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Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade
John Daze introduces readers to Azoria Dash, an elven child whose village was ferociously raided by orcs. As the sole survivor, she vows to hunt down the beasts that committed the atrocities. Her innocence crushed, Azoria must quickly learn to survive in the hostile world outside her village, known as the Crosslands. The journey begins when Azoria discovers the mythical Klarion Blade. New friendships are forged, and enemies abound. With the blade and an oath, Azoria vows to destroy the evil that plagues the Crosslands.
192 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2023
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December 12, 2024
Where High Fantasy Meets Socio-Political Allegory
At first glance, Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade may seem like a familiar high fantasy narrative. Elven warriors, celestial blades, and ominous dark forces—John Daze’s world offers the essential hallmarks of the genre. But a closer look reveals an intricate exploration of identity, resilience, and societal constructs. This book is not just about an elven heroine; it’s a meditation on legacy, power, and the cyclical nature of history.
Let’s look into the deeper, unconventional aspects of the story—elements that many readers might overlook but form the book’s foundation.
A Historical Echo: The Rise and Fall of Empires
Daze’s narrative parallels the collapse of historical empires. The siege of Galvardia, with its crumbling opaline towers and desperate last stand, mirrors the fall of Rome. Much like Rome, Galvardia’s hubris in believing its walls and warriors invincible leads to its downfall. The Asharyins—dark, otherworldly invaders—serve as a metaphor for external forces that exploit internal fragility.
But is Galvardia’s demise only the result of external invasion, or does it reflect the dangers of stagnation and arrogance? One could draw comparisons to the 20th-century decline of colonial empires, where overreach and exploitation bred vulnerabilities.
Azoria as the Anti-Heroine of Tradition
Azoria Dashermoon, the fiery and rebellious protagonist, challenges traditional notions of heroism. Her disdain for formalities and refusal to conform to Averstone’s expectations echo the revolutionary spirit of historical figures like Joan of Arc. Azoria’s platinum hair and celestial sword—a clear callback to the mythic Excalibur—mark her as chosen, but not in the expected way.
Her journey asks critical questions:
Is destiny a gift, or is it a burden?
Can defying societal norms be a form of heroism, or does it risk alienation?
Azoria’s impulsiveness and lack of refinement make her a refreshing departure from archetypal fantasy heroines.
Cultural Relativity and the Crosslands’ Divide
The Crosslands’ stark separation of elven civilization from the mysterious woods beyond the creek invites reflection on real-world borders and the fear of the unknown. The Elders’ warnings about the dangers lurking in the dark woods could be interpreted as a critique of insular thinking. Is the forest truly dangerous, or do the Elders perpetuate this myth to maintain control over Averstone’s youth?
This brings to mind W.B. Yeats’ observation in The Second Coming: “Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold.” The Crosslands are a microcosm of this tension, teetering between order and chaos.
The Blade as a Multi-Dimensional Symbol
The Klarion Blade is not just a weapon; it is a repository of legacy, grief, and hope. Its creation from dragon bone and celestial blood imbues it with a dual nature: destruction and protection. When Uryvar, the Klarion dragon, merges his essence with the blade, he transcends mortality—a poignant commentary on how sacrifice can immortalize a being’s purpose.
This mirrors the atomic bomb’s development during World War II—an invention born of desperation that carried both salvation and devastation. Daze’s narrative subtly asks: How do we reconcile the duality of tools meant to protect but capable of annihilation?
An Allegory for Generational Conflict
The tension between Azoria and the Elders encapsulates the age-old clash of generations. The Elders cling to traditions, emphasizing caution and obedience, while Azoria embodies youthful defiance and curiosity. This dynamic reflects real-world debates about progress versus preservation.
Consider the environmental crises facing our world: older generations often advocate for incremental change, while younger voices demand radical action. Is Azoria’s reckless courage what Averstone needs to survive, or is she a harbinger of chaos?
Final Thoughts: A Tale of Light and Shadow
Rogues of the Crosslands is more than an adventure story. It is a layered, allegorical tale that examines how individuals navigate the burdens of history, identity, and societal expectation. In Azoria, Daze has created a protagonist who is both flawed and formidable—a mirror reflecting the complexities of our own world.
As Tolkien wrote in The Fellowship of the Ring: “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” Azoria Dashermoon may be small, but her journey challenges us to question our own paths and the legacies we leave behind.
For readers who dare to look beyond the swordplay and magical creatures, this book offers profound insights into the human condition, wrapped in the glittering cloak of high fantasy.
At first glance, Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade may seem like a familiar high fantasy narrative. Elven warriors, celestial blades, and ominous dark forces—John Daze’s world offers the essential hallmarks of the genre. But a closer look reveals an intricate exploration of identity, resilience, and societal constructs. This book is not just about an elven heroine; it’s a meditation on legacy, power, and the cyclical nature of history.
Let’s look into the deeper, unconventional aspects of the story—elements that many readers might overlook but form the book’s foundation.
A Historical Echo: The Rise and Fall of Empires
Daze’s narrative parallels the collapse of historical empires. The siege of Galvardia, with its crumbling opaline towers and desperate last stand, mirrors the fall of Rome. Much like Rome, Galvardia’s hubris in believing its walls and warriors invincible leads to its downfall. The Asharyins—dark, otherworldly invaders—serve as a metaphor for external forces that exploit internal fragility.
But is Galvardia’s demise only the result of external invasion, or does it reflect the dangers of stagnation and arrogance? One could draw comparisons to the 20th-century decline of colonial empires, where overreach and exploitation bred vulnerabilities.
Azoria as the Anti-Heroine of Tradition
Azoria Dashermoon, the fiery and rebellious protagonist, challenges traditional notions of heroism. Her disdain for formalities and refusal to conform to Averstone’s expectations echo the revolutionary spirit of historical figures like Joan of Arc. Azoria’s platinum hair and celestial sword—a clear callback to the mythic Excalibur—mark her as chosen, but not in the expected way.
Her journey asks critical questions:
Is destiny a gift, or is it a burden?
Can defying societal norms be a form of heroism, or does it risk alienation?
Azoria’s impulsiveness and lack of refinement make her a refreshing departure from archetypal fantasy heroines.
Cultural Relativity and the Crosslands’ Divide
The Crosslands’ stark separation of elven civilization from the mysterious woods beyond the creek invites reflection on real-world borders and the fear of the unknown. The Elders’ warnings about the dangers lurking in the dark woods could be interpreted as a critique of insular thinking. Is the forest truly dangerous, or do the Elders perpetuate this myth to maintain control over Averstone’s youth?
This brings to mind W.B. Yeats’ observation in The Second Coming: “Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold.” The Crosslands are a microcosm of this tension, teetering between order and chaos.
The Blade as a Multi-Dimensional Symbol
The Klarion Blade is not just a weapon; it is a repository of legacy, grief, and hope. Its creation from dragon bone and celestial blood imbues it with a dual nature: destruction and protection. When Uryvar, the Klarion dragon, merges his essence with the blade, he transcends mortality—a poignant commentary on how sacrifice can immortalize a being’s purpose.
This mirrors the atomic bomb’s development during World War II—an invention born of desperation that carried both salvation and devastation. Daze’s narrative subtly asks: How do we reconcile the duality of tools meant to protect but capable of annihilation?
An Allegory for Generational Conflict
The tension between Azoria and the Elders encapsulates the age-old clash of generations. The Elders cling to traditions, emphasizing caution and obedience, while Azoria embodies youthful defiance and curiosity. This dynamic reflects real-world debates about progress versus preservation.
Consider the environmental crises facing our world: older generations often advocate for incremental change, while younger voices demand radical action. Is Azoria’s reckless courage what Averstone needs to survive, or is she a harbinger of chaos?
Final Thoughts: A Tale of Light and Shadow
Rogues of the Crosslands is more than an adventure story. It is a layered, allegorical tale that examines how individuals navigate the burdens of history, identity, and societal expectation. In Azoria, Daze has created a protagonist who is both flawed and formidable—a mirror reflecting the complexities of our own world.
As Tolkien wrote in The Fellowship of the Ring: “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” Azoria Dashermoon may be small, but her journey challenges us to question our own paths and the legacies we leave behind.
