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Through the Dark Wood
Seventeen year old orphan Zam Windwater lives the life of a humble shepherd until a mysterious messenger brings news that Zam is in terrible danger. Now he must leave his home and shepherd’s life to take up the adventurer’s mantle on a perilous quest, the full purpose of which remains a mystery to be discovered.
Zam encounters a motley assortment of creatures, warriors, and supernatural beings as he travels the forbidding path through the “Dark Wood” of Darlandis.
Evil seeks to end his life before his call can be fulfilled. Dragons, Grimmals, Shadow Vermin, and Seritheen pursue, as Zam moves beyond his fear into the battles he must face in hopes of freeing a friend, finding a love, and discovering a life larger than he ever dreamed possible.
Zam encounters a motley assortment of creatures, warriors, and supernatural beings as he travels the forbidding path through the “Dark Wood” of Darlandis.
Evil seeks to end his life before his call can be fulfilled. Dragons, Grimmals, Shadow Vermin, and Seritheen pursue, as Zam moves beyond his fear into the battles he must face in hopes of freeing a friend, finding a love, and discovering a life larger than he ever dreamed possible.
479 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2012
7 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
December 7, 2012
This book is sure to become a best-selling classic. The character development is stellar, the histories, culture, and the poetry too - All Amazing! I cannot wait for the next in the series. Much like Lord of the Rings and Narnia, it is an epic story that will stand for all time. It speaks to the soul and captures the heart. You will cheer out loud for the protagonist, Zam. You will cringe, cry, and stand to fight with him and his motley crew. It is utterly incredible. I cannot describe how much this story has taken a hold of me. It embodies true friendship, family, love, heart, passion, spirit, and greater good. LOVE IT! The novel exceeded my expectations by leaps and bounds! I love the authors writing style it is unique and reminiscent of the older style like Tolkien and Lewis.
April 11, 2022
Through the Dark Wood
This is a coming of age fantasy adventure that follows the hero on his quest for self discovery while rescuing those in need. He is instructed and guided by an all knowing being and its servants throughout his journey. The hero confronts many adversaries and is joined by just as many allies who come in all shapes and sizes.
This is a juvenile take on good and evil where everything is fairly cut and dry. It never seemed like the hero was ever really in danger because his omnipotent savior was always there in a pinch. All in all it is still a fun adventure with a good enough story to enjoy. I was a little surprised by the ending and expected more resolution. Illustrations are included and a very nice touch.
This is a coming of age fantasy adventure that follows the hero on his quest for self discovery while rescuing those in need. He is instructed and guided by an all knowing being and its servants throughout his journey. The hero confronts many adversaries and is joined by just as many allies who come in all shapes and sizes.
This is a juvenile take on good and evil where everything is fairly cut and dry. It never seemed like the hero was ever really in danger because his omnipotent savior was always there in a pinch. All in all it is still a fun adventure with a good enough story to enjoy. I was a little surprised by the ending and expected more resolution. Illustrations are included and a very nice touch.
January 1, 2013
Like many who own a Kindle, I have been known to download a lot of books with no interest in reading them because they are free. You know, just in case. When searching through a forum I grabbed this one despite, or maybe because, the author was quite obviously sock-puppeting (shut up Microsoft, it is a word!) to push his self-published book. Stuck in town; and with nothing but my phone’s Kindle app handy, I fired it up and gave it a fair go. I made it half way.
The author has some basic story teller abilities. While very trite, the quality of the ideas behind this book would hold up as a simplistic, by-the-numbers young adult book. After all, this is not the first author to use the farm boy who takes on his destiny trope. There was even an early scene involving a predator leaping right into a time-status field that was pretty intriguing.
But without some serious work the book will appeal to almost nobody. A recap of the beginning is in order. Orphaned shepherd Zam meets mysterious man, who passes on A QUEST then disappears while Zam’s head is turned. He is then freed from his masters service by the master’s son, because the son had a dream and knows he should have been nicer the young shepherd. Zam heads north, with no knowledge of what his quest really is. He enters a town where he actual mentions to the first person he meets that he is on A QUEST. After one day of archery practice(because he knows nothing about archery or sword work) he decides to take on a dragon. Guess if he succeeds, I will wait.
The simplistic plot is problematic, but not the real issue. I would have continued reading if the plot was simple but decently written. But the dialog was terrible. The main character spoke to himself, out loud, in completely unbelievable ways. Example, on his way to save yet another damsel in distress he is saved from one predator by another. His first thought? “Were it not for that bird, I would be dead now, and Raine would never be rescued.” No time for a “whew,” our Gary Stu Good Boy only thinks of others.
Every single character had ESP or something like it as well. Almost no conversation between characters didn’t involve them ‘just knowing’ some important detail about the future or the past. A young girl KNOWS Zam is going to save her later, Zam paints a families lost daughter while trying to paint her mother, and old man can JUST TELL that Zam is trustworthy when first meeting him. I could keep listing examples.
Lastly, this paragraph… will be written… as every paragraph in the entire book was… that is with excess… punctuation.. and pauses for effect.
Wrote more than I meant to for a DNF, but that is because there was enough there to prove the author could have something here. As I said, with a lot of reworking the plot would make a good, easy read YA book. But as is, it was not ready for release.
1 Star.
The author has some basic story teller abilities. While very trite, the quality of the ideas behind this book would hold up as a simplistic, by-the-numbers young adult book. After all, this is not the first author to use the farm boy who takes on his destiny trope. There was even an early scene involving a predator leaping right into a time-status field that was pretty intriguing.
But without some serious work the book will appeal to almost nobody. A recap of the beginning is in order. Orphaned shepherd Zam meets mysterious man, who passes on A QUEST then disappears while Zam’s head is turned. He is then freed from his masters service by the master’s son, because the son had a dream and knows he should have been nicer the young shepherd. Zam heads north, with no knowledge of what his quest really is. He enters a town where he actual mentions to the first person he meets that he is on A QUEST. After one day of archery practice(because he knows nothing about archery or sword work) he decides to take on a dragon. Guess if he succeeds, I will wait.
The simplistic plot is problematic, but not the real issue. I would have continued reading if the plot was simple but decently written. But the dialog was terrible. The main character spoke to himself, out loud, in completely unbelievable ways. Example, on his way to save yet another damsel in distress he is saved from one predator by another. His first thought? “Were it not for that bird, I would be dead now, and Raine would never be rescued.” No time for a “whew,” our Gary Stu Good Boy only thinks of others.
Every single character had ESP or something like it as well. Almost no conversation between characters didn’t involve them ‘just knowing’ some important detail about the future or the past. A young girl KNOWS Zam is going to save her later, Zam paints a families lost daughter while trying to paint her mother, and old man can JUST TELL that Zam is trustworthy when first meeting him. I could keep listing examples.
Lastly, this paragraph… will be written… as every paragraph in the entire book was… that is with excess… punctuation.. and pauses for effect.
Wrote more than I meant to for a DNF, but that is because there was enough there to prove the author could have something here. As I said, with a lot of reworking the plot would make a good, easy read YA book. But as is, it was not ready for release.
1 Star.
May 12, 2013
Full disclosure: I received a free review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions contained below are entirely my own. This review has been taken from my Amazon.com review.
"Through the Dark Wood" is, first and foremost, a traditional tale of adventure and heroism through a fantasy landscape, like many that have come before it. Protagonist Zamuel Windwater starts a shepherd and is thrown into a grand adventure - thus far, the story stays true to the heritage of the fantasy genre. He will fight evil, serve good, and run to rescue a damsel in distress. In short, there will be little in the way of astonishing plot twists.
