagination that is nothing short of magic. In this collection of non-fictions from Neil, you'll be given a glimpse into the mind of imaginative perspective. Everything from his thoughts on writing, making art, and why creators create is here. Plus you get glimpses into people that have impacted his life in significant ways, such as Terry Pratchett and his wife Amanda Palmer. You'll travel with him to the rich and famous Oscars and the most destitute of the poor in Syrian refugee camps. You'll laugh and you'll cry, and if you really pay attention to his stories you'll be a better person for having done so. I would say that's true of all his stories, whether fact or fiction. Neil is a good man to have for a friend, because he makes good art.
A very interesting read! The magic system is very detailed and planned out, though I've come to expect nothing less from Sanderson. For him, magic must make sense in how it affects the real world, and I applaud that. The political intrigue, as always, is what sets his story apart. Fascinating characters fill the pages, and plenty of humor as well, and it keeps you reading all the way to the mostly satisfying ending. Definitely recommended!
A Much Needed Adventure
This book is truly a brilliant tale! Teller's command of written prose is stunning. Every word drips meaning and description. The dark forces of wizardry and Fae are just as complex and captivating as that of the forces of goodness and light. The dark wizard Vrice is a fascinating character, and the Fae Mandrake is written with such emotion and cunning that he completely steals the show. The supporting characters are equally well written. Every description of the world and characters makes you feel like you are there. Jesse Teller is a wonderful new voice in Fantasy and a force tone reckoned with.
A masterpiece of storytelling! I couldn't put this book down. Being the huge fan of ancient myth that I am, this book captivated me. The story is based around classic Norse mythology, but with a strong fantasy element weaved into it involving a war between elven factions that spills over into the realms of human races. The twist is brilliantly done, and should not be missed. I give this book six stars!!