For readers who dare to look beyond the swordplay and magical creatures, this book offers profound insights into the human condition, wrapped in the glittering cloak of high fantasy.
December 17, 2024
**Title:** *Crosslands Villain: The Sword of Azoria*
**Author:** *John Daze*
**Rating:** ★★★★★
John Daze's *Crosslands Villain: The Sword of Azoria* is an exceptional tale that effortlessly blends action, adventure, and morally complex characters into an unforgettable fantasy narrative. From the very first page, the book immerses readers in the gritty world of Crosslands, a place teeming with danger, betrayal, and legendary mysteries.
The protagonist is not your typical hero but an anti-hero—a masterfully crafted character with depth and flaws that make them both relatable and intriguing. Daze's exploration of their motivations and struggles adds a refreshing layer of complexity to the story. The Sword of Azoria itself, a legendary artifact central to the plot, serves as more than just a mythical object; it becomes a symbol of power, corruption, and destiny.
What sets this book apart is its rich world-building. John Daze paints the Crosslands with vivid detail—its political intrigue, its desolate landscapes, and its fascinating inhabitants all feel alive. Every chapter propels the reader deeper into the unfolding tension, as action sequences are perfectly paced, and quieter moments are equally impactful.
The prose is sharp, the dialogue flows naturally, and the plot twists are unexpected yet satisfyingly executed. By the final page, readers will find themselves deeply invested in this morally gray universe, craving more stories set in its world.
*Crosslands Villain: The Sword of Azoria* is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and character-driven stories. John Daze has proven himself a master storyteller, and this book is an absolute triumph. I eagerly await future works in this series.
**Author:** *John Daze*
**Rating:** ★★★★★
John Daze's *Crosslands Villain: The Sword of Azoria* is an exceptional tale that effortlessly blends action, adventure, and morally complex characters into an unforgettable fantasy narrative. From the very first page, the book immerses readers in the gritty world of Crosslands, a place teeming with danger, betrayal, and legendary mysteries.
The protagonist is not your typical hero but an anti-hero—a masterfully crafted character with depth and flaws that make them both relatable and intriguing. Daze's exploration of their motivations and struggles adds a refreshing layer of complexity to the story. The Sword of Azoria itself, a legendary artifact central to the plot, serves as more than just a mythical object; it becomes a symbol of power, corruption, and destiny.
What sets this book apart is its rich world-building. John Daze paints the Crosslands with vivid detail—its political intrigue, its desolate landscapes, and its fascinating inhabitants all feel alive. Every chapter propels the reader deeper into the unfolding tension, as action sequences are perfectly paced, and quieter moments are equally impactful.
The prose is sharp, the dialogue flows naturally, and the plot twists are unexpected yet satisfyingly executed. By the final page, readers will find themselves deeply invested in this morally gray universe, craving more stories set in its world.
*Crosslands Villain: The Sword of Azoria* is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and character-driven stories. John Daze has proven himself a master storyteller, and this book is an absolute triumph. I eagerly await future works in this series.
December 24, 2023
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade, penned by the talented author John Daze, takes readers on an exhilarating journey into a mesmerizing realm of fantasy and adventure. Set in the mythical world of Crosslands, this gripping novel introduces us to a band of captivating rogues who embark on a perilous quest, where friendship, bravery, and the power of destiny intertwine. With its richly crafted world, engaging characters, and a riveting plot, Azoria's Blade offers a captivating escape into a realm where heroes and villains clash, and the fate of Crosslands hangs in the balance.
The Setting: Daze masterfully builds the enchanting world of Crosslands, a realm teeming with magic, mystery, mythical creatures and ancient prophecies. From the sprawling landscapes of dense forests to grand castles and treacherous mountains, every location is vividly portrayed, immersing readers into this fantastical realm. The author's meticulous attention to detail brings the realm to life, allowing readers to visualize and explore its every nook and cranny.
Unforgettable Characters: Daze introduces a cast of unforgettable characters that readers will find themselves deeply invested in. The rogues, each with their distinctive personalities, strengths, and flaws, are a delightful mix of misfits, united by their shared quest. From the hot-headed, yet brave Azoria to the cheeky, human-turned-cat magician each character's development is skillfully woven into the narrative, creating a sense of depth and resonance that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, yet leaves us yearning for more.
A Perilous Quest: At the heart of Azoria's Blade lies a high-stakes quest that sets the stage for an epic adventure. As the rogues navigate treacherous terrains, encounter mythical creatures, and face daunting challenges, the tension and excitement escalate. Daze's ability to create pulse-pounding action sequences, coupled with unexpected plot twists and turns, ensures that readers remain on the edge of their seats throughout the entirety of the story.
Themes of Friendship and Destiny: Through the struggles and triumphs of the rogues, Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade delves into profound themes of friendship and destiny. The bonds forged between these unlikely allies serve as a testament to the power of unity and illustrate the profound impact that genuine connections can have in the face of adversity. Additionally, the novel explores the concept of destiny and the role it plays in shaping the lives of the characters, adding a layer of depth to their motivations and actions.
Conclusion: Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade by John Daze is a captivating fantasy adventure that will transport readers to a world of magic, danger, and self-discovery. With its luscious world-building, compelling characters, and an enthralling plot, this novel promises an immersive experience that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment. Whether you're a fan of epic quests or simply seeking an escape into a fantastical realm, Azoria's Blade is a must-read for all lovers of gripping fantasy fiction.
The Setting: Daze masterfully builds the enchanting world of Crosslands, a realm teeming with magic, mystery, mythical creatures and ancient prophecies. From the sprawling landscapes of dense forests to grand castles and treacherous mountains, every location is vividly portrayed, immersing readers into this fantastical realm. The author's meticulous attention to detail brings the realm to life, allowing readers to visualize and explore its every nook and cranny.
Unforgettable Characters: Daze introduces a cast of unforgettable characters that readers will find themselves deeply invested in. The rogues, each with their distinctive personalities, strengths, and flaws, are a delightful mix of misfits, united by their shared quest. From the hot-headed, yet brave Azoria to the cheeky, human-turned-cat magician each character's development is skillfully woven into the narrative, creating a sense of depth and resonance that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, yet leaves us yearning for more.
A Perilous Quest: At the heart of Azoria's Blade lies a high-stakes quest that sets the stage for an epic adventure. As the rogues navigate treacherous terrains, encounter mythical creatures, and face daunting challenges, the tension and excitement escalate. Daze's ability to create pulse-pounding action sequences, coupled with unexpected plot twists and turns, ensures that readers remain on the edge of their seats throughout the entirety of the story.
Themes of Friendship and Destiny: Through the struggles and triumphs of the rogues, Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade delves into profound themes of friendship and destiny. The bonds forged between these unlikely allies serve as a testament to the power of unity and illustrate the profound impact that genuine connections can have in the face of adversity. Additionally, the novel explores the concept of destiny and the role it plays in shaping the lives of the characters, adding a layer of depth to their motivations and actions.
Conclusion: Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade by John Daze is a captivating fantasy adventure that will transport readers to a world of magic, danger, and self-discovery. With its luscious world-building, compelling characters, and an enthralling plot, this novel promises an immersive experience that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment. Whether you're a fan of epic quests or simply seeking an escape into a fantastical realm, Azoria's Blade is a must-read for all lovers of gripping fantasy fiction.
February 10, 2024
"Rogues of the Crosslаnds: Azoria's Blаde" is a heart-stopping, YA/coming-of-age novel. Our main character is Azoria, a young elfin girl. Heartbreakingly, her entire village is ruthlessly massacred by a troop of orcs. Her father is killed in the process. Narrowly escaping the massacre, she vows revenge on the monsters that ransacked her village, leaving her homeless and destitute. Armed with a mysterious sword, she journeys towards the perilous Crosslands in search of justice. She encounters dangerous elements along the way, and is saved by a half elfin-human ranger named Jandar. This mysterious sojourner is revealed to be her uncle. He is tasked with readying Azoria for the dangerous battles ahead. This tale of revenge slowly transforms into a tale of redemption and heroism. Azoria is known for her quick-tempered nature throughout the initial chapters of the book. But gradually, as the storyline progresses, she realizes that her hatred for orc-kind (and humans), blindsides her from focusing on the greater threat that is looming over the Crosslands and its combined communities.
Ultimately, Azoria experiences a lot of character development throughout the novel. This is mostly evident in the last chapter of the book. Her uncle and her companions play a significant role in this process as well. In fact, most of the main supporting characters have grown considerably throughout the storyline. This is what truly makes this book an outstanding one. It deserves 5 stars. The book is well written and well edited. I cannot remember encountering any grammatical errors along the way. Then again, I was so enrapt by the storyline that I didn't notice any errors. The storyline is certainly action-packed and quick-paced. The plot never loses momentum throughout the storyline. It definitely keeps readers wanting more. I look forward to reading and reviewing book two in the future.
Ultimately, Azoria experiences a lot of character development throughout the novel. This is mostly evident in the last chapter of the book. Her uncle and her companions play a significant role in this process as well. In fact, most of the main supporting characters have grown considerably throughout the storyline. This is what truly makes this book an outstanding one. It deserves 5 stars. The book is well written and well edited. I cannot remember encountering any grammatical errors along the way. Then again, I was so enrapt by the storyline that I didn't notice any errors. The storyline is certainly action-packed and quick-paced. The plot never loses momentum throughout the storyline. It definitely keeps readers wanting more. I look forward to reading and reviewing book two in the future.
October 2, 2023
Azorias’s Blade is a novella told primarily from the perspective of our FMC Azoria, a 12 year old elfin girl who is thrown onto her path of destiny after a tragic events force her from her home.
This book was a bit of a jump in a different direction for me, not so much from the fantasy or plot standpoint, but from the protagonists POV and age. These two factors admittedly made it a little difficult for me to initially relate to her, however as the story progressed and she matured a bit and settled more into her purpose, I was able to immerse myself more fully into the story and relate a bit more.
The plot itself is engaging, non stop action and there were a lot of twists and turns that I wasn’t able to predict, which I enjoyed! There is a very unique world and magic system being built here, and I got very Tolkeinesque vibes from the way the world is described, to the way the book is written and words that are used, which as a Tolkein lover I appreciated and enjoyed 👌🏻
Once the book picked up speed it got rolling all the way to the very last page. I enjoyed it and will be watching for the next book to see how this story continues! If you enjoy YA fantasy with a dash of Tolkien, I recommend picking up this book!
This book was a bit of a jump in a different direction for me, not so much from the fantasy or plot standpoint, but from the protagonists POV and age. These two factors admittedly made it a little difficult for me to initially relate to her, however as the story progressed and she matured a bit and settled more into her purpose, I was able to immerse myself more fully into the story and relate a bit more.
The plot itself is engaging, non stop action and there were a lot of twists and turns that I wasn’t able to predict, which I enjoyed! There is a very unique world and magic system being built here, and I got very Tolkeinesque vibes from the way the world is described, to the way the book is written and words that are used, which as a Tolkein lover I appreciated and enjoyed 👌🏻
Once the book picked up speed it got rolling all the way to the very last page. I enjoyed it and will be watching for the next book to see how this story continues! If you enjoy YA fantasy with a dash of Tolkien, I recommend picking up this book!
March 30, 2024
2.5/5, rounded up.
Characters were fun and there is a lot of great story that can be developed from this world that the author has created.
Razzle and Zuna were my favorite out of the bunch, and I can see this story being a great comic book.
Having said that, this book desperately needs an editor. Very little descriptions of characters and places. There was no map in the kindle copy so it was hard to imagine the world. I struggled with momentous moments just randomly happening. Very little build up. She finds this sword from a two sentence dream and then walks over to a chest and boom there it is?? All that happened in one paragraph maybe a page. I feel that that should have been a glorious moment. The writing needs fleshing out. The book felt hurried and thrown onto a page.
Characters were fun and there is a lot of great story that can be developed from this world that the author has created.
Razzle and Zuna were my favorite out of the bunch, and I can see this story being a great comic book.
Having said that, this book desperately needs an editor. Very little descriptions of characters and places. There was no map in the kindle copy so it was hard to imagine the world. I struggled with momentous moments just randomly happening. Very little build up. She finds this sword from a two sentence dream and then walks over to a chest and boom there it is?? All that happened in one paragraph maybe a page. I feel that that should have been a glorious moment. The writing needs fleshing out. The book felt hurried and thrown onto a page.
January 16, 2024
Living with her father in the small Elfin village of Averstone deep in the forest, the little 12-year-old spitfire elf Azoria Dash enjoys spending her mornings playing with her friends by the creek. Her courage, stubbornness, and love for adventures are her most prominent characteristics. She sees her father, Gradian, the retired, seasoned, and respected warrior in the entire village, as her protector and anchor. Her steady and peaceful life suddenly turns upside down when a group of green orcs raids her village, destroying it. She stands in front of her burning home with her mother's Klarion sword in her hand in a trance, and with pain in her heart, she finds herself losing everything.
"Rouges of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade" by John Daze is a mesmerizing fantasy novel that takes you to the enchanting world of elves, witches, orcs, rangers, and dark mystical creatures. Daze unleashes his impressive imagination, creating a captivating, enchanted world matching Tolkien's hobbits and elves. He succeeded in immersing me in his world and making me feel the characters' emotions through his easy language and clear writing style.
Daze uses friendship, loyalty, love, and bravery themes to enrich the book and give it a depth that most of the time lacks in many fantasy novels. The roller coaster of emotions I experienced with Azoria and Jandar made me empathize with them. I felt sad witnessing a young girl losing so much and experiencing such tremendous heartache at her tender age. At the same time, I admire her courage, resilience, pure heart, and desire to help strangers, even at the cost of her own life, especially since she showed these traits at a young age.
Furthermore, I liked how Daze added a realistic psychological depth to the characters, demonstrating how the purest of hearts can easily tip to the edge of darkness when facing so much brutality and injustice and how vengeance and bloodshed are a choice no matter the reason behind them.
On the other hand, I stumbled on a contradiction in the events surrounding Janella's death on pages 12 and 69. Aside from a handful of typos and grammatical errors that didn't disrupt my reading, I have nothing else to comment on. And since the contradiction is insignificant and doesn't impact the general plot, I won't deduct a point for it.
I recommend "Rouges of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade" to young adults and any fantasy, fiction, and adventure fan.
"Rouges of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade" by John Daze is a mesmerizing fantasy novel that takes you to the enchanting world of elves, witches, orcs, rangers, and dark mystical creatures. Daze unleashes his impressive imagination, creating a captivating, enchanted world matching Tolkien's hobbits and elves. He succeeded in immersing me in his world and making me feel the characters' emotions through his easy language and clear writing style.
Daze uses friendship, loyalty, love, and bravery themes to enrich the book and give it a depth that most of the time lacks in many fantasy novels. The roller coaster of emotions I experienced with Azoria and Jandar made me empathize with them. I felt sad witnessing a young girl losing so much and experiencing such tremendous heartache at her tender age. At the same time, I admire her courage, resilience, pure heart, and desire to help strangers, even at the cost of her own life, especially since she showed these traits at a young age.
Furthermore, I liked how Daze added a realistic psychological depth to the characters, demonstrating how the purest of hearts can easily tip to the edge of darkness when facing so much brutality and injustice and how vengeance and bloodshed are a choice no matter the reason behind them.
On the other hand, I stumbled on a contradiction in the events surrounding Janella's death on pages 12 and 69. Aside from a handful of typos and grammatical errors that didn't disrupt my reading, I have nothing else to comment on. And since the contradiction is insignificant and doesn't impact the general plot, I won't deduct a point for it.
I recommend "Rouges of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade" to young adults and any fantasy, fiction, and adventure fan.
August 16, 2023
Azoria, a plucky elven child, finds her ordinary life abruptly upended when her tranquil village falls victim to a brutal attack by an onslaught of ferocious Orcs. Enraged and hungry for vengeance, Azoria embarks on an intrepid journey, leaving her devastated village smoldering in the wake. This narrative is as much a tale of self-discovery as it is of retribution, with Azoria unveiling hitherto unknown aspects about herself and her lineage and forging fresh alliances.
Central to her character development is her encounter with the Klarion Blade, a pivotal artifact that becomes instrumental in her transformation. Azoria, now armed with newfound skills, substantial training, and her personal militia, feels prepared to face her orcish adversaries. Will she be successful in her quest for vengeance? Azoria's character is delicately balanced, portraying her as an endearing and compassionate child, yet underlined with an undertow of rage - a complex characterization that enriches the narrative.
The book offers a compelling concoction of camaraderie, fantasy, and revenge, an exciting blend that will stimulate young minds and enhance their imaginative capabilities. Noteworthy moments include the engaging interactions between Azoria and Razzle. The underlying message imparted by Azoria's father - "Love is stronger than a sword, but be careful, so is hate," beautifully encapsulates the affectionate relationship between father and daughter while simultaneously hinting at the darker themes the story explores.
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade by John Daze offers a gratifying read, brimming with a rich tapestry of characters and plotlines that are sure to engage the reader's imagination. Teen and young adult readers will be looking for the next installment in this series.
Central to her character development is her encounter with the Klarion Blade, a pivotal artifact that becomes instrumental in her transformation. Azoria, now armed with newfound skills, substantial training, and her personal militia, feels prepared to face her orcish adversaries. Will she be successful in her quest for vengeance? Azoria's character is delicately balanced, portraying her as an endearing and compassionate child, yet underlined with an undertow of rage - a complex characterization that enriches the narrative.
The book offers a compelling concoction of camaraderie, fantasy, and revenge, an exciting blend that will stimulate young minds and enhance their imaginative capabilities. Noteworthy moments include the engaging interactions between Azoria and Razzle. The underlying message imparted by Azoria's father - "Love is stronger than a sword, but be careful, so is hate," beautifully encapsulates the affectionate relationship between father and daughter while simultaneously hinting at the darker themes the story explores.
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade by John Daze offers a gratifying read, brimming with a rich tapestry of characters and plotlines that are sure to engage the reader's imagination. Teen and young adult readers will be looking for the next installment in this series.
September 25, 2023
Can Azoria rid the Crosslands of the scourge or is it too much for just one young person? I’m a big fan of destined heroines facing insurmountable odds. Rogue of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade is a masterpiece in the fantasy genre. It centers around Azoria and what she must overcome. Her strength, her willingness to do what others cannot, makes this book an incredible read. The world-building is strong. The descriptive narration is immersive. The characters leap from the page. I couldn’t put it down and neither will you.
It starts and ends with the characters, mainly Azoria. She is a tour de force and steals every scene. Her grief turns to strength which then turns her into an avenging angel of sorts. What makes her so wonderful, though, is how relatable she is. Even though she’s part of the elven race, I connected with her and her plight. By the time I finished reading, I wanted her for my best friend.
The world-building and descriptive narration work together to create an immersive reading experience. The world John Daze creates is seeped in fantasy yet totally believable. The narration is detailed and emotional. The reader has no choice but to become part of the story. It’s quite the experience.
The writing is sophisticated using classic Tolkienesque techniques. John Daze’s use of storytelling is impressive. This is my first book by him, and I look forward to reading more.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
It starts and ends with the characters, mainly Azoria. She is a tour de force and steals every scene. Her grief turns to strength which then turns her into an avenging angel of sorts. What makes her so wonderful, though, is how relatable she is. Even though she’s part of the elven race, I connected with her and her plight. By the time I finished reading, I wanted her for my best friend.
The world-building and descriptive narration work together to create an immersive reading experience. The world John Daze creates is seeped in fantasy yet totally believable. The narration is detailed and emotional. The reader has no choice but to become part of the story. It’s quite the experience.
The writing is sophisticated using classic Tolkienesque techniques. John Daze’s use of storytelling is impressive. This is my first book by him, and I look forward to reading more.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
October 9, 2023
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade is a fantastically written, action-packed fantasy novel that features an incredible storyline, well-developed characters, and plenty of jaw-dropping plot twists to keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
Daze is one of the most talented young adult writers I have had the pleasure of reading. Their prose is compelling and thought-provoking, and there are many quotable passages throughout the book; one of my favourites being "Love is stronger than a sword. But be careful: hate can be just as strong as love." They present a world that is richly detailed and believable, with all the elements necessary for readers to be able to immerse themselves in the story.
The protagonist of this epic tale is a headstrong female character who experiences a series of trials and tribulations that reveal her many layers. She is loyal and courageous, but also vulnerable and impulsive--a combination that tends to get her into trouble! Even before I finished reading the first chapter, I felt deeply involved in Azoria's life. The villains she encounters are vividly depicted, and their despicable actions make it easy to root for her quest for vengeance.
All of the characters written into the adventure bring something unique to the story and have backstories that greatly enrich it. I have a particular affection for Razzle, who brings a big dose of humour to the tale.
In all, I will definitely be following this author's career with great interest. If their talent does not bring them worldwide recognition, I'll be very surprised!
Daze is one of the most talented young adult writers I have had the pleasure of reading. Their prose is compelling and thought-provoking, and there are many quotable passages throughout the book; one of my favourites being "Love is stronger than a sword. But be careful: hate can be just as strong as love." They present a world that is richly detailed and believable, with all the elements necessary for readers to be able to immerse themselves in the story.
The protagonist of this epic tale is a headstrong female character who experiences a series of trials and tribulations that reveal her many layers. She is loyal and courageous, but also vulnerable and impulsive--a combination that tends to get her into trouble! Even before I finished reading the first chapter, I felt deeply involved in Azoria's life. The villains she encounters are vividly depicted, and their despicable actions make it easy to root for her quest for vengeance.
All of the characters written into the adventure bring something unique to the story and have backstories that greatly enrich it. I have a particular affection for Razzle, who brings a big dose of humour to the tale.
In all, I will definitely be following this author's career with great interest. If their talent does not bring them worldwide recognition, I'll be very surprised!
July 30, 2023
This review may have some spoilers, so read at your own risk. :) I was given an advanced copy of the book to read in exchange for providing a review. First, I believe readers will be hooked by the dialogues and the characters that were created. Considering the book as a whole, I really believe you have a great material here, and I just can`t wait for a book 2!
Warning – Spoilers:
Again, I really loved the dialogue that you created! We shouldn`t have favorites, but Razzle’s lines were so good! He made me laugh so many times, and I loved the idea of a “talking cat”. (for me, he will always be a cat.. haha)
I liked the fast-moving pace of the narrative, but I was wondering if we could just slow down a bit at the start of the narrative. I mentioned that Razzle was one of my favorite voices—his sharp comments were hilarious—and he was with Azoria for a good part of the narrative. So, I have to say that I missed him when we got closer to the end.
Once again, I want to say that I’m a huge fan of fantasy and I’m really enchanted by the narrative that the author created! I ended the book with “a call for adventure” feeling! And I love when that happens! Also, congratulations on writing your first novel! That’s a huge milestone!!!!
Warning – Spoilers:
Again, I really loved the dialogue that you created! We shouldn`t have favorites, but Razzle’s lines were so good! He made me laugh so many times, and I loved the idea of a “talking cat”. (for me, he will always be a cat.. haha)
I liked the fast-moving pace of the narrative, but I was wondering if we could just slow down a bit at the start of the narrative. I mentioned that Razzle was one of my favorite voices—his sharp comments were hilarious—and he was with Azoria for a good part of the narrative. So, I have to say that I missed him when we got closer to the end.
Once again, I want to say that I’m a huge fan of fantasy and I’m really enchanted by the narrative that the author created! I ended the book with “a call for adventure” feeling! And I love when that happens! Also, congratulations on writing your first novel! That’s a huge milestone!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2024
This book very good
December 12, 2024
A must-read fantasy with epic battles, secrets, and redemption!
December 17, 2024
Greatest
January 11, 2025
Insurgent meets Hunger Games.
Great writing that drew me in from the beginning. Zorie is so young to have so much happen to her. Thanks to Zander, she may just survive.
Great writing that drew me in from the beginning. Zorie is so young to have so much happen to her. Thanks to Zander, she may just survive.
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