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The Dragonkin Trilogy ##1
Wytchfire
In a land haunted by the legacy of dead dragons, Rowen Locke has been many things: orphan, gravedigger, mercenary. All he ever wanted was to become a Knight of Crane and wield a kingsteel sword against the kind of grown horrors his childhood knows all too well.
But that dream crumbled—replaced by a new nightmare.
War is overrunning the realms, an unprecedented duel of desire and revenge, steel and sorcery. And for one disgraced man who would be a knight, in a world where no one is blameless, the time has come to decide which side he’s on.
But that dream crumbled—replaced by a new nightmare.
War is overrunning the realms, an unprecedented duel of desire and revenge, steel and sorcery. And for one disgraced man who would be a knight, in a world where no one is blameless, the time has come to decide which side he’s on.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
70 people are currently reading
1171 people want to read
About the author
Michael Meyerhofer
18 books109 followersI'm the author of the Dragonkin Trilogy, a dark/epic fantasy series. The first book, WYTCHFIRE, also won the Whirling Prize and was a Readers Choice nomination by Big Al's Books and Pals. The sequels, KNIGHTSWRATH and KINGSTEEL, are both available now, as well, with an additional series in the works.
I've also published a few poetry books. My latest is WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE BURIED ALIVE. Previous poetry books are DAMNATIO MEMORIAE (lit. "damned memory", winner of the Brick Road Poetry Book Contest), BLUE COLLAR EULOGIES (Steel Toe Books), and LEAVING IOWA (winner of the Liam Rector First Book Award). I was also happy to have my poem, "For My Brother," featured in Goodreads' June 2014 newsletter. For more information and at least one embarrassing childhood photo, please visit wytchfire.com (fantasy) or troublewithhammers.com (poetry).
I've also published a few poetry books. My latest is WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE BURIED ALIVE. Previous poetry books are DAMNATIO MEMORIAE (lit. "damned memory", winner of the Brick Road Poetry Book Contest), BLUE COLLAR EULOGIES (Steel Toe Books), and LEAVING IOWA (winner of the Liam Rector First Book Award). I was also happy to have my poem, "For My Brother," featured in Goodreads' June 2014 newsletter. For more information and at least one embarrassing childhood photo, please visit wytchfire.com (fantasy) or troublewithhammers.com (poetry).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 12, 2015
When going through books on GR, and you find a book with just 20+ reviews and an average rating of 4.47, you just have to give it a try. Because there's books with 10,000+ reviews and an average rating of less than 3.9. Some books, while extremely popular, are totally shit, Twilight for example. While some virtually unknown books deserve to be at the top of book lists. Wytchfire belongs to the latter category.
There's lots of really good authors out there. While some authors shoot to fame on the back of top publishers like Tor and Gollancz, others have to face a tougher and more difficult climb to the top. Michael Meyerhofer belongs to the latter category.
Wytchfire is one of the best books I've read this year, and I've read some spanking good books this year. The writing is better than good. I think comparisons are due here, to give a better picture of just how good. Its better than Mark Lawrence. It's better than Joe Abercrombie. Mind you, this is my opinion so if you think otherwise, no qualms. I just advise you read this book first, before coming to any conclusion.
The plot is brilliant. Doesn't take long to ignite. It's fast paced. Very little by way of the idle chitchat that makes the books in the Lightbringer series so long. It's action packed: from start to finish. So much action, you're swept away. So much action you lose track of time while reading. Everything is so vivid.
Employing a lot of magic in fantasy writing can backfire, as it can deviate too much from the plot. This book is an exception to the rule. While magic heavy, it doesn't distract from the storyline. And the book is really magic heavy. As magic heavy as the Sword of Truth and LoTR series. The book combines a magic-heavy plot with a fast paced storyline, all penned in beautiful, flowing writing.
Then there's the characters. While other readers may see it differently, the characters are kind of gray. There's two sides. Each fighting for what they feel is the right thing. One side is wreaking revenge on the other due to the amount of evils it has suffered at the hands of the other over a long period of time. It's not its fault, imo. I'd do the same. The other side is on the defensive, with plenty of conflicts on their own part... Unlike most other books, the conflict is not fixed, but rather flexible. It contracts and retracts with the movement of the plot. It gives the entire thing the picture of something that changes its shape with the influence of external factors. I don't know how best to explain it. Just read it for yourselves if you want to know. Infact, that's my recommendation to everyone who reads this review.
I immediately proceed to book 2.
There's lots of really good authors out there. While some authors shoot to fame on the back of top publishers like Tor and Gollancz, others have to face a tougher and more difficult climb to the top. Michael Meyerhofer belongs to the latter category.
Wytchfire is one of the best books I've read this year, and I've read some spanking good books this year. The writing is better than good. I think comparisons are due here, to give a better picture of just how good. Its better than Mark Lawrence. It's better than Joe Abercrombie. Mind you, this is my opinion so if you think otherwise, no qualms. I just advise you read this book first, before coming to any conclusion.
The plot is brilliant. Doesn't take long to ignite. It's fast paced. Very little by way of the idle chitchat that makes the books in the Lightbringer series so long. It's action packed: from start to finish. So much action, you're swept away. So much action you lose track of time while reading. Everything is so vivid.
Employing a lot of magic in fantasy writing can backfire, as it can deviate too much from the plot. This book is an exception to the rule. While magic heavy, it doesn't distract from the storyline. And the book is really magic heavy. As magic heavy as the Sword of Truth and LoTR series. The book combines a magic-heavy plot with a fast paced storyline, all penned in beautiful, flowing writing.
Then there's the characters. While other readers may see it differently, the characters are kind of gray. There's two sides. Each fighting for what they feel is the right thing. One side is wreaking revenge on the other due to the amount of evils it has suffered at the hands of the other over a long period of time. It's not its fault, imo. I'd do the same. The other side is on the defensive, with plenty of conflicts on their own part... Unlike most other books, the conflict is not fixed, but rather flexible. It contracts and retracts with the movement of the plot. It gives the entire thing the picture of something that changes its shape with the influence of external factors. I don't know how best to explain it. Just read it for yourselves if you want to know. Infact, that's my recommendation to everyone who reads this review.
I immediately proceed to book 2.
June 15, 2015
I originally read this book about a year ago, but unfortunately life got in the way and I never ended up writing the review. When I saw that book two was coming out, I decided to sign up for the tour, no matter what setback life had for me this time. (Note: My cat died on me this morning. Life, darn you!! *shakes fist in fury*)
This has been one of the hardest reviews for me to write, mainly because everything that I want to say on the novel will be giving something away, and I would be doing the reader a disservice by not letting them experience each and every moment on their own.
I love Meyehofer's writing style. His storylines are creative. His words are eloquent. His characters are ones that pull you into the storyline ... and keep you in it. The setting is described so well that you almost feel like you're there. And something always happens that changes the story in a way you were not expecting.
I could not put this book down - during either read - and if you are into epic fantasy novels, especially ones that include dragons, this is definitely a book that you need to pick up AND Michael is an author you need to keep your eye on.
Well done. WELL DONE!!
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. Please remember that this review is my opinion based on my personal impressions of the book.
This has been one of the hardest reviews for me to write, mainly because everything that I want to say on the novel will be giving something away, and I would be doing the reader a disservice by not letting them experience each and every moment on their own.
I love Meyehofer's writing style. His storylines are creative. His words are eloquent. His characters are ones that pull you into the storyline ... and keep you in it. The setting is described so well that you almost feel like you're there. And something always happens that changes the story in a way you were not expecting.
