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One Great Year #1
The Emissary
READERS FAVORITE GOLD MEDAL AWARD WINNER 2019!
For fans of Diana Gabaldon and Emily R. King, The Emissary is a new reincarnation fantasy adventure set across thousands of years of real historical events.
When the world collapses from a Golden Age into one of chaos and strife, mankind’s salvation lies in the hands of eternal Emissaries – guardians chosen to protect the secrets of a sacred ancient civilization and to help guide humanity back to enlightenment even as its darkest hour approaches.
Marcus and Theron are two lovers bound by an eternal and unshakable bond. As a series of catastrophic events nearly destroys their world, the two along with a chosen few become Emissaries destined, over the course of 13,000 years and through many reincarnations to lead humanity into an era of peace and prosperity as foretold by the Elders of their race. But the forces of evil have taken possession of one man, Helghul, who relentlessly pursues Marcus and Theron through time, determined to destroy them and ruin all hope for salvation.
The Emissary tracks Marcus’s epic adventure across centuries of human civilization to present day, where envoys of darkness gather together, threatening to bury the life-giving secrets of Atitala forever.
Veitch and DeFazio’s award winning debut novel deftly blends elements of fantasy-adventure with historical fiction to create an unforgettable tale of eternal love, undying devotion, betrayal, suffering and the hope that binds us all.
For fans of Diana Gabaldon and Emily R. King, The Emissary is a new reincarnation fantasy adventure set across thousands of years of real historical events.
When the world collapses from a Golden Age into one of chaos and strife, mankind’s salvation lies in the hands of eternal Emissaries – guardians chosen to protect the secrets of a sacred ancient civilization and to help guide humanity back to enlightenment even as its darkest hour approaches.
Marcus and Theron are two lovers bound by an eternal and unshakable bond. As a series of catastrophic events nearly destroys their world, the two along with a chosen few become Emissaries destined, over the course of 13,000 years and through many reincarnations to lead humanity into an era of peace and prosperity as foretold by the Elders of their race. But the forces of evil have taken possession of one man, Helghul, who relentlessly pursues Marcus and Theron through time, determined to destroy them and ruin all hope for salvation.
The Emissary tracks Marcus’s epic adventure across centuries of human civilization to present day, where envoys of darkness gather together, threatening to bury the life-giving secrets of Atitala forever.
Veitch and DeFazio’s award winning debut novel deftly blends elements of fantasy-adventure with historical fiction to create an unforgettable tale of eternal love, undying devotion, betrayal, suffering and the hope that binds us all.
200 pages, Paperback
First published October 9, 2018
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January 24, 2023
**I was provided with an ARC for an honest review.**
This book is about souls. Hate and love. Romantic and family. And the power of the universe that each soul tries to connect to each other and so rarely can.... But that never stops us, does it??
But first. I must say it.‼️Authors. Please remember and respect your readers to include TRIGGER WARNINGS in your synopsis of your book‼️
You do not know the experiences of trauma and consent of your readers so it is ESSENTIAL to be upfront and include this info. This book does contain scenes of sexual assault and other violent sexual acts.
Now that that's been said.
I adore the idea of reincarnation !!! and this book took a unique take featuring: One soul set to bring evil into the world. Another trying to find their first love. And millions of souls meeting over several lifetimes--- but only two have the ability to retain memories over those lifetimes.
AND OF COURSE ITS ONE OF THE EVIL ONES GODDAMNNITTTT
Our Main characters
♛ Marcus . I loved how even in his first 'best' self, he was still a flawed being. He wished he was more courageous. He was prone to anger when friends endangered. He was willing to break the rules and chose the more difficult path in order to combat the evil he saw.
His reincarnations, Sartaña & Quinn were soooo interesting that I honestly wish the book had been more focused more on his different reincarnations instead of the initial utopia magic good vibes worlds that set-up the book.
✿ Theron the daughter of the White Elder. Her soul is described as beautiful, caring, and pure that is horribly tested to its limits via her reincarnations Inti & Eden Anderson
"Inti was only aware of his current life. His Theron-brain was completely forgotten, and though his purpose as an Emissary flowed within him, it only represented whispers, compared to the daily shouting of Katari."
☠ Helghul the third of the BFF trio who isn't *quite* at good at resisting temptations as others *cough* reincarnation Katari, fuck that guy, cough*
The dynamics between these three characters as they are separated throughout time and space to be reunited in truly bizarre circumstances gave the book more of an enlightened feel to it than your typical fantasy ☯
I mean spoilers being reincarnated as a woman and being excited over the love and bond of motherhood was precious to read!! His reunion with the love of his life that initially had sexual romantic feelings for.... interesting
Looking back, weirdly enough the dark scenes made wayyy more sense than the good guy scenes.
I would be sitting wondering what is the point of these Emissaries. They are going somewhere ?? new to do ?? something ?? helpful?? but *confused shrugs*
But then the bad guys Adversaries clearly talked about what they were trying to prevent, -- stop the Emissaries from trying to bring enlightenment + hope to this new world
And then chaos promptly ensues that has you on the edge of your seat, desperately flipping the pages throughout time and space waiting to see how the souls reunite and how those essence good vibes from the Beginning World will come back into play
That's a fucking great plot!
But the way the story GOT to that point... left me *quite* bewildered at times.
The worldbuilding was unique but struggled in emphasis. It just felt like the majority of the book spent time in the Beginning World yet i never really understood its dynamics or structure.
The beginning describes a utopia that I'm calling Beginning World that mentions an Inner Earth and Outer Earth and Tunnels. For as much time spent in this initial world, I really didn't understand the structure or culture of it at all in how it related to the new world that we know of as world world.
In the beginning, it just felt like there was ... and this is a technical term... a shitton of extra details.?.
We have Elders. But the elders don't really explain the changes happening to this world.
We have Nephilim giants. And Guardians. And the Arya people. And a Willow Man. and Horses that represent the 4 elements.
And this was all just within the FIRST 6 FRIGGEN CHAPTERS !! besides a brief physical description or encounter on one page, Im *quite* confused why the authors took paragraphs aside to describe them instead of getting to the action with the reincarnation.
But once the book *finally* jumps right into the actual Emissary with traveling through time and space my interest was immediately recaptured and I couldn't read fast enough ♡
"I will never leave you, he and Theron had promised each other back in Atitala, but it wasn’t true. They did leave each other. Over and over they left one another, and over and over he searched.
There were much bigger stakes that had to be considered: Helghul, the Beast, and finding the Emerald Tablet"
Overall, I liked this book because it took risks. It had an interesting premise and good characters, that were delightfully outside the norm. The plot was clearly building towards something, but my limited attention span got distracted by all the Beginning World that majority of setting focused on. The storyline of this book was quite interesting and I liked all the characters *good, evil, and otherwise*. Buttt the Beginning World felt like it dragged out a little bit and got a tad boring with details that didn't seem to be leading anywhere.
I honestly would've preferred if these interesting Beginning World concepts had been incorporated more throughout the story. Instead of the info dumps all limited to the beginning. It would've been amazing for one of Marcs's reincarnation commenting on how SOMETHING in the modern world reminded him of that Beginning World---To give those concepts more significance or have those beginning elements more seen throughout time as the Emissaries were first charged to do so.
I am curious why tho, with all the amazing emphasis on the importance of soul, that the authors didn't even try to acknowledge or attempt any reincarnations of the romantic pair to have non-heterosexual romantic relationships. Yes. the gender change was shockingly amazing and surprisingly beautifully written to show how an old soul would react to that. But in the end, the souls remained in their initial forms and we lost those potential encounters of the romantic characters in different ways and bodies -- all pure and full of love.
In the end, the fact that I have so much to say on the matter and questions about the future of these souls only go to show the brilliance of the author's concept that is so unique and could've gone in so many ways. I recommend reading this book purely for the emotions it will invoke, the thoughts it causes you to question, and the complex souls this book follows.
Expectations for rest of the series:
Will the Willow Man or his sacred Lemurian home-- Shambhala make a reappearance?
Can a soul's memory ever be restored? Does the power of the coupling contribute to that?
Are new Elders ever chosen in this new world? Will the ones of the old world ever come back?
This book is about souls. Hate and love. Romantic and family. And the power of the universe that each soul tries to connect to each other and so rarely can.... But that never stops us, does it??
But first. I must say it.‼️Authors. Please remember and respect your readers to include TRIGGER WARNINGS in your synopsis of your book‼️
You do not know the experiences of trauma and consent of your readers so it is ESSENTIAL to be upfront and include this info. This book does contain scenes of sexual assault and other violent sexual acts.
Now that that's been said.
I adore the idea of reincarnation !!! and this book took a unique take featuring: One soul set to bring evil into the world. Another trying to find their first love. And millions of souls meeting over several lifetimes--- but only two have the ability to retain memories over those lifetimes.
AND OF COURSE ITS ONE OF THE EVIL ONES GODDAMNNITTTT
Our Main characters
♛ Marcus . I loved how even in his first 'best' self, he was still a flawed being. He wished he was more courageous. He was prone to anger when friends endangered. He was willing to break the rules and chose the more difficult path in order to combat the evil he saw.
His reincarnations, Sartaña & Quinn were soooo interesting that I honestly wish the book had been more focused more on his different reincarnations instead of the initial utopia magic good vibes worlds that set-up the book.
✿ Theron the daughter of the White Elder. Her soul is described as beautiful, caring, and pure that is horribly tested to its limits via her reincarnations Inti & Eden Anderson
"Inti was only aware of his current life. His Theron-brain was completely forgotten, and though his purpose as an Emissary flowed within him, it only represented whispers, compared to the daily shouting of Katari."
☠ Helghul the third of the BFF trio who isn't *quite* at good at resisting temptations as others *cough* reincarnation Katari, fuck that guy, cough*
The dynamics between these three characters as they are separated throughout time and space to be reunited in truly bizarre circumstances gave the book more of an enlightened feel to it than your typical fantasy ☯
I mean spoilers being reincarnated as a woman and being excited over the love and bond of motherhood was precious to read!! His reunion with the love of his life that initially had sexual romantic feelings for.... interesting
Looking back, weirdly enough the dark scenes made wayyy more sense than the good guy scenes.
I would be sitting wondering what is the point of these Emissaries. They are going somewhere ?? new to do ?? something ?? helpful?? but *confused shrugs*
But then the bad guys Adversaries clearly talked about what they were trying to prevent, -- stop the Emissaries from trying to bring enlightenment + hope to this new world
And then chaos promptly ensues that has you on the edge of your seat, desperately flipping the pages throughout time and space waiting to see how the souls reunite and how those essence good vibes from the Beginning World will come back into play
That's a fucking great plot!
But the way the story GOT to that point... left me *quite* bewildered at times.
The worldbuilding was unique but struggled in emphasis. It just felt like the majority of the book spent time in the Beginning World yet i never really understood its dynamics or structure.
The beginning describes a utopia that I'm calling Beginning World that mentions an Inner Earth and Outer Earth and Tunnels. For as much time spent in this initial world, I really didn't understand the structure or culture of it at all in how it related to the new world that we know of as world world.
In the beginning, it just felt like there was ... and this is a technical term... a shitton of extra details.?.
We have Elders. But the elders don't really explain the changes happening to this world.
We have Nephilim giants. And Guardians. And the Arya people. And a Willow Man. and Horses that represent the 4 elements.
And this was all just within the FIRST 6 FRIGGEN CHAPTERS !! besides a brief physical description or encounter on one page, Im *quite* confused why the authors took paragraphs aside to describe them instead of getting to the action with the reincarnation.
But once the book *finally* jumps right into the actual Emissary with traveling through time and space my interest was immediately recaptured and I couldn't read fast enough ♡
"I will never leave you, he and Theron had promised each other back in Atitala, but it wasn’t true. They did leave each other. Over and over they left one another, and over and over he searched.
There were much bigger stakes that had to be considered: Helghul, the Beast, and finding the Emerald Tablet"
Overall, I liked this book because it took risks. It had an interesting premise and good characters, that were delightfully outside the norm. The plot was clearly building towards something, but my limited attention span got distracted by all the Beginning World that majority of setting focused on. The storyline of this book was quite interesting and I liked all the characters *good, evil, and otherwise*. Buttt the Beginning World felt like it dragged out a little bit and got a tad boring with details that didn't seem to be leading anywhere.
I honestly would've preferred if these interesting Beginning World concepts had been incorporated more throughout the story. Instead of the info dumps all limited to the beginning. It would've been amazing for one of Marcs's reincarnation commenting on how SOMETHING in the modern world reminded him of that Beginning World---To give those concepts more significance or have those beginning elements more seen throughout time as the Emissaries were first charged to do so.
I am curious why tho, with all the amazing emphasis on the importance of soul, that the authors didn't even try to acknowledge or attempt any reincarnations of the romantic pair to have non-heterosexual romantic relationships. Yes. the gender change was shockingly amazing and surprisingly beautifully written to show how an old soul would react to that. But in the end, the souls remained in their initial forms and we lost those potential encounters of the romantic characters in different ways and bodies -- all pure and full of love.
In the end, the fact that I have so much to say on the matter and questions about the future of these souls only go to show the brilliance of the author's concept that is so unique and could've gone in so many ways. I recommend reading this book purely for the emotions it will invoke, the thoughts it causes you to question, and the complex souls this book follows.
Expectations for rest of the series:
Will the Willow Man or his sacred Lemurian home-- Shambhala make a reappearance?
Can a soul's memory ever be restored? Does the power of the coupling contribute to that?
Are new Elders ever chosen in this new world? Will the ones of the old world ever come back?
March 15, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. My sincerest thanks to the author and publisher. :)
Quite the solid introduction to this world and series I must say. The beginning of the book suffers a bit from one not being sure exactly what is going on. Almost as if you are just dropped into the world.
However once you get past that part the story really gets moving as you gain understanding into this unique take on ancient myths, history, and present day life.
Like many novels this is a classic good vs evil setting and I really enjoyed the idea of cycles of humanity, much like Plato's cycle of governments. There are enlightened era's that decline into what we deemed the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Dark Age etc. These cycles being natural but are attempted to be influenced by higher beings whether light or dark.
Something a bit unusual for a work of fiction this book includes a bibliography! Covering the various religious aspects, historical, and scientific theorems used for the world. Really impressed me as it showed the authors had a desire to research a base of reality or actual theory for their world and story purposes.
Now that the story has opened up fully I am very interested in the 2nd volume.
Quite the solid introduction to this world and series I must say. The beginning of the book suffers a bit from one not being sure exactly what is going on. Almost as if you are just dropped into the world.
However once you get past that part the story really gets moving as you gain understanding into this unique take on ancient myths, history, and present day life.
Like many novels this is a classic good vs evil setting and I really enjoyed the idea of cycles of humanity, much like Plato's cycle of governments. There are enlightened era's that decline into what we deemed the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Dark Age etc. These cycles being natural but are attempted to be influenced by higher beings whether light or dark.
Something a bit unusual for a work of fiction this book includes a bibliography! Covering the various religious aspects, historical, and scientific theorems used for the world. Really impressed me as it showed the authors had a desire to research a base of reality or actual theory for their world and story purposes.
Now that the story has opened up fully I am very interested in the 2nd volume.
December 10, 2018
The world has collapsed. Mankind’s fate is on the cusp of ruination, if not for Emissaries, eternal souls who are tasked with guiding humanity back from the abyss of darkness.
Two souls will find an unbreakable bond of love, but their paths will diverge through reincarnation after reincarnation, will they ever find their own eternal happiness or as Emissaries, must they put mankind before their hearts?
Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio have created an epic fantasy filled with darkness, tortured love and the eternal battle of good versus evil, while hope for a better future lay in the balance. Very detailed in the beginning, the scenes are set as we feel the wheels of time begin to churn, but later, it felt as if the story were being forced to fast-forward a bit too quickly or unevenly. That said, there is always a feeling of the unknown, just out of reach where something is going to happen that will have great impact on this story!
The groundwork has been set for what could be an intense and fascinating series for epic fantasy lovers!
I received a complimentary copy from Rene DeFazio!
Series: One Great Year - Book 1
Publisher: Waterside Press (October 9, 2018)
Publication Date: October 9, 2018
Genre: Sci-fi | Fantasy
Print Length: 200 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Two souls will find an unbreakable bond of love, but their paths will diverge through reincarnation after reincarnation, will they ever find their own eternal happiness or as Emissaries, must they put mankind before their hearts?
Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio have created an epic fantasy filled with darkness, tortured love and the eternal battle of good versus evil, while hope for a better future lay in the balance. Very detailed in the beginning, the scenes are set as we feel the wheels of time begin to churn, but later, it felt as if the story were being forced to fast-forward a bit too quickly or unevenly. That said, there is always a feeling of the unknown, just out of reach where something is going to happen that will have great impact on this story!
The groundwork has been set for what could be an intense and fascinating series for epic fantasy lovers!
I received a complimentary copy from Rene DeFazio!
Series: One Great Year - Book 1
Publisher: Waterside Press (October 9, 2018)
Publication Date: October 9, 2018
Genre: Sci-fi | Fantasy
Print Length: 200 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 14, 2018
Since the beginning of time, humanity has had guardians, eternal beings known as the Emissaries, to guide humanity from destruction and extinction into the next enlightenment. Marcus and Theron are two of the chosen Emissaries to preserve humanity and usher in the next great year, as foretold by their Elders. Not only that, they’re lovers and with each reincarnation, Marcus remembers their love, but Theron does not. This time, though, they have an enemy disguised as a friend whose goal is to destroy them and their plan. Will Marcus and Theron succeed in escorting a new era for humanity or will the forces of evil gain an upper hand? Will Marcus have to choose between duty and his love for Theron?
The Emissary is a beautiful epic fantasy filled with ancient mythology, eternal love and war over good and evil. Well researched, Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio bring both past and future worlds to life. I found myself transported to ancient times and a bleak future with ease. The world building, while intricate in details, provides the reader with an immense foundation for future books in the series. This is nothing like I’ve read before and I couldn’t get enough. I can’t wait to read more in the series!
If you love epic fantasy and are looking for something original, pick this up today!
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
The Emissary is a beautiful epic fantasy filled with ancient mythology, eternal love and war over good and evil. Well researched, Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio bring both past and future worlds to life. I found myself transported to ancient times and a bleak future with ease. The world building, while intricate in details, provides the reader with an immense foundation for future books in the series. This is nothing like I’ve read before and I couldn’t get enough. I can’t wait to read more in the series!
If you love epic fantasy and are looking for something original, pick this up today!
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
March 13, 2019
The Emissary
The One Great Year Series,
Book 1
Tamara Veitch & Rene DeFazio
Waterside Press, Oct 2018
200 pages, Kindle, paperback, audiobook, audio CD
Urban Fantasy
Provided by Authors
✮✮✮✮⭑
The cover is subtle but attractive. When I first saw the design, I thought of an old quilt pattern called Orange Peel. However, once I got involved in the story, I realized that the six petals within the circle are a flower design. It is the flower of life. The pattern and mention of it recur often in the story. This is not simply a pretty line drawing to cover the front of the book, but an integral part of the story that one comes to understand as you get into the story and get to know the characters and events unfold.
The story itself is simple and yet it may seem complex at the same time. The people of Atitala were facing the end of their world. To carry the knowledge and cultural ideas of their advanced civilization out to the generations to follow, they sent Emissaries into time. These Emissaries would live and try to spread their knowledge, die and be reborn to start all over again. In this way, the knowledge and cultural ways of Atitala would be carried on down the centuries until the world was ready for it again. There is good in the world and we see it so clearly because there is bad in the world to compare it to. So with the Emissaries, there were good and there were bad.
The authors created characters for each of these roles and did so well, that one just can’t imagine any of them crossing over to the other’s camp. Marcus and Theron play by the rules and are squeaky clean. Theron is the daughter of the highest of the Elders, White Elder. There are eight Elders, each assigned a color of the light spectrum from white to black. The Black Elder does not mingle with the common population as he is definitely “bad” and can’t function within the society as others do. At the other end of the spectrum, as you may guess, White Elder is the best of the best so that Green, Red, Yellow, Blue, Orange, and Grey Elder fall somewhere in between. I love using color for designators. Into this elevated, enlightened culture was born three children, Marcus, Theron, and Helghul. All three predicted to do great things for their people and culture.
The authors have created characters who travel through time with each of their rebirths and sometimes recognize each other and sometimes not. With each rebirth, they must create a new character and yet retain something of the original character, which the authors have done rather cleverly. As turn and turn again over the centuries the three main characters tumble through time, only two of them retaining any memory of their joint past. The third often a catalyst for violence and destruction.
The pace keeps things moving from start to stop and the tension remains high for the most part. There were times when I thought things were being drawn out a bit, but you can’t tell the story of centuries in just a few pages. The meeting at the end of this book took me not so much by surprise but seemed a bit abruptly handled after the previous centuries. But perhaps that was to make it feel immediate and in the present, which it certainly did. Now, I need to get the second book of this set to find out what happens. I recommend this to readers who enjoy fantasy with a mythological feel to it, almost a Biblical feel to it. I sort of kept looking for Moses to show up with some stone tablets but the culture is way too advanced for stone tablets, maybe iPads. Book two of this set, The Emerald Tablet is due out June 4th! And Book three already has a cover!
The One Great Year Series,
Book 1
Tamara Veitch & Rene DeFazio
Waterside Press, Oct 2018
200 pages, Kindle, paperback, audiobook, audio CD
Urban Fantasy
Provided by Authors
✮✮✮✮⭑
The cover is subtle but attractive. When I first saw the design, I thought of an old quilt pattern called Orange Peel. However, once I got involved in the story, I realized that the six petals within the circle are a flower design. It is the flower of life. The pattern and mention of it recur often in the story. This is not simply a pretty line drawing to cover the front of the book, but an integral part of the story that one comes to understand as you get into the story and get to know the characters and events unfold.
The story itself is simple and yet it may seem complex at the same time. The people of Atitala were facing the end of their world. To carry the knowledge and cultural ideas of their advanced civilization out to the generations to follow, they sent Emissaries into time. These Emissaries would live and try to spread their knowledge, die and be reborn to start all over again. In this way, the knowledge and cultural ways of Atitala would be carried on down the centuries until the world was ready for it again. There is good in the world and we see it so clearly because there is bad in the world to compare it to. So with the Emissaries, there were good and there were bad.
The authors created characters for each of these roles and did so well, that one just can’t imagine any of them crossing over to the other’s camp. Marcus and Theron play by the rules and are squeaky clean. Theron is the daughter of the highest of the Elders, White Elder. There are eight Elders, each assigned a color of the light spectrum from white to black. The Black Elder does not mingle with the common population as he is definitely “bad” and can’t function within the society as others do. At the other end of the spectrum, as you may guess, White Elder is the best of the best so that Green, Red, Yellow, Blue, Orange, and Grey Elder fall somewhere in between. I love using color for designators. Into this elevated, enlightened culture was born three children, Marcus, Theron, and Helghul. All three predicted to do great things for their people and culture.
The authors have created characters who travel through time with each of their rebirths and sometimes recognize each other and sometimes not. With each rebirth, they must create a new character and yet retain something of the original character, which the authors have done rather cleverly. As turn and turn again over the centuries the three main characters tumble through time, only two of them retaining any memory of their joint past. The third often a catalyst for violence and destruction.
The pace keeps things moving from start to stop and the tension remains high for the most part. There were times when I thought things were being drawn out a bit, but you can’t tell the story of centuries in just a few pages. The meeting at the end of this book took me not so much by surprise but seemed a bit abruptly handled after the previous centuries. But perhaps that was to make it feel immediate and in the present, which it certainly did. Now, I need to get the second book of this set to find out what happens. I recommend this to readers who enjoy fantasy with a mythological feel to it, almost a Biblical feel to it. I sort of kept looking for Moses to show up with some stone tablets but the culture is way too advanced for stone tablets, maybe iPads. Book two of this set, The Emerald Tablet is due out June 4th! And Book three already has a cover!
September 16, 2018
The Emissary is the first book in the One Great Year Book series written by Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio. A novel about a war between the immortal forces of good and evil as it stretches over many lifetimes. The Emissary is the first in a trilogy series on he Atitalans. This group of supernatural beings was sent to Earth to help guide the humans to help them adjust through the evolution of the next “Great Year.” A story that is engaging and written with a passion that is sure to stay with long after reading. Veitch and DeFazio have created a world of the unknown that is unlike any other. A world where you never know what is lurking just beyond the shadows. The Emissary is a thrilling and exciting first book in a fascinating series that ends with a To Be Continued note for a cliffhanger.
November 17, 2018
Tamara Veitch & Rene DeFazio are like the new age prophets. This book touches several ancient Indian concepts, cosmic powers, telepathic powers and physic powers that will just make your mind explode with information. The vast knowledge and conceptual apprehension this novel provided, is truly something that I appreciate. The amount of effort and research put into this by them is noteworthy. Although "The Emissary" is a fantasy novel, Tamara and Rene references to several ancient concepts is particular interesting and you truly begin to understand and make sense of it all.
Read full review here: https://urbancaver.wixsite.com/home/b...
Read full review here: https://urbancaver.wixsite.com/home/b...
April 30, 2019
I haven't reviewed many audiobooks before, but this one, just from the synopsis, I knew that it would be an amazing fantasy novel that I really wanted to know more about, no matter if it was by listening to the authors narrate it or by reading it. I didn't care, I just wanted to be a part of the adventure, and that's what happened.
I could tell you all about the world that the authors created but I don't want to spoil anything, so I will leave it in the air, let's just say that this world is complex, although not enough that you would be confused. Like life itself, it has many aspects, many characters that are connected, twists and turns, action and good and evil battling out.
I loved that I got to discover all the peculiarities about this world and about the emissaries by listening to the authors narrate the story. I listen to it during workout at the gym and at some points, I was running and I could almost feel like I was there with the characters and was running around. It was perfect for me and I loved that, I loved that the authors not only captivated me with the storytelling and the amazing characters and world, but they also captivated me with how they narrated the story.
I almost don't know what to say or think. I want to know more about the characters and I want to know if good wins and the future of mankind is safe. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, thanks to all the emotions, adrenaline, curiosity and concentration I had during the multiple times I listen to the audiobook.
I didn't listen to it in one sitting because I wanted to savor every moment and understand the world to it's fullest. Yet I was still wondering and looking for all the answers and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Since it's a storytelling about rebirth and love, as much as it is about saving mankind, in this fantasy world, my heart was fully in.
Overall, it's an amazing start of a series and I can't wait to know more and read and listen to more of their books in this series. Do I recommend it? Of course! If the synopsis and my review haven't sold the book yet, I do hope you still give it a try, just look at the cover and it's awesome design.
I could tell you all about the world that the authors created but I don't want to spoil anything, so I will leave it in the air, let's just say that this world is complex, although not enough that you would be confused. Like life itself, it has many aspects, many characters that are connected, twists and turns, action and good and evil battling out.
I loved that I got to discover all the peculiarities about this world and about the emissaries by listening to the authors narrate the story. I listen to it during workout at the gym and at some points, I was running and I could almost feel like I was there with the characters and was running around. It was perfect for me and I loved that, I loved that the authors not only captivated me with the storytelling and the amazing characters and world, but they also captivated me with how they narrated the story.
I almost don't know what to say or think. I want to know more about the characters and I want to know if good wins and the future of mankind is safe. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, thanks to all the emotions, adrenaline, curiosity and concentration I had during the multiple times I listen to the audiobook.
I didn't listen to it in one sitting because I wanted to savor every moment and understand the world to it's fullest. Yet I was still wondering and looking for all the answers and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Since it's a storytelling about rebirth and love, as much as it is about saving mankind, in this fantasy world, my heart was fully in.
Overall, it's an amazing start of a series and I can't wait to know more and read and listen to more of their books in this series. Do I recommend it? Of course! If the synopsis and my review haven't sold the book yet, I do hope you still give it a try, just look at the cover and it's awesome design.
January 14, 2019
I instantly found myself drawn into the story from Chapter One and was even more pleasantly surprised by the attention to detail as well as vivid description provided by the authors in the backstory of the main character prior to the life we witness at the outset of the novel. The authors have a great way of weaving in important aspects and definitions which are essential for the reader to know, without losing the magic of the novel itself.
As much as I enjoyed this novel and felt like there are many concepts (I want to read all the books in their bibliography!) which are important for our society to read about from Jung on Synchronicity to the Ica Stones, there were a few aspects of the storyline which hit too hard personally for me as a reader. Those aspects being the level of brutality and death within certain parts of the story.
I do understand the need for such brutality to juxtapose the darkness and the light; the needed depravity to shock not only the main character to the core but the reader also. I can recognize that we not only needed to see the fall of such a great age and consciousness but somehow feel it as well. Yet it was too much for me personally.
I found myself racing towards the end of the book, not wholly because I couldn't put it down but because I had to, my heart could not take the pain and loss anymore. This is an important story to be read, but I will warn you, dear readers, to guard your heart when you read some of the events within these pages. Thankfully the beauty outshines the darkness.
*** Copy received from the authors in exchange for an honest review ***
As much as I enjoyed this novel and felt like there are many concepts (I want to read all the books in their bibliography!) which are important for our society to read about from Jung on Synchronicity to the Ica Stones, there were a few aspects of the storyline which hit too hard personally for me as a reader. Those aspects being the level of brutality and death within certain parts of the story.
I do understand the need for such brutality to juxtapose the darkness and the light; the needed depravity to shock not only the main character to the core but the reader also. I can recognize that we not only needed to see the fall of such a great age and consciousness but somehow feel it as well. Yet it was too much for me personally.
I found myself racing towards the end of the book, not wholly because I couldn't put it down but because I had to, my heart could not take the pain and loss anymore. This is an important story to be read, but I will warn you, dear readers, to guard your heart when you read some of the events within these pages. Thankfully the beauty outshines the darkness.
*** Copy received from the authors in exchange for an honest review ***
January 9, 2019
The Emissary is a trilogy fantasy novel written about a group of supernaturals that come to earth in order to assist humans in welcoming what is known as the Great Year. Every 26 thousand years, the Atitalans, who are also known as the Emissaries, usher in the Great Year.
The Emissaries primarily consisted of three, named Marcus, Theron, and Helghul. Initially, all three used to get along, and Marcus and Theron were lovers. However, Helghul turned against them, and the fight between good and evil starts.
The story does not just end there though. A character named Quinn, who is Theron’s soul mate joins the storyline and changes all the dynamics of the story. As the book is to be a trilogy, the ending was not clear however it did create enough interest for the second book coming.
All the encounters are to save humanity and to guide them back to enlightenment and to rekindle a timeless tale of love, however, alongside the story we experience many encounters as the story takes on 13 thousand years of reincarnations.
The literature was appropriate as the content was about a war between the immortals. They were sent to help the humans and to create this hyper thrilling tale. I recommend this book to fantasy lovers and those who find these storylines interesting.
The Emissaries primarily consisted of three, named Marcus, Theron, and Helghul. Initially, all three used to get along, and Marcus and Theron were lovers. However, Helghul turned against them, and the fight between good and evil starts.
The story does not just end there though. A character named Quinn, who is Theron’s soul mate joins the storyline and changes all the dynamics of the story. As the book is to be a trilogy, the ending was not clear however it did create enough interest for the second book coming.
All the encounters are to save humanity and to guide them back to enlightenment and to rekindle a timeless tale of love, however, alongside the story we experience many encounters as the story takes on 13 thousand years of reincarnations.
The literature was appropriate as the content was about a war between the immortals. They were sent to help the humans and to create this hyper thrilling tale. I recommend this book to fantasy lovers and those who find these storylines interesting.
February 14, 2019
The Emissary (One Great Year Book 1) by Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio is a romance, adventure that is action packed from page one. Three friends try to save the world from its imminent decline into chaos and darkness where many will die and many more will suffer. Marcus and Theron must help humanity reach peace and prosperity while their friend, Helghul, turns to darkness and evilness to gain the power he has coveted for years. From the Golden Age to present day the three struggles through multiple reincarnations, while seeking to tip the balance of the world.
Veitch and DeFazio have created an engaging and exciting world of fantasy where morals, passions, love, jealousy and fear drive the story line and characters from beginning to end. The dialog is well done and believable. Character development is strong and complete. Their vivid descriptions enhance the story and character development. The storyline is intense and satisfying leaving the reader hooked from page one until the end; the story flows smoothly.
Anyone who enjoys fantasy, romance and battles of heroes against evil, this is perfect! A definite intensely captivating book. Cannot wait to read more by these talented authors!
Veitch and DeFazio have created an engaging and exciting world of fantasy where morals, passions, love, jealousy and fear drive the story line and characters from beginning to end. The dialog is well done and believable. Character development is strong and complete. Their vivid descriptions enhance the story and character development. The storyline is intense and satisfying leaving the reader hooked from page one until the end; the story flows smoothly.
Anyone who enjoys fantasy, romance and battles of heroes against evil, this is perfect! A definite intensely captivating book. Cannot wait to read more by these talented authors!
February 21, 2019
The book is exactly as it states - A timeless tale of love reborn through the ages. Accurate yes but there is so much more in the book to enjoy. I try not to read too much about a story before reading it as I like to go in somewhat blind. I wasn't into it at first as I had no clue where the story was headed. Then as the story began to progress I was hooked.
Imagine finding your one true love, your other self, your other half, not only on a physical level but on an eternal one that extents forever. In that time you are born, you live, and die over and over throughout time. Sometimes you find your special someone, sometimes you might be their dad, their mom, their husband, their wife, they could be the reverse, but the important thing is you find that person even though you don't know you are looking. The story isn't love and lust, it is about a couple that love each other and things like time and death can not stop.
The narration is good although I had to get used to the multiple speakers as I'm so accustomed to one person reading everything. It wasn't a bad adjustment.
Looking forward to the second book.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Imagine finding your one true love, your other self, your other half, not only on a physical level but on an eternal one that extents forever. In that time you are born, you live, and die over and over throughout time. Sometimes you find your special someone, sometimes you might be their dad, their mom, their husband, their wife, they could be the reverse, but the important thing is you find that person even though you don't know you are looking. The story isn't love and lust, it is about a couple that love each other and things like time and death can not stop.
The narration is good although I had to get used to the multiple speakers as I'm so accustomed to one person reading everything. It wasn't a bad adjustment.
Looking forward to the second book.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
December 1, 2018
The world is in a state of disarray and the only hope are the Emissaries; eternal guardians who have protected the secrets of our ancient civilization until a time where enlightenment can reign again. But there is a force that wants to stop them as they move through time.
Marcus and Theron are two of the chosen to preserve all that was Atitala. They are also lovers. As they tumble through time trying to find each other it’s not as easy as you might think to reconnect. Especially when one of the Emissaries is not working for good, but rather for evil. Helghul has been possessed for lack of a better word by the worst and he is striving to stop Marcus and Theron. Who will win this ultimate battle of good versus evil?
It took me a bit to get into this book. It was, at least at the start, one of those books that felt like it was smarter than me. But I didn’t let it win. Ultimately I figured out the players and what was going on and I triumphed! It was a wild read through time as these Emissaries tried to save society from itself. All of the questions have not been answered as there is at least another chapter so I will anxiously await it.
Marcus and Theron are two of the chosen to preserve all that was Atitala. They are also lovers. As they tumble through time trying to find each other it’s not as easy as you might think to reconnect. Especially when one of the Emissaries is not working for good, but rather for evil. Helghul has been possessed for lack of a better word by the worst and he is striving to stop Marcus and Theron. Who will win this ultimate battle of good versus evil?
It took me a bit to get into this book. It was, at least at the start, one of those books that felt like it was smarter than me. But I didn’t let it win. Ultimately I figured out the players and what was going on and I triumphed! It was a wild read through time as these Emissaries tried to save society from itself. All of the questions have not been answered as there is at least another chapter so I will anxiously await it.
January 29, 2019
I have read The Emissary in one single day and I can truly say I loved it. It is not alike me to think about light and darkness as the two pulling forces that govern the universe. I'm actually not into new age, buddhism, yoga and the likes of it. But The Emissary by Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio provides a new take on a tale as old as time.
The fight of light and darkness has been depicted and told throughout the history of mankind, yet, this time the authors arrive at a compelling, resounding story that vibrates in your mind with relatable, good-willed and ill-intended characters.
Everything from the locations, the characters, their emotions and the overall message that wants to be conveyed has an attractive pull that makes you want to finish it fast!
On the downside, I would like to say that the book looses some momentum when describing images from the past, though its attractive power returns when a higher purpose is revealed to the reader.
Overall, it was really an amazing experience and I truly recommend embarking in this adventure.
The fight of light and darkness has been depicted and told throughout the history of mankind, yet, this time the authors arrive at a compelling, resounding story that vibrates in your mind with relatable, good-willed and ill-intended characters.
Everything from the locations, the characters, their emotions and the overall message that wants to be conveyed has an attractive pull that makes you want to finish it fast!
On the downside, I would like to say that the book looses some momentum when describing images from the past, though its attractive power returns when a higher purpose is revealed to the reader.
Overall, it was really an amazing experience and I truly recommend embarking in this adventure.
January 8, 2021
“The Emissary” merges the concepts of past lives and soulmates in this engrossing story. Marcus and Helghul, once the closest of friends, are now the bitterest of enemies. Their friendship was weakened by Helghul’s ambition, and destroyed when Theron, the girl they both loved, fell in love with Marcus. When Theron and Marcus engaged in a special coupling, they became soulmates - able to find each other in all their next lives. But when Marcus stumbles in on Helghul performing a horrifying ceremony that goes against everything their people believe in, he knows he must act. He ends up swallowing a potion that will allow him to remember all of his past lives - so he can save the world from Helghul, who also swallows the potion. As the story progresses, we get to see some of Marcus’ other lives - where he never stops searching for Theron, his soulmate. But soulmates come in different and surprising forms, as you will find out if you pick up this book, which I definitely recommend you do!
* i received a free copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review *
* i received a free copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review *
December 9, 2018
The start I did feel dragged a bit, but once it got going, boy did it get going. The start was a lot of build up, details of the world being built and who the main characters used to be as children. You needed to know that, just something about it was a little boring to me. The rest of the book rewards you though. Really loved how you got to see past lives and how the Authors turned and twisted things. Seeing Marcus (male soul) in a female body was just great. It just threw a new layer into the world. I classed it as romance even though it is not listed as that on Goodreads. The main story is Marcus trying to find Theron again, so to me it comes across as a romance.
There is a rape scene, so just be aware of that.
(Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the Authors. Does not affect my review)
There is a rape scene, so just be aware of that.
(Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the Authors. Does not affect my review)
January 27, 2019
What I liked?
Without giving anything away, I can honestly say I was drawn in from the very beginning. The backstories on the main character mainly drew me. I knew a lot happened prior to the opening of this work and it made me want to go back and find out more.
Also, there are a lot of elements to this book. There’s the struggle concerning good and evil of course, but then you’ve got pieces of ancient history with sort of a dystopia twist. I thought it was pretty cool.
What I didn’t like?
The matter of the characters backstory was something that I liked but it also felt like there was more that could have been here. I wanted the authors to go into that more.
Overall?
This is a fantasy that also makes you think and I’m all for anything that makes you think so I recommend it. It’s lit enough for me to give it a go. Maybe you’ll enjoy it too.
Without giving anything away, I can honestly say I was drawn in from the very beginning. The backstories on the main character mainly drew me. I knew a lot happened prior to the opening of this work and it made me want to go back and find out more.
Also, there are a lot of elements to this book. There’s the struggle concerning good and evil of course, but then you’ve got pieces of ancient history with sort of a dystopia twist. I thought it was pretty cool.
What I didn’t like?
The matter of the characters backstory was something that I liked but it also felt like there was more that could have been here. I wanted the authors to go into that more.
Overall?
This is a fantasy that also makes you think and I’m all for anything that makes you think so I recommend it. It’s lit enough for me to give it a go. Maybe you’ll enjoy it too.
March 31, 2019
The first in a series of four, The Emissary leaves you on the edge of your seat, ready for more.
The story begins with Marcus, Theron and Helghul—friends who end up on a similar journey yet on very different paths. Appointed as Emissaries, they have a very special mission to “lead humanity into an era of peace and prosperity.” There is a bond of love, friendship and history that exists between the three of them through their many lives and reincarnations over a period of thousands of years, but the evil force that possesses one of them threatens to destroy everything.
This book had me on the edge of my seat several times while I was reading it. Each reincarnation brings with it new characters and several mini-stories that are woven together to tell the grander story. I finished Book 1 ready to dive right into Book 2 to find out what happens next!
The story begins with Marcus, Theron and Helghul—friends who end up on a similar journey yet on very different paths. Appointed as Emissaries, they have a very special mission to “lead humanity into an era of peace and prosperity.” There is a bond of love, friendship and history that exists between the three of them through their many lives and reincarnations over a period of thousands of years, but the evil force that possesses one of them threatens to destroy everything.
This book had me on the edge of my seat several times while I was reading it. Each reincarnation brings with it new characters and several mini-stories that are woven together to tell the grander story. I finished Book 1 ready to dive right into Book 2 to find out what happens next!
December 8, 2018
Love, enlightenment, and brings forth true emotions. I loved this book, from the start I was drawn in by the idea of The Great Year and how each age brings about knowledge and enlightenment. The story of Sartana truly reached me on a different level. As a mother it truly touched me and brought me to tears. This is a must read novel, I cannot wait to read The Emerald Tablet when it comes out in the new year. I cannot wait to continue this journey with Marcus and to see what other lives he lives and how he learns from each of them.
If you haven't read The Emissary yet, go buy it and love it and cherish it.
If you haven't read The Emissary yet, go buy it and love it and cherish it.
December 2, 2018
This is a book that, once started, is very hard to put down! I read in in two sessions, breaking only for a night's sleep and a reheated breakfast. As an author of non-fiction books I recognize good writing and 'the Emissary' is both well written and riveting.
Because I write on the meaning of life, I knew where it was likely going but that did not bother me in the least. To me that suggests you may read this book more than once! Make time to read this book and do not say you were not warned that it might be very hard to put down.
Because I write on the meaning of life, I knew where it was likely going but that did not bother me in the least. To me that suggests you may read this book more than once! Make time to read this book and do not say you were not warned that it might be very hard to put down.
February 26, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I love time travel & alternate reality books. While this isn’t exactly in either of those categories it does blur those lines a bit. I cant wait to see where Marcus ends up. Ready for book 2!
This would be a great book for older mature teens. I think book 2 will have more history in it. I am looking forward to it.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
This would be a great book for older mature teens. I think book 2 will have more history in it. I am looking forward to it.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
March 30, 2019
the adventurous of Marcus the emissary begin here. an easy and pleasant to hear audio with both male and females voices effects and clear sound. the story is intriguing and the world is fascinating while the plot builds up beautiful.
September 17, 2019
The Emissary. By Tamara Veitch, Rene DeFazio
This book was fascinating in it's breath and width of integration of ideas and philosophies reworked into a prescient story for the current time.
This book was fascinating in it's breath and width of integration of ideas and philosophies reworked into a prescient story for the current time.
February 23, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm kicking it out of the park this review round trying to finish up BEFORE the expiration dates haha!
The Emissary as a title is perhaps a little misleading in that it doesn't only talk about ONE, but multiple, however, I kind of like this take on Atlantis. I'm going to take it as such because, aside from the name, it basically sounds exactly like it, and Plato is even name-dropped right at the beginning of the book, not to mention that it sinks beneath the waves in the Atlantic ocean. SO, yes, this is a retelling of Atlantis and the cycle that apparently humanity goes through, though it isn't abundantly clear whether this has repeated itself over and over again, or if this is the first time, it kind of bounces back and forth in the text depending on who you're following. But overall, this is Atlantis, and it exists before the Bronze and Iron ages and the Dark Age, etc, and the citizens know that this is all coming, so they send out Emissaries to ensure that they can guide humanity back to the higher plane, to open up the consciousness, and to allow them to transcend.
Naturally, it won't be that easy, because there's got to be a bad guy who through some divine intervention and circumstances turns bad pretty much at the start of the book, and then it's a general battle of good and evil between the reincarnations, and the woman caught between them (yes, it's a sort of triangle).
It's not a standalone, so nothing gets resolved in this first book, in case anyone is looking for that kind of read, but we do get a decent set-up of the culture, the purpose of the Emissaries, and the struggle that one in particular, Marcus our protagonist (or Quinn in nowadays iteration) goes through. Because unlike the others sent out on their voyage, he is unique, like his arch nemesis, who used to be his best friend. And through it all he constantly searches for Theron, his soulmate, though doesn't always find her.
A lot of the book is exposition about what the Emissaries do, how they're stronger together, and how a Beast has taken over the nemesis so that, so it looks, he may be redeemed towards the end of the story, though truth be told I don't think that should be in the cards for him as even before the event which changes him irrevocably, he's already giving off some vibes that are against what his people believe.
Actually, the trio are fairly well-known representations, of the two best friends who essentially argue over a woman, one of whom knows great things are expected from him, accepts it, and expects it right back, and another who is humble and just wants to give. Then comes the female who seems to be flawlessly compassionate, and so very kind and giving she can't see the problem right in front of her nose, which is that the best friend they knew and loved is a possessive, jealous freak who has no more say in their lives, which of course leads to even more tragedy.
We spend most of our time in Atlantis, and then in a different location, Stone-in-Circle (interpret that as you will) with the reincarnations and the flip on genders, and just how evil the nemesis can get (answer: pretty evil).
All in all there's a lot of very philosophical takes in this one and a lot of spiritual discussions back and forth about astral planes and higher awareness, and the setting up of the board for a fight of good vs evil.
I liked it overall as it's an engaging story - I read it in one afternoon - but I will say that it occasionally needs to be a little tighter in editing because the transitions between who's thinking are muddled and you have to pay attention so you don't accidentally think it's Willow Man when it's Herghul instead. I liked the set up, even though I have a lot of questions left and I think maybe even just a smidge of resolution would have been good, but mostly I think the trio of characters we mostly follow are icons we've read before in literature, so for now I'm reserving judgement. This could go just about either way, though I'm hopeful we'll be surprised. It'd be easy to say there's redemption coming, but it's been done so many times before. And with the caricature of him being so dark and evil, it'd be interesting to see a different take entirely.
Also Theron NEEDS to wake up and face the music: if someone wallops you while you're with another guy, you can be as compassionate as you like and you can pity it, but you don't get to tolerate it.
Overall, a solid read, and I'll be looking into the sequel soon!
I'm kicking it out of the park this review round trying to finish up BEFORE the expiration dates haha!
The Emissary as a title is perhaps a little misleading in that it doesn't only talk about ONE, but multiple, however, I kind of like this take on Atlantis. I'm going to take it as such because, aside from the name, it basically sounds exactly like it, and Plato is even name-dropped right at the beginning of the book, not to mention that it sinks beneath the waves in the Atlantic ocean. SO, yes, this is a retelling of Atlantis and the cycle that apparently humanity goes through, though it isn't abundantly clear whether this has repeated itself over and over again, or if this is the first time, it kind of bounces back and forth in the text depending on who you're following. But overall, this is Atlantis, and it exists before the Bronze and Iron ages and the Dark Age, etc, and the citizens know that this is all coming, so they send out Emissaries to ensure that they can guide humanity back to the higher plane, to open up the consciousness, and to allow them to transcend.
Naturally, it won't be that easy, because there's got to be a bad guy who through some divine intervention and circumstances turns bad pretty much at the start of the book, and then it's a general battle of good and evil between the reincarnations, and the woman caught between them (yes, it's a sort of triangle).
It's not a standalone, so nothing gets resolved in this first book, in case anyone is looking for that kind of read, but we do get a decent set-up of the culture, the purpose of the Emissaries, and the struggle that one in particular, Marcus our protagonist (or Quinn in nowadays iteration) goes through. Because unlike the others sent out on their voyage, he is unique, like his arch nemesis, who used to be his best friend. And through it all he constantly searches for Theron, his soulmate, though doesn't always find her.
A lot of the book is exposition about what the Emissaries do, how they're stronger together, and how a Beast has taken over the nemesis so that, so it looks, he may be redeemed towards the end of the story, though truth be told I don't think that should be in the cards for him as even before the event which changes him irrevocably, he's already giving off some vibes that are against what his people believe.
Actually, the trio are fairly well-known representations, of the two best friends who essentially argue over a woman, one of whom knows great things are expected from him, accepts it, and expects it right back, and another who is humble and just wants to give. Then comes the female who seems to be flawlessly compassionate, and so very kind and giving she can't see the problem right in front of her nose, which is that the best friend they knew and loved is a possessive, jealous freak who has no more say in their lives, which of course leads to even more tragedy.
We spend most of our time in Atlantis, and then in a different location, Stone-in-Circle (interpret that as you will) with the reincarnations and the flip on genders, and just how evil the nemesis can get (answer: pretty evil).
All in all there's a lot of very philosophical takes in this one and a lot of spiritual discussions back and forth about astral planes and higher awareness, and the setting up of the board for a fight of good vs evil.
I liked it overall as it's an engaging story - I read it in one afternoon - but I will say that it occasionally needs to be a little tighter in editing because the transitions between who's thinking are muddled and you have to pay attention so you don't accidentally think it's Willow Man when it's Herghul instead. I liked the set up, even though I have a lot of questions left and I think maybe even just a smidge of resolution would have been good, but mostly I think the trio of characters we mostly follow are icons we've read before in literature, so for now I'm reserving judgement. This could go just about either way, though I'm hopeful we'll be surprised. It'd be easy to say there's redemption coming, but it's been done so many times before. And with the caricature of him being so dark and evil, it'd be interesting to see a different take entirely.
Also Theron NEEDS to wake up and face the music: if someone wallops you while you're with another guy, you can be as compassionate as you like and you can pity it, but you don't get to tolerate it.
Overall, a solid read, and I'll be looking into the sequel soon!
December 26, 2018
The Emissary: Can your past become all of your presents?
Can you live in a world that is constantly changing like you are? The span
of years within this novel is quite extensive and the places we learn about
might be fictional and yet the events might hit home in the present. The
Atitalans or Emissaries, are our leaders, they give us the clues to those
who will reawaken and have another lifetime in another world as the Great
Year comes upon all of us as we take the journeys with them. They are sent
to our planet, Earth to guide us humans through the evolution until the
Great Year comes about. Would you want to live in ancient times and be
reincarnated many times over centuries as we meet our guides or Emissaries:
Marcus, Theron and Helghul. But not everyone is true to their word and
someone will deviate from their plan as power and greed overtakes one of
them. They began their lives in Atitala and evolved over centuries. In every
society or world there are those whose agendas change and whose loyalties
can be bought in unique and different ways. The society is run by the Elders
each bearing a different color as their name: Red, Blue, White, Purple to
name a few and the most deadly and dangerous the Black Elder. Hearing the
voice of Black Elder and Helghul was bone chilling and the outcome meant
that Helghul now took his place. While this occurred the other two were
hiding from the guardians and others hoping not to be seen and finding
Helghul relieved their tensions, but he could care less about them. They
become adversaries after a while and Helghul's ways turn sinister and he
begins to go after his two friends through the many time periods.
When the Elders must choose their Emissaries there is discord and problems
between Marcus and Theron which could change the direction of who stays as a
citizen and who goes to help humanity. The rift is caused by Helghul and his
deceptive ways as she is upset about the fight between the two men and yet
we know who wanted things to do downhill and why. The story is one of
honesty, love, devotion, understanding, hope, trust and loyalties on one
hand, fear, uncertainty, deceptions, power, lies and betrayals on the other
hand as Marcus and Theron are chosen to be emissaries but wind up on
different journeys when they unfortunately are separated by fate, but will
they return to each other in another life? As Helghul turns into Black Elder
and we learn his true calling and we see what happens many of those chosen
to be emissaries perish before they are even on their boats. With the
Silver, Bronze and Dark Iron ages coming and going we learn what each one of
our emissaries endure but not before learning that memories will be lost
once, they leave, lives will end and will be reborn as someone else, but
their missions and goals will remain constant, but will they ever remember
the past?
The present goes back to the dark past as we get to know Marcus and Theron
as someone else and their past is quite remarkable as we meet Katari who is
really Helghul and Sartana who has the Marcus brain and gives birth to a
young boy Inti who turns out to be under the influence of her father who has
her imprisoned. While he thinks his mother is gone the guard who watches
over her gives her some stones to carve and some purpose. But when her son
wants to learn more and the harsh reality about his father and his cruelties
come to light you won't believe the startling revelation as Marcus and
Theron realize that they finally will reunite in this life but then the
story comes to the present and we meet Marcus as Quinn. Marcus has some
memory of the past and his incarnation is now Quinn who lives quite celibate
and he reunites with Theron. Each incarnation takes the Emissaries in many
directions and the Adversaries that we meet facing off with them, but the
main struggle is between Marcus and Helghul and his many faces. But, each
one cruel and deceptive and each Emissary trying to take humanity in their
own direction. Chosen to preserve all that was once Atitala they struggle
through many lives, different people and each time to work for the good and
not for evil. Each time period allows Marcus and Theron to be someone else
but the Stone -at -Center chapters in 823 BCE explain how each of the lovers
and their primary foe Helghul who appeared to be their friend until the
transformation into the Black Elder, and each one striving for what they
want but in reality Helghul always wanted Theron and in the illuminating
past we learn why he was so resentful of Marcus and would do anything to
have her under his thumb in the present. When the past finally resurfaces
and we meet Marcus as Quinn the startling ending will send readers wondering
what is next for each of the Emissaries, who will guide humanity, what foes
will they face or Adversaries, will there be more Emissaries what about the
Emerald tablet and will Nate, who was the guard in the past realize that the
women he fell for in the present is someone else. We learn more about Quinn
as he explains synchronicity a concept developed by psychologist Carl Jung
which describes a perceived meaningful coincidence. Most people have these
experiences from time to time, but they might encounter a reference to some
as in this novel obscure event in history for the first time and then see
several unrelated references to the same event at another time.
Attala was gone and now the Emissaries throughout the novel in different
realms or time periods and as different people that reincarnated over time
many times, as the Silver, Bronze, Iron ages are gone, and the Great year
Cycle is upon them. Marcus endured many deaths and many lifetimes
remembering people from the past, some events and some he would see in the
future. Each person played different toles like actors in a theater or movie
changing their names and appearances yet somewhere within them was the real
person. The concept of synchronicity is fully explained deeply in the
chapter titled with that name. Lessons are learned, truths are heard, lies
are revealed and the ending will allow readers to know that the journeys for
the three have just begun. Where will the emissaries wind up next and what
will their next fates be as authors Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio have just
begun their journey to hopefully create a better humankind. "The Emissaries
lives were brought together for a greater purpose." Just what would it be
next?
Fran Lewis: Just reviews/MJ Network/MJ Magazine
Can you live in a world that is constantly changing like you are? The span
of years within this novel is quite extensive and the places we learn about
might be fictional and yet the events might hit home in the present. The
Atitalans or Emissaries, are our leaders, they give us the clues to those
who will reawaken and have another lifetime in another world as the Great
Year comes upon all of us as we take the journeys with them. They are sent
to our planet, Earth to guide us humans through the evolution until the
Great Year comes about. Would you want to live in ancient times and be
reincarnated many times over centuries as we meet our guides or Emissaries:
Marcus, Theron and Helghul. But not everyone is true to their word and
someone will deviate from their plan as power and greed overtakes one of
them. They began their lives in Atitala and evolved over centuries. In every
society or world there are those whose agendas change and whose loyalties
can be bought in unique and different ways. The society is run by the Elders
each bearing a different color as their name: Red, Blue, White, Purple to
name a few and the most deadly and dangerous the Black Elder. Hearing the
voice of Black Elder and Helghul was bone chilling and the outcome meant
that Helghul now took his place. While this occurred the other two were
hiding from the guardians and others hoping not to be seen and finding
Helghul relieved their tensions, but he could care less about them. They
become adversaries after a while and Helghul's ways turn sinister and he
begins to go after his two friends through the many time periods.
When the Elders must choose their Emissaries there is discord and problems
between Marcus and Theron which could change the direction of who stays as a
citizen and who goes to help humanity. The rift is caused by Helghul and his
deceptive ways as she is upset about the fight between the two men and yet
we know who wanted things to do downhill and why. The story is one of
honesty, love, devotion, understanding, hope, trust and loyalties on one
hand, fear, uncertainty, deceptions, power, lies and betrayals on the other
hand as Marcus and Theron are chosen to be emissaries but wind up on
different journeys when they unfortunately are separated by fate, but will
they return to each other in another life? As Helghul turns into Black Elder
and we learn his true calling and we see what happens many of those chosen
to be emissaries perish before they are even on their boats. With the
Silver, Bronze and Dark Iron ages coming and going we learn what each one of
our emissaries endure but not before learning that memories will be lost
once, they leave, lives will end and will be reborn as someone else, but
their missions and goals will remain constant, but will they ever remember
the past?
The present goes back to the dark past as we get to know Marcus and Theron
as someone else and their past is quite remarkable as we meet Katari who is
really Helghul and Sartana who has the Marcus brain and gives birth to a
young boy Inti who turns out to be under the influence of her father who has
her imprisoned. While he thinks his mother is gone the guard who watches
over her gives her some stones to carve and some purpose. But when her son
wants to learn more and the harsh reality about his father and his cruelties
come to light you won't believe the startling revelation as Marcus and
Theron realize that they finally will reunite in this life but then the
story comes to the present and we meet Marcus as Quinn. Marcus has some
memory of the past and his incarnation is now Quinn who lives quite celibate
and he reunites with Theron. Each incarnation takes the Emissaries in many
directions and the Adversaries that we meet facing off with them, but the
main struggle is between Marcus and Helghul and his many faces. But, each
one cruel and deceptive and each Emissary trying to take humanity in their
own direction. Chosen to preserve all that was once Atitala they struggle
through many lives, different people and each time to work for the good and
not for evil. Each time period allows Marcus and Theron to be someone else
but the Stone -at -Center chapters in 823 BCE explain how each of the lovers
and their primary foe Helghul who appeared to be their friend until the
transformation into the Black Elder, and each one striving for what they
want but in reality Helghul always wanted Theron and in the illuminating
past we learn why he was so resentful of Marcus and would do anything to
have her under his thumb in the present. When the past finally resurfaces
and we meet Marcus as Quinn the startling ending will send readers wondering
what is next for each of the Emissaries, who will guide humanity, what foes
will they face or Adversaries, will there be more Emissaries what about the
Emerald tablet and will Nate, who was the guard in the past realize that the
women he fell for in the present is someone else. We learn more about Quinn
as he explains synchronicity a concept developed by psychologist Carl Jung
which describes a perceived meaningful coincidence. Most people have these
experiences from time to time, but they might encounter a reference to some
as in this novel obscure event in history for the first time and then see
several unrelated references to the same event at another time.
Attala was gone and now the Emissaries throughout the novel in different
realms or time periods and as different people that reincarnated over time
many times, as the Silver, Bronze, Iron ages are gone, and the Great year
Cycle is upon them. Marcus endured many deaths and many lifetimes
remembering people from the past, some events and some he would see in the
future. Each person played different toles like actors in a theater or movie
changing their names and appearances yet somewhere within them was the real
person. The concept of synchronicity is fully explained deeply in the
chapter titled with that name. Lessons are learned, truths are heard, lies
are revealed and the ending will allow readers to know that the journeys for
the three have just begun. Where will the emissaries wind up next and what
will their next fates be as authors Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio have just
begun their journey to hopefully create a better humankind. "The Emissaries
lives were brought together for a greater purpose." Just what would it be
next?
Fran Lewis: Just reviews/MJ Network/MJ Magazine
February 16, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised by this retelling of Golden Age of Humanity and Atlantis myths, combined with time travel by virtue of reincarnation. It allows the authors to change the form of the three main characters (two good Emissaries and one dark Adversary), without changing their basic natures and attributes. To be sure, there are some weird things in the book, like the idea of a a hollow earth populated by an inner earth humanoid species, very high tech, waiting until the next Golden Age. With magical creatures, telepathy, and astral-plane travel to boot, the Golden Age is pretty deep in the realm of fantasy; and it's a lot of fun to explore this realm.
The book takes place in three major time periods, the old Golden Age, in Atitala (what we would call Atlantis), in 11,600 BCE; in ancient Peru (823 BCE); and in the present day, in Seattle, Washington. Apparently, the enlightened Atitatlans were aware that their land was doomed to destruction and that mankind was about to enter a dark age. Only a few youth were selected to become Emissaries to guide humanity back to the light, being gifted only with their innate psychic powers, or "shine", plus a subconscious memory of the attributes of civilization.
Only Marcus has a conscious memory of the past, having drunk the dregs of a memory elixir drunk by the Black Elder, Helghul -- the Adversary, formerly a friend and rival Marcus. Helghul was jealous of Marcus' love for Theron, also an Emissary, and Theron's love in return. Theron was the daughter of the White Elder, the supreme leader of Atitlala, and the most accomplished of the three. It would have been wiser if the White Elder had gifted all of the Emissaries with the memory elixir instead of banning it, to my way of thinking. It could have sped up civilizing the world a bit. Another problem: although Theron and Marcus are soulmates, Theron can't remember him from incarnation to reincarnation -- so Marcus is in eternal agony from being unable to re-connect with his former lover.
There is an additional twist involved with the reincarnation business, since one can be reincarnated in either gender. This gender-bending has a major role in the second episode, in medieval Peru, where Marcus' incarnation is a high priestess at a holy site which is attacked by non other than his old adversary Helghul, in the guise of a warrior king. Of course, both can recognize and remember each other; and the old antagonisms come out in force. We empathize strongly with the suffering of Marcus in his female avatar form, enduring unspeakable abuse with fortitude and patience from her Atitalan background.
The present-day Marcus (or Quinna) seems different -- a beer-drinking, dope-smoking blogger: but we shall see in Book 2 of the Series. I plan to read on.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book takes place in three major time periods, the old Golden Age, in Atitala (what we would call Atlantis), in 11,600 BCE; in ancient Peru (823 BCE); and in the present day, in Seattle, Washington. Apparently, the enlightened Atitatlans were aware that their land was doomed to destruction and that mankind was about to enter a dark age. Only a few youth were selected to become Emissaries to guide humanity back to the light, being gifted only with their innate psychic powers, or "shine", plus a subconscious memory of the attributes of civilization.
Only Marcus has a conscious memory of the past, having drunk the dregs of a memory elixir drunk by the Black Elder, Helghul -- the Adversary, formerly a friend and rival Marcus. Helghul was jealous of Marcus' love for Theron, also an Emissary, and Theron's love in return. Theron was the daughter of the White Elder, the supreme leader of Atitlala, and the most accomplished of the three. It would have been wiser if the White Elder had gifted all of the Emissaries with the memory elixir instead of banning it, to my way of thinking. It could have sped up civilizing the world a bit. Another problem: although Theron and Marcus are soulmates, Theron can't remember him from incarnation to reincarnation -- so Marcus is in eternal agony from being unable to re-connect with his former lover.
There is an additional twist involved with the reincarnation business, since one can be reincarnated in either gender. This gender-bending has a major role in the second episode, in medieval Peru, where Marcus' incarnation is a high priestess at a holy site which is attacked by non other than his old adversary Helghul, in the guise of a warrior king. Of course, both can recognize and remember each other; and the old antagonisms come out in force. We empathize strongly with the suffering of Marcus in his female avatar form, enduring unspeakable abuse with fortitude and patience from her Atitalan background.
The present-day Marcus (or Quinna) seems different -- a beer-drinking, dope-smoking blogger: but we shall see in Book 2 of the Series. I plan to read on.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 5, 2021
Intriguing, enthralling and endearing read. The world as created and perceived in this book is intriguing and the author's imagination and research is commendable. It is a fantasy novel with the good vs evil angle and a love story that spans thousands of years. The touch of sanskrit, an ancient indian language, makes is interesting for the Indian audience. Each character is so deeply carved with unique characters, it made them seem very believable. I was reminded of the movie 'Avatar' at multiple instances when the visuals are described, yet this story is so much more. Would definitely recommed to any and every Fantasy novel fan.
May 9, 2019
I loved this book and found myself returning to it often. I found the story line unique and loved how it jumped around a bit yet was still consistent enough to not get confused. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Book received through NetGalley
Book received through NetGalley
February 27, 2021
Intriguing, fascinating and compelling are all excellent descriptions of this book. Intriguing concept and ideas. Fascinating characters from the first page until the last. Compelling story between good and evil that never ends that pulls you in.
I cannot thank Rene Defazio and Tamara Veitch enough for the complimentary copy via Voracious Readers Only.
Looking forward to their next book!
Thanks
I cannot thank Rene Defazio and Tamara Veitch enough for the complimentary copy via Voracious Readers Only.
Looking forward to their next book!
Thanks
February 27, 2021
When the world collapses from a Golden Age into one of chaos and strife, mankind’s salvation lies in the hands of eternal Emissaries .
What a fantastic book ,really enjoyed it.
Great plot and characters.
Do not miss this one.
What a fantastic book ,really enjoyed it.
Great plot and characters.
Do not miss this one.
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