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Spellscribed #1
Provenance
Spellscribed is a series of fantasy novels revolving around the protagonist, a young and inexperienced Wizard named Endrance. Born the night that the Archmagus Valeria died, Endrance was gifted with the talent and mind for magic. He'd proven that he was more than capable of mastering the forces of magic and intellectual study at the hands of a master as mad as he was crafty. He was one of the Scribed, mages who had undergone a painful yet powerful ritual that granted them the ability to tattoo spells upon their very skin.
He had finally proven himself to his master, and was free to practice magic at his own pace. If that were all fate had in store for him, he would have been happy. However fate wanted more of this man's potential than a lifetime of quiet study.
Instead, he was appointed the Spengur of Balator, a country radically different from his own. He would face an entire city of people that prized physical might and shunned the mystic. There he would meet staunch allies, and dangerous foes. There, he could change the world, if he could only survive.
It is through the fires of strife that a person is melted down into the core of who they really are, and fate has stoked the flames white hot. Can he survive the blaze? And even more importantly, who will he be if he emerges from the other side?
He had finally proven himself to his master, and was free to practice magic at his own pace. If that were all fate had in store for him, he would have been happy. However fate wanted more of this man's potential than a lifetime of quiet study.
Instead, he was appointed the Spengur of Balator, a country radically different from his own. He would face an entire city of people that prized physical might and shunned the mystic. There he would meet staunch allies, and dangerous foes. There, he could change the world, if he could only survive.
It is through the fires of strife that a person is melted down into the core of who they really are, and fate has stoked the flames white hot. Can he survive the blaze? And even more importantly, who will he be if he emerges from the other side?
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2013
159 people are currently reading
1751 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 13, 2017
Not bad. Less one star for the cliff-hanger ending. The solid three are for Endrance - I liked him, how very human he was. Good world building, too. I'm going to take a breather before I continue on with Book 2.
May 22, 2013
This reads like the author wanted to write an epic fantasy story but fell terrible short. The writing is mediocre and the story is full of old cliches.
January 4, 2014
This book is not easy to review.
On one hand, it was terribly edited and had distracting grammatical mistakes ("...a old..." where "...an old.." should be, etc.). The story is the oldest, tiredest fantasy story out there and it was completely filled with cliches. I can't think of one element that was at all original.
There were several flat out mistakes like where in one scene they cut the bottom sheet of the bed, but in the next he looks back and describes the top sheet having a hole. Mistakes like this happened so often I had to look online to see if Kristopher Cruz is a real person or some kind of online writing team.
The way the characters' personalities changed drastically throughout the book from scene to scene (especially the barbarian bodyguard) was distracting as well. It really felt like there were 3 or 4 authors writing this. Also, some critical plot parts were just completely skipped over with little explanation. It was like each person wrote 1/4 of the book and you could tell where one author stopped and one picked it up because there were clear glitches. Maybe the author just has several split personalities and they don't communicate together much. Or maybe he wrote it in chunks out of order and just didn't spend time piecing them together in a smooth way.
And the ending was terrible. It was a non-ending. Literally just ended in the middle of a scene.
So, with all that wrong with the book, why isn't it a one star book? Because even with all that against it, this book was a page turner. I can't say exactly what made it good, but it had something there that made me want to keep reading it. The book was quick and fun, and oddly satisfying. This author (or authors : ) has a lot of potential. In fact, I've already bought the second book in the hopes that the author is getting better.
On one hand, it was terribly edited and had distracting grammatical mistakes ("...a old..." where "...an old.." should be, etc.). The story is the oldest, tiredest fantasy story out there and it was completely filled with cliches. I can't think of one element that was at all original.
There were several flat out mistakes like where in one scene they cut the bottom sheet of the bed, but in the next he looks back and describes the top sheet having a hole. Mistakes like this happened so often I had to look online to see if Kristopher Cruz is a real person or some kind of online writing team.
The way the characters' personalities changed drastically throughout the book from scene to scene (especially the barbarian bodyguard) was distracting as well. It really felt like there were 3 or 4 authors writing this. Also, some critical plot parts were just completely skipped over with little explanation. It was like each person wrote 1/4 of the book and you could tell where one author stopped and one picked it up because there were clear glitches. Maybe the author just has several split personalities and they don't communicate together much. Or maybe he wrote it in chunks out of order and just didn't spend time piecing them together in a smooth way.