However, this is not to say that it is not worth the read, because while the plot is traditional, the mechanisms used to advance it are anything but. Zam and his companions are guided along their path by messengers of the mysterious Elyon, whose very nature is kept a mystery. Is he a god? A king? Something in between? He is an unseen force that might well be the most fascinating character of the bunch. This is truly saying something, as the wide and varied cast spans age and race, each leaving an indelible mark on the story and on Zam. Notably, Zam as a character is well-intentioned but is acutely aware of his own weakness. He acquires much skill, but is fully aware that he is the agent of a much greater force, and it creates a much more interesting dynamic than just another hero being improbably mighty.
Mr. Allen uses language with aplomb, describing clearly and bountifully the dark forests, cool caves, and bustling towns of his world. The characters speak with a strange formality, but it is easy to accept as the world's custom after a few chapters. Most notably however, the world itself is in various ways alive. Not merely confined to shuffling its geography about, different locales have unique, tangible moods, and the air itself carries threats and warnings around every turn.
Bottom line: "Through the Dark Wood" is the first of a series, and a promising one at that. The plot doesn't break much new ground, but Zam's commitment to Elyon rather than to heroism for its own sake make him unique in a genre full of those who rely on their own strength. A beautiful and deeply emotive world creates a reading experience not to be missed. If anything needs clarifying, please feel free to comment down below or contact me at SeanOnAmazon@gmail.com.
"Through the Dark Wood" is, first and foremost, a traditional tale of adventure and heroism through a fantasy landscape, like many that have come before it. Protagonist Zamuel Windwater starts a shepherd and is thrown into a grand adventure - thus far, the story stays true to the heritage of the fantasy genre. He will fight evil, serve good, and run to rescue a damsel in distress. In short, there will be little in the way of astonishing plot twists.
However, this is not to say that it is not worth the read, because while the plot is traditional, the mechanisms used to advance it are anything but. Zam and his companions are guided along their path by messengers of the mysterious Elyon, whose very nature is kept a mystery. Is he a god? A king? Something in between? He is an unseen force that might well be the most fascinating character of the bunch. This is truly saying something, as the wide and varied cast spans age and race, each leaving an indelible mark on the story and on Zam. Notably, Zam as a character is well-intentioned but is acutely aware of his own weakness. He acquires much skill, but is fully aware that he is the agent of a much greater force, and it creates a much more interesting dynamic than just another hero being improbably mighty.
Mr. Allen uses language with aplomb, describing clearly and bountifully the dark forests, cool caves, and bustling towns of his world. The characters speak with a strange formality, but it is easy to accept as the world's custom after a few chapters. Most notably however, the world itself is in various ways alive. Not merely confined to shuffling its geography about, different locales have unique, tangible moods, and the air itself carries threats and warnings around every turn.
Bottom line: "Through the Dark Wood" is the first of a series, and a promising one at that. The plot doesn't break much new ground, but Zam's commitment to Elyon rather than to heroism for its own sake make him unique in a genre full of those who rely on their own strength. A beautiful and deeply emotive world creates a reading experience not to be missed. If anything needs clarifying, please feel free to comment down below or contact me at SeanOnAmazon@gmail.com.
April 11, 2013
I am by no means a literary critic, but I love a good story that pulls me in so that I feel invested in the character(s) of the story. I love a book that challenges the characters with situations that makes them grow. Because of that I completely enjoyed getting to know Zam and go on a journey with him through this book.
It’s been a few months since I finished the book and I still have these images from the book that pop into my head and cause me rethink/reimagine the event that unfolded. And there are some characters (like Galwen), who, when I think about them, gives me the same feeling that I get when I think of long time friend I’ve had. There’s a warmth and admiration, which is crazy because it’s just a character in a book, but it is what it is :)
I wonder how long these images will stay with me. Some books I put down and don't think of again, but others have these metaphors that stalk me. I have a feeling that this book is of the latter.
One of things I miss now-a-days are virtuous characters. I'm not just talking about good people, but something more than good. Jimmy Stewart made an impression on me growing up because a lot of the people he portrayed were simple people with strong values (Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Harvey, It's a wonderful life). I liked reading about Zam because he's someone I could look up to....someone I could respect....someone who is pure and good. I guess I'm partial to stories where you put that type of person in a dark world....not just to see how he responds, but how the world does too.