I could not put this book down - during either read - and if you are into epic fantasy novels, especially ones that include dragons, this is definitely a book that you need to pick up AND Michael is an author you need to keep your eye on.
Well done. WELL DONE!!
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. Please remember that this review is my opinion based on my personal impressions of the book.
May 8, 2014
Bringing to mind great writers like Tolkien and George RR Martin, Meyerhofer has created a unique fantasy world in which to immerse yourself. Unlike most mainstream writers of today, the author fills his world with the same diversity that exists, sometimes unacknowledged, within our own reality. There are different races, genders, sexualities, and even body types within this world.
In fact, his characters are often more accepting of these differences than some of the real-life people I have encountered. My biggest complaint here was how often the women had to be beautiful. It would be nice if female fantasy characters had a physical flaw or two, but you can't have everything I suppose.
In addition to the truly impressive world building, "Wytchfire" features realistic sword fights, a unique take on elvenesque creatures and their magic, and a terrifying entity simply called The Nightmare.
I have also read some of his poetry books. Meyerhofer's background in poetry gives his writing a literary feel. He has a way with words that is increasingly rare within his genre. Rather than phoning it in with tired descriptions, Meyerhofer creates a lush and complicated place in which he grounds the story. Even without the well-drawn world map, it is an easy enough place to navigate, as we are in good hands.
It is worth picking up. I purchased the Kindle version but received an advanced copy of the physical book. The kindle version is nice and doesn't cost much. The paperback is also very well-made and worth the price!
In fact, his characters are often more accepting of these differences than some of the real-life people I have encountered. My biggest complaint here was how often the women had to be beautiful. It would be nice if female fantasy characters had a physical flaw or two, but you can't have everything I suppose.
In addition to the truly impressive world building, "Wytchfire" features realistic sword fights, a unique take on elvenesque creatures and their magic, and a terrifying entity simply called The Nightmare.
I have also read some of his poetry books. Meyerhofer's background in poetry gives his writing a literary feel. He has a way with words that is increasingly rare within his genre. Rather than phoning it in with tired descriptions, Meyerhofer creates a lush and complicated place in which he grounds the story. Even without the well-drawn world map, it is an easy enough place to navigate, as we are in good hands.
It is worth picking up. I purchased the Kindle version but received an advanced copy of the physical book. The kindle version is nice and doesn't cost much. The paperback is also very well-made and worth the price!
August 30, 2014
This is an author on the up and Wytchfire is a fantastic read that you won't regret. The main character is not your regular epic fantasy fare -and I love the originality and the instant depth you feel to the character from their first appearance. This isn't a brave warrior, a noble prince or someone on a quest...it's a real person that has hopes but is a long way from them.
I loved the story and the way the crumbling world is a character in it's own right. You find yourself drawing mental maps and wondering what is over there. The politics and the room for further exploration is perfectly dripped. Characters aren't good or bad -they are both due to the world they inhabit. Very highly recommended.
I loved the story and the way the crumbling world is a character in it's own right. You find yourself drawing mental maps and wondering what is over there. The politics and the room for further exploration is perfectly dripped. Characters aren't good or bad -they are both due to the world they inhabit. Very highly recommended.
January 1, 2015
We open with Fadarah, who is a kind of warrior mage, a half-breed, and a key person in the siege of the city. The Shel’ai control the nightmare that can tear down city walls, and if let off its leash, completely destroy a city. Then we meet Rowen Locke who is a down-on-his-luck wannabe knight. He failed his goal in achieving knighthood, and then fails to sense a trap on the highway and becomes the victim of a nasty mugging. Penniless, injured, and jaded concerning the bulk of the human race, his adventure begins.
Wow! Just, wow! This was a fun, entertaining, impressive work of fantasy fiction. If you enjoy your Tolkien-esque adventures, then this is definitely a book for you to check out. There was plenty of world-building (peoples from various ethnicities – fictional and real) along with characters of depth. The book had my attention from the beginning because Fadarah seems to genuinely regret what he must do, seems a little disgusted at the methods for conquering the city, and yet he goes forth and does it. Then Rowen. Ah, the poor man walked on stage with so many secrets! He was a tantalizing character to follow and watch some of those secrets come into the reader’s light.
I quite enjoyed the mixing of elements from the legends of King Arthur and feudal Japan. The Knightly Order of the Lotus was a nice touch. And the action was quite engaging. There’s sell swords, brigands, warrior mage, etc. The average farmer seems to be in some sort of recession, which makes sense with war here and there. But sprinkled among the action are moments of introspection by the characters, so the reader doesn’t get battle fatigue.
While I would have liked to see a few more female characters, it seems I am always saying that. I can just pretend Rowen or Fadarah is a woman in disguise. ;) There were a few typos in my version, but it is an early ebook review copy; these typos were not enough to distract me from enjoying the overall book.
Wow! Just, wow! This was a fun, entertaining, impressive work of fantasy fiction. If you enjoy your Tolkien-esque adventures, then this is definitely a book for you to check out. There was plenty of world-building (peoples from various ethnicities – fictional and real) along with characters of depth. The book had my attention from the beginning because Fadarah seems to genuinely regret what he must do, seems a little disgusted at the methods for conquering the city, and yet he goes forth and does it. Then Rowen. Ah, the poor man walked on stage with so many secrets! He was a tantalizing character to follow and watch some of those secrets come into the reader’s light.
I quite enjoyed the mixing of elements from the legends of King Arthur and feudal Japan. The Knightly Order of the Lotus was a nice touch. And the action was quite engaging. There’s sell swords, brigands, warrior mage, etc. The average farmer seems to be in some sort of recession, which makes sense with war here and there. But sprinkled among the action are moments of introspection by the characters, so the reader doesn’t get battle fatigue.
While I would have liked to see a few more female characters, it seems I am always saying that. I can just pretend Rowen or Fadarah is a woman in disguise. ;) There were a few typos in my version, but it is an early ebook review copy; these typos were not enough to distract me from enjoying the overall book.
July 11, 2014
In his acknowledgements, Meyerhofer refers to himself as a boyhood Tolkein fan. It’s obvious from reading Wytchfire where his inspirations came from by using multiple races that have to band together to fight a strong foe.
While the inspiration is there, Meyerhofer is able to make his own world using a rich history, reluctant heroes and a few surprises along the way
The book is the first of a trilogy and is set up that way. There isn’t a huge cliffhanger at the end, but more of the end of one battle while we know the rest of the war is ready to rage on.
Wytchfire may start off a bit slow, but the action picks up fairly quickly with Meyerhofer not dawdling too long to give the reader background information. He’s able to blend it into the story while continuing with the current action.
One of my favorite parts was the distinction of two strong female characters. They held their own against anyone who confronted them and were layered characters. My only gripe is that they are both, of course, easy on the eyes, which has to be noted by the men looking at them. It’s nice when I read a story where the men and women are described similarly without bringing beauty up when it comes to the women and not even mentioning that aspect when it comes to male characters.
However, Wytchfire is a great read for those who love epic fantasies – as I do. It certainly filled its role and feels like the start of a great adventure.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
While the inspiration is there, Meyerhofer is able to make his own world using a rich history, reluctant heroes and a few surprises along the way
The book is the first of a trilogy and is set up that way. There isn’t a huge cliffhanger at the end, but more of the end of one battle while we know the rest of the war is ready to rage on.
Wytchfire may start off a bit slow, but the action picks up fairly quickly with Meyerhofer not dawdling too long to give the reader background information. He’s able to blend it into the story while continuing with the current action.
One of my favorite parts was the distinction of two strong female characters. They held their own against anyone who confronted them and were layered characters. My only gripe is that they are both, of course, easy on the eyes, which has to be noted by the men looking at them. It’s nice when I read a story where the men and women are described similarly without bringing beauty up when it comes to the women and not even mentioning that aspect when it comes to male characters.
However, Wytchfire is a great read for those who love epic fantasies – as I do. It certainly filled its role and feels like the start of a great adventure.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
June 18, 2015
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
War is marching across Ruun and the Free Cities are falling. As the army reaches Lyos it appears that Fadarah, General of the Throng, has made a serious tactical error. Or has he? The battle for Ruun has been waging on for months, but the battle for Lyos is the pivotal one. Where does Silwren, Rowen Locke and the Isle Knights fit into this grand scheme? Are they pieces falling into place or monkey wrenches gumming up the works?
Wytchfire is full to the brim with epic fantasy. It’s a rich new world for me to explore with several different kinds of people, magic, fantastic history and medieval-type settings, but war, famine, disease, poverty and prejudice have made it into an ugly place. Told from several POVs the threads of this story are slowly woven into the beginnings of a complex tapestry. By the time this first book of the trilogy ends I have a better understanding of where this story is heading. And I have a feeling it’s going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better.
The writing is superb. It flows so smoothly and quickly that it took no time at all to be lost in the tale. The characters are well-developed and very real. I felt as if I could glance up and see them standing in front of me. I especially like Rowen, but there are others I like as well. Even the villains are, well, not likeable per se, but they pull me in two directions. At times I loathe them then they do something to make me pause and say, yeah, I can see why they are doing what they are doing. However, what they are doing is pretty damn fucked up. So, conflicted much? There are very rarely people who fit into an all or nothing category. People are shades of grey and those are the best characters to read about. They make me think, what would I do if I were them? Could I go that far?
This is an excellent start to a wonderful epic fantasy and I look forward to reading more about Rowen, Silwren, Shade, Fadarah, Aeko and all the others as the next stage in the war begins. Plus, you know, there are swords. What can I say? I have a thing for swords. :D
War is marching across Ruun and the Free Cities are falling. As the army reaches Lyos it appears that Fadarah, General of the Throng, has made a serious tactical error. Or has he? The battle for Ruun has been waging on for months, but the battle for Lyos is the pivotal one. Where does Silwren, Rowen Locke and the Isle Knights fit into this grand scheme? Are they pieces falling into place or monkey wrenches gumming up the works?
Wytchfire is full to the brim with epic fantasy. It’s a rich new world for me to explore with several different kinds of people, magic, fantastic history and medieval-type settings, but war, famine, disease, poverty and prejudice have made it into an ugly place. Told from several POVs the threads of this story are slowly woven into the beginnings of a complex tapestry. By the time this first book of the trilogy ends I have a better understanding of where this story is heading. And I have a feeling it’s going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better.
The writing is superb. It flows so smoothly and quickly that it took no time at all to be lost in the tale. The characters are well-developed and very real. I felt as if I could glance up and see them standing in front of me. I especially like Rowen, but there are others I like as well. Even the villains are, well, not likeable per se, but they pull me in two directions. At times I loathe them then they do something to make me pause and say, yeah, I can see why they are doing what they are doing. However, what they are doing is pretty damn fucked up. So, conflicted much? There are very rarely people who fit into an all or nothing category. People are shades of grey and those are the best characters to read about. They make me think, what would I do if I were them? Could I go that far?
This is an excellent start to a wonderful epic fantasy and I look forward to reading more about Rowen, Silwren, Shade, Fadarah, Aeko and all the others as the next stage in the war begins. Plus, you know, there are swords. What can I say? I have a thing for swords. :D
June 25, 2014
Wytchfire sucked me in immediately, and long after my family had gone to bed, I was still reading. I paid for it the next day, but the book was totally worth the exhaustion (and I’m a woman who loves her sleep). Wytchfire is fast-paced, engaging, horrifying, and includes elements of magic, complex and exemplary world building, and believable characters you either love or hate. There seems to be no in-between, but maybe that’s just me. Michael Meyerhofer’s writing style and storytelling is intriguing, unique, and beautiful in the way he immerses you completely within the world of his characters. I felt like I was there, enjoying armchair travel, and that always means a book is a HUGE hit with me. One last thought: Fadarah’s “Nightmare” is one I wouldn’t want to meet in even my darkest, craziest nightmares. Just the description of this beastly creation chilled me.
Fantasy enthusiasts will love Wytchfire, and I give it 5 stars without the slightest hesitation.
Fantasy enthusiasts will love Wytchfire, and I give it 5 stars without the slightest hesitation.
December 16, 2014
I received Wtchfire free in return for my honest review and honestly this is the most AMAZING book!!! The story is so well told that I could literally see the characters in my minds eye. There are so many side stories but they all blend and explain each other seemlessly. There's even a surprise towards the end! I laughed, sighed,tensed and even wiped a tear away that's how utterly amazing Wytchfire is!!!
June 25, 2014
If you are sick of waiting for George R.R. Martin to finish A Song of Ice and Fire, I recommend Wytchfire, the first in a planned series of fantasy novels by Michael Meyerhofer. With strong, multidimensional characters and a conscientious inclusion of groups not often seen in the fantasy genre, Wytchfire succeeds at telling an exciting, page-turning yarn without ever feeling like a guilty pleasure.
Wytchfire is set in a complex fantasy world with elements of King Arthur myths, Japanese feudal period fantasy, and Dungeons & Dragons. The story opens as the main character (with his sexy protagonist name: Rowen Locke) leaves the Lotus Isles, having failed to become a Knight. The Isles are a sort of academy for Knights in training and failure is a major theme throughout the book--particularly poignant during this Great Recession.
The first part of the book resembles Robert E. Howard's Conan the Cimmerian stories in that the main character is a sell-sword concerned with little but his next meal and mug of ale. This freewheeling hundred-or-so pages, though light on plot, were my favorite part of the book. Meyerhofer uses Rowen's homelessness to explore his rich fantasy world; the scenes feel episodic and lightly connected in the tradition of the early twentieth century weird tales.
Soon, the plot kicks in. A huge horde of sorcerers and mercenaries is devastating one city after the other, led by a half-orc half-elf caster whose entire muscled body is covered in tattooed glyphs. His name is Fadarah, which means father. Sounds like the best D&D character ever, right? This antagonist serves as a sort of Magneto for the misunderstood, outcast mages. He adds a level of badass to every chapter he's in and serves as the novel's Big Bad, but like Magneto he has a woobie backstory that endeared his cause to me.
Despite some parts' freewheeling feel and the world's expansiveness, the book is tightly plotted. The last third of novel abounds in twists which I usually did not see coming. Meyerhofer follows the logic of Chekov's gun. (To avoid spoilers, don't look up that reference before reading Wytchfire.)
Meyerhofer's prose is simple enough for the YA crowd but can still entertain this over-thirty fantasy fan. In many ways Wytchfire's prose is better than the later George R.R. Martin novels: Meyerhofer doesn't repeat a single thought through his characters' minds ad nauseum, unlike Martin. At some parts the way Meyerhofer informs us of a character's homosexuality or sexual enslavement to another were subtle enough for Hays Code-era Hollywood.
The fantasy and sci fi genres have become increasingly diversified since the all-white and mostly-male worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien and T.H. White, and it is now customary to include earthly races within the fantasy human race (e.g., George R.R. Martin's inhabitants of the Summer Isles, Orson Scott Card's planets of earthly ethnicities, and Skyrim's Redguard). Meyerhofer makes a point of including the diversity of this world within his fantastical one. Characters entering Wytchfire through Meyerhofer's equal opportunity policy include a female Asian knight, an obese Black merchant, and a homosexual dwarf sellsword. Wytchfire includes the types of characters that should be included in all depictions of fantasy.
Actually, Meyerhofer's commitment to social issues extends beyond populating his novel with underrepresented groups. A major theme running throughout the novel is the abhorrence of rape. At one point Fadarah, the Big Bad, stops a rape in progress. (Ah, Fadarah. If there's any justice in the world we'll see some Wytchfire shipping soon.) Meyerhofer hints throughout the book that the sexual enslavement of children is widespread in the world of Wytchfire. The novel never glamorizes rape nor uses it to comic purposes; within the novel, as with life, it is a violent act which forever scars its victims. Meyerhofer's treatment of sexual violence is another reason Wytchfire never felt like a guilty read, but a feminist take on violence told from a male perspective.
Wytchfire occupies the same space in the fantasy hierarchy as Tad Williams' best novels: deeply fantastical, they reflect elements of our world while still providing an escape. Like Williams' works, it probably won't convert someone who isn't already a fan of the genre. For veterans of fantasy novels or games, Wytchfire is a satisfying read: a complex land populated by interesting characters. I'm looking forward to the second in the trilogy.
Wytchfire is set in a complex fantasy world with elements of King Arthur myths, Japanese feudal period fantasy, and Dungeons & Dragons. The story opens as the main character (with his sexy protagonist name: Rowen Locke) leaves the Lotus Isles, having failed to become a Knight. The Isles are a sort of academy for Knights in training and failure is a major theme throughout the book--particularly poignant during this Great Recession.
The first part of the book resembles Robert E. Howard's Conan the Cimmerian stories in that the main character is a sell-sword concerned with little but his next meal and mug of ale. This freewheeling hundred-or-so pages, though light on plot, were my favorite part of the book. Meyerhofer uses Rowen's homelessness to explore his rich fantasy world; the scenes feel episodic and lightly connected in the tradition of the early twentieth century weird tales.
Soon, the plot kicks in. A huge horde of sorcerers and mercenaries is devastating one city after the other, led by a half-orc half-elf caster whose entire muscled body is covered in tattooed glyphs. His name is Fadarah, which means father. Sounds like the best D&D character ever, right? This antagonist serves as a sort of Magneto for the misunderstood, outcast mages. He adds a level of badass to every chapter he's in and serves as the novel's Big Bad, but like Magneto he has a woobie backstory that endeared his cause to me.
Despite some parts' freewheeling feel and the world's expansiveness, the book is tightly plotted. The last third of novel abounds in twists which I usually did not see coming. Meyerhofer follows the logic of Chekov's gun. (To avoid spoilers, don't look up that reference before reading Wytchfire.)
Meyerhofer's prose is simple enough for the YA crowd but can still entertain this over-thirty fantasy fan. In many ways Wytchfire's prose is better than the later George R.R. Martin novels: Meyerhofer doesn't repeat a single thought through his characters' minds ad nauseum, unlike Martin. At some parts the way Meyerhofer informs us of a character's homosexuality or sexual enslavement to another were subtle enough for Hays Code-era Hollywood.
The fantasy and sci fi genres have become increasingly diversified since the all-white and mostly-male worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien and T.H. White, and it is now customary to include earthly races within the fantasy human race (e.g., George R.R. Martin's inhabitants of the Summer Isles, Orson Scott Card's planets of earthly ethnicities, and Skyrim's Redguard). Meyerhofer makes a point of including the diversity of this world within his fantastical one. Characters entering Wytchfire through Meyerhofer's equal opportunity policy include a female Asian knight, an obese Black merchant, and a homosexual dwarf sellsword. Wytchfire includes the types of characters that should be included in all depictions of fantasy.
Actually, Meyerhofer's commitment to social issues extends beyond populating his novel with underrepresented groups. A major theme running throughout the novel is the abhorrence of rape. At one point Fadarah, the Big Bad, stops a rape in progress. (Ah, Fadarah. If there's any justice in the world we'll see some Wytchfire shipping soon.) Meyerhofer hints throughout the book that the sexual enslavement of children is widespread in the world of Wytchfire. The novel never glamorizes rape nor uses it to comic purposes; within the novel, as with life, it is a violent act which forever scars its victims. Meyerhofer's treatment of sexual violence is another reason Wytchfire never felt like a guilty read, but a feminist take on violence told from a male perspective.
Wytchfire occupies the same space in the fantasy hierarchy as Tad Williams' best novels: deeply fantastical, they reflect elements of our world while still providing an escape. Like Williams' works, it probably won't convert someone who isn't already a fan of the genre. For veterans of fantasy novels or games, Wytchfire is a satisfying read: a complex land populated by interesting characters. I'm looking forward to the second in the trilogy.
June 1, 2014
I received 'Wytchfire' as a gift from author Michael Meyerhofer in exchange for a fair review of my own work - and am I ever grateful that I did. Not just that he provided fair critique of my book (I am), but that I got to experience one gem of a novel that I might have otherwise missed.
So what do you get when you take two parts 'Game of Thrones', one part 'Lord of the Rings' and meld them together with a giant helping of superb storytelling? Wytchfire, that's what. While I will admit that I am a SciFi kind of guy, my adolescent days were spent reading a lot of fantasy (Epic, dark, Arthurian, you name it), and as such I was intrigued when Mr. Meyerhofer approached me with this novel. So much so that I bubbled it to the top of my 800+ strong 'To Be Read' list and focused on only it over the past few days (when spare time allowed, of course).
Meyerhofer's literary expertise and colorful world-building make his characters leap off the page, pulling you into the story from the start. I found that when I had to put it down to focus on other things in my life, I was anxious to get back and read further. No small feat as most novels, even the classics, sometimes suffer from drag for the first 50-100 pages. No such problem in Wytchfire thankfully. The author devised an enthralling plot filled with plenty of action, suspense, some clever twists and most importantly - multidimensional characters. After all, a story is nothing without character depth. Kudos to you, Mr. Meyerhofer!
Anyone that has read my reviews knows that I am a notoriously tough cookie, especially when it comes to the 'polish' that an author/editor puts to their finished work. Mistakes slow down stories. But I can say with brimming satisfaction that Wytchfire is one of the most polished novels I've read to date. Nary a mistake to be found, and it flows so organically that the reader doesn't suffer from fatigue after reading its sizeable 353 pages. It became evident to me from the onset of this story that the author has put a lot of time and painstaking effort into the presentation of it, and I applaud him for a job well done.
So congratulations, Mr. Meyerhofer, on being the recipient of my first 5-star rating. Can't wait to read the next installment.
So what do you get when you take two parts 'Game of Thrones', one part 'Lord of the Rings' and meld them together with a giant helping of superb storytelling? Wytchfire, that's what. While I will admit that I am a SciFi kind of guy, my adolescent days were spent reading a lot of fantasy (Epic, dark, Arthurian, you name it), and as such I was intrigued when Mr. Meyerhofer approached me with this novel. So much so that I bubbled it to the top of my 800+ strong 'To Be Read' list and focused on only it over the past few days (when spare time allowed, of course).
Meyerhofer's literary expertise and colorful world-building make his characters leap off the page, pulling you into the story from the start. I found that when I had to put it down to focus on other things in my life, I was anxious to get back and read further. No small feat as most novels, even the classics, sometimes suffer from drag for the first 50-100 pages. No such problem in Wytchfire thankfully. The author devised an enthralling plot filled with plenty of action, suspense, some clever twists and most importantly - multidimensional characters. After all, a story is nothing without character depth. Kudos to you, Mr. Meyerhofer!
Anyone that has read my reviews knows that I am a notoriously tough cookie, especially when it comes to the 'polish' that an author/editor puts to their finished work. Mistakes slow down stories. But I can say with brimming satisfaction that Wytchfire is one of the most polished novels I've read to date. Nary a mistake to be found, and it flows so organically that the reader doesn't suffer from fatigue after reading its sizeable 353 pages. It became evident to me from the onset of this story that the author has put a lot of time and painstaking effort into the presentation of it, and I applaud him for a job well done.
So congratulations, Mr. Meyerhofer, on being the recipient of my first 5-star rating. Can't wait to read the next installment.
July 5, 2014
This is a fantastic start to an epic fantasy series. I loved the vividly described characters of different species banding together to fight a common foe theme. The bad guys are complex and truly terrifying. I really appreciated that the book ended without a major cliff-hanger yet still has me chomping at the bit to find out what happens next. I also loved that there were a couple of female characters who were strong and forceful; able to hold their own – unique. I especially connected with Silwren and really hope she can find a way to control her power as the saga continues.
I thought the author did a great job keeping my interest while doling out pertinent information without overusing the dreaded “info dump” . I love lots of action and adventure and this book did not disappoint in the least. Rowen is a magnetic hero who inspires his cohorts with his honesty and compassion!
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
I thought the author did a great job keeping my interest while doling out pertinent information without overusing the dreaded “info dump” . I love lots of action and adventure and this book did not disappoint in the least. Rowen is a magnetic hero who inspires his cohorts with his honesty and compassion!
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
December 14, 2014
I am normally a non-fiction reader, i.e. crime, military, history, outdoor sports stories, but I was lucky enough years ago to be a roommate to this author. He is one of a handful of true witty individuals I've run across.. and in hearing he had written Wytchfire, I bought it of course. I started reading before bed last week and got sucked damn quick into the characters and storyline. Finally, on my 1st day off work two nights ago, I had the opportunity to read it all the way thru and at 2am I even devoured the Appendix (The Codex Lotius) at the end. I did not want to put this novel down. Meyerhofer's descriptive and multi-dimensional details in Wytchfire drew me in and the easy coorelation, in my mind, from fantasy novel to today's turbulent, sometimes Kleptocratic, political and social scenes kept me engaged as well. I look with great enthusiasm to the 2nd book in this Trilogy!
June 4, 2014
This is a fantasy extravaganza with great world building and well realised characters. It has a beguiling plot with action, mystery and intrigue. It is Arthurian legend meets Game of Thrones and does not disappoint. A well deserved read!
November 28, 2014
Game of thrones meets xmen! Fuck'n EPIC!
April 15, 2017
Looking forward to reading the sequel :)
May 13, 2015
Wytchfire, by poet and author Michael Meyerhofer, is the first book in his Dragonkin Trilogy. In it he has built a fantasy world akin to the Forgotten Realms and DragonLance books of TSR, Inc. in the United Kingdom, and reminiscent of Dungeons and Dragons. Fantasy fans will recognize his Sylvosi with tapered ears living in their beautiful forest as elves, his short and muscular Dwar as dwarfs, his tall and muscular gray-skinned Ogres as—well—ogres, and his Shel’ai (sorcerers born to the Sylvosi) as mages. But all similarity ends there. Meyerhofer departs from the usual depiction of these fantasy races and characters in a number of ways.
His Shel’ai, unlike most fantasy mages, are not respected but feared as dangerous mutant deviants and are outcasts from the people and land of their birth.
In another twist, Meyerhofer gives his Ogres personality and intellect. One particular Ogre is Fadarah, a half-Ogre and half Sylv-Shel’ai, who is both “the head bad guy” of a group of outcast Shel’ai and of a mercenary army, and is also a character of some depth and complication with whom we sympathize. He clearly holds honorable values as he stops the rape of a woman by one of his mercenary leaders. We enter the story with Fadarah who is feared and hated by all because he is an Ogre and a Shel’ai, and so he has created a family, or “people,” by rescuing other outcast Shel’ai. Reminiscent of the diaspora Jews prior to the creation of the State of Israel who often suffered pogroms, Fadarah is a kind of Theodor Herzl who wants to create a “promised land” for his people to “return” to. Like many who have suffered racism, Fadarah is self-hating of the very uniqueness that is also his strength. His hurt and anger fuel his struggle, but threatens to destroy the very thing he seeks to create.
Dragons, which like the dinosaurs of earth’s past have become extinct, are accepted as once having been real because their skeletons are often found. A fanatical religious group that profits from the sale of dragon relics and the visits of pilgrims, and that can be prone to zealous violence, worships them as gods.
The human Rowan Locke, is an orphan who grew up amid squalor and violence (including the regular raping of women and children by roving gangs of men) that became a mercenary soldier who dreamed of joining the honorable Isle Knights. When he finally does succeed in joining their initiates, he finds himself “washed out” after four hard years of training. Still believing in the honor code of the Knights he struggles to overcome his shame while trying to figure out what to do with the rest of his life. He happens upon a merchant who hires him to be his guard and their travel leads Rowan into the plot of the story where he meets two dangerous Shel’ai, the enigmatic El’rash’lin and the exotically beautiful Silwren, and a magical sword called Knightswrath. Despite Rowan’s first hand experience of the more vile realities of life, his desperate drive to belong to something higher and nobler creates a naivety that blinds him to the truth and may even get him killed.
Even the Dwar Jalist, a relatively minor character, escapes the common contrivances for dwarves as he is compassionate and homosexual as well as strong and warrior like.
Fantasy lovers will find plenty to love about Wytchfire, and those new to the genre will love the depth of Meyerhofer’s characters and the complexity of the world he has built, where nothing is as it first seems. Like real life, the bad guys can be good, the good guys can be bad, and even the honorable—like the brave and capable female warrior Knight Aeko—must sometimes make compromises. In Wytchfire, Meyerhofer explores themes of racism, male violence, poverty, sexism, classicism, sexual abuse, and religion. But he does so unobtrusively—as just another reality in the world he has built that is so like our own—while engaging readers with interesting characters and page-turning plot.
His Shel’ai, unlike most fantasy mages, are not respected but feared as dangerous mutant deviants and are outcasts from the people and land of their birth.
In another twist, Meyerhofer gives his Ogres personality and intellect. One particular Ogre is Fadarah, a half-Ogre and half Sylv-Shel’ai, who is both “the head bad guy” of a group of outcast Shel’ai and of a mercenary army, and is also a character of some depth and complication with whom we sympathize. He clearly holds honorable values as he stops the rape of a woman by one of his mercenary leaders. We enter the story with Fadarah who is feared and hated by all because he is an Ogre and a Shel’ai, and so he has created a family, or “people,” by rescuing other outcast Shel’ai. Reminiscent of the diaspora Jews prior to the creation of the State of Israel who often suffered pogroms, Fadarah is a kind of Theodor Herzl who wants to create a “promised land” for his people to “return” to. Like many who have suffered racism, Fadarah is self-hating of the very uniqueness that is also his strength. His hurt and anger fuel his struggle, but threatens to destroy the very thing he seeks to create.
Dragons, which like the dinosaurs of earth’s past have become extinct, are accepted as once having been real because their skeletons are often found. A fanatical religious group that profits from the sale of dragon relics and the visits of pilgrims, and that can be prone to zealous violence, worships them as gods.
The human Rowan Locke, is an orphan who grew up amid squalor and violence (including the regular raping of women and children by roving gangs of men) that became a mercenary soldier who dreamed of joining the honorable Isle Knights. When he finally does succeed in joining their initiates, he finds himself “washed out” after four hard years of training. Still believing in the honor code of the Knights he struggles to overcome his shame while trying to figure out what to do with the rest of his life. He happens upon a merchant who hires him to be his guard and their travel leads Rowan into the plot of the story where he meets two dangerous Shel’ai, the enigmatic El’rash’lin and the exotically beautiful Silwren, and a magical sword called Knightswrath. Despite Rowan’s first hand experience of the more vile realities of life, his desperate drive to belong to something higher and nobler creates a naivety that blinds him to the truth and may even get him killed.
Even the Dwar Jalist, a relatively minor character, escapes the common contrivances for dwarves as he is compassionate and homosexual as well as strong and warrior like.
Fantasy lovers will find plenty to love about Wytchfire, and those new to the genre will love the depth of Meyerhofer’s characters and the complexity of the world he has built, where nothing is as it first seems. Like real life, the bad guys can be good, the good guys can be bad, and even the honorable—like the brave and capable female warrior Knight Aeko—must sometimes make compromises. In Wytchfire, Meyerhofer explores themes of racism, male violence, poverty, sexism, classicism, sexual abuse, and religion. But he does so unobtrusively—as just another reality in the world he has built that is so like our own—while engaging readers with interesting characters and page-turning plot.
did-not-finish
February 5, 2016Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
DNF @ 26%
I was so intrigued by the premise of this one, especially since there was the promise of dragons. However, 26% and no dragons on the horizon. As well, the first 26% could have easily been condense into 15% or less. There were gratuitous scenes in which characters told the main character (aka the audience) about the plot and what was to come. This irked me to no end. And some of the scenes didn't even feel relevant! It just seemed like a way to move the character from point A to point B while "learning" about the plot. At 26% I should have SOME idea of what is going to happen and the summary should be starting to make sense, but I honestly can't say that is the case. Rowen is bland and unoriginal, the Shade even more so. This feels like a typical fantasy series about a Chosen One with dragons thrown in the mix. I am all for high fantasy/epic fantasy and realize that the plot needs time to develop but so far there has been only Rowen traveling, the Shade's girlfriend burning people to a crisp, and a mention that some people are basically descended from dragons. I need more to keep my attention and this one did not deliver.
Books and Ladders | Queen of the Bookshelves | Books Are My Fandom | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin'
DNF @ 26%
I was so intrigued by the premise of this one, especially since there was the promise of dragons. However, 26% and no dragons on the horizon. As well, the first 26% could have easily been condense into 15% or less. There were gratuitous scenes in which characters told the main character (aka the audience) about the plot and what was to come. This irked me to no end. And some of the scenes didn't even feel relevant! It just seemed like a way to move the character from point A to point B while "learning" about the plot. At 26% I should have SOME idea of what is going to happen and the summary should be starting to make sense, but I honestly can't say that is the case. Rowen is bland and unoriginal, the Shade even more so. This feels like a typical fantasy series about a Chosen One with dragons thrown in the mix. I am all for high fantasy/epic fantasy and realize that the plot needs time to develop but so far there has been only Rowen traveling, the Shade's girlfriend burning people to a crisp, and a mention that some people are basically descended from dragons. I need more to keep my attention and this one did not deliver.
Books and Ladders | Queen of the Bookshelves | Books Are My Fandom | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin'
interrupted-or-dnf
March 3, 2016I only read about 6 chapters, because the hero just didn't suit me. Or rather, the way the author presented the hero to me, as if going thru a checklist of desirable character traits and creating dialogue, thoughts, and/or action scenes to ensure that each trait is accounted for in the half-breed hero. I felt too obviously led by the nose. Butcha can't make me drink!
Maybe I'm too hasty. Maybe I'll finish it later.
Crummy illustration, huh? This is the first of a fantasy trilogy. Great combo price for audible and kindle book. Seems to have some good reviews and it won a few awards I'd never heard of. There is a map at the beginning of the e-book, easily missed because it's not listed in the table of contents, and has no hyperlink.
This review caught my eye, so I bought the combo:
Wytchfire is Tolkien-esque. The Dwarr are stout and Nordic. The Sylv live in forests and are beautiful and haughty.
Rowen, our Orphan Hero of the hour, is a failed student of the Holy Order of the Knights on the Lotus Isles (Not-Japan) where they wield Adamunes (samurai, katana) forged with ancient secrets of metalurgy, but he still upholds all the rules and morals of the Order (codex of honor listed in appendix -- like 25 rules!!). After Rowan loses his brother and is barred from being a Knight, he's rapidly headed for rock bottom.
Some characters are gay, or have tastes for cross-species prostitution because Dwarr women have larger breasts.
Maybe I'm too hasty. Maybe I'll finish it later.
Crummy illustration, huh? This is the first of a fantasy trilogy. Great combo price for audible and kindle book. Seems to have some good reviews and it won a few awards I'd never heard of. There is a map at the beginning of the e-book, easily missed because it's not listed in the table of contents, and has no hyperlink.
This review caught my eye, so I bought the combo:
Wytchfire is Tolkien-esque. The Dwarr are stout and Nordic. The Sylv live in forests and are beautiful and haughty.
Rowen, our Orphan Hero of the hour, is a failed student of the Holy Order of the Knights on the Lotus Isles (Not-Japan) where they wield Adamunes (samurai, katana) forged with ancient secrets of metalurgy, but he still upholds all the rules and morals of the Order (codex of honor listed in appendix -- like 25 rules!!). After Rowan loses his brother and is barred from being a Knight, he's rapidly headed for rock bottom.
Some characters are gay, or have tastes for cross-species prostitution because Dwarr women have larger breasts.
August 20, 2015
Enjoyed this book, took me a bit to get into it though. I mean starts out with the main character Rowen Locke telling himself he's an idiot for getting caught like he was in the first chapter. Then he spends quite a bit of time himself drinking away what few coins he has...constantly.
But the more I read, the more the story opened up. From Faradah's reasoning for going to war, to Rowen Locke's utter shame in failing to become a knight and the mystery behind it. And the more I read, the more I needed to discover. And the more I discovered, the faster I read. The faster I read, the more I had to go back and re-read. Then I stopped to take a sip of coffee, just to think about everything I just read.
And man, a few twists and turns later I was hooked. Bought the second book before I even finished the first.
Can't say too much since it would spoil the story, but the author has created an epic world here. The various races, the history behind it all..and the mystery behind everything. UGH! So well done. So well written. No good vs evil, black vs white here...So good.
I remember feeling like this after I finished the Red Knight or Blood Song. That "can't wait for the next book" feeling. Some books you can finish and set aside wait patiently for more, others you start stalking the author's web site for clues on when the next release is.
But the more I read, the more the story opened up. From Faradah's reasoning for going to war, to Rowen Locke's utter shame in failing to become a knight and the mystery behind it. And the more I read, the more I needed to discover. And the more I discovered, the faster I read. The faster I read, the more I had to go back and re-read. Then I stopped to take a sip of coffee, just to think about everything I just read.
And man, a few twists and turns later I was hooked. Bought the second book before I even finished the first.
Can't say too much since it would spoil the story, but the author has created an epic world here. The various races, the history behind it all..and the mystery behind everything. UGH! So well done. So well written. No good vs evil, black vs white here...So good.
I remember feeling like this after I finished the Red Knight or Blood Song. That "can't wait for the next book" feeling. Some books you can finish and set aside wait patiently for more, others you start stalking the author's web site for clues on when the next release is.
January 25, 2015
I WAS GIVEN A FREE COPY OF THIS MANUSCRIPT FOR MY HONEST REVIEW.
First off i promised myself i would not be giving 5 stars as easy as i did last year. I opened this "WORLD" and let me tell you WOW. I honestly thought i was reading a best author because that is where this book belongs. He had so many little things in it that a "new" author should have missed" As Rowan was homeless and walking through his home i could almost smell the grass and trees. I could see it all so beautiful in my mind. I could hear the battle and clinking of weapons and armor in my head. I could imagine how each charter could hang his head or how Jalist Hewn would speak i could so see it as a stout but girly type.
The characters are very very rich. They are awesomely thought out as well as the world. I say well done to this author and i hope he gets on that NEW YORK BEST SELLER LIST. He deserves it.
Man i wish i could have this series on my shelf in paperback. loved loved loved it!!
First off i promised myself i would not be giving 5 stars as easy as i did last year. I opened this "WORLD" and let me tell you WOW. I honestly thought i was reading a best author because that is where this book belongs. He had so many little things in it that a "new" author should have missed" As Rowan was homeless and walking through his home i could almost smell the grass and trees. I could see it all so beautiful in my mind. I could hear the battle and clinking of weapons and armor in my head. I could imagine how each charter could hang his head or how Jalist Hewn would speak i could so see it as a stout but girly type.
The characters are very very rich. They are awesomely thought out as well as the world. I say well done to this author and i hope he gets on that NEW YORK BEST SELLER LIST. He deserves it.
Man i wish i could have this series on my shelf in paperback. loved loved loved it!!
January 10, 2015
~~~~~4.5 Stars~~~~~
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. I finished reading this book days ago and I'm still trying to figure out what I think about it. In the beginning the story was a little slow and a bit confusing but once it clicked, oh boy it clicked!!! This is an excellent beginning to what I can only hope will be an epic story, it has all of the elements. Multiple races (awesomely different creatures) learning to work together for the betterment of all. The world building is great and the character development is even better. I even felt for the invading forces, their circumstances so tangible/relatable that I had no idea who I was rooting for at times. Once the actual battle for Lyos got underway I absolutely could not put the book down, sleep be damned! All in all a great read, one which I highly recommend.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. I finished reading this book days ago and I'm still trying to figure out what I think about it. In the beginning the story was a little slow and a bit confusing but once it clicked, oh boy it clicked!!! This is an excellent beginning to what I can only hope will be an epic story, it has all of the elements. Multiple races (awesomely different creatures) learning to work together for the betterment of all. The world building is great and the character development is even better. I even felt for the invading forces, their circumstances so tangible/relatable that I had no idea who I was rooting for at times. Once the actual battle for Lyos got underway I absolutely could not put the book down, sleep be damned! All in all a great read, one which I highly recommend.
July 31, 2016
This book has really great reviews but I have to say it was just ok for me. I found it to be pretty predictable and I am not one of those readers who tries to guess what will happen next or predict the ending ahead of time at all - I truly love to just let a book unfold. I found the plot twists to be painfully obvious, there were few to no surprises. As a matter of fact, I went back to Amazon to see if this book was actually supposed to be a Young Adult book, thinking it was maybe marketed for younger people and that's why it was so simplistic. It was interesting enough to keep me engaged and if the next book came along and was cheap enough and I had nothing better to read, I would pick it up. I'm sorry I don't have a more glowing endorsement.
June 8, 2015
Fairly traditional fantasy, the first in a trilogy, but with nuances that bring in focuses on poverty, classism, racism, and how hate can turn people into what they hate. There was also some play with the issue of humanity, and what is humanity (including in non-human races)? The characters were well-constructed, as was the world, and I'm really looking forward to reading the next one, which just came out. In some ways this reminded me of Game of Thrones (I think in the world-crafting, mostly), but it also brought to mind other fantasy series like LOTR. I was also strangely reminded of Dune with a couple of characters.
June 29, 2014
Wytchfire is an interesting take on the fantasy genre with an eclectic collection of characters woven into a magical tale of sorcery, dragons and feuds. The pacing on the whole was good. I felt a slight drag in the middle, but things soon picked up again, leading to a climatic finale and a segue towards book two.
I received this book as a free review copy from the author/publisher.
I received this book as a free review copy from the author/publisher.
November 5, 2017
Wytchfire isn't your typical dragon fantasy book but is truly is an awesome book that fans of dark, epic fantasy should read. The world that the author has created is filled with amazing characters that cover a multitude of races, conflict , magic and heroism among many that never wanted anything more than to make a better life for themselves than they had been born into.
Rowan is a young man that grew up in the slums with an older brother whom he idolizes. His brother protected him from the gangs and worse in the slums they lived in and as soon as they could they escaped doing whatever jobs they could get to get money to keep themsel but also saving as much as they could so that they could get the training to become an Isle Knight. His brother succeeds and realizes his dream but after years of expensive training Rowan is dismissed form the school and the only reason is because he is poor and not the offspring of a wealthy noble. He leaves the island disillusioned and bitter only to learn that his brother has died.
There is a war sweeping the countryside, many cities have already fallen to the horde of fighters that are led by sorcerers and a creature they control called "Nightmare" which is a dragon-like creature that crushes the walls of the cities with ease. The leader of this group is a huge half orc, half elf sorcerer named Fadarah, which means father and to many of the other sorcerers consider that he is their father. Even though he has created a monstrosity once you find out why many readers will feel some sympathy but the wholesale destruction that he has made and the aftermath that he ensured would happen overrides any sympathy that readers have.
The dragons in the book aren't the creatures that many readers are familiar with but to say more would ruin it for other readers. The unseen that the sorcerers created and use as Blood Thralls are almost as bad as the Nightmare. They made a deal with the devil and the only release they have is through death but they are almost impossible to kill but those that do get killed have eyes that are filled with gratitude.
The book ends with a cliffhanger and I am glad that I have the other novels in this series so I can continue the series. I want to read his next trilogy set immediately after these books but I want to wait until the final book is out because if they are is as good as this trilogy, which I am sure they will be then I will want to read them back to back also.
4.75/5 STARS: I received a free digital ARC in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank the author and/or publisher for providing an ARC through NetGalley,.*
Rowan is a young man that grew up in the slums with an older brother whom he idolizes. His brother protected him from the gangs and worse in the slums they lived in and as soon as they could they escaped doing whatever jobs they could get to get money to keep themsel but also saving as much as they could so that they could get the training to become an Isle Knight. His brother succeeds and realizes his dream but after years of expensive training Rowan is dismissed form the school and the only reason is because he is poor and not the offspring of a wealthy noble. He leaves the island disillusioned and bitter only to learn that his brother has died.
There is a war sweeping the countryside, many cities have already fallen to the horde of fighters that are led by sorcerers and a creature they control called "Nightmare" which is a dragon-like creature that crushes the walls of the cities with ease. The leader of this group is a huge half orc, half elf sorcerer named Fadarah, which means father and to many of the other sorcerers consider that he is their father. Even though he has created a monstrosity once you find out why many readers will feel some sympathy but the wholesale destruction that he has made and the aftermath that he ensured would happen overrides any sympathy that readers have.
The dragons in the book aren't the creatures that many readers are familiar with but to say more would ruin it for other readers. The unseen that the sorcerers created and use as Blood Thralls are almost as bad as the Nightmare. They made a deal with the devil and the only release they have is through death but they are almost impossible to kill but those that do get killed have eyes that are filled with gratitude.
The book ends with a cliffhanger and I am glad that I have the other novels in this series so I can continue the series. I want to read his next trilogy set immediately after these books but I want to wait until the final book is out because if they are is as good as this trilogy, which I am sure they will be then I will want to read them back to back also.
4.75/5 STARS: I received a free digital ARC in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank the author and/or publisher for providing an ARC through NetGalley,.*
October 10, 2017
I received the The Dragonkin Trilogy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, therefore, I'm going to start my review a bit different than usual. The reason for this change in the way I'm reviewing is because Goodreads counts trilogies, series, and anthologies as one book, and I'm greedy so I broke this one down to get credit for all three books, though I'll be reviewing the entire trilogy.
Wytchfire by Michael Meyerhofer is the first book in The Dragonkin Trilogy. Rowen Locke has always dreamed of becoming a Knight of the Crane, but with war looming Rowen has to decide where he stands.
First I have to say WOW!!! I was thoroughly blown away by this story. It is your typical sword and sorcery tale, but yet it isn't. Yes, it has the good vs. evil. Yes, it has magic. And yes, it has battles, and lots of them. But, what isn't typical is the fact that you won't find your typical races. You won't find dwarfs, elves, orcs, and the like. This tale has a host of very different races. It was very refreshing to meet these new races and still have the feel of a sword and sorcery tale.
This story is very well written with vivid descriptions, and amazing world building. The characters are flawed, which makes them stand out from the pages and become flesh and bone. The dialogue is entertaining with a few laughs here and there.
My only problem with this trilogy is that I feel as though some of the issues surrounding certain characters weren't fully resolved at the end. I'm hoping that the author is going to continue this story with focusing on those particular characters with spin-offs. If not for this fact, I would have given this trilogy five stars. Though I am giving each book their own star, I would rate the entire trilogy 4.5.
I highly recommend this trilogy because it is well written with a host of new races, and lots of excitement.
Wytchfire by Michael Meyerhofer is the first book in The Dragonkin Trilogy. Rowen Locke has always dreamed of becoming a Knight of the Crane, but with war looming Rowen has to decide where he stands.
First I have to say WOW!!! I was thoroughly blown away by this story. It is your typical sword and sorcery tale, but yet it isn't. Yes, it has the good vs. evil. Yes, it has magic. And yes, it has battles, and lots of them. But, what isn't typical is the fact that you won't find your typical races. You won't find dwarfs, elves, orcs, and the like. This tale has a host of very different races. It was very refreshing to meet these new races and still have the feel of a sword and sorcery tale.
This story is very well written with vivid descriptions, and amazing world building. The characters are flawed, which makes them stand out from the pages and become flesh and bone. The dialogue is entertaining with a few laughs here and there.
My only problem with this trilogy is that I feel as though some of the issues surrounding certain characters weren't fully resolved at the end. I'm hoping that the author is going to continue this story with focusing on those particular characters with spin-offs. If not for this fact, I would have given this trilogy five stars. Though I am giving each book their own star, I would rate the entire trilogy 4.5.
I highly recommend this trilogy because it is well written with a host of new races, and lots of excitement.
March 21, 2018
This review is for the Audiobook version.
Story: 5/5 Stars
Performance: 5/5 Stars
Overall: 5/5 Stars
Wytchfire was an incredible start to a new epic fantasy series. The story here is truly original, the author introduces several different races throughout the book, but you won’t find elves or dwarves. They all seemed original and unique. The author did a great job introducing the characters and giving us enough backstory to really get attached to them. It definitely helped that all of the characters made realistic decisions, and I especially appreciate the fact that the main character isn’t some omnipotent super hero that never makes mistakes. He’s just another guy. The narrator did a great job with this book. He gave all of the characters distinct voices that really seemed to fit their personality. His pacing and tone were perfect. All around, this is an amazing novel and I’m surprised it never showed up in any recommendations from Audible or Amazon. I’ll definitely be seeking out more of Michael Meyerhofer’s work in the future.
This audiobook was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
Story: 5/5 Stars
Performance: 5/5 Stars
Overall: 5/5 Stars
Wytchfire was an incredible start to a new epic fantasy series. The story here is truly original, the author introduces several different races throughout the book, but you won’t find elves or dwarves. They all seemed original and unique. The author did a great job introducing the characters and giving us enough backstory to really get attached to them. It definitely helped that all of the characters made realistic decisions, and I especially appreciate the fact that the main character isn’t some omnipotent super hero that never makes mistakes. He’s just another guy. The narrator did a great job with this book. He gave all of the characters distinct voices that really seemed to fit their personality. His pacing and tone were perfect. All around, this is an amazing novel and I’m surprised it never showed up in any recommendations from Audible or Amazon. I’ll definitely be seeking out more of Michael Meyerhofer’s work in the future.
This audiobook was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 20, 2017
An OK book, the good; likable MC, simple story, none of that hidden magic that fantasy likes to do now.
The bad, no dragons, because you always have to wait for the dragons if they are any. Things move too fast in the end, even if the developments are interesting. Some are obvious twists though, but better an obvious twist a silly out of nowhere nonsense. I also don't like romance more and more in fantasy novels, its so bad. See a beautiful girl, happens to be one of the most power/important women in story=MC falling head over heels. He does not outright saw he has feeling for her but he follows her into a potential warzone... so yeah. It makes characters do dumb things. Like letting mass murdere's go free because to send a message...translation, cause they had a fling.
Story is simple so its easy to relate to, MC is a failed knight, a sell-sword, he broods but no in a self indulgent way, he's a good person but does not preach. The enemies are a oppressed people who feel the world has to go to war with itself for them to be safe.
Since other reviews mentioned it, and this issue keeps coming in medieval books, rape is not prevalent but it is common. Its not mentioned as a way to shock but something that everyone has some experience with and they all hate. From a common thief to the main villain himself its thier greatest fear.
Might read other books,but this could have been one story.
The bad, no dragons, because you always have to wait for the dragons if they are any. Things move too fast in the end, even if the developments are interesting. Some are obvious twists though, but better an obvious twist a silly out of nowhere nonsense. I also don't like romance more and more in fantasy novels, its so bad. See a beautiful girl, happens to be one of the most power/important women in story=MC falling head over heels. He does not outright saw he has feeling for her but he follows her into a potential warzone... so yeah. It makes characters do dumb things. Like letting mass murdere's go free because to send a message...translation, cause they had a fling.
Story is simple so its easy to relate to, MC is a failed knight, a sell-sword, he broods but no in a self indulgent way, he's a good person but does not preach. The enemies are a oppressed people who feel the world has to go to war with itself for them to be safe.
Since other reviews mentioned it, and this issue keeps coming in medieval books, rape is not prevalent but it is common. Its not mentioned as a way to shock but something that everyone has some experience with and they all hate. From a common thief to the main villain himself its thier greatest fear.
Might read other books,but this could have been one story.
March 3, 2018
I received an advanced reader copy of this series from the author and the review is entirely voluntary.
Michael Meyerhofer's 'The Dragonkin Trilogy' is a rare treat. The realism of his world, and the depth of the characters, make it easy to immerse yourself in this story. A well developed and engaging plot pulls you in and makes it easy to keep reading all the way to the end.
If you're a fan of epic fantasy, this book is well worth your time and won't leave you disappointed.
Michael Meyerhofer's 'The Dragonkin Trilogy' is a rare treat. The realism of his world, and the depth of the characters, make it easy to immerse yourself in this story. A well developed and engaging plot pulls you in and makes it easy to keep reading all the way to the end.
If you're a fan of epic fantasy, this book is well worth your time and won't leave you disappointed.
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