And the ending was terrible. It was a non-ending. Literally just ended in the middle of a scene.
So, with all that wrong with the book, why isn't it a one star book? Because even with all that against it, this book was a page turner. I can't say exactly what made it good, but it had something there that made me want to keep reading it. The book was quick and fun, and oddly satisfying. This author (or authors : ) has a lot of potential. In fact, I've already bought the second book in the hopes that the author is getting better.
July 16, 2014
I really liked this book at first. The writing itself is pretty bad, but I liked the story enough that I passed over the numerous grammatical and editing errors.
The romance and the end of the book were so horrible I just couldn't keep reading. It was great up until the main character got to the 'barbarian lands', but from then the story got pretty boring and cliche. I gave up maybe a chapter or two away from the end because I stopped caring.
The romance and the end of the book were so horrible I just couldn't keep reading. It was great up until the main character got to the 'barbarian lands', but from then the story got pretty boring and cliche. I gave up maybe a chapter or two away from the end because I stopped caring.
November 8, 2018
This was fun book to read. It's the basic coming of age story that involves the usual good vs evil and an abundance of people who are not what they seem. Some of this was really easy to figure out, but the story telling still had me wanting to read what happened anyway. There's definitely some moments in there that have you like, oh man in both a good way and a aww way. This is a book that you should pick up and give a glance over.
March 13, 2014
Endrance is a young wizard who has just completed his training. At the age of fourteen, he is ready to begin his career as a wizard, and he joins up with a caravan to head to his new home. When his companions are set upon by a savage group of goblins, it's time for Endrance to have his first true test as a wizard.
I enjoyed the wizard's duel (of sorts) that takes place in the beginning of this story. I love reading about interesting wizards, and both Endrance and his mentor Kaelob intrigued me. I wouldn't have minded reading this story from further back, filling in the gaps between the prologue and chapter one. Those years would probably make for an interesting story. Still, I got to see Endrance as his official training was coming to an end, and that will have to be good enough for now.
Endrance's bracer is an object that drew my interest. It siphons the energy of a fallen mage, apparently giving power to the one who wears the bracer. Now there's a handy little thing to have for a wizard! It reminded me a bit of the Highlander movie when an immortal gains the knowledge and power of the guy whose head he's just cut off. Not exactly the same, but similar enough for me to take notice and smile.
I preferred the character of Joven to the main character Endrance. Joven's rough mannerisms stood in stark contrast to those of the young wizard. Endrance had led such a sheltered life, and he occasionally got on my nerves. Joven, on the other hand, seemed real and served to balance out the story.
The action scenes are nicely done. I appreciate a book that can present a fight scene (especially one with magic) that keeps me glued to my seat. Joven's bouts were well done too, even without his need for magic. Other parts of the story seemed a little too wordy and didn't add much to the plot. I think this book would have been just as good with a few minor scenes omitted.
I feel like a broken record when I say that this book needs to be taken to a professional proofreader. It is a good story, and it deserves to be error-free. There are wrong words, missing words, and poor comma usage in some places, and a professional can fix those things. I can't stress it enough to all indie authors that paying a pro to proofread for you is worth it. Sure, traditionally published books sometimes contain errors. I can overlook two or three, but that is about my limit. I am not a professional, I am only a reader. I do notice errors, though, and many others do as well. This book deserves to be read without the distraction of errors.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the wizard's duel (of sorts) that takes place in the beginning of this story. I love reading about interesting wizards, and both Endrance and his mentor Kaelob intrigued me. I wouldn't have minded reading this story from further back, filling in the gaps between the prologue and chapter one. Those years would probably make for an interesting story. Still, I got to see Endrance as his official training was coming to an end, and that will have to be good enough for now.
Endrance's bracer is an object that drew my interest. It siphons the energy of a fallen mage, apparently giving power to the one who wears the bracer. Now there's a handy little thing to have for a wizard! It reminded me a bit of the Highlander movie when an immortal gains the knowledge and power of the guy whose head he's just cut off. Not exactly the same, but similar enough for me to take notice and smile.
I preferred the character of Joven to the main character Endrance. Joven's rough mannerisms stood in stark contrast to those of the young wizard. Endrance had led such a sheltered life, and he occasionally got on my nerves. Joven, on the other hand, seemed real and served to balance out the story.
The action scenes are nicely done. I appreciate a book that can present a fight scene (especially one with magic) that keeps me glued to my seat. Joven's bouts were well done too, even without his need for magic. Other parts of the story seemed a little too wordy and didn't add much to the plot. I think this book would have been just as good with a few minor scenes omitted.
I feel like a broken record when I say that this book needs to be taken to a professional proofreader. It is a good story, and it deserves to be error-free. There are wrong words, missing words, and poor comma usage in some places, and a professional can fix those things. I can't stress it enough to all indie authors that paying a pro to proofread for you is worth it. Sure, traditionally published books sometimes contain errors. I can overlook two or three, but that is about my limit. I am not a professional, I am only a reader. I do notice errors, though, and many others do as well. This book deserves to be read without the distraction of errors.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2013
Taken from my Amazon review:
Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes. The following opinions are entirely my own.
Fantasy is starting to become a very crowded genre - it seems that for every reader, there are two authors trying to clamor for attention. Therefore, it takes a truly stand-out work to push its way to the forefront and lay claim to a readers eyes for hundreds of pages. Fortunately, Kristopher Cruz's "Spellscribed" delivers.
Opening with what seems to be a gentle hat-tip to prior fantasy stories, "Spellscribed" then tosses its lead character and its readership into magical action that provides constant engagement throughout the story. The plot is paced well, balanced effectively between intense action and relaxed, colorful descriptiveness that builds a fascinating new world. It builds up to a mighty climax that manages to deliver answers and keeping a hook at the same time, creating a rewarding experience that will keep any discerning reader coming back for more. It is, at its barest bones, not the most original story in its structure, but it is certainly an enjoyable one.
As far as characterization goes, the majority of Cruz's cast is strong and nuanced, despite the occasionally thinly-worn trope here or there. They are all engaging indeed, and the combination of the rich setting and interesting populace create truly living world in which it is an absolute joy to get lost. While the good and the bad are generally clearly discernible, Mr. Cruz does keep some tricks up his sleeve and absolutely manages to surprise his readership when necessary.
In terms of parental guidance, "Spellscribed" would probably earn a PG-13 sort of rating. There is combat strewn throughout the book, and both humans and beasts take casualties. There is also some sexual content, but it is minimal and tastefully noted without detail - no issues of explicitness here. The language is nuanced and appropriately detailed, and ought to be manageable with a high school reading level.
Bottom line: "Spellscribed" is a worthy venture into an exciting new land, full of colorful characters and an engaging plot. It is lengthy, but was so immersive that it seemed to fly by - fortunately, it is entirely worth reading again.
As always, if you'd like anything clarified, please leave a comment below or contact me at SeanOnAmazon@gmail.com
Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes. The following opinions are entirely my own.
Fantasy is starting to become a very crowded genre - it seems that for every reader, there are two authors trying to clamor for attention. Therefore, it takes a truly stand-out work to push its way to the forefront and lay claim to a readers eyes for hundreds of pages. Fortunately, Kristopher Cruz's "Spellscribed" delivers.
Opening with what seems to be a gentle hat-tip to prior fantasy stories, "Spellscribed" then tosses its lead character and its readership into magical action that provides constant engagement throughout the story. The plot is paced well, balanced effectively between intense action and relaxed, colorful descriptiveness that builds a fascinating new world. It builds up to a mighty climax that manages to deliver answers and keeping a hook at the same time, creating a rewarding experience that will keep any discerning reader coming back for more. It is, at its barest bones, not the most original story in its structure, but it is certainly an enjoyable one.
As far as characterization goes, the majority of Cruz's cast is strong and nuanced, despite the occasionally thinly-worn trope here or there. They are all engaging indeed, and the combination of the rich setting and interesting populace create truly living world in which it is an absolute joy to get lost. While the good and the bad are generally clearly discernible, Mr. Cruz does keep some tricks up his sleeve and absolutely manages to surprise his readership when necessary.
In terms of parental guidance, "Spellscribed" would probably earn a PG-13 sort of rating. There is combat strewn throughout the book, and both humans and beasts take casualties. There is also some sexual content, but it is minimal and tastefully noted without detail - no issues of explicitness here. The language is nuanced and appropriately detailed, and ought to be manageable with a high school reading level.
Bottom line: "Spellscribed" is a worthy venture into an exciting new land, full of colorful characters and an engaging plot. It is lengthy, but was so immersive that it seemed to fly by - fortunately, it is entirely worth reading again.
As always, if you'd like anything clarified, please leave a comment below or contact me at SeanOnAmazon@gmail.com
April 5, 2013
Normally I'm not much of a writer, but after reading Spellscribed I felt this book deserved for me to write a review. The story line is amazing and the characters are well developed and keep the world and story line moving forward at a great pace that isn't rushed to agonizingly slow. I enjoy how each character has their own back story. It also has a great story arc that keeps the pages turning. The only thing I can complain about it is that I want it to continue. I cant wait till the next one is available.
March 16, 2014
I really would have liked the book. Really. Even with all the grammatical mistakes that a non-native speaker can spot easily. Unfortunately, though the concept is good, the characters are not. They are simply too flat and lack credibility, which makes it hard to really get sucked into the story. Pity.
April 7, 2013
The book was well written and engaging. I usally enjoy books with characters I can connect with and this one delivered. Looking forward to more.
November 13, 2014
A refreshing Magic story, not an entirely new concept but with it's own ideas and tricks.
October 25, 2014
Provenance is a very enjoyable fantasy book. It's not perfect, but there is a lot to like here.
What I liked.
- The inspired idea for a main character and plot.
- Great sense of humor.
- Fun and entertaining magic system.
What I didn't like.
- Starts a bit slow.
- The plot wanders a bit.
This book is essentially about a young wizard who is sent to be the Spengur(bit like a shaman) for a superstitious and magicphobic warrior nation who consider his job a necessary evil. If your imagining something like the Nords in the game Skyrim, congratulations you pretty much hit the nail on the head. Once there he finds more that a few surprises in store for him, which range from hilarious to life threatening.
The real fun in this book is the main character, Endurance, who is intelligent and powerful but also charmingly absent minded. When fate throws curve ball after curve ball at him it just fun to see what brilliant/insane solutions he'll think up. Any Doctor Who fans will feel right at home with how Endurance does things.
The less fun part of this book is how long it takes to get to that point. It's quite a long and eventful trek from the start of the book to the Endurance actually becoming the Spengur. This trek isn't bad either it just isn't as good as the rest. While the things that happen during that time are relevant to the greater story they don't seem that way at the time. Another little issue is that it spends a fair amount of time setting up plot threads; these presumably are for later books but, for this book at least, they feel unsatisfying.
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Overall, I enjoyed Provenience and recommend it to anybody looking for a fun wizard themed fantasy book to read.
What I liked.
- The inspired idea for a main character and plot.
- Great sense of humor.
- Fun and entertaining magic system.
What I didn't like.
- Starts a bit slow.
- The plot wanders a bit.
This book is essentially about a young wizard who is sent to be the Spengur(bit like a shaman) for a superstitious and magicphobic warrior nation who consider his job a necessary evil. If your imagining something like the Nords in the game Skyrim, congratulations you pretty much hit the nail on the head. Once there he finds more that a few surprises in store for him, which range from hilarious to life threatening.
The real fun in this book is the main character, Endurance, who is intelligent and powerful but also charmingly absent minded. When fate throws curve ball after curve ball at him it just fun to see what brilliant/insane solutions he'll think up. Any Doctor Who fans will feel right at home with how Endurance does things.
The less fun part of this book is how long it takes to get to that point. It's quite a long and eventful trek from the start of the book to the Endurance actually becoming the Spengur. This trek isn't bad either it just isn't as good as the rest. While the things that happen during that time are relevant to the greater story they don't seem that way at the time. Another little issue is that it spends a fair amount of time setting up plot threads; these presumably are for later books but, for this book at least, they feel unsatisfying.
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Overall, I enjoyed Provenience and recommend it to anybody looking for a fun wizard themed fantasy book to read.
April 17, 2013
From my Amazon review...
I kept turning the pages. Well to be honest, virtually turning pages on my Kindle, but that is high praise. I started reading as a kid, finished the Hobbit in 5th grade and Lord of the Rings in 7th, science fiction and fantasy have long been my companion. With the advent of self-publishing and e-books nearly everyone and their uncle, and probably their aunt too, have been releasing fantasy novels. Flush with the stories of J.K. Rowling and Christopher Paolini everyone hopes to strike it rich.
With Spellscribed Kristopher Cruz may be on to something. The book starts out in much the same way all fantasy books start, a mysterious discussion and an orphaned child. This may seem a bit cliched but he deftly avoids many of the tropes that trap other authors. The author sets up a world with rich heritage and rules and remains internally consistent throughout. Events, actions and responses, for the most part, seem genuine and logical. The story as it unfolds hints at something greater and by the time I reached it's conclusion I definitely wanted more.
I found this book to be an quick and easy read and as a new author's first foray into fantasy a nice reminder that good things can be found in unexpected places.
I kept turning the pages. Well to be honest, virtually turning pages on my Kindle, but that is high praise. I started reading as a kid, finished the Hobbit in 5th grade and Lord of the Rings in 7th, science fiction and fantasy have long been my companion. With the advent of self-publishing and e-books nearly everyone and their uncle, and probably their aunt too, have been releasing fantasy novels. Flush with the stories of J.K. Rowling and Christopher Paolini everyone hopes to strike it rich.
With Spellscribed Kristopher Cruz may be on to something. The book starts out in much the same way all fantasy books start, a mysterious discussion and an orphaned child. This may seem a bit cliched but he deftly avoids many of the tropes that trap other authors. The author sets up a world with rich heritage and rules and remains internally consistent throughout. Events, actions and responses, for the most part, seem genuine and logical. The story as it unfolds hints at something greater and by the time I reached it's conclusion I definitely wanted more.
I found this book to be an quick and easy read and as a new author's first foray into fantasy a nice reminder that good things can be found in unexpected places.
June 19, 2017
Unique mage story
April 15, 2013
Really liked it. The writing style was engaging without being overly florid. Once you reach the middle, then the end of the book, you really do feel like you've traversed a journey with the character. Especially with some of the fun left turns the author throws in without going in circles. I wish I could give it a 4.5 instead of a 4. The only reason I don't give it a five is because it unfortunately didn't blow my mind. But admittedly it takes a lot to do that.
Without giving spoilers, I think the hardest part about liking the book was the love interest. There was purpose behind it, but it fell slightly flat for me in that respect. Don't get me wrong, it was a satisfying read, and I will more than likely re-read it... and prolly get the next book as well. I have favorite characters I really want to see more of. I have a feeling with where this one left off at the sequel will definitely hit that five mark.
Without giving spoilers, I think the hardest part about liking the book was the love interest. There was purpose behind it, but it fell slightly flat for me in that respect. Don't get me wrong, it was a satisfying read, and I will more than likely re-read it... and prolly get the next book as well. I have favorite characters I really want to see more of. I have a feeling with where this one left off at the sequel will definitely hit that five mark.
July 28, 2017
The adventure aspect of the book is great. The history is rich, the world complex, but the exposition is generally handled very well. We're given just enough for that moment and back to the story. Only two complaints: 1) The dialogue, especially the romantic dialogue is simplistic. 2) Many times the author says the action explanations twice. Example: He had rage and experience on his side. He had spent more years training and he was much more angry.
But again, fun story with a character I cared about. Strong on adventure, not so much on emotional human interactions.
But again, fun story with a character I cared about. Strong on adventure, not so much on emotional human interactions.
April 14, 2019
A fairly good book.
Ok the book was pretty decently written and the characters are interesting but I wanted more depth to the story on why some of the quirky interactions between characters happened. The author has done some strange things on what kind of interaction would take place and did it with detriment to the characters progression. Overall I enjoyed it and give it a 3.5out of 5 rounded up.
Ok the book was pretty decently written and the characters are interesting but I wanted more depth to the story on why some of the quirky interactions between characters happened. The author has done some strange things on what kind of interaction would take place and did it with detriment to the characters progression. Overall I enjoyed it and give it a 3.5out of 5 rounded up.
November 28, 2013
A great story which I really enjoyed. I couldn't put the book down. While this is a book with magic throughout. I like the fact that this book Is also a coming of age story showing the inexperienced young wizard thrust into a place where magic is feared and you see him grow into a confident wizard. Can't wait for book two to see what is going to happen next
June 28, 2014
It was a pretty decent read, nothing to get too excited about, but still entertaining. I've read the sequal also, and Mr. Cruz has done a very good job of fleshing out the main protagonist's character. Also the supporting cast as well. The sequel leaves off at a good spot, setting the 3rd book up nicely. We may even find out if Endrance is even human!
April 27, 2013
All i can say is WHERE IS BOOK 2?
August 16, 2013
Very good book, interesting twist on magic. Highly recommended.
February 24, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the next one. And the third one..
June 12, 2016
Loved it!! Amazing!!
January 2, 2015
This series got off to a good start, and then blew up in book 3. I will not be continuing, but the first 2 books and the 2 novellas / short stories are still good.
February 28, 2017
Pretty decent story....I am still trying to understand how the magic works......the ending was not what I was expecting.....Will be reading the next one in the series....
September 26, 2019
Good book
Its a good book, it will tug your heart strings. Love the build of the characters, hope you all like it like I did.
Its a good book, it will tug your heart strings. Love the build of the characters, hope you all like it like I did.
September 30, 2024
To be fair, this book is a lot better than your average harem novel (not that that's saying much). In that aspect, it surpassed my expectations. However, it also falls short in a lot of ways.
What initially drew me to it was the feminine protagonist. He is often mistaken for a girl in the beginning of the novel and I thought that was interesting. Sadly, the author doesn't really lean into that as part of his character. It seems more like that aspect was just included because of the "elven pretty boy" (or in this case, half-elven) trope rather than a genuine desire to explore this type of alterative perspective on gender. There was a lot of potential in this book to do so as well. You already have the MC being a scrawny magic user in a land of barbarians that only respect martial prowess so it would have been easy to parallel that with traditional vs. alternative masculinity. Sadly that doesn't really come up.
Endrance himself comes off as highly overpowered at times. We're initially led to believe he is a novice who barely survived a duel with his master, but then he starts going around one-shotting epic monsters. It never really feels like he is struggling, ever. We get this explanation at the beginning of the book about how its so hard to know lots of magic words and how he doesn't know that many yet, but then later on it seems like he has a spell for any situation. This gets even worse when you consider that a major infodump about how his spell tattoo things work happens LITERALLY OFF PAGE, as in Endrance himself gets the info from another character but the audience doesn't get to see the conversation. It feels like the author had no idea how his magic system works and left it very vague so he could pull new tattoos out of nowhere as plot devices.
All of this might be ok if the character writing was interesting (spoiler alert: its not). Every single character just comes off as extremely tropey, from the dumb barbarian with a heart of gold, to the edgy shadow assassin lady, to even the harem members. The last one is really what disappointed me the most, because if you're going to write a harem novel then at least make the girls interesting. But no, they're all cliches: we've got the nice motherly one, the tough distant one, and the shy but secretly super badass one. They don't really get much character development or depth beyond just "I love this random kid my tribe essentially enslaved me to against my will because he was nice and didn't rape me immediately". I mean one of them was literally just like "you're weak so I can't love you" but then instantly capitulates and falls in love once Endrance kicks her ass in a duel. Okay...that is definitely not how relationships work. Well, at least there must be some interesting dynamics right? No, after they all fall in love with Endrance the romance element of the plot is completely ignored. Aside from mentioning from time to time that they love him, you never actually get to SEE it. It makes up 1% of the book or less.
I think that's the main issue with this book. Its a lot of time skipping, a lot of telling instead of showing, and important things happening off-page. It also suffers from the "and then" style of storytelling where stuff just happens randomly because the author thought it would have been cool for the MC to fight a hydra. I wish more time had been spent on exploring the depths of the character's emotions and dynamics because all of these people are just so flat.
Then there's the ending which is a blatant cliffhanger designed to manipulate the reader into buying another book. There are plenty of interesting mysteries in this book and at first I was genuinely reading because I wanted to know what happened next, but somewhere along the way I realized I don't actually care about any of these characters or the world. Its like a mill of constant foreshadowing designed to keep you voraciously reading and not notice the lack of substance.
What initially drew me to it was the feminine protagonist. He is often mistaken for a girl in the beginning of the novel and I thought that was interesting. Sadly, the author doesn't really lean into that as part of his character. It seems more like that aspect was just included because of the "elven pretty boy" (or in this case, half-elven) trope rather than a genuine desire to explore this type of alterative perspective on gender. There was a lot of potential in this book to do so as well. You already have the MC being a scrawny magic user in a land of barbarians that only respect martial prowess so it would have been easy to parallel that with traditional vs. alternative masculinity. Sadly that doesn't really come up.
Endrance himself comes off as highly overpowered at times. We're initially led to believe he is a novice who barely survived a duel with his master, but then he starts going around one-shotting epic monsters. It never really feels like he is struggling, ever. We get this explanation at the beginning of the book about how its so hard to know lots of magic words and how he doesn't know that many yet, but then later on it seems like he has a spell for any situation. This gets even worse when you consider that a major infodump about how his spell tattoo things work happens LITERALLY OFF PAGE, as in Endrance himself gets the info from another character but the audience doesn't get to see the conversation. It feels like the author had no idea how his magic system works and left it very vague so he could pull new tattoos out of nowhere as plot devices.
All of this might be ok if the character writing was interesting (spoiler alert: its not). Every single character just comes off as extremely tropey, from the dumb barbarian with a heart of gold, to the edgy shadow assassin lady, to even the harem members. The last one is really what disappointed me the most, because if you're going to write a harem novel then at least make the girls interesting. But no, they're all cliches: we've got the nice motherly one, the tough distant one, and the shy but secretly super badass one. They don't really get much character development or depth beyond just "I love this random kid my tribe essentially enslaved me to against my will because he was nice and didn't rape me immediately". I mean one of them was literally just like "you're weak so I can't love you" but then instantly capitulates and falls in love once Endrance kicks her ass in a duel. Okay...that is definitely not how relationships work. Well, at least there must be some interesting dynamics right? No, after they all fall in love with Endrance the romance element of the plot is completely ignored. Aside from mentioning from time to time that they love him, you never actually get to SEE it. It makes up 1% of the book or less.
I think that's the main issue with this book. Its a lot of time skipping, a lot of telling instead of showing, and important things happening off-page. It also suffers from the "and then" style of storytelling where stuff just happens randomly because the author thought it would have been cool for the MC to fight a hydra. I wish more time had been spent on exploring the depths of the character's emotions and dynamics because all of these people are just so flat.
Then there's the ending which is a blatant cliffhanger designed to manipulate the reader into buying another book. There are plenty of interesting mysteries in this book and at first I was genuinely reading because I wanted to know what happened next, but somewhere along the way I realized I don't actually care about any of these characters or the world. Its like a mill of constant foreshadowing designed to keep you voraciously reading and not notice the lack of substance.
August 29, 2020
The book reads like a teenager's attempt at writing. The characters are 0-domensional, there are no descriptions to speak of, the story itself is absolutely bland and I can't bring myself to care about anything. I forced myself to read the first half, expecting that it might get interesting, but it just goes downhill after that. Nothing the MC does makes any sense. [Spoiler ahead] He killed his abductor with magic and then walked through a bloody room with 16 dead people, then he killed a big tiger, smushing its head in the process, yet he didn't even flinch while doing so (a 15 yo sheltered teenager). But the next thing he kills brings so much shame and guilt (he even thanks the guy he killed) that it made me wonder whether the author actually forgot everything he'd written before. And there are countless situations like that. Action just jumps from one thing to another, forcing me to imagine what happened in-between. Something like "he sat reading his book and kneeled before his king". What? But he was sitting in a chair? Where was he? In a room? In a hall? What happened? Many questions, bad writing.
July 28, 2017
This is a coming of age wizard fantasy that has some different features than most others. For one, some of the protagonist's powers come from spells tattooed all over his body when he was an infant, and certain events cause more tattoos to appear. Also, he has an unusual and likeable familiar. I read the first two books in the series, but the subsequent books are too expensive for me. I guess that means I'm not terribly motivated to finish the series, which probably says something about my reaction. It was fun to read, but not compelling.
September 15, 2019
This book caught me by surprise and was a breath of fresh air during a time when I was stuck waiting for something new. The magic system in this series is very cool, and though this book does have a fair number of the fantasy tropes present, it's well presented enough that you forgive them. It's a fun read that will give you a new world to explore if you are looking for a fantasy jaunt into a nordic feeling universe.
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