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The Burning Isle
A powerful and gripping debut grimdark fantasy novel, set in a world of criminals, pirates, assassins, and magic…
“A man has only three reasons for being to right a wrong, to earn a coin, or because he is lost.”
Cassius is not lost…
The mage Cassius has just arrived on the island of Scipio. Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle, Scipio is a lawless haven for criminals, pirates, and exiles. The city is split in two, each half ruled by a corrupt feudal lord. Both of them answer to a mysterious general who lives deep in the jungle with his army, but they still constantly battle for power. If a man knows how to turn their discord to his advantage, he might also turn a profit…
But trained on the Isle of Twelve, Cassius is no ordinary spellcaster, and his goal is not simply money. This a treacherous island where the native gods are restless, and anything can happen…
“A man has only three reasons for being to right a wrong, to earn a coin, or because he is lost.”
Cassius is not lost…
The mage Cassius has just arrived on the island of Scipio. Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle, Scipio is a lawless haven for criminals, pirates, and exiles. The city is split in two, each half ruled by a corrupt feudal lord. Both of them answer to a mysterious general who lives deep in the jungle with his army, but they still constantly battle for power. If a man knows how to turn their discord to his advantage, he might also turn a profit…
But trained on the Isle of Twelve, Cassius is no ordinary spellcaster, and his goal is not simply money. This a treacherous island where the native gods are restless, and anything can happen…
425 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
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865 people want to read
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December 20, 2016
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2016/12/18/...
One never knows what to expect when diving into a debut, especially when the book in question comes with the ambitious label of “grimdark”. Because this happens to be one of my favorite subgenres, I can be quite demanding—not to mention I also have very particular tastes. The Burning Isle, however, exceeded expectations even when it didn’t turn out like anything I had in mind. In its own way, this novel was intensely entertaining and satisfying, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it will continue making waves in the fantasy fiction world long into the future.
The story introduces us to its protagonist Cassius, a young spellcaster newly arrived on a savage, lawless island that serves as home to those who can’t find welcome anywhere else. Scipio is made up of a slum situated on the edge of a jungle, but while the city itself is ruled by two warring crime lords, the real power resides with the enigmatic general who oversees everything with a vast army from his stronghold deep in the wilderness.
It is Cassius’ goal to shake this system up, but first he has to make a name for himself. He quickly manages this in spectacular fashion, defeating a rival spellcaster in a very public prize fight on the very first day. Immediately, he uses the notoriety gained from his win to insinuate himself into one of the crime bosses’ employ, kicking off the first step of his carefully formulated plans to overthrow the status quo and change Scipio from within.
But to what end? Will he stand to gain anything from the downfall of the corrupted leaders of the island? And while we’re asking these tough questions, who is Cassius anyway, and why might an outsider be so invested in the future of the city? Will he ultimately be a force for good or evil in the coming war?
From the very start, Will Panzo surrounds his main character with an aura of mystery and magic, making the reader wonder about his endgame. However shrouded his true intentions are though, Cassius has an earnestness about him that makes his personality easy to like. He is powerful in the ways of spellcasting, and yet he would remark upon others’ harsh language or blush at the slightest flirtations from an attractive woman, leading one to guess he must have led a pretty sheltered life. And yet, there’s still the strong sense that he’s far from innocent or naïve, and everything he does is calculated and for a reason.
The Burning Isle is essentially the story of who our protagonist is and why he is on this particular mission to turn Scipio upside down on its head. The author has succeeded in telling a dramatic tale, a large part of which I feel is a coming-of-age character study. Aside from a few instances of info-dumping in the beginning chapters, I also thought that the gradual reveal of Cassius’ past was nicely handled, though readers who have been paying extra attention might be able to guess his purposes and motivations well before the end of the book.
The writing is also solid. I love Panzo’s style, which is impressively detailed but the prose still comes across smooth and light on the eyes. In addition he has a great talent for writing dialogue; every time we had two or more characters interacting on a page, I found myself completely drawn into the scene.
This being a debut though, there were a few areas that could have used some polish. The magic system is one aspect I would have liked to see better developed, because while all the spell-slinging and magical duels may look and sound impressive on paper, I have a hard time wrapping my head around how it all works. I also have mixed feelings about the various interludes that pepper the narrative. While they are significant in providing background information, the author should have been more subtle and taken care not to show his hand too early. Some of these sections were also inserted in places that hindered the overall flow of the story, tempting me to skim.
Apart from those minor points though, there’s nothing truly negative I can say about this book. I really enjoyed it, even if it didn’t perfectly line up with my impressions of grimdark. One can argue the circumstances surrounding Scipio are oversimplified, the protagonist and antagonists’ motivations too superficial and exaggerated to fit the mold of grim realism, but on the other hand, Panzo has created something that’s all together something else, something that’s more sentimental but also filled with darkness and brutality. I was taken with the story, and though this reads like a standalone, I do hope the author will continue to write more books. If he does, I will be eagerly wanting to read them.
One never knows what to expect when diving into a debut, especially when the book in question comes with the ambitious label of “grimdark”. Because this happens to be one of my favorite subgenres, I can be quite demanding—not to mention I also have very particular tastes. The Burning Isle, however, exceeded expectations even when it didn’t turn out like anything I had in mind. In its own way, this novel was intensely entertaining and satisfying, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it will continue making waves in the fantasy fiction world long into the future.
The story introduces us to its protagonist Cassius, a young spellcaster newly arrived on a savage, lawless island that serves as home to those who can’t find welcome anywhere else. Scipio is made up of a slum situated on the edge of a jungle, but while the city itself is ruled by two warring crime lords, the real power resides with the enigmatic general who oversees everything with a vast army from his stronghold deep in the wilderness.
It is Cassius’ goal to shake this system up, but first he has to make a name for himself. He quickly manages this in spectacular fashion, defeating a rival spellcaster in a very public prize fight on the very first day. Immediately, he uses the notoriety gained from his win to insinuate himself into one of the crime bosses’ employ, kicking off the first step of his carefully formulated plans to overthrow the status quo and change Scipio from within.
But to what end? Will he stand to gain anything from the downfall of the corrupted leaders of the island? And while we’re asking these tough questions, who is Cassius anyway, and why might an outsider be so invested in the future of the city? Will he ultimately be a force for good or evil in the coming war?
From the very start, Will Panzo surrounds his main character with an aura of mystery and magic, making the reader wonder about his endgame. However shrouded his true intentions are though, Cassius has an earnestness about him that makes his personality easy to like. He is powerful in the ways of spellcasting, and yet he would remark upon others’ harsh language or blush at the slightest flirtations from an attractive woman, leading one to guess he must have led a pretty sheltered life. And yet, there’s still the strong sense that he’s far from innocent or naïve, and everything he does is calculated and for a reason.
The Burning Isle is essentially the story of who our protagonist is and why he is on this particular mission to turn Scipio upside down on its head. The author has succeeded in telling a dramatic tale, a large part of which I feel is a coming-of-age character study. Aside from a few instances of info-dumping in the beginning chapters, I also thought that the gradual reveal of Cassius’ past was nicely handled, though readers who have been paying extra attention might be able to guess his purposes and motivations well before the end of the book.
The writing is also solid. I love Panzo’s style, which is impressively detailed but the prose still comes across smooth and light on the eyes. In addition he has a great talent for writing dialogue; every time we had two or more characters interacting on a page, I found myself completely drawn into the scene.
This being a debut though, there were a few areas that could have used some polish. The magic system is one aspect I would have liked to see better developed, because while all the spell-slinging and magical duels may look and sound impressive on paper, I have a hard time wrapping my head around how it all works. I also have mixed feelings about the various interludes that pepper the narrative. While they are significant in providing background information, the author should have been more subtle and taken care not to show his hand too early. Some of these sections were also inserted in places that hindered the overall flow of the story, tempting me to skim.
Apart from those minor points though, there’s nothing truly negative I can say about this book. I really enjoyed it, even if it didn’t perfectly line up with my impressions of grimdark. One can argue the circumstances surrounding Scipio are oversimplified, the protagonist and antagonists’ motivations too superficial and exaggerated to fit the mold of grim realism, but on the other hand, Panzo has created something that’s all together something else, something that’s more sentimental but also filled with darkness and brutality. I was taken with the story, and though this reads like a standalone, I do hope the author will continue to write more books. If he does, I will be eagerly wanting to read them.
February 10, 2017
Newly arrived in the cesspit of a city known as Scipio, the young man Cassius presents himself as a gladiator, ready to fight for pay.
Scipio is a city of the edge of a savage jungle on the very outskirts of an Empire reminiscent of that of ancient Rome. But in this Empire, gladiatorial fights are traditionally fought with magic, powered by spells woven into jewels set in traditional gauntlets worn by the fighters. Although physically unimpressive, Cassius has these gauntlets - and he loses no time proving that his magical ability is nothing less than viciously strong. As a matter of fact, the reader is given to know, he's actually a student from one of the most notorious schools that trains mages, and his path has not taken him to Scipio just to earn a coin.
However, although we know this immediately, the author is then unnecessarily coy about what Cassius' agenda actually IS, for the rest of the book. I felt like this coyness was supposed to generate narrative tension - but it didn't. It just felt peculiar, because Cassius is the POV character, but he just kind of refuses to talk or think about why he's doing what he's doing. At the same time, there aren't any shocking revelations - all of the reasons that are eventually revealed are kind of obvious and can easily be guessed before they're explicitly stated.
Cassius is a patient man. Clearly, he's waited years for his plans to begin to fruit, and he is willing to bide his time before he can take each planned step toward his goal. As a reader, I didn't feel quite as patient as Cassius. At quite a few points in the story, I felt that it could've been quicker moving, and that it might've been better as a shorter, tighter book.
However, I did like the setting, the characters, and the growing conflict between Cassius' passionate conviction regarding his goals and his guilt regarding the mounting collateral damage that his carefully-sown chaos is wreaking.
Many thanks to Ace and NetGalley for the opportunity to read. As always, my opinions are solely my own.
Scipio is a city of the edge of a savage jungle on the very outskirts of an Empire reminiscent of that of ancient Rome. But in this Empire, gladiatorial fights are traditionally fought with magic, powered by spells woven into jewels set in traditional gauntlets worn by the fighters. Although physically unimpressive, Cassius has these gauntlets - and he loses no time proving that his magical ability is nothing less than viciously strong. As a matter of fact, the reader is given to know, he's actually a student from one of the most notorious schools that trains mages, and his path has not taken him to Scipio just to earn a coin.
However, although we know this immediately, the author is then unnecessarily coy about what Cassius' agenda actually IS, for the rest of the book. I felt like this coyness was supposed to generate narrative tension - but it didn't. It just felt peculiar, because Cassius is the POV character, but he just kind of refuses to talk or think about why he's doing what he's doing. At the same time, there aren't any shocking revelations - all of the reasons that are eventually revealed are kind of obvious and can easily be guessed before they're explicitly stated.
Cassius is a patient man. Clearly, he's waited years for his plans to begin to fruit, and he is willing to bide his time before he can take each planned step toward his goal. As a reader, I didn't feel quite as patient as Cassius. At quite a few points in the story, I felt that it could've been quicker moving, and that it might've been better as a shorter, tighter book.
However, I did like the setting, the characters, and the growing conflict between Cassius' passionate conviction regarding his goals and his guilt regarding the mounting collateral damage that his carefully-sown chaos is wreaking.
Many thanks to Ace and NetGalley for the opportunity to read. As always, my opinions are solely my own.
November 2, 2016
I just realised that this was released yesterday (I received an ARC of it a few months ago), and while I don’t normally write reviews, I’m going to make a quick exception here.
The Burning Isle should have been a book that I didn’t enjoy. It’s solidly ‘grimdark’, a style of fantasy of which I generally steer clear. It was also sent to me while I was in the middle of editing my own book – and when I’m in that mode, I inevitably look at everything I read through a hyper-critical lens. Not to mention that I was pressed for time when I received it, and not particularly in the mood to while away the hours on a new author.
However.
Once I started, I found it engaging from beginning to end – in fact, I finished the entire thing after only a couple of evenings. It was gritty and dark, but I never felt like it crossed the line into something I couldn’t enjoy. It also stood out to me as not only being fast-paced, but very intelligently plotted.
In short? The Burning Isle is worth your time, especially if grimdark is your thing, but maybe even if it’s not. It’s well set up for a sequel, and if there is one, I’ll most certainly be getting it.
The Burning Isle should have been a book that I didn’t enjoy. It’s solidly ‘grimdark’, a style of fantasy of which I generally steer clear. It was also sent to me while I was in the middle of editing my own book – and when I’m in that mode, I inevitably look at everything I read through a hyper-critical lens. Not to mention that I was pressed for time when I received it, and not particularly in the mood to while away the hours on a new author.
However.
Once I started, I found it engaging from beginning to end – in fact, I finished the entire thing after only a couple of evenings. It was gritty and dark, but I never felt like it crossed the line into something I couldn’t enjoy. It also stood out to me as not only being fast-paced, but very intelligently plotted.
In short? The Burning Isle is worth your time, especially if grimdark is your thing, but maybe even if it’s not. It’s well set up for a sequel, and if there is one, I’ll most certainly be getting it.
February 10, 2017
Review from Tenacious Reader: http://www.tenaciousreader.com/2016/1...
The Burning Isle is a book that captivated me from the very beginning. It’s fun, fast paced and I immediately felt connected to the protagonist, Cassius. I found myself both rooting for him and also growing more curious about him with each page. The story is told from his POV, and has a series of interspersed flash back chapters that help you piece together both his history and his motivation.
In the start of the book, Cassius has arrived in the island of Scipio, a place where the dregs of society find themselves when they have no where else to go. Lawless and ruthless, this is not a destination of choice. “Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle” is how it’s described in the blurb. While it may generally be lawless, there are powerful people there that have control. The city/slum is divided, each side being ruled rival leaders with the feel of a mob or gang type atmosphere. You know, that fun criminal underground setting that everyone loves to read. But the ultimate power on the island belongs to an elusive general who lives with his soldiers at a fort in the forest. The atmosphere Panzo created here was great. The place is as rotten as the people in it. There is a good amount of infighting and underhandedness.
When Cassius comes to the city, and you know he has an agenda, one that seems to be motivated by vengeance, though you don’t quite know what that agenda is or the reason he feels compelled to follow through with it. In many ways, he can be incredibly ruthless, but at the same time, you get glimpses of a softer side of him. And Cassius does make a couple of ‘friends’ (I use this term quite loosely. Maybe allies?) that let you see that different side of him. He is a character obsessed with doing the “right thing” and making sure the “bad guy” pays for the wrongs he has caused, even if the cost of making the “bad guy” pay can really make him seem like a type of bad guy himself.
Cassius is also presented almost like a mystery for the reader to unravel. Just how powerful is he and where did he come from? From the very beginning these are questions that you want to know the answers to. I am not sure if the author’s intention was for certain aspects about Cassius to be a surprise reveal late in the book, or if he intended for readers to have accurate speculation from the beginning. I found I had very strong suspicions about his character quite early on, but at the same time, I also enjoyed the way confirmation was delayed until the end.
As for the magic in this book, there is lots of it. Some aspects I found more interesting than others. In order to practice magic, spellcasters must wear gauntlets. The gauntlets have jewels that contain spells, so they can cast specific spells only. What is interesting, is that it renders a spellcaster powerless if he/she is not wearing them (I say he/she, but I can not specifically remember any female spellcasters in this book). One thing that didn’t work quite as well for me was the battles that spellcasters would have with each other. They would conjure live animals, and then the animals would battle. I mean, I didn’t dislike it, but something about it just didn’t work as well for me as I would have hoped. I also found some of the action towards the end of the book went on a little longer than I would have preferred. But overall, these were just small aspects of the book, so not even close to a deal breaker.
I am enjoying Panzo’s writing style. According to his bio, he has experience as an editor for Marvel. I really think there are aspects of The Burning Isle that fit that comic book style. I have seen this book referred to as grimdark, and for the first half of the book, I was really unclear why. In the second half of the book, I could understand the label much more, but I am still not certain it quite fits that tone of book for me. Personally, I would say it is more like Brent Weeks’ Night Angel trilogy, which can be dark and bloody, but its just not quite grimdark. Either way, it’s not a big deal. It’s just a label and people always disagree when you try to put labels on things.
The important thing is that overall I enjoyed reading The Burning Isle. I found it to be a very easy read that moved at a decent pace and I look forward to checking out what Panzo has in store next.
The Burning Isle is a book that captivated me from the very beginning. It’s fun, fast paced and I immediately felt connected to the protagonist, Cassius. I found myself both rooting for him and also growing more curious about him with each page. The story is told from his POV, and has a series of interspersed flash back chapters that help you piece together both his history and his motivation.
In the start of the book, Cassius has arrived in the island of Scipio, a place where the dregs of society find themselves when they have no where else to go. Lawless and ruthless, this is not a destination of choice. “Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle” is how it’s described in the blurb. While it may generally be lawless, there are powerful people there that have control. The city/slum is divided, each side being ruled rival leaders with the feel of a mob or gang type atmosphere. You know, that fun criminal underground setting that everyone loves to read. But the ultimate power on the island belongs to an elusive general who lives with his soldiers at a fort in the forest. The atmosphere Panzo created here was great. The place is as rotten as the people in it. There is a good amount of infighting and underhandedness.
When Cassius comes to the city, and you know he has an agenda, one that seems to be motivated by vengeance, though you don’t quite know what that agenda is or the reason he feels compelled to follow through with it. In many ways, he can be incredibly ruthless, but at the same time, you get glimpses of a softer side of him. And Cassius does make a couple of ‘friends’ (I use this term quite loosely. Maybe allies?) that let you see that different side of him. He is a character obsessed with doing the “right thing” and making sure the “bad guy” pays for the wrongs he has caused, even if the cost of making the “bad guy” pay can really make him seem like a type of bad guy himself.
Cassius is also presented almost like a mystery for the reader to unravel. Just how powerful is he and where did he come from? From the very beginning these are questions that you want to know the answers to. I am not sure if the author’s intention was for certain aspects about Cassius to be a surprise reveal late in the book, or if he intended for readers to have accurate speculation from the beginning. I found I had very strong suspicions about his character quite early on, but at the same time, I also enjoyed the way confirmation was delayed until the end.
As for the magic in this book, there is lots of it. Some aspects I found more interesting than others. In order to practice magic, spellcasters must wear gauntlets. The gauntlets have jewels that contain spells, so they can cast specific spells only. What is interesting, is that it renders a spellcaster powerless if he/she is not wearing them (I say he/she, but I can not specifically remember any female spellcasters in this book). One thing that didn’t work quite as well for me was the battles that spellcasters would have with each other. They would conjure live animals, and then the animals would battle. I mean, I didn’t dislike it, but something about it just didn’t work as well for me as I would have hoped. I also found some of the action towards the end of the book went on a little longer than I would have preferred. But overall, these were just small aspects of the book, so not even close to a deal breaker.
I am enjoying Panzo’s writing style. According to his bio, he has experience as an editor for Marvel. I really think there are aspects of The Burning Isle that fit that comic book style. I have seen this book referred to as grimdark, and for the first half of the book, I was really unclear why. In the second half of the book, I could understand the label much more, but I am still not certain it quite fits that tone of book for me. Personally, I would say it is more like Brent Weeks’ Night Angel trilogy, which can be dark and bloody, but its just not quite grimdark. Either way, it’s not a big deal. It’s just a label and people always disagree when you try to put labels on things.
The important thing is that overall I enjoyed reading The Burning Isle. I found it to be a very easy read that moved at a decent pace and I look forward to checking out what Panzo has in store next.
April 12, 2017
Somewhere I read it stated that The Burning Isle is like a fantasy version of A Fistful of Dollars -it may have been an interview with the Will Panzo, not sure- and that pretty much immediately got me on board. The plot is very similar to that classic Eastwood spaghetti western but it brought Daniel Polansky's Low Town series to my mind.
For me the magic was a little too heavily used, but a lot of fantasy fans prefer it that way. I did kinda like the system behind the magic, but personally I thought the duels between the "killers" or magic users, their use of magic gauntlets, and the spells themselves were rather corny.
I did dig the ending. It kinda left a mystery to be solved and I like that. I'm fairly certain the clues are there for the clever reader to figure it out, but I'm either not clever enough or just too lazy to bother.
Overall I did enjoy it, and I'll be keeping an eye out for what Mr. Panzo does next. However, I do think I'd liked The Burning Isle better if had been done as a gun-powder fantasy or as steampunk.
For me the magic was a little too heavily used, but a lot of fantasy fans prefer it that way. I did kinda like the system behind the magic, but personally I thought the duels between the "killers" or magic users, their use of magic gauntlets, and the spells themselves were rather corny.
I did dig the ending. It kinda left a mystery to be solved and I like that. I'm fairly certain the clues are there for the clever reader to figure it out, but I'm either not clever enough or just too lazy to bother.
Overall I did enjoy it, and I'll be keeping an eye out for what Mr. Panzo does next. However, I do think I'd liked The Burning Isle better if had been done as a gun-powder fantasy or as steampunk.
November 10, 2016
Edited Linear review up on the blog now:
https://goo.gl/y5B2IP
Much as I would like to extol the virtues of this action packed grim dark tale steeped in magic, mysticism and intrigue, with its strong graphic novel vibes about the overlapping timelines and a twisted narrative of a stranger who arrives on this remote, cut off jungle island full of lawless cutthroats and ganglords fighting brutally for supremacy, after I finish this breathless feverishly paced novel, my warm feelings seemed to slip away pretty fast.
maybe chiefly coz I couldn't connect well enough to Cassius, the young mysterious mage central to the story line who arrives on Scipio with some mission on his mind. It's a fascinating story that unfolds amidst all the countless killings, the murderous spells and the ruin and smoky charred remains of the island that remains after the likes of Cassius and other spell casters are through wth it. And there are payoffs in the end, about what his true nature is and what deadly game is he playing at. I still am a teeny bit disappointed though with the rather simplistic guile by which Cassius gets to achieve his goals.
Overall, this is a rather enjoyable romp in this genre crowded with contenders for that grim dark crown. Will Panzo definitely stakes a blood drenched authoritative claim to it wth his rousing debut and I definitely will be back for more on this front.
https://goo.gl/y5B2IP
Much as I would like to extol the virtues of this action packed grim dark tale steeped in magic, mysticism and intrigue, with its strong graphic novel vibes about the overlapping timelines and a twisted narrative of a stranger who arrives on this remote, cut off jungle island full of lawless cutthroats and ganglords fighting brutally for supremacy, after I finish this breathless feverishly paced novel, my warm feelings seemed to slip away pretty fast.
maybe chiefly coz I couldn't connect well enough to Cassius, the young mysterious mage central to the story line who arrives on Scipio with some mission on his mind. It's a fascinating story that unfolds amidst all the countless killings, the murderous spells and the ruin and smoky charred remains of the island that remains after the likes of Cassius and other spell casters are through wth it. And there are payoffs in the end, about what his true nature is and what deadly game is he playing at. I still am a teeny bit disappointed though with the rather simplistic guile by which Cassius gets to achieve his goals.
Overall, this is a rather enjoyable romp in this genre crowded with contenders for that grim dark crown. Will Panzo definitely stakes a blood drenched authoritative claim to it wth his rousing debut and I definitely will be back for more on this front.
February 21, 2017
Initial thoughts: I was completely lost in this novel, but in a good way. I was half way through when I started thinking this was a 500+ novel. However, it is not because it was dragging but because I found myself reading slowly (a rarity for me) because I was trying to drink it all in and savor it. The world is so captivating, the story unfolding and the tension and mystery building. It's a slow burn novel of fantasy adventure/intrigue. Though I was able to figure out some of the mystery, I was completely gripped by the story of Cassius. The ending completely surprised me though and left me wondering. This may be a standalone novel, but if not, I am reading the next novel in this world. Please click on the link to the full review by myself and my review partner, Gikany, posted at That's What I'm Talking About blog: http://twimom227.com/2016/11/review-t...
February 10, 2017
A finely wrought tangled skein of a tale! Cassa is a cool customer and very much a enigma.. I can't wait until the next book!
Read
November 28, 2018I think it is time I finally set this book to rest. The Burning Isle by Will Panzo was on my highly anticipated to-read list back when it was first released by ACE in 2016.
I could not wait to read this grimdark fantasy novel, especially since it was set on an island filled with lawless cutthroats, pirates, and assassins fighting for supremacy. I was looking forward to lots of dark magic and battles.
The world has an ancient Roman vibe to it featuring warrior gladiators, only they use magical gauntlets and spells. I found the setting, magic and even the flashbacks fascinating—especially while trying to discover what Cassius' agenda actually was.
I've tried a few times to pick this book back up, but it comes down to me just not connecting to Cassius' character. I find myself wondering about his objective but just not connecting enough to want to find out in the long run.
I don't feel as if there is anything wrong really with the writing, rather this is just one of those cases where the character and main pov did not drive me into wanting to read further.
I could not wait to read this grimdark fantasy novel, especially since it was set on an island filled with lawless cutthroats, pirates, and assassins fighting for supremacy. I was looking forward to lots of dark magic and battles.
The world has an ancient Roman vibe to it featuring warrior gladiators, only they use magical gauntlets and spells. I found the setting, magic and even the flashbacks fascinating—especially while trying to discover what Cassius' agenda actually was.
I've tried a few times to pick this book back up, but it comes down to me just not connecting to Cassius' character. I find myself wondering about his objective but just not connecting enough to want to find out in the long run.
I don't feel as if there is anything wrong really with the writing, rather this is just one of those cases where the character and main pov did not drive me into wanting to read further.
November 6, 2016
I was intrigued by the premise of this book from the get-go. Which is why Will Panzo's The Burning Isle immediately went to the top of my "books to read" pile when it showed up in my mailbox. My last two grimdark reads left something to be desired, so I was hoping that this would be the novel that would scratch that itch and make me appreciate this subgenre again the way I used to.
Perhaps my expectations were too high for this fantasy debut. After all, it was a work that had yet to garner any reviews when I first set out to read it. There were some pretty cool sequences that demonstrate that the author can be brilliant at times. But in the end, the plot and the characterization suffer from too many shortcomings to make this one a satisfying read.
Here's the blurb:
A powerful and gripping debut grimdark fantasy novel, set in a world of criminals, pirates, assassins, and magic…
“A man has only three reasons for being anywhere: to right a wrong, to earn a coin, or because he is lost.”
Cassius is not lost…
The mage Cassius has just arrived on the island of Scipio. Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle, Scipio is a lawless haven for criminals, pirates, and exiles. The city is split in two, each half ruled by a corrupt feudal lord. Both of them answer to a mysterious general who lives deep in the jungle with his army, but they still constantly battle for power. If a man knows how to turn their discord to his advantage, he might also turn a profit…
But trained on the Isle of Twelve, Cassius is no ordinary spellcaster, and his goal is not simply money. This is a treacherous island where the native gods are restless and anything can happen…
One of the aspects that interested me the most was the worldbuilding. Panzo eschews the traditional European medieval fantasy setting for an environment that is an analog to the Roman Empire. I was hoping for something akin to what Alan Smale has done with his series. Alas, other than the presence of legionnaires, centurions, and mentions of the Senate and other imperial provinces/territories, that piece of worldbuilding doesn't play much of a role in the greater scheme of things