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A young boy leaves his village to become a cavalryman with the famous King's Third regiment; in doing so he discovers both his past and his destiny. Gifted and cursed with a unique memory, the foundling son of a notorious traitor, Rhodri joins an elite cavalry unit stationed in the harbour town of Northpoint. His training reveals his talents and brings him friendship, love and loss, and sexual awakening; struggling with his memories of his father who once ruled there, he begins to discover a sense of belonging. That is, until a face from the past reveals a secret that will change not only Rhodri's life but the fate of a nation. Then, on his first campaign, he is forced to face the extremes of war and his own nature. This, the first part of The Art of Forgetting, is a gripping story about belonging and identity, set in a superbly imagined and complex world that is both harsh and beautiful. Part Two, Nomad, coming soon...
330 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2013
20 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Hall
28 books119 followersJoanne Hall is the same age as Star Wars, which explains a lot…. She lives in Bristol, England with her partner. She enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, playing console games, watching movies, pottering about on her allotment and playing with the world’s laziest dog.
A full-time author since 2003, Joanne’s “New Kingdom” fantasy trilogy was published by Epress Online, and was a finalist in both the PLUTO and EPPIE awards . Her short stories have appeared in many publications, both print and online, including Afterburn SF, Quantum Muse, and The Harrow.
She has had short stories published in several anthologies, including “Pirates of the Cumberland Basin” in Future Bristol, and “Corpse Flight” in Dark Spires. A short story collection, “The Feline Queen” was published in March 2011 by Wolfsinger Publications, and her fourth novel, “The Art of Forgetting”, was released in two volumes by Kristell Ink. Volume One, “Rider” was published in July 2013 to a warm critical reception, while Volume Two, “Nomad” was released in May 2014. “Rider” was longlisted for the 2014 Tiptree Award.
Joanne was formerly the Chair of BristolCon, Bristol’s premier science fiction and fantasy convention, but has recently stepped down to pursue other projects. She has recently taken on the position of Acquisitions Editor for Kristell Ink. She has also edited novels, comics, and content for social media games.
She is the co-editor, with Roz Clarke, of “Colinthology”, a tribute anthology to the late Colin Harvey, which also includes her short story “Lukewarm in Lynhelm.” “Colinthology” was published as an ebook in October 2012 by Wizards Tower, and launched at BristolCon. Roz and Jo also edited a Bristol-themed steampunk anthology, “Airship Shape and Bristol Fashion”, published by Wizard’s Tower in February 2014, and “Fight Like A Girl”, for Kristell Ink, which has been shortlisted for the BFS Award for Best Anthology.
Joanne’s latest novel, “The Summer Goddess”, which tells the story of a woman’s battle with a demon-worshipping cult to save her lost nephew, was published by Kristell Ink and shortlisted for the BFS Award for Best Novel. She is currently working on a new flintlock fantasy series.
She sometimes talks about herself in the third person on the internet and is inclined to ramble on about courgettes and greyhounds unless forcibly prevented. She is always happy to hear from readers
A full-time author since 2003, Joanne’s “New Kingdom” fantasy trilogy was published by Epress Online, and was a finalist in both the PLUTO and EPPIE awards . Her short stories have appeared in many publications, both print and online, including Afterburn SF, Quantum Muse, and The Harrow.
She has had short stories published in several anthologies, including “Pirates of the Cumberland Basin” in Future Bristol, and “Corpse Flight” in Dark Spires. A short story collection, “The Feline Queen” was published in March 2011 by Wolfsinger Publications, and her fourth novel, “The Art of Forgetting”, was released in two volumes by Kristell Ink. Volume One, “Rider” was published in July 2013 to a warm critical reception, while Volume Two, “Nomad” was released in May 2014. “Rider” was longlisted for the 2014 Tiptree Award.
Joanne was formerly the Chair of BristolCon, Bristol’s premier science fiction and fantasy convention, but has recently stepped down to pursue other projects. She has recently taken on the position of Acquisitions Editor for Kristell Ink. She has also edited novels, comics, and content for social media games.
She is the co-editor, with Roz Clarke, of “Colinthology”, a tribute anthology to the late Colin Harvey, which also includes her short story “Lukewarm in Lynhelm.” “Colinthology” was published as an ebook in October 2012 by Wizards Tower, and launched at BristolCon. Roz and Jo also edited a Bristol-themed steampunk anthology, “Airship Shape and Bristol Fashion”, published by Wizard’s Tower in February 2014, and “Fight Like A Girl”, for Kristell Ink, which has been shortlisted for the BFS Award for Best Anthology.
Joanne’s latest novel, “The Summer Goddess”, which tells the story of a woman’s battle with a demon-worshipping cult to save her lost nephew, was published by Kristell Ink and shortlisted for the BFS Award for Best Novel. She is currently working on a new flintlock fantasy series.
She sometimes talks about herself in the third person on the internet and is inclined to ramble on about courgettes and greyhounds unless forcibly prevented. She is always happy to hear from readers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 19, 2021
4,5 stars
I started reading this one - and when I next looked on the clock I noticed it was 2 hours past my bedtime (again...) and I already read half the book in one go... That is the biggest compliment to a book in my eyes! It also make me jump, when I read while on the subway, and when I looked up next I noticed that the seats next and opposite to me had filled up without me even noticing it!
The writing style was really good and kept me sucked into this world all the way through. It had a bit of a lower point shortly after the middle for me - but picked up again quite fast.
After Smilers's fair, this is the second fantasy book in a row with a gay/bi main character. It was well described and fitted snuggly into the story, feeling like a natural part of it (as it should be in my eyes) and didn't stick out a lot. There are no graphic/descriptive gay sex scenes in here if you are sensitive to those, and only a few detailed sex scenes all in all. And they were done really well. Who follows my reviews knows that I dislike any kind of sex scene in books - these ones didn't make me cringe and roll me eyes - which isn't easy, as that is one of my pet peeves.
I really liked the characters (and be prepared, not everyone will make it to the end of the book!), even if Rhodri sometimes did some quite stupid things - he is a teenager when the book starts after all. I feared for them and cheered for them and was completely enthralled by their fates and stories. They were quite divers, and didn't feel like carbon copies, or blank slates, but like real people.
There are quite some unexpected twists and turns that kept the story fresh, even though the underlying storyline isn't completely unique.
I definitely highly recommend this series - I already bought book two, and hope I'll manage to have it third in line on my TBR!
I started reading this one - and when I next looked on the clock I noticed it was 2 hours past my bedtime (again...) and I already read half the book in one go... That is the biggest compliment to a book in my eyes! It also make me jump, when I read while on the subway, and when I looked up next I noticed that the seats next and opposite to me had filled up without me even noticing it!
The writing style was really good and kept me sucked into this world all the way through. It had a bit of a lower point shortly after the middle for me - but picked up again quite fast.
After Smilers's fair, this is the second fantasy book in a row with a gay/bi main character. It was well described and fitted snuggly into the story, feeling like a natural part of it (as it should be in my eyes) and didn't stick out a lot. There are no graphic/descriptive gay sex scenes in here if you are sensitive to those, and only a few detailed sex scenes all in all. And they were done really well. Who follows my reviews knows that I dislike any kind of sex scene in books - these ones didn't make me cringe and roll me eyes - which isn't easy, as that is one of my pet peeves.
