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Architects of the Grand Design #1
The Queen of Lies
ASIN B00VSPDYBI moved to the most recent edition here
Maddox is a mage with dreams of immortality and a drinking problem. Heath is a faithless priest working as an assassin for hire, paired with a sentient sword. Jessa, the last daughter in a long line of Thrycean tyrants, is a timid young woman seeking to escape her domineering mother, Satryn.
Rivern, the greatest city in the Protectorate, is a place of arcane magic and mechanical wonders that has stood for five hundred years as a bulwark against the tyrannical Stormlords of Thrycea. But Riven's strong foundation is beginning to crack. People are dying in their sleep, the dead are walking the streets, refugees are flooding the city, and a mysterious Harbinger has returned with dire omens that could mean the end of the Protectorate.
Murder, magic and politics create a menacing tangle that the three must resolve before the Protectorate is crushed. But first they must save each other.
Maddox is a mage with dreams of immortality and a drinking problem. Heath is a faithless priest working as an assassin for hire, paired with a sentient sword. Jessa, the last daughter in a long line of Thrycean tyrants, is a timid young woman seeking to escape her domineering mother, Satryn.
Rivern, the greatest city in the Protectorate, is a place of arcane magic and mechanical wonders that has stood for five hundred years as a bulwark against the tyrannical Stormlords of Thrycea. But Riven's strong foundation is beginning to crack. People are dying in their sleep, the dead are walking the streets, refugees are flooding the city, and a mysterious Harbinger has returned with dire omens that could mean the end of the Protectorate.
Murder, magic and politics create a menacing tangle that the three must resolve before the Protectorate is crushed. But first they must save each other.
- GenresFantasyM M Romance
360 pages, ebook
First published April 7, 2015
14 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
July 21, 2018
This took quite a long time to come together, but eventually it did and I enjoyed it. I liked a lot of the characters and I didn't immediately figure out the mystery villain, which is always a bonus. Having said that, I never felt overly connected to anyone as we're only ever given a shallow understanding of them. The coda felt extraneous (for a lot of it I wasn't even sure it was connected to the primary story at all), there is quite a lot of anachronistic language, and the book really needs another editing pass. All in all, an interesting, though not perfect read.
July 17, 2016
The Queen of Lies is a book about which I cannot, even now, decide how I feel. There were certain things about it that I loved: individual characters, the world building, the full LGBT spectrum displayed, and the wry humour. However, I struggled to connect with the plot overall. I became invested in certain characters, Maddox in particular, but my interest focused on those individual story arcs, rather than the piece as a whole. That said, this is the first book in a series, so perhaps that overall plot will become clearer and more gripping as the tale progresses. I would not rush to seek out but two, but I would certainly read it if the opportunity arose. I recommend this book to LGBT readers looking for an epic fantasy tale where romance is not the key element. 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via the Author and Queer Sci-Fi.
I received a free copy of this book via the Author and Queer Sci-Fi.
May 3, 2017
Genre: LGBTQ+ Epic Fantasy
Length: Novel
The story in The Queen of Lies is incredibly complex and detailed, as an epic fantasy should be, and we have several wonderful point of views to explore. There’s Maddox, the arcane student who fucks up his exams and accidentally winds up immortal—at first no one is certain whether they should praise him or condemn him. There’s Jessa, heiress to the throne of a long line of storm-callers. Her mother is conniving and maniacal (I may be downplaying the crazy part). And there are Heath and Sword, who are essentially mercenaries; Heath is a fallen priest of sorts, and Sword is… well, he/she’s a sentient sword who inhabits people’s bodies. Eventually they all come together for a fantastic epic adventure, full of monsters, political drama, and love—yes, love.
I had so much fun with this novel. The humor and dialog are spot on, there’s plenty of intrigue, and on top of that there’s a sweet magic system that I still haven’t completely figured out, and copious unforgettable characters. Every character felt authentic, and each had their own extremely colorful past and captivating motivations. I also appreciated how none of them were completely innocent, in fact, most were assholes (that’s high praise from me because I happen to adore assholes), but all of them were highly entertaining. I have to admit, I’m a little in love with Sword. The idea that a person, who’s technically a magical artifact, could find humanity by inhabiting other beings and absorbing their memories and personality, is truly fascinating and was very well done by Bode.
Another refreshing aspect of this novel was the portrayal of a wide variety of gender orientations and sexualities. You have heterosexual, homosexual, pansexual, and transgender people all over the place. Even a manwhore. I definitely found characters I could relate to (ha). Though I do review quite a bit of erotically-charged Romance, I would not label this novel as erotic or romantic (in case the presence or absence of either is important to you when you read). If you like LGBTQ+ fiction, epic fantasy, memorable characters, or all of the above, check this out.
This is Bode’s first novel. He has a website, where you can peruse his blog, behold a glimpse of his inspirations, and keep informed of his hopefully many, many books to come:
http://www.mikebode.com/
Note: I noticed on Bode’s website that the text in the print version of The Queen of Lies is in Baskerville Old Style typeface—how delightful. I find that typeface easy to read, well-proportioned, and semi-masculine. Look at those Q’s! And drop caps are definitely a sexy addition. Is it getting hot in here?
----------------------------------------------------
Beth Brock is a reviewer for DSP and QSF. She enjoys reading, writing, running, family and food, and fills her life with bent bunk. She especially loves to discuss LGBTQ+ literature. Her website is http://www.bethbrockbooks.com.
Length: Novel
The story in The Queen of Lies is incredibly complex and detailed, as an epic fantasy should be, and we have several wonderful point of views to explore. There’s Maddox, the arcane student who fucks up his exams and accidentally winds up immortal—at first no one is certain whether they should praise him or condemn him. There’s Jessa, heiress to the throne of a long line of storm-callers. Her mother is conniving and maniacal (I may be downplaying the crazy part). And there are Heath and Sword, who are essentially mercenaries; Heath is a fallen priest of sorts, and Sword is… well, he/she’s a sentient sword who inhabits people’s bodies. Eventually they all come together for a fantastic epic adventure, full of monsters, political drama, and love—yes, love.
I had so much fun with this novel. The humor and dialog are spot on, there’s plenty of intrigue, and on top of that there’s a sweet magic system that I still haven’t completely figured out, and copious unforgettable characters. Every character felt authentic, and each had their own extremely colorful past and captivating motivations. I also appreciated how none of them were completely innocent, in fact, most were assholes (that’s high praise from me because I happen to adore assholes), but all of them were highly entertaining. I have to admit, I’m a little in love with Sword. The idea that a person, who’s technically a magical artifact, could find humanity by inhabiting other beings and absorbing their memories and personality, is truly fascinating and was very well done by Bode.
Another refreshing aspect of this novel was the portrayal of a wide variety of gender orientations and sexualities. You have heterosexual, homosexual, pansexual, and transgender people all over the place. Even a manwhore. I definitely found characters I could relate to (ha). Though I do review quite a bit of erotically-charged Romance, I would not label this novel as erotic or romantic (in case the presence or absence of either is important to you when you read). If you like LGBTQ+ fiction, epic fantasy, memorable characters, or all of the above, check this out.
This is Bode’s first novel. He has a website, where you can peruse his blog, behold a glimpse of his inspirations, and keep informed of his hopefully many, many books to come:
http://www.mikebode.com/
Note: I noticed on Bode’s website that the text in the print version of The Queen of Lies is in Baskerville Old Style typeface—how delightful. I find that typeface easy to read, well-proportioned, and semi-masculine. Look at those Q’s! And drop caps are definitely a sexy addition. Is it getting hot in here?
----------------------------------------------------
Beth Brock is a reviewer for DSP and QSF. She enjoys reading, writing, running, family and food, and fills her life with bent bunk. She especially loves to discuss LGBTQ+ literature. Her website is http://www.bethbrockbooks.com.
April 29, 2016
Reviewed by Christina for QUEERcentric Books
4.5 stars
The Queen of Lies by Michael J. Bode, the first book in the Architects of the Grand Design series, is one of the better fantasy books I’ve read in a really long time. It really has a mix of everything, but it’s not overwhelming.
The main player in this book is magic. If you have a hard time with magic, then you might find this book trying, but I thought it was amazing!
The story takes place in the city of Rivern; a very powerful and modern city of its time.
MYSTERIOUS DEATHS…
Mysterious deaths are scaring the city. Important leaders are leaving to escape the peril. Rivern is currently housing royalty from one of their most aggressive enemies. The city is in a state of vulnerability.
There are three main characters: Maddox, Heath, and Jessa. Together they must destroy the threat to the Protectorate.
Maddox is a mage studying at the Lyceum. His father was a poor excuse of a man and alchemist, and Maddox worked hard to get into the school.
The story of Maddox begins with him attempting to obtain the greatest seal—Sephariel or the Seal of Life. In layman’s terms, seals are things that are bound to a mage to give them extra magic.
Only something goes extremely wrong with the binding.
A FAILED PRIEST TURNED ASSASSIN
Heath is a failed priest turned assassin. His partner is a bewitched sword. When anyone touches the jeweled hilt, the sword takes possession of their body.
Heath and Maddox are ex-lovers. When Heath’s boss gets a word of Maddox’s return from the dead, it is up to Heath to bring Maddox back—dead or alive.
Jessa and her mother, Satryn, are the visiting enemy. According to Jessa, they are there to make peace, to save her people.
Satryn is a model example of the world’s worst mother. She’s vile. She is physically, mentally, and emotionally abusive to Jessa.
These are our supposed heroes of the story: a rejected mage, a failed priest, and a lacking empress. Sounds encouraging! *smiles*
As I’ve previously stated, I really found this story to be amazing.
A VERY ORIGINAL AND UNIQUE STORY LINE
The whole concept of The Queen of Lies was brilliant! A very original and unique story line. I really liked that the story was told from everyone’s POVs. If you’re a fantasy lover, this story will not be a let down. There’s straight lovin’, M/M lovin’, drugs, drinking, and plenty of magic to go around.
Fair Warning: The Queen of Lies is a dark fantasy not—I repeat, NOT—romance!
4.5 stars
The Queen of Lies by Michael J. Bode, the first book in the Architects of the Grand Design series, is one of the better fantasy books I’ve read in a really long time. It really has a mix of everything, but it’s not overwhelming.
The main player in this book is magic. If you have a hard time with magic, then you might find this book trying, but I thought it was amazing!
The story takes place in the city of Rivern; a very powerful and modern city of its time.
MYSTERIOUS DEATHS…
Mysterious deaths are scaring the city. Important leaders are leaving to escape the peril. Rivern is currently housing royalty from one of their most aggressive enemies. The city is in a state of vulnerability.
There are three main characters: Maddox, Heath, and Jessa. Together they must destroy the threat to the Protectorate.
Maddox is a mage studying at the Lyceum. His father was a poor excuse of a man and alchemist, and Maddox worked hard to get into the school.
The story of Maddox begins with him attempting to obtain the greatest seal—Sephariel or the Seal of Life. In layman’s terms, seals are things that are bound to a mage to give them extra magic.
Only something goes extremely wrong with the binding.
A FAILED PRIEST TURNED ASSASSIN
Heath is a failed priest turned assassin. His partner is a bewitched sword. When anyone touches the jeweled hilt, the sword takes possession of their body.
Heath and Maddox are ex-lovers. When Heath’s boss gets a word of Maddox’s return from the dead, it is up to Heath to bring Maddox back—dead or alive.
Jessa and her mother, Satryn, are the visiting enemy. According to Jessa, they are there to make peace, to save her people.
Satryn is a model example of the world’s worst mother. She’s vile. She is physically, mentally, and emotionally abusive to Jessa.
These are our supposed heroes of the story: a rejected mage, a failed priest, and a lacking empress. Sounds encouraging! *smiles*
As I’ve previously stated, I really found this story to be amazing.
A VERY ORIGINAL AND UNIQUE STORY LINE
The whole concept of The Queen of Lies was brilliant! A very original and unique story line. I really liked that the story was told from everyone’s POVs. If you’re a fantasy lover, this story will not be a let down. There’s straight lovin’, M/M lovin’, drugs, drinking, and plenty of magic to go around.
Fair Warning: The Queen of Lies is a dark fantasy not—I repeat, NOT—romance!
April 29, 2015
If you're looking for a new voice in fantasy I highly recommend Mike Bode's The Queen of Lies. The world and its characters have all of the complexity and depth fantasy readers crave without all of the self-referential exposition that can bog so many good stories down. I also find that the characters are more updated, with modern sensibilities (and vices), than are the heroes and heroines of so much of the genre -- and as a result are more identifiable. Put down that lead weight of a novel that you're reading now and pick this book up!
May 21, 2015
Two brutal murders, a promising young Mage botches an important demonstration, and a disastrous attempt at diplomacy are just the beginning of this sweeping fantasy epic. Michael J. Bode gives us a rich tapestry of complex and nuanced characters who drive this thrilling and fast paced novel. This does not read like the work of a first-time author, but instead has all the depth and quality of a seasoned, true professional. I am looking forward to the next installment.
July 12, 2015
What a great book! I connected with the characters right away. Also, loved the modern feel in this fantasy. Look forward to much more from this author in the future.
I won this in a first reads giveaway on goodreads, thank you!
I won this in a first reads giveaway on goodreads, thank you!
Want to Read
May 30, 2015kindle
November 1, 2015
Fantastic epic fantasy book with great, flawed three-dimensional characters and lovingly detailed worldbuilding.
A fantastic, spellbinding story. Highly recommended.
A fantastic, spellbinding story. Highly recommended.
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February 16, 2016have not started
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews