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King's Envoy (Artesans of Albia #1)

by Cas Peace (Goodreads Author)

4.54 of 5 stars 4.54 · rating details · 52 ratings · 28 reviews

Taran Elijah's quest for knowledge uncovers a plot that threatens the world. In Albia, the fourth realm, the precious Artesan gift is dying. Although born to the craft, Taran is struggling to achieve his potential. Against his friends' advice, he embarks on a foolhardy plan to acquire the teaching he craves. Alone, he crosses into Andaryon, the fifth realm, but instead of

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Paperback, 360 pages

Published August 15th 2011 by Rhemalda Publishing (first published July 19th 2011)

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Jan 16, 2013 Katy rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of action/adventure fantasy

Recommended to Katy by: Rhemalda Publishing

Shelves: galley-for-review

Please note: I originally read and reviewed this book in July 2011. I am updating the formatting and adding the disclosure that I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Book Info: Genre: Fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: Fans of epic fantasy
Trigger Warnings: Violence, torture

My Synopsis: The world in which Albia exists is a strange and wonderous one – Albia is the fourth realm of five, which, while all being on the...more Please note: I originally read and reviewed this book in July 2011. I am updating the formatting and adding the disclosure that I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Book Info: Genre: Fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: Fans of epic fantasy
Trigger Warnings: Violence, torture

My Synopsis: The world in which Albia exists is a strange and wonderous one – Albia is the fourth realm of five, which, while all being on the same world, have no contact other than through the Veils, a metaphysical force that separates the realms. Only Artesans, those who are able to control metaforce – or life force, as it is also known – through the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water, are able to pierce the Veils and travel to other realms, although that is not always wise, as some of the other realms are war-like and dangerous.

In Albia, the Artesan gift is in disfavor and decline, because Artesans from the Third Realm, Relkor, and the Fifth Realm, Andaryon, have raided Albia for so long; most Albians believe all Artesans are only out for power and gain. Therefore, when Taran’s father died two years before the start of the story, Taran was stranded at Journeyman level and had no one with whom to train so that he could advance to higher levels of prowess. He decides, in a moment of despair, to try crossing to Andaryon – which has many strong Artesans – to see if he can acquire a teacher there. To say things do not go well is an understatement. Upon his return to Albia, and his recovery, he learns that the Andaryons, who had signed a pact 20 years previously to stop their raiding, have started to raid again; Taran decides that this is his fault, due to what occurred in Andaryon, and he, his apprentice Cal, and Cal’s lover – the healer Rienne – set out for the local garrison to report what he knows to Major Sullyan, who he has heard from a family friend (and village elder), Paulus, he should contact.

When Major Sullyan is sent to Andaryon as an ambassador of Albian’s king, it is decided that Taran will accompany her, along with her captain, Robin, and Bulldog, a retired military man and member of Sullyan’s staff. However, the men are recalled the next day due to an increase in the raiding in Albia, and forced to leave Sullyan alone among the Andaryons. When she disappears, they must go back to try to discover what happened.

My Thoughts: I fear I’ve given too much away, although I’ve tried to be vague and left many things out; however, it is difficult to describe the plot otherwise. Ms. Peace is wonderfully inventive and has created a most unique world. Based upon the glossary, details given about the various realms and other addenda at the end of the book, she’s spent a great deal of time working out all the details to make sure she is able to mesh everything together smoothly. She’s even plotted the geography very carefully – I was much impressed with this, and also with her character development, which was done in stages and worked into the plot to a degree where we learned a great deal about the characters, but the action was hardly slowed down at all. All in all, a most impressive book and I will eagerly look forward to the upcoming completion of the trilogy – King’s Champion scheduled for August 2012 and King’s Artesan scheduled for August 2013. I highly recommend that fans of fantasy adventure books check this one out – it’s a great read and you will not be disappointed.(less)

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Jul 20, 2012 Donna Weaver rated it 4 of 5 stars

What's it about?

Taran Elijah's quest for knowledge uncovers a plot that threatens the world. In Albia, the fourth realm, the precious Artesan gift is dying. Although born to the craft, Taran is struggling to achieve his potential. Against his friends' advice, he embarks on a foolhardy plan to acquire the teaching he craves. Alone, he crosses into Andaryon, the fifth realm, but instead of finding a mentor, he stumbles upon a treacherous plot. In the wake of Taran's actions, Albia suffers a series...more

3 likes · like · see review

Dec 30, 2011 edifanob rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-books, 2011-reads

A great start of a fantasy series which is in part predictable but that does not matter when you follow loveable characters full of emotions. An adventure in a world with magic. A good mix of action, dialogue and inner thoughts.
I look forward to read the next book after the cliffhanger ending of book one.

What shall I say. Are you looking for a fantasy series which is compelling, powerful, fresh and fragile and nevertheless easy to read then you get both my thumbs up for King's Envoy by Cas Peace...more

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Feb 28, 2011 Cas Peace rated it 5 of 5 stars · (Review from the author)

This is the first novel in the Artesans of Albia fantasy series, a major new series for readers aged 15 and over.

The discovery of a mysterious and terrible weapon threatens the existence of every Artesan in every realm. Who could have created such a dreadful thing, and why? Taran Elijah has stumbled upon a dark and treacherous force moving through the realms, and has no choice but to turn to Major Sullyan of the High King’s forces for help. The Artesan craft, the lives of their friends, even the...more

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Jul 21, 2012 Andy Angel rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book, the first in a series, is the fiction debut of Cas Peace but you wouldn't know that - the writing and descriptive ability of Ms. Peace are those of an accomplished author.

The story is set in a land of 5 realms, all different and all seperate but the main setting here are the 4th and 5th realms of Albia and Andaryon.

At the start we meet Journeyman Artesan Taran Elijah. In an effort to increase his knowledge and further his Artesan abilities he crosses over from Albia to Andaryon but...more

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Aug 22, 2011 Shelly rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Although the story line and abilities of the characters are interesting, I had a difficult time getting into this book. The fantasy world that exists within the pages of this book includes people who have varying degrees of power. The main character has a desire to gain more power and understanding of his abilities and goes to a different realm in search of someone who can teach him. He comes upon some trouble and ends up killing a man of some import as well as escaping with a powerful and dange...more

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Mar 18, 2013 Dawn Peers rated it 5 of 5 stars

King's Envoy has a striking cover and well-architectured (yes, that's now a word) blurb. So with high hopes, I took some tentative steps in to "King's Envoy"

I'm not a reviewer of spoilers and plot-repetition so suffice it to say the plot is clear and well-structured, and the action moves at a pace that quite simply made me want to keep on turning the pages until the book was done. It's been a long time since a novel made me pull a late-night stint to get it finished however I quite simply did no...more

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Aug 14, 2011 Krystal rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc

Readers will love this fantasy world carefully crafted by Cas Pearce. The difference between the "fourth realm" and the "fifth realm" is both intriguing and disturbing-the reader will get to visit both. Taran, the main character, acts as the reader's guide. He is slightly reckless, caring, and strong-willed. He is mostly a likable character; he is flawed, but his flaws add to the story. The reader will get to know Taran very well during the novel...almost to the point of guessing his next decisi...more

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Aug 14, 2011 Cherie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Cas Peace's King's Envoy weaves a magical tale that's a supremely masterful fantasy.

Taran Elijah will do anything for knowledge and to rise above his Journeyman rank. When he crosses into the fifth realm, his quest goes terribly wrong. He flees to his own realm, but he returns with a powerful magical object. Now he, his apprentice, and a healer must journey to the Manor to speak with Major Sullyan. The fifth realm is attacking Albia, but the complexities of politics and war might be too much. T...more

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Aug 15, 2011 Jonathan Brett rated it 5 of 5 stars

http://athinkersblog.com/2011/08/15/k...

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Feb 22, 2011 Gerry Dailey rated it 5 of 5 stars

An enchanting world, designed by a talented woman who has created kingdoms of engaging characters who must use their lives fighting formidable evil. Yet, these people have lives of their own to live and kingdoms to sacrifice themselves for, and children to birth and raise, love to find and hold, and dear friends to bury when their time has come.

After spending time in Albia with the artesans, it is not easy to forget Taran, Bull, and Sully, and their deep friendship and love for each other. Cas P...more

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Nov 21, 2011 Tifferz rated it 3 of 5 stars

This was my first paranormal fantasy read by Cas Peace. This is book one in a three book series. This story has a cool plot. I liked this heart pounding adventure. I was pulled into other realms with Teran, Major Sullyan, Robin and Bull. It seems people want more power.
I only wish they would have put the glossary in the front of the book instead of the back.I am wishing I had some magical powers. Very fun read that leaves you wanting more. I even think my daughter would enjoy this read. This is...more

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Mar 01, 2011 David C Snell rated it 5 of 5 stars

A really gripping read and great start to the trilogy.

The characters are complex and interesting. Sullyan is a superb lead character and, Robin is an excellent “leading man” whose character is more complex than merely that of the “love interest”. Bull is also very credible as the old soldier/sergeant major with the gruff exterior and the heart of gold. The 'black' characters are also more than just 'evil'. A number of plots and sub-plot twists and you are left waiting for book 2. An excellent st...more

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May 03, 2012 Misty Rayburn rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Taran Elijah is an Artesan and like most Artesans, he has a thirst for knowledge and a drive to develop his abilities. His father has passed away and the Artesan gift in Albia is dying. This leads him to crossing the realms to Andaryon. Instead of finding a mentor, he stumbles upon a treacherous plot. In the wake of Taran’s foolhardy actions, Albia suffers vicious raids from Andaryon “demons”.

Major Sullyan of the High King’s forces is sent to oppose them and instead finds that there’s a dark and...more

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Apr 24, 2012 Tiffany Cole rated it 4 of 5 stars

Taran Elijah and his apprentice, Cal, are Artesans. Unfortunately, Artesans - with their powerful ability to travel between realms, use their psyche for metaphysical strength/healing, and manipulate the four elements - aren't accepted in Albia, the fourth realm, where Taran, Cal, and Cal's lover, Rienne, live. There, Artesans are seen as little more than witches. In fact, if not for Rienne's status as a popular healer and Taran's close relationship with the innkeeper, Taran and Cal would probabl...more Taran Elijah and his apprentice, Cal, are Artesans. Unfortunately, Artesans - with their powerful ability to travel between realms, use their psyche for metaphysical strength/healing, and manipulate the four elements - aren't accepted in Albia, the fourth realm, where Taran, Cal, and Cal's lover, Rienne, live. There, Artesans are seen as little more than witches. In fact, if not for Rienne's status as a popular healer and Taran's close relationship with the innkeeper, Taran and Cal would probably be treated a lot worse.

In spite of that, Taran is eager almost to the point of desperation to advance his training, but he is confident there are no Artesans left in Albia to help him. However, in Andaryon, the fifth realm, Artesans are revered. Taran travels to Andaryon in the hopes that if he challenges an Artesan and wins or forces a draw, he can choose knowledge about the Artesan craft as his prize.

The plan was a dangerous one from the get-go. Taran has to leave the portway between his realm and the fifth realm open, meaning that, while he can quickly get back to the fourth realm, so can anything else that decides to jump into the portway. He knows very little about the fifth realm and the Andaryon's fighting customs (which, of course, works to his disadvantage).

When he gets into a fatal battle with a noble and returns back to his realm with an extremely deadly Staff way beyond his power and understanding, his simple plan to learn more sets a series of destructive actions into motion that will forever change his life and the lives of everyone in the realms - especially the fourth and fifth realm.

I remember exactly when I became emotionally invested in King's Envoy. My heart quickened and my thoughts stopped jumping around. I remember reading the sentences with a greedy quickness, like I would miss the battle if I didn't read fast enough. What I loved most about Taran's battle with the noble was the dreadful and excited feeling the outcome gave me. The moment Taran won that battle, you KNEW the story was about to take an intense turn.

There were two other times where I felt very emotionally invested. The second time came when Rienne connected with Major Sullyan (an integral character you'll meet halfway through the story). They basically had a girl's night just to drink and talk. It's been a while since I've read such a heartwarming and realistic beginning of a true friendship. The third time? At the very end, when the characters were escaping from enemy forces. There I was, way immersed in the escape, when 'The End' snuck up on me and left me eager for more.

The only thing that bothered me was that the Staff, the powerful and mysterious item that Taran took back to his own realm, was basically put on the backburner for the entirety of the novel. I'm certain it will play a vital role in the second and/or third book, but just leaving something that powerful sitting around in the background of all the action didn't sit well with me.

All in all, I thought this was a really great book. While I found it both frustrating and great that the main character was inexperienced and often prone to mistakes, I felt a lot more connected to the secondary characters - namely Rienne, Major Sullyan, Bull, and Robin - and a little sorry for Cal, since there didn't seem to be anything particularly special about him in comparison to the other characters. Than again, it's not like that's a bad thing.

Every time I read a book published by Rhemalda, I am always amazed by the beautiful cover art and art within. Rhemalda did not fail to deliver with King's Envoy. Even more, I absolutely loved the addition of a glossary and maps.

In August 2012, the second book in this series - King's Champion - will be released. King's Envoy ended on such an awesome cliffhanger! Like I said above, 'The End' snuck up on me and left me eager for more.
(less)

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Sep 20, 2011 Rebecca rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: pure-fantasy

Beautiful typography and cover art complete this engaging fantasy that draws the reader into a well-fleshed-out other-worldly realm. Or I should say "realms," as there are five. The book begins innocently enough, with Taran, a young, inexperienced artesan trying to learn his craft, desperate to reach the next level in his training, and willing to do almost anything to achieve his goal. Unfortunately, his efforts nearly kill him and don't do his friends much good, either. He enters another realm...more Beautiful typography and cover art complete this engaging fantasy that draws the reader into a well-fleshed-out other-worldly realm. Or I should say "realms," as there are five. The book begins innocently enough, with Taran, a young, inexperienced artesan trying to learn his craft, desperate to reach the next level in his training, and willing to do almost anything to achieve his goal. Unfortunately, his efforts nearly kill him and don't do his friends much good, either. He enters another realm looking for assistance and finds instead a fierce fight, near death, and a magical staff that is nearly his undoing. His misadventures lead him though, to his destiny, which seems to be with the nearby garrison of soldiers, led by the mesmerizing Sullyan. He falls in love with her almost instantly, as does every man except her own superior, General Blaine. Taran and his compatriots, Cal and Rienne, join with Sullyan, Robin and Bull in a quest to discover what this mysterious staff has done and why their land is being systematically invaded by hostile forces from another realm. It turns out there are darker, more evil forces in play that neither Sullyan or any other adept has foreseen.

The author has obviously pondered this series very carefully. Every detail is clearly etched so that the reader becomes fully engaged with the setting as well as the characters. She understands, and with a skillful pen, shares, the politics, intrigues, customs, and traditions of these fantasy worlds, all the while drawing comprehensive character studies of her protagonists. The reader grows to understand the metaphysical abilities certain people are born with, and how they groom & strengthen these abilities until they master and can control Earth, Water, Fire and Air--not an easy task. At the same time we get to know the very human personalities, emotions, weaknesses and loves of our heroes and heroines.

I found little details fascinating: for instance, a magical silver called "spellsilver," which seems completely innocuous and is used as common silverware for eating, yet has the power to drain the strength of a metaphysical adept, rendering him/her helpless. I was moved by a dream that came to all our heroes simultaneously when their leader was in the gravest danger, waking them all at once, and intrigued by their efforts to find her, and as frustrated as they by their failure. I was also happy to discover a generous helping of humor in King's Envoy. Good old-fashioned humor lends that little extra to any dramatic fiction.

I requested a copy of King's Envoy before it was published and so received an ARC. I regret I am such a slow reader that I am just now writing my review, but I will say that I read the book deeply and carefully because I was so engrossed.

King's Envoy is the first of a trilogy. The second book is scheduled for release in August, 2012. (less)

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Nov 20, 2011 Kara Hartz rated it 3 of 5 stars

This one took a little while for me to get into. It takes place in a complex, multidimensional fantasy world and the reader is plunged into it without any background. Normally I like not too much back story, but I think a little here could have eased me into the world better. It was well into chapter 3 at least before I even understood anything that was happening or who anyone was. Once I started to get a handle on the characters, the actual story was interesting. Even so, there is a lot more to...more

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Apr 23, 2013 Denyse Cohen rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the best fantasy books I've ever read. The balance between background story and action is just perfect. Cas Peace won't make you read pages and pages of world-building details. Instead, the setting is laid out nicely as the plot progresses. Another thing I thought fabulous, was how well developed the villains are; not caricatured or one-dimensional. I'm very glad I found this author. I received this book as a courtesy for an honest review and all opinions are my own.

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Mar 16, 2013 Gillian rated it 5 of 5 stars

King's Envoy is the first of the Artesans of Albia series. There are many unique aspects explored in this book and each of them very well thought out, plotted and explained, especially in relation to the five realms and each of the races which live within them. Also explored in fine detail are the 'magical' abilities (called metaforce) which the Artesans work on improving through different stages and levels. There are a host of well developed characters, all of who have their strengths and fault...more

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Feb 17, 2011 Jady Dein rated it 5 of 5 stars

Artisans of Albia, a first novel by British author Cas peace, is an exciting addition to the world of fantasy. An epic saga of ambition, conquest, battle and romance, it takes the reader on a long and bumpy journey into lands much different to our own, yet strikingly familiar. It will surely one day make a blockbuster movie. One of a series, I eagerly await the next installment.

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Apr 03, 2013 Wendy Scott rated it 5 of 5 stars

Fabulous fantasy.The story and characters sparkled from the first page. Plenty of mystery, drawing the reader into the tale. Great world building with the five realms and look forward to seeing some of these other regions revealed in future books. Engaging characters with interesting interactions. Ended with suspense – just as well there’s more! Fantasy lovers will enjoy this series.

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Sep 13, 2011 Judith Arnopp rated it 4 of 5 stars

Taran Elijah is possessed of ‘the Artesan’s craft’ but has not yet reached his full potential. When treachery and danger threaten he sets off into the fifth realm to defend his homeland. The future of Albia lies in his hands but will he be strong enough to vanquish the evil forces?
King’s Envoy is a fantasy, which is not my usual choice of genre, but the author approaches it with such confidence that I was soon sucked into this other realm and found myself really enjoying it.
The characters are co...more

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Mar 09, 2012 Rachel rated it 5 of 5 stars

King's Envoy is the wonderful opening of what is sure to be a great series. Taran Elijah, the main character, was easy for me to relate to. He's not the confident hero. He's very human and has many misgivings, but he wants to expand his knowledge. This has been hard for him as he's been gifted with Artesan talent and he lives in Albia, a Realm where his abilities are reviled. Many other wonderful characters come into the story, and it's easy to feel at home with them too, for different reasons....more

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Jul 01, 2011 Abram Hoffmeister rated it 5 of 5 stars

Got an advance copy and I'm hooked. Very well written. I was immediately immersed into the world of Albia and slowly began relating to the characters. Cant wait for book 2!

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Nov 10, 2011 Amber Argyle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Taran craves the knowledge to advance his magic, but that knowledge isn't to be found in his realm. He will have to risk a foolhardy crossing into another realm to find a teacher.

But that crossing only shows his ignorance and reveals a sinister plot to destroy his entire realm. Taran flees his hometown and soon discovers that the very teachers he craved are mere miles from his home. Soon, he's learning more than he ever thought possible. But with his new associations come new dangers, dangers f...more

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Aug 18, 2011 Kara rated it 5 of 5 stars

If you are looking for a strong female character who is equal without verging into overbearing territory, this is your story.

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Sep 19, 2012 Mikey Brooks rated it 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable story that I can't wait to see where it goes next. Time to order the next book.

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Oct 18, 2011 Candace Bowen rated it 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this book and look forward to the next installment with anticipation.

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May 17, 2013 Kollisionwhispervortex is currently reading it

May 15, 2013 Legato Darksummers added it · review of another edition

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King's Envoy (Artesans of Albia #1)

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