I really liked the characters (and be prepared, not everyone will make it to the end of the book!), even if Rhodri sometimes did some quite stupid things - he is a teenager when the book starts after all. I feared for them and cheered for them and was completely enthralled by their fates and stories. They were quite divers, and didn't feel like carbon copies, or blank slates, but like real people.
There are quite some unexpected twists and turns that kept the story fresh, even though the underlying storyline isn't completely unique.
I definitely highly recommend this series - I already bought book two, and hope I'll manage to have it third in line on my TBR!
August 14, 2016
Great story. Detailed, slightly gritty world. Heroic fantasy with roots in real world problems.
Jeezy pete. It's ANOTHER ONE. If this keeps up, in about a generation, I'll have something to worry about.
What I mean, of course, is a well done story about a hero.
These are big problems for me. If I'm not careful, people will READ this kind of thing. Next thing you know, they'll want to be heroic themselves, and then I'm all having people storm the Volcano Lair, trying to stop my drones.
And THAT's no good.
Everything starts out well enough- Our Hero, Rhodri, is being properly and thoroughly crushed by society. This, of course, is how things should be. Rhoderi is different, and should not be allowed to flourish. Some say he's a mysterious fae child, others believe he's just a liar, but either way, this is fine.
For this reason, the book should stop in the first few chapters. We see young heroes getting treated the way they should- discouraged.
Then, heartbreak happens when Rhoderi comes upon an opportunity to change things. No matter how his guardians attempt to hold him down- for his own good- he squirms until he is finally free of their civilizing influence. Soon, he is on his way to distant lands, meeting ALLIES for the love of Pete, and finding tantalizing clues about his own history.
Who IS Rhoderi's father? What happened to him? As we are drawn further and further into the story, we begin to realize that our young hero may in fact be the crux upon which the future of this land hangs.
WHICH IS TERRIBLE!!
PEOPLE! Quit writing bad-ass stories such as this one with great heroes and detailed worlds! This kind of propaganda can only lead to MORE heroes existing in the real world, which, of course, is the last thing anyone wants.
YES, it's a great book about a teenager in a fantasy world, and YES it contains lots of wonderful characters, but in the end, this book promotes heroism, which I cannot abide.
Great read. Definitely pick it up. :)
Jeezy pete. It's ANOTHER ONE. If this keeps up, in about a generation, I'll have something to worry about.
What I mean, of course, is a well done story about a hero.
These are big problems for me. If I'm not careful, people will READ this kind of thing. Next thing you know, they'll want to be heroic themselves, and then I'm all having people storm the Volcano Lair, trying to stop my drones.
And THAT's no good.
Everything starts out well enough- Our Hero, Rhodri, is being properly and thoroughly crushed by society. This, of course, is how things should be. Rhoderi is different, and should not be allowed to flourish. Some say he's a mysterious fae child, others believe he's just a liar, but either way, this is fine.
For this reason, the book should stop in the first few chapters. We see young heroes getting treated the way they should- discouraged.
Then, heartbreak happens when Rhoderi comes upon an opportunity to change things. No matter how his guardians attempt to hold him down- for his own good- he squirms until he is finally free of their civilizing influence. Soon, he is on his way to distant lands, meeting ALLIES for the love of Pete, and finding tantalizing clues about his own history.
Who IS Rhoderi's father? What happened to him? As we are drawn further and further into the story, we begin to realize that our young hero may in fact be the crux upon which the future of this land hangs.
WHICH IS TERRIBLE!!
PEOPLE! Quit writing bad-ass stories such as this one with great heroes and detailed worlds! This kind of propaganda can only lead to MORE heroes existing in the real world, which, of course, is the last thing anyone wants.
YES, it's a great book about a teenager in a fantasy world, and YES it contains lots of wonderful characters, but in the end, this book promotes heroism, which I cannot abide.
Great read. Definitely pick it up. :)
Read
June 15, 2014I made it about 90% before I set this one aside. There is a lot to like. Interesting world, super fast pace, nifty voice, and a believable teenage boy, with all the stupid decisions as well as the struggle for moral clarity that that implies. There is even some LGBTQ, in the main character being bisexual, which is mostly accepted except when it isn't, and there is a trans character, but this could maybe have been handled differently.
The world is at the edge of my tolerance for grimdark, but the pacing and voice and most of the characters carried me right along, until became too much for me, and I set it aside.
Tons of talent here, and I mean to keep an eye out for this author, in hopes future projects aren't quite so grimdark for wimpy me.
The world is at the edge of my tolerance for grimdark, but the pacing and voice and most of the characters carried me right along, until became too much for me, and I set it aside.
Tons of talent here, and I mean to keep an eye out for this author, in hopes future projects aren't quite so grimdark for wimpy me.
August 31, 2013
FULL DISCLOSURE THIS BOOK IS FROM MY PUBLISHER, BUT THIS IS AN HONEST REVIEW.
The Art of Forgetting is a kind of coming of age tale of Rhodri a boy with an uncanny talent for remembering. Everything that is but his true parentage. He was a foundling and he can he can only remember bits and pieces of his past. With his foster parents he feels as if he doesn't really belong. His foster father is abusive as well as the whole town. Salvation comes when a troop of calvary come riding along and recruit him to be in the King's Third.
The Art of Forgetting is high fantasy with a lot of adventure. It isn't too jam packed with faries and goblins, which I tend to like. Some of the themes and grittiness might be a little much for some to handle, but I thought for the most part the author was very tactful in how she approached some these subjects.
Overall, I recommend this book if you like a gritty fantasy. If you are easily offended then just pass it up. But I would recommend keeping an open mind and giving it a try.
The Art of Forgetting is a kind of coming of age tale of Rhodri a boy with an uncanny talent for remembering. Everything that is but his true parentage. He was a foundling and he can he can only remember bits and pieces of his past. With his foster parents he feels as if he doesn't really belong. His foster father is abusive as well as the whole town. Salvation comes when a troop of calvary come riding along and recruit him to be in the King's Third.
The Art of Forgetting is high fantasy with a lot of adventure. It isn't too jam packed with faries and goblins, which I tend to like. Some of the themes and grittiness might be a little much for some to handle, but I thought for the most part the author was very tactful in how she approached some these subjects.
Overall, I recommend this book if you like a gritty fantasy. If you are easily offended then just pass it up. But I would recommend keeping an open mind and giving it a try.
July 13, 2013
This book starts as a standard fantasy. A young man of unknown background is being brought up in a rural town. When a troop of King's soldiers comes through, he resolves to join them and make his way in the world. Reading this portion as a sample pulled me in.
However, the story takes on too many themes and doesn't do justice to most of them. I never lost myself in the story or fully identified with the main character after he left Pencarith, although I did sympathize with him. His unique memory is supposed to be a big deal, but most of the time I didn't even remember that it existed. Issues of his parentage and sexuality are much more important.
Good story but only medium execution.
Note: the version that I bought from Smashwords has ISBN 9781909845022 but since there are already two ebook editions (non-Kindle or B&N) listed on GR with the same cover, I didn't see the point in adding a third.
However, the story takes on too many themes and doesn't do justice to most of them. I never lost myself in the story or fully identified with the main character after he left Pencarith, although I did sympathize with him. His unique memory is supposed to be a big deal, but most of the time I didn't even remember that it existed. Issues of his parentage and sexuality are much more important.
Good story but only medium execution.
Note: the version that I bought from Smashwords has ISBN 9781909845022 but since there are already two ebook editions (non-Kindle or B&N) listed on GR with the same cover, I didn't see the point in adding a third.
July 15, 2013
I am a long-time reader of the author and have read a few stories set in this large country known as The New Kingdom. As soon as I heard there would be a new book I wanted to get my hands on it quickly! This half of the story follows a boy's journey from one side of the kingdom to the other, and all stops in-between. Told entirely from his point of view, The Art of Forgetting is a rather apt title for his other journey, that of growing up. Urg, does that HAVE to happen to us all? Yes it does, and Rhodri is no different. Apart from his complete recollection of every single day of his life from the age of about 3. Pretty nifty gift.
Except it gets poor young Rhod into trouble in his village and so he decides to join the soldiers located in the Western coastal town of Northpoint. With it's distinctive strange accent and long-abandoned (probably haunted) castle, Northpoint becomes a home to Rhodri thanks to Astan, an enthusiastic young soldier in the making. Enemies are made, love is lost and found and lost in the strangest of places and hearts. The pace of the book shows Rhodri going from boy, to youth, to one of the lads, and over the chapters you grow to find favourites amongst the background cast as well.
There is a lot to learn about The New Kingdom so, unlike Rhod, pay attention to the history lessons and you'll be rewarded with a depth of knowledge that will make reading other books set in the same place a different experience. Can't wait to own a print copy!
I now have one and it's as amazing as before :D
Except it gets poor young Rhod into trouble in his village and so he decides to join the soldiers located in the Western coastal town of Northpoint. With it's distinctive strange accent and long-abandoned (probably haunted) castle, Northpoint becomes a home to Rhodri thanks to Astan, an enthusiastic young soldier in the making. Enemies are made, love is lost and found and lost in the strangest of places and hearts. The pace of the book shows Rhodri going from boy, to youth, to one of the lads, and over the chapters you grow to find favourites amongst the background cast as well.
There is a lot to learn about The New Kingdom so, unlike Rhod, pay attention to the history lessons and you'll be rewarded with a depth of knowledge that will make reading other books set in the same place a different experience. Can't wait to own a print copy!
I now have one and it's as amazing as before :D
May 16, 2013
The Art of Forgetting.
Jo Hall’s book truly breaks the boundaries. So many fantasy novels are pat deliveries of what has already gone before. Hall takes the genre to the next level with her skillful handling of characters who are not quite what one would expect, but are beyond delightful because of this.
The hero, Rhodri, starts out in deprived circumstances because he looks different from other villages and he has total memory recall. As a found child, he is raised by suspicious guardians, who do little to nurture him. When a chance comes to leave his village, he jumps on it and begins a whole new chapter of his life.
What follows is Rhodri striving to find links to the past he remembers in vivid detail. The truth isn’t always how it is presented and he must adjust to this as well as his growing experiences. Without giving spoilers, this is a very character driven book that excels in to life in this world and Rhodri’s take on his surroundings.
I found Rhodri to be a compelling character and I was very disappointed when I came to the end of the book. I was so wrapped up in it that I read it straight through in one day. What I will take away from the reading experience is how much I enjoyed seeing Rhodri grow over the course of the story. I am very much looking forward to the next book so I may learn what happened next. This was an immensely enjoyable read and I can’t recommend it enough.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Now where is the next in the series? I want it now.
Jo Hall’s book truly breaks the boundaries. So many fantasy novels are pat deliveries of what has already gone before. Hall takes the genre to the next level with her skillful handling of characters who are not quite what one would expect, but are beyond delightful because of this.
The hero, Rhodri, starts out in deprived circumstances because he looks different from other villages and he has total memory recall. As a found child, he is raised by suspicious guardians, who do little to nurture him. When a chance comes to leave his village, he jumps on it and begins a whole new chapter of his life.
What follows is Rhodri striving to find links to the past he remembers in vivid detail. The truth isn’t always how it is presented and he must adjust to this as well as his growing experiences. Without giving spoilers, this is a very character driven book that excels in to life in this world and Rhodri’s take on his surroundings.
I found Rhodri to be a compelling character and I was very disappointed when I came to the end of the book. I was so wrapped up in it that I read it straight through in one day. What I will take away from the reading experience is how much I enjoyed seeing Rhodri grow over the course of the story. I am very much looking forward to the next book so I may learn what happened next. This was an immensely enjoyable read and I can’t recommend it enough.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Now where is the next in the series? I want it now.
March 7, 2015
From the moment I began reading, I couldn't pull myself away. This novel is a triumph, on so many levels.
Set against a pseudo-Medieval world, as real and vibrant as Middle-earth or Westeros, 'The Art of Forgetting: Rider' tells the tale of Rhodri, a foundling boy, with an incredible gift of memory but unable to remember his mother, though memories of his lordly father burnt brightly. A twist of fate takes him from his foster family and into the King's Third, a cavalry regiment and back towards the home he was raised in as a child.
While training, he discovers truths and rumours about his father, horrific truths that he struggles to reconcile with his memories of a loving man. It is not until he leaves Northpoint that the full truth about his past is revealed.
This coming of age tale also deals sensitively with a teenage boy coming to terms with his sexuality and also with transgender issues. The realism of the Medieval setting only heightens the pathos of such journies and I genuinely wept for the characters.
The novel builds to a stunning climax and cliffhanger ending which sees Rhodri unwilling to accept cruel behaviour of his fellow soldiers. I will definitely be buying the sequel. This is a must-read.
Set against a pseudo-Medieval world, as real and vibrant as Middle-earth or Westeros, 'The Art of Forgetting: Rider' tells the tale of Rhodri, a foundling boy, with an incredible gift of memory but unable to remember his mother, though memories of his lordly father burnt brightly. A twist of fate takes him from his foster family and into the King's Third, a cavalry regiment and back towards the home he was raised in as a child.
While training, he discovers truths and rumours about his father, horrific truths that he struggles to reconcile with his memories of a loving man. It is not until he leaves Northpoint that the full truth about his past is revealed.
This coming of age tale also deals sensitively with a teenage boy coming to terms with his sexuality and also with transgender issues. The realism of the Medieval setting only heightens the pathos of such journies and I genuinely wept for the characters.
The novel builds to a stunning climax and cliffhanger ending which sees Rhodri unwilling to accept cruel behaviour of his fellow soldiers. I will definitely be buying the sequel. This is a must-read.
February 12, 2013
Art of Forgetting is a brilliant tale of discovery and equality, of the evils of humankind and of what is truly the right thing to do. All Rhodri had wanted was to regain his birth-right, to be reunited with his family, to finally know his mother. His journey is a long one and takes him from his home and into a foreign land, and in true Joanne Hall style, to a lot of pain, misery, misunderstanding, death, and finally release.
There is another side to this book that is not immediately apparent but which should be read by everyone, every adult and every child, in the hope that it will teach a little tolerance. Here is a story of racial hatred and sexual intolerance, here is a story of ignorance and misunderstanding. I hope it teaches people to think about their attitude towards that which we do not understand and maybe then we can make our world a better place to live.
Another brilliant masterpiece from a truly great writer.
There is another side to this book that is not immediately apparent but which should be read by everyone, every adult and every child, in the hope that it will teach a little tolerance. Here is a story of racial hatred and sexual intolerance, here is a story of ignorance and misunderstanding. I hope it teaches people to think about their attitude towards that which we do not understand and maybe then we can make our world a better place to live.
Another brilliant masterpiece from a truly great writer.
April 7, 2013
This is a wonderful coming-of-age story from a talented writer who deserves to go far. The worldbuilding in The Art of Forgetting is exquisite – you feel as if you’re living and breathing Rhodri’s world right from page one. It’s a story which has something for everyone – drama, romance, action, angst and humour – and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The Art of Forgetting deals with some serious issues – sexuality and sexual intolerance, transgenderism, self-harm, racism – but such is the author’s skill that it never feels like she is beating you around the head with them. Rather, they fit naturally and seamlessly into the plot, making for rich and interesting characters who the reader can really warm to and relate to. The Art of Forgetting is a compelling read, with an intriguing young hero struggling to discover the truth about his past. It's not a book I'll be forgetting any time soon!
The Art of Forgetting deals with some serious issues – sexuality and sexual intolerance, transgenderism, self-harm, racism – but such is the author’s skill that it never feels like she is beating you around the head with them. Rather, they fit naturally and seamlessly into the plot, making for rich and interesting characters who the reader can really warm to and relate to. The Art of Forgetting is a compelling read, with an intriguing young hero struggling to discover the truth about his past. It's not a book I'll be forgetting any time soon!
August 22, 2013
Rhodri is a very typical teenager, and struggles with very typical teen issues. He tries to find out who he is, who his parents are, and who he wants to be.
The whole book is through Rhodri’s POV and one can clearly see how his personality matures along the years to manhood.
He joins the King’s Third: a cavalry unit and adjusts easily to the military life, and he also has a special gift, the gift of a perfect memory… Well, almost perfect, there are a few years missing…
Sometimes I thought Rhodri was an OK guy, but other times I wanted to kick the @#! out of him.
AoF was a roller-coaster of emotion, and I had a serious book-hangover when I was finished.
The whole book is through Rhodri’s POV and one can clearly see how his personality matures along the years to manhood.
He joins the King’s Third: a cavalry unit and adjusts easily to the military life, and he also has a special gift, the gift of a perfect memory… Well, almost perfect, there are a few years missing…
Sometimes I thought Rhodri was an OK guy, but other times I wanted to kick the @#! out of him.
AoF was a roller-coaster of emotion, and I had a serious book-hangover when I was finished.
September 1, 2013
Not my genre at all so I was reading this because Jo is a friend and guess what? I was totally hooked. She keeps the tale rattling along in a world that's credible and with enough twists and turns to make you go: "I never saw that coming!" I'm actually looking forward to the second book.
July 11, 2018
Great
The cover of this book drew me in and the story matched it perfectly to the point I didn't want to put it down. I loved characters, the storyline....everything about this book
The cover of this book drew me in and the story matched it perfectly to the point I didn't want to put it down. I loved characters, the storyline....everything about this book
April 26, 2013
This was my first Joanne Hall book and it definitely won’t be my last.
There are spoilers within this review – you have been warned.
The Art of Forgetting is a coming of age tale with young Rhodri as the sole viewpoint character. As the heir to a far off throne, how Rhodri has come to live in the small village of Pencarith as a social pariah is a mystery, even to Rhodri himself who has an otherwise eidetic memory – an enviable talent, if I do say so myself. Those in Pencarith believe him to be Fae touched, not quite right in the head, and suffering from delusions of grandeur, so when the opportunity arises for him to join the Kings Third cavalry he jumps at the chance in the hope that he finds his forgotten place in the world.
Rhodri’s journey takes him to Northpoint, a coastal town in civil unrest where his training begins and he starts to learn of his past and the dreadful rumours surrounding his father: murderer, slaughter, woman beater. Much of the book is set here in Northpoint as Rhodri ages from boy to young man, learning his profession, history, his father and life in general, alongside his friends/recruits Aston, Jime, Nik and let’s not forget his nemesis, Dru.
In all honesty, I like my heroes to be heroes: completing valiant acts of courage with odds stacked against them. It took a long time for Rhodri to become, what I call, a hero, and for a while it really bugged me as there was no action to get behind. Instead I was following a boy who liked horses and was growing up with his fellow recruits, trying to fit in and find his place in the big wide world, drinking, learning and buying whores. The prospect of a Fae touched child, to me, was very appealing, and I let that lead me to believe that there would be more magic and mystery. Just after half way through, I resigned to the fact that this would not be the case in this book. I liked Rhodri, yes, but all I wanted him to do throughout this section book was ‘man-up.’
Rhodri’s sexuality also took me by surprise and, for a while, pushed him further from me. No, I’m not homophobic, I just found it difficult to relate to the desires expressed. And when Aston, Rhodri’s friend, turned out to be transgender - and secretly in love with Rhodri - I found myself wondering what the book was actually about. Would I ever find out who he was, or was this just a story about a homosexual cavalryman fighting discrimination?
Now is a good time to promote Jo’s writing ability. It may seem like I’m being a little harsh, but just bare with me.
Within these pages is a master class of writing ability. If you ever want to see how a sentence should be structured, how an emotion should be conveyed or how a chapter should be paced, then look no further. This is the book to refer to. For an amateur, such as myself, I was bowled over by how easy the book was to read, yet the images conveyed were clearer and more vivid than many other books I’ve read. It amazed me, and this exemplary command over the English language carried over to the speech with every character having their individual accents and levels of vocabulary. The detail was brilliant. It was this clever writing that swung my opinion. When discussing Rhodri’s bisexuality, Keir, the Horse Master whom Rhodri loves, says,
“...we can’t go against the way the stars made us.”
It hit me like a bolt of lightning. I saw through every word and act that had made me uncomfortable for what it actually was: self discovery. No, I couldn’t relate to the specifics of their relationship, but that one little line of expressed unconditional love was as powerful as any I’d personally experienced, and suddenly his journey made complete sense to me. This was a story about acceptance, and being who you were born to me, not folding under the pressures of society or what is expected. Whether or not Jo intended that level of impact at this specific point in the story is something only she will know, but for me it was an incredible moment of clarity.
Upon leaving Northpoint (and Keir), Rhodri encounters a water demon – finally, a bit of blood and guts – and is lead back home to his father’s castle. A girl from his past reveals a secret which changes Rhodri’s perception of the world around him and his heritage. Is the man that he thought was his father really a glorified kidnapper? Could Rhodri really be the only male heir to the dead king?
Towards the end of this story, before Rhodri can investigate further, the Kings Third are sent to war where Rhodri has to both protect and take life, and we are left wondering what will happen to Rhodri now that he has lost everything after abandoning his unit– a fantastic suspense question.
So, for all of my whining and uneasiness, The Art of Forgetting is a cleverly told story where our hero – that’s right, I said it, hero – is moulded into man of valour before our very eyes. He has become the hero I wanted him to be, he just took a different path.
I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
There are spoilers within this review – you have been warned.
The Art of Forgetting is a coming of age tale with young Rhodri as the sole viewpoint character. As the heir to a far off throne, how Rhodri has come to live in the small village of Pencarith as a social pariah is a mystery, even to Rhodri himself who has an otherwise eidetic memory – an enviable talent, if I do say so myself. Those in Pencarith believe him to be Fae touched, not quite right in the head, and suffering from delusions of grandeur, so when the opportunity arises for him to join the Kings Third cavalry he jumps at the chance in the hope that he finds his forgotten place in the world.
Rhodri’s journey takes him to Northpoint, a coastal town in civil unrest where his training begins and he starts to learn of his past and the dreadful rumours surrounding his father: murderer, slaughter, woman beater. Much of the book is set here in Northpoint as Rhodri ages from boy to young man, learning his profession, history, his father and life in general, alongside his friends/recruits Aston, Jime, Nik and let’s not forget his nemesis, Dru.
In all honesty, I like my heroes to be heroes: completing valiant acts of courage with odds stacked against them. It took a long time for Rhodri to become, what I call, a hero, and for a while it really bugged me as there was no action to get behind. Instead I was following a boy who liked horses and was growing up with his fellow recruits, trying to fit in and find his place in the big wide world, drinking, learning and buying whores. The prospect of a Fae touched child, to me, was very appealing, and I let that lead me to believe that there would be more magic and mystery. Just after half way through, I resigned to the fact that this would not be the case in this book. I liked Rhodri, yes, but all I wanted him to do throughout this section book was ‘man-up.’
Rhodri’s sexuality also took me by surprise and, for a while, pushed him further from me. No, I’m not homophobic, I just found it difficult to relate to the desires expressed. And when Aston, Rhodri’s friend, turned out to be transgender - and secretly in love with Rhodri - I found myself wondering what the book was actually about. Would I ever find out who he was, or was this just a story about a homosexual cavalryman fighting discrimination?
Now is a good time to promote Jo’s writing ability. It may seem like I’m being a little harsh, but just bare with me.
Within these pages is a master class of writing ability. If you ever want to see how a sentence should be structured, how an emotion should be conveyed or how a chapter should be paced, then look no further. This is the book to refer to. For an amateur, such as myself, I was bowled over by how easy the book was to read, yet the images conveyed were clearer and more vivid than many other books I’ve read. It amazed me, and this exemplary command over the English language carried over to the speech with every character having their individual accents and levels of vocabulary. The detail was brilliant. It was this clever writing that swung my opinion. When discussing Rhodri’s bisexuality, Keir, the Horse Master whom Rhodri loves, says,
“...we can’t go against the way the stars made us.”
It hit me like a bolt of lightning. I saw through every word and act that had made me uncomfortable for what it actually was: self discovery. No, I couldn’t relate to the specifics of their relationship, but that one little line of expressed unconditional love was as powerful as any I’d personally experienced, and suddenly his journey made complete sense to me. This was a story about acceptance, and being who you were born to me, not folding under the pressures of society or what is expected. Whether or not Jo intended that level of impact at this specific point in the story is something only she will know, but for me it was an incredible moment of clarity.
Upon leaving Northpoint (and Keir), Rhodri encounters a water demon – finally, a bit of blood and guts – and is lead back home to his father’s castle. A girl from his past reveals a secret which changes Rhodri’s perception of the world around him and his heritage. Is the man that he thought was his father really a glorified kidnapper? Could Rhodri really be the only male heir to the dead king?
Towards the end of this story, before Rhodri can investigate further, the Kings Third are sent to war where Rhodri has to both protect and take life, and we are left wondering what will happen to Rhodri now that he has lost everything after abandoning his unit– a fantastic suspense question.
So, for all of my whining and uneasiness, The Art of Forgetting is a cleverly told story where our hero – that’s right, I said it, hero – is moulded into man of valour before our very eyes. He has become the hero I wanted him to be, he just took a different path.
I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2014
So I've been wanting to read a few of the Krystal Ink titles, and thought I'd start with this one. Certainly an ambitious book with the themes it tackles, alas it was a bit too gritty for me. Not a fault of the author, simply a personal preference for someone who still guzzles down her YA!
STORY: As per usual we're following an orphaned boy looking for his destiny and his past. In an effort to bring something new to the table, however, the book focuses more on character development. As the progatonist is a teenage male, of course this means sexuality and soldiering-ing. However, while it does break the monotony of the staple epic fantasy plot, and some scenes were heartfelt and well written, I felt it was overdone in places. The sexual awakening and romantic subplots were far too drawn out, and the sexual themes got very distracting from the main story, which is a shame because there was a lot of ways to work with the bountiful world the author created. By all means, it was an intriguing idea, but for me the balance between plot and character was just off a little in favour of character.
The twists, too, I felt were too rushed to be fully appreciated, and a lot of potential was lost with certain character relationships.
However, you can't deny the subject matter is a refreshing breath of air given the many LOTR clones out there, so I appreciate the author's ambition.
CHARACTERS: I found this a bit of a mixed bag. Rhodri is basically a Cinderella- always gets into trouble but doesn't bother to stick up for himself, has certain unique traits that are barely used or mentioned, dreaming of being rescued by a knight in dashing armour (oops, I mean his father), which is refreshing for a male lead, but some points in his presentation took away from my enjoyment.
First, his introduction to the King's Third was very rushed. While I understand the story doesn't need to drag, I didn't quite understand why the soldiers seemed to sympathise with Rhodri instantly. While they initially deny his request to join them, a brief show of parental abuse (and horse riding ability) and they welcome him with open arms, which for me came across as too easy. I felt it would've been better if Rhodri had done something to earn the soldier's trust first, given that everyone in his hometown hates him.
I also got very lost with his memory transitions, particularly when it came to certain details about his past. For example, in one scene he suddenly knows his father's name, but from what had been presented earlier, I got the impression he knew very little other than odd snippets. I guess, as the book title implies, the restoration of Rhodri's memory plays a key part of the plot, but I never really got a sense of his good memory, either, other than being told it was good from other characters and one escapade with an exam paper. I would've preferred more concrete evidence of his photographic memory.
The rest of the crew fit their usual roles (Astan the best friend, Dur the bully, Jime the shrewd one). Astan had a particularly interesting thread but this was cut tragically short. Full points to the author for conveying such a difficult subject, though.
The only other thing (and this is totally my personal preference talking) I didn't really care for was the general gritty tone of the characters. Yes, they're teenagers, yes, Rhodri's been sheltered, but the sexual references just go on and on, and as I said before, it seemed to take over from the plot with little benefit. Harry Potter dealt with adolescence without needing to be as obscene and so did Mark Robson's Darkweaver Legacy books (where the characters are also in military training), although both of those are YA and this book is certainly not!
SETTING/ VOICE: The worldbuilding is excellent, and I could clearly picture Pencarith and Northpoint's various districts, as well as the island. As it's told in third person Rhodri's voice isn't as intimate, but you do get a real sense of his feelings when he's reliving memories and all the awkwardness of a 14 year old male teenager. The writing flows well and the author has a remarkable talent for painting vivid descriptions with minimal words.
PRESENTATION: The cover is striking, and the formatting is clear and clean.
OVERALL: A solidly written fantasy experience, but sadly I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. Full marks to the author for tackling such an ambitious subject via the medium of epic fantasy, but the sexual themes are too distracting, the relationships not organic enough, and they only serve to muffle the unfolding plot (which, at the end of the day, is still pretty generic fantasy). Definitely worth giving a try if you're out for something different, but for me I think I'll stick to the tamer YA books.
STORY: As per usual we're following an orphaned boy looking for his destiny and his past. In an effort to bring something new to the table, however, the book focuses more on character development. As the progatonist is a teenage male, of course this means sexuality and soldiering-ing. However, while it does break the monotony of the staple epic fantasy plot, and some scenes were heartfelt and well written, I felt it was overdone in places. The sexual awakening and romantic subplots were far too drawn out, and the sexual themes got very distracting from the main story, which is a shame because there was a lot of ways to work with the bountiful world the author created. By all means, it was an intriguing idea, but for me the balance between plot and character was just off a little in favour of character.
The twists, too, I felt were too rushed to be fully appreciated, and a lot of potential was lost with certain character relationships.
However, you can't deny the subject matter is a refreshing breath of air given the many LOTR clones out there, so I appreciate the author's ambition.
CHARACTERS: I found this a bit of a mixed bag. Rhodri is basically a Cinderella- always gets into trouble but doesn't bother to stick up for himself, has certain unique traits that are barely used or mentioned, dreaming of being rescued by a knight in dashing armour (oops, I mean his father), which is refreshing for a male lead, but some points in his presentation took away from my enjoyment.
First, his introduction to the King's Third was very rushed. While I understand the story doesn't need to drag, I didn't quite understand why the soldiers seemed to sympathise with Rhodri instantly. While they initially deny his request to join them, a brief show of parental abuse (and horse riding ability) and they welcome him with open arms, which for me came across as too easy. I felt it would've been better if Rhodri had done something to earn the soldier's trust first, given that everyone in his hometown hates him.
I also got very lost with his memory transitions, particularly when it came to certain details about his past. For example, in one scene he suddenly knows his father's name, but from what had been presented earlier, I got the impression he knew very little other than odd snippets. I guess, as the book title implies, the restoration of Rhodri's memory plays a key part of the plot, but I never really got a sense of his good memory, either, other than being told it was good from other characters and one escapade with an exam paper. I would've preferred more concrete evidence of his photographic memory.
The rest of the crew fit their usual roles (Astan the best friend, Dur the bully, Jime the shrewd one). Astan had a particularly interesting thread but this was cut tragically short. Full points to the author for conveying such a difficult subject, though.
The only other thing (and this is totally my personal preference talking) I didn't really care for was the general gritty tone of the characters. Yes, they're teenagers, yes, Rhodri's been sheltered, but the sexual references just go on and on, and as I said before, it seemed to take over from the plot with little benefit. Harry Potter dealt with adolescence without needing to be as obscene and so did Mark Robson's Darkweaver Legacy books (where the characters are also in military training), although both of those are YA and this book is certainly not!
SETTING/ VOICE: The worldbuilding is excellent, and I could clearly picture Pencarith and Northpoint's various districts, as well as the island. As it's told in third person Rhodri's voice isn't as intimate, but you do get a real sense of his feelings when he's reliving memories and all the awkwardness of a 14 year old male teenager. The writing flows well and the author has a remarkable talent for painting vivid descriptions with minimal words.
PRESENTATION: The cover is striking, and the formatting is clear and clean.
OVERALL: A solidly written fantasy experience, but sadly I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. Full marks to the author for tackling such an ambitious subject via the medium of epic fantasy, but the sexual themes are too distracting, the relationships not organic enough, and they only serve to muffle the unfolding plot (which, at the end of the day, is still pretty generic fantasy). Definitely worth giving a try if you're out for something different, but for me I think I'll stick to the tamer YA books.
January 17, 2016
I’ve been meaning to review this lovely book for a long time, and I’m glad to finally be able to shine a light on this wee gem of a story released by small press Kristell Ink (the sci-fi/fantasy imprint of adventurous new publisher Grimbold Books).
Rhodri’s story, at first, seems like a fairly standard fantasy beginning: he’s a farm boy with a perfect memory, raised by a foster father after being abandoned as child. He joins the King’s Third, a cavalry unit of the army, and this is where the world-building really comes into its own. We see the clash of personalities between men and boys, delve into some brutally realistic issues about race and sexuality, and get a sense of the wider conflicts in the world.
As the story developed, I could see what made it stand out from more mainstream fantasy stories. It’s a bold, diverse read, with LGBTQ characters and a bisexual protagonist, that really makes it stand out from the crowd. We need more diverse epic fantasy out there in the world, and THE ART OF FORGETTING delivers that in spades. It was so refreshing to see.
It is a *very*, *very* dark read though, and at times the rape and violence was too much for me, so I’d definitely advise reader caution there — but if you can handle the current GAME OF THRONES TV show and books, then THE ART OF FORGETTING will be familiar, as they both delve into similarly grim and violent spaces.
I’m really looking forward to reading more of Joanne’s detailed world, and unravelling the secrets behind Rhodri’s gradually returning memory and his mysterious past. Especially after that cliffhanger ending!
If you’re a book blogger and would like to read THE ART OF FORGETTING, Joanne welcomes reviewers with open arms. The details for how to request a copy are here.
Rhodri’s story, at first, seems like a fairly standard fantasy beginning: he’s a farm boy with a perfect memory, raised by a foster father after being abandoned as child. He joins the King’s Third, a cavalry unit of the army, and this is where the world-building really comes into its own. We see the clash of personalities between men and boys, delve into some brutally realistic issues about race and sexuality, and get a sense of the wider conflicts in the world.
As the story developed, I could see what made it stand out from more mainstream fantasy stories. It’s a bold, diverse read, with LGBTQ characters and a bisexual protagonist, that really makes it stand out from the crowd. We need more diverse epic fantasy out there in the world, and THE ART OF FORGETTING delivers that in spades. It was so refreshing to see.
It is a *very*, *very* dark read though, and at times the rape and violence was too much for me, so I’d definitely advise reader caution there — but if you can handle the current GAME OF THRONES TV show and books, then THE ART OF FORGETTING will be familiar, as they both delve into similarly grim and violent spaces.
I’m really looking forward to reading more of Joanne’s detailed world, and unravelling the secrets behind Rhodri’s gradually returning memory and his mysterious past. Especially after that cliffhanger ending!
If you’re a book blogger and would like to read THE ART OF FORGETTING, Joanne welcomes reviewers with open arms. The details for how to request a copy are here.
November 22, 2015
"A young boy, Rhodri, leaves his village to become a cavalryman in doing so he discovers both his past and his future."
Not entirely accurate as he doesn't discover his future in this book. But yes,we got ourselves a hidden heir story. As a trainee cavalryman, Rhodri doesn't have much agency and has to go where he's told. I get that, but he also doesn't have much of a plan. There's no real sense of what the story arc is going to be. Instead Rhodri spends most of the book going through training, discovering some of his family history, making friends and enemies and coming to terms with his sexuality. This is all nicely written and believable, but for my taste there's a bit too much and not enough major plot stuff actually happening.
Not entirely accurate as he doesn't discover his future in this book. But yes,we got ourselves a hidden heir story. As a trainee cavalryman, Rhodri doesn't have much agency and has to go where he's told. I get that, but he also doesn't have much of a plan. There's no real sense of what the story arc is going to be. Instead Rhodri spends most of the book going through training, discovering some of his family history, making friends and enemies and coming to terms with his sexuality. This is all nicely written and believable, but for my taste there's a bit too much and not enough major plot stuff actually happening.
July 14, 2013
Rating: 7.0/10.0
Review: Joanne Hall's world creating skills are absolutely beautiful. I followed the characters so closely that I felt a bond with some of them, and could feel their love, anger, worry, and mixed emotions when they did. It did leave off with a couple of questions in my head, but overall a good read. I will warn that there is a strong theme of homosexuality, which I do not disdain nor do I disagree with, but for my readers I wanted to mention this. I recommend to anyone who's into the Coming of Age genre and is okay with homosexuality.
Reviewed by IABookReviews.com
Review: Joanne Hall's world creating skills are absolutely beautiful. I followed the characters so closely that I felt a bond with some of them, and could feel their love, anger, worry, and mixed emotions when they did. It did leave off with a couple of questions in my head, but overall a good read. I will warn that there is a strong theme of homosexuality, which I do not disdain nor do I disagree with, but for my readers I wanted to mention this. I recommend to anyone who's into the Coming of Age genre and is okay with homosexuality.
Reviewed by IABookReviews.com
June 19, 2014
This author fearlessly uses her words to push boundaries, and incorporate the theme of LGBTQ rights into her non-traditional fantasy. Besides the authors advocacy for the LGBTQ community, the characters in this story are much to be admired. You'll be inspired by their strength and courage. This story takes you on an unforgettable epic ride. There are some twists in this story that will not only grab your attention, but will grab at your heart as well. I'll definitely be reading this book a few more times.
July 15, 2013
I picked up this book with little idea what it would be about. However after only a couple of chapters i got intrigued by the premise and the twists of political intrigue where very entertaining. really looking forward to the next in the series
July 19, 2014
Another great novel set in the detailed world of Hierath (New Kingdom). The depth of Joanne Hall’s characters will have you gripped and involved in the story before you know it and wanting to read part 2.
August 5, 2016
Did enjoy and got into this sort of medieval fantasy. Will read Part 2
July 4, 2013
Brilliant. Captivating and edgy with eye-opening sexuality and a page-turning story. Loved it
July 11, 2013
Wow, this is a must-read!
October 17, 2016
I picked this up for free on a whim because I love queer fantasy and it sounded like the sort of thing I might like, but it was disappointing. Aside from the often problematic queer representation, I found it to be a little flat overall and the story just didn't grab me or make me care. I didn't really connect with any of the characters and the plot gets a little unwieldy and implausible and loses focus towards the end. A lot of what happens seems a little meaningless and I wanted more depth and emotion.
While I was initially happy to see queer characters (especially the bisexual main character), I found much of the queer representation to be problematic and stereotypical in a pretty negative way, which was really unfortunate. There's a particularly nasty Villain Queer, a really sad and melodramatic Tragic Queer, and an Unsurprisingly Unfaithful Bisexual. The main character is bisexual, which is really cool and is mostly handled in a good way, but there's also some ugly negative stereotypical stuff about his bisexuality thrown in, which was irritating and didn't seem to serve any purpose. The villain is just super rapey and a really nasty and abusive bully. It's great that there's a trans character, but his transness is handled with an upsetting lack of sensitivity and respect. It really bothered me and made me sad. While I really appreciate the inclusion of queer characters (it's one of the main reasons why I read this), much of the execution was clumsy and irritating and full of unpleasant tropey queer stereotypes. I was disappointed by this book and it left me feeling a little sad. Most people on GR seem to like this, but it was really not for me.
While I was initially happy to see queer characters (especially the bisexual main character), I found much of the queer representation to be problematic and stereotypical in a pretty negative way, which was really unfortunate. There's a particularly nasty Villain Queer, a really sad and melodramatic Tragic Queer, and an Unsurprisingly Unfaithful Bisexual. The main character is bisexual, which is really cool and is mostly handled in a good way, but there's also some ugly negative stereotypical stuff about his bisexuality thrown in, which was irritating and didn't seem to serve any purpose. The villain is just super rapey and a really nasty and abusive bully. It's great that there's a trans character, but his transness is handled with an upsetting lack of sensitivity and respect. It really bothered me and made me sad. While I really appreciate the inclusion of queer characters (it's one of the main reasons why I read this), much of the execution was clumsy and irritating and full of unpleasant tropey queer stereotypes. I was disappointed by this book and it left me feeling a little sad. Most people on GR seem to like this, but it was really not for me.
September 24, 2013
Occasionally you read a story and you become immersed within the tale before you realise it. That's what happened when I read, The Art of Forgetting. There is a lot of depth and thought put into this story and the main character, Rhodri. Although not unique to many stories now, this coming-of-age tale explores some of the nitty-gritty of adolescence, not only about trying to find acceptance and discovering oneself, but also exploring themes involving sexuality and gender roles. These themes I found reminiscent of Lynn Flewelling's books and writing, which is a pretty darn good thing, because I love her books!
However, these are not the only topics this book revolves around. Joanne Hall has created a richly developed world, where she has taken careful consideration of not only the majestic a fantasy world can offer, but also its flaws and political instabilities. This runs parallel to the struggles Rhodri faces even before he joins the King's Riders, and follows him as he grows into a young man. The characters each bring their own strengths and flaws, and the story weaves its way heartbreakingly towards the truth: not only for Rhodri, but for his friends. I admit, I was a little teary in one scene, but I'll say no more as I don't want to spoil things! But it's the little intricacies of the characters - none are perfect - and the plot, that show the author to be a master of observation.
It had a conclusion which has left me waiting for more and now I can't wait to read the next instalment.
It's an honest, thought-provoking book.
However, these are not the only topics this book revolves around. Joanne Hall has created a richly developed world, where she has taken careful consideration of not only the majestic a fantasy world can offer, but also its flaws and political instabilities. This runs parallel to the struggles Rhodri faces even before he joins the King's Riders, and follows him as he grows into a young man. The characters each bring their own strengths and flaws, and the story weaves its way heartbreakingly towards the truth: not only for Rhodri, but for his friends. I admit, I was a little teary in one scene, but I'll say no more as I don't want to spoil things! But it's the little intricacies of the characters - none are perfect - and the plot, that show the author to be a master of observation.
It had a conclusion which has left me waiting for more and now I can't wait to read the next instalment.
It's an honest, thought-provoking book.
June 11, 2015
There's a tendency amongst fantasy literature for the magic and threat to take center stage while the characters go along with the flow. But The Art of Forgetting is much more character driven and you really get a sense that the author has put a lot of thought and effort into crafting even the minor roles.
From the beginning we are treated to a wide array of personalities both nice and nasty. Though you might be led to suspect this is the cliche fantasy opening (country boy in abusive home runs away to new horizons), that setting is very much a canvas on which Joanne Hall paints our hero, and if you pay close attention, it comes to life rather quickly.
In a move that is rarely seen in fantasy, and even rarer to see done well, we have not only a positive portrayal of LBGTQA characters, but a positively encouraging one. The issue are deal with seriously and with great tact; far too often sexuality is played off for a joke, or to make a statement. Here it is given a reality behind it, a purpose that drives the characters, shapes them and is important to their self discovery.
At times, the plot is heartbreaking. Beloved characters come and go and I found myself flicking back through thinking, 'has it really only been 300 pages?'. It feels so deeply rooted in some true reality, that I feel as though I could turn a corner and run into them any moment.
The only thing that left me a little at odds was that the tone and track changes somewhat towards the end. However, the final chapter definitely left me wanting more. I can't wait for book 2!
From the beginning we are treated to a wide array of personalities both nice and nasty. Though you might be led to suspect this is the cliche fantasy opening (country boy in abusive home runs away to new horizons), that setting is very much a canvas on which Joanne Hall paints our hero, and if you pay close attention, it comes to life rather quickly.
In a move that is rarely seen in fantasy, and even rarer to see done well, we have not only a positive portrayal of LBGTQA characters, but a positively encouraging one. The issue are deal with seriously and with great tact; far too often sexuality is played off for a joke, or to make a statement. Here it is given a reality behind it, a purpose that drives the characters, shapes them and is important to their self discovery.
At times, the plot is heartbreaking. Beloved characters come and go and I found myself flicking back through thinking, 'has it really only been 300 pages?'. It feels so deeply rooted in some true reality, that I feel as though I could turn a corner and run into them any moment.
The only thing that left me a little at odds was that the tone and track changes somewhat towards the end. However, the final chapter definitely left me wanting more. I can't wait for book 2!
January 3, 2014
Take the stories of knights on horseback, armies defending the Queen, and those crusader type stories from the 11th and 13th centuries, now place them in another world and you have The Art of Forgetting. Rhodri is a young boy, found in the woods, who no one quite knows what to think of. He has a perfect memory, but the people are scared of him, so life in his village is rough. Enter the Kings Third army troop and Rhodri's life is about to change forever. You follow him as he joins the army, trains and becomes a good solider. Watch as he makes new friends, grows and creates a relationship with someone much older than himself. Joanne Hall does a wonderful job of writing so that you forget this takes place on another world for the most part, it could be the story of anyone of the 11th to 13th centuries.
Joann Hall is a wonderful writer and has done a beautiful job in crafting a fantasy story that almost feels like a historical novel. The Art of Forgetting is set on another world, with two moons; yet for most of the book you almost forget that focusing solely on the army life of this young boy and his friends. If you like the adventures of the crusaders, the bravery of the knights and romance of the early centuries, then you will enjoy this novel. It brings all those elements together, places them on another world and adds some modern romantic situations to make for a compelling new novel.
Joann Hall is a wonderful writer and has done a beautiful job in crafting a fantasy story that almost feels like a historical novel. The Art of Forgetting is set on another world, with two moons; yet for most of the book you almost forget that focusing solely on the army life of this young boy and his friends. If you like the adventures of the crusaders, the bravery of the knights and romance of the early centuries, then you will enjoy this novel. It brings all those elements together, places them on another world and adds some modern romantic situations to make for a compelling new novel.
April 3, 2016
Surprisingly detailed and original. I felt that the world created here was very believable and these characters sucked me in from the start especially Rhodri. As he is the main point of view for the book this was ideal.
The start of the book is all about Rhodri growing up and learning about himself as he trains. This is all set against a backdrop of political shenanigans that create tension and confusion. The situation continues to twist and worsen as the book goes on and drives the actions of the characters. It is clear from about a third the way in that Rhodri has strong feelings for his horse master Kier and also that nothing can come of it. Even in this fantasy land m/m relationships find prejudice although they are more accepted that parts of our world. Kier's reluctance is because he is Rhodri's teacher and a higher rank.
Of course they find a way through this and through all the political manoeuvrings as well as the back stabbing and bullying of their own troupe members. They confess their love, totaly believable at this point, that had me routing for them. Then they get ordered to a for war. I did not get this development. Both characters hope to meet again but think that they won't. They even give each other permission to find/sleep with other people. Not how I saw this going.
Still this was a good read and I must now read book two to find out what happens so I suppose the ending did its job, irritating though it is.
The start of the book is all about Rhodri growing up and learning about himself as he trains. This is all set against a backdrop of political shenanigans that create tension and confusion. The situation continues to twist and worsen as the book goes on and drives the actions of the characters. It is clear from about a third the way in that Rhodri has strong feelings for his horse master Kier and also that nothing can come of it. Even in this fantasy land m/m relationships find prejudice although they are more accepted that parts of our world. Kier's reluctance is because he is Rhodri's teacher and a higher rank.
Of course they find a way through this and through all the political manoeuvrings as well as the back stabbing and bullying of their own troupe members. They confess their love, totaly believable at this point, that had me routing for them. Then they get ordered to a for war. I did not get this development. Both characters hope to meet again but think that they won't. They even give each other permission to find/sleep with other people. Not how I saw this going.
Still this was a good read and I must now read book two to find out what happens so I suppose the ending did its job, irritating though it is.
February 27, 2015
I've seen Joanne Hall around at various Fantasycons, but met her properly for the first time this year at Bristolcon. She is a lovely person with a keen sense of humor and a warm personality -- which doesn't necessarily mean that she can write... But when I sampled the book on Amazon, I immediately downloaded the rest of it, as I was hooked by the beginning.
A young boy leaves his village to become a cavalryman with the famous King's Third regiment; in doing so he discovers both his past and his destiny. Gifted and cursed with a unique memory, the foundling son of a notorious traitor, Rhodri joins an elite cavalry unit stationed in the harbor town of Northpoint.
Rhodri bounces off the page right from the opening sequence and his grip wouldn't let me go until I reached the final paragraph. Although I was in for a whole lot than I initially realized. I thought I was in for a coming-of-age adventure story along the lines of L.E. Modesitt's first book in his Imager Portfolio series. But this is a lot grittier and sexually explicit -- if you have youngsters interested in your reading matter, I'd advise you vet this one first.
More at SFReader.com: Rider (The Art of Forgetting, #1)
A young boy leaves his village to become a cavalryman with the famous King's Third regiment; in doing so he discovers both his past and his destiny. Gifted and cursed with a unique memory, the foundling son of a notorious traitor, Rhodri joins an elite cavalry unit stationed in the harbor town of Northpoint.
Rhodri bounces off the page right from the opening sequence and his grip wouldn't let me go until I reached the final paragraph. Although I was in for a whole lot than I initially realized. I thought I was in for a coming-of-age adventure story along the lines of L.E. Modesitt's first book in his Imager Portfolio series. But this is a lot grittier and sexually explicit -- if you have youngsters interested in your reading matter, I'd advise you vet this one first.
More at SFReader.com: Rider (The Art of Forgetting, #1)
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