Can't wait to read book 2.
It’s been a few months since I finished the book and I still have these images from the book that pop into my head and cause me rethink/reimagine the event that unfolded. And there are some characters (like Galwen), who, when I think about them, gives me the same feeling that I get when I think of long time friend I’ve had. There’s a warmth and admiration, which is crazy because it’s just a character in a book, but it is what it is :)
I wonder how long these images will stay with me. Some books I put down and don't think of again, but others have these metaphors that stalk me. I have a feeling that this book is of the latter.
One of things I miss now-a-days are virtuous characters. I'm not just talking about good people, but something more than good. Jimmy Stewart made an impression on me growing up because a lot of the people he portrayed were simple people with strong values (Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Harvey, It's a wonderful life). I liked reading about Zam because he's someone I could look up to....someone I could respect....someone who is pure and good. I guess I'm partial to stories where you put that type of person in a dark world....not just to see how he responds, but how the world does too.
Can't wait to read book 2.
January 17, 2013
I enjoyed this book tremendously. It was simple in plot. A classic storyline for fantasy - boy goes on a quest fights creatures of great strength and saves a damsel etc. Still, the plot had twists - the damsel for instance is plenty able to take care of herself - she is a warrior who has fought for her own freedom day in and day out since being taken into slavery. She is an amazingly gifted individual too who I can definitely say young girls can look up to.
I appreciate the heart and morality of the novel. I liked that I could give this novel to my children and grandchildren without worry. I am happy to say that the dark creatures in this novel are not considered "good" or "everyday heroes" as many fantasy novels seem to be heading.
I loved that the characters became family. I could relate to them and often found myself praying for them funny - I know - it is a book. But, when one of the characters reminds you so strongly of one of your own, you can't help but be on their side in every way possible. I felt as if I were walking the Dark Wood with Zam (the main character), feeling the warmth of the fire, and the cold crisp night fear as strange creatures stood close. I was sucked into this novel like none other this past year. I HIGHLY recommend the read! It is a good one.
I appreciate the heart and morality of the novel. I liked that I could give this novel to my children and grandchildren without worry. I am happy to say that the dark creatures in this novel are not considered "good" or "everyday heroes" as many fantasy novels seem to be heading.
I loved that the characters became family. I could relate to them and often found myself praying for them funny - I know - it is a book. But, when one of the characters reminds you so strongly of one of your own, you can't help but be on their side in every way possible. I felt as if I were walking the Dark Wood with Zam (the main character), feeling the warmth of the fire, and the cold crisp night fear as strange creatures stood close. I was sucked into this novel like none other this past year. I HIGHLY recommend the read! It is a good one.
January 17, 2014
A Very Good Quest Tale
I gave this book a 4-star rating because the middle of the story needs to be tightened up in my opinion. The beginning third and the ending third of this book is everything anyone could ask for. This book will be most appreciated by ages ten to 16; however, like the Potter books, anyone who enjoys fantasy will enjoy Sam Windwater's journeys to fulfill his quest.
I gave this book a 4-star rating because the middle of the story needs to be tightened up in my opinion. The beginning third and the ending third of this book is everything anyone could ask for. This book will be most appreciated by ages ten to 16; however, like the Potter books, anyone who enjoys fantasy will enjoy Sam Windwater's journeys to fulfill his quest.
January 17, 2013
The first 3 chapters of this novel hooked me. I am a huge fantasy novel fan. I love to read all things from traditional storylines to more contemporary and modern. This one is traditional but the author had a unique writing style. It seemed archaic at times but somehow that really worked for the book. I had fun reading this book and look forward to the next.
October 25, 2014
Wonderful book
a great and wonderful tale. I loved every minute of the book. I do hope the next book comes out soon .
a great and wonderful tale. I loved every minute of the book. I do hope the next book comes out soon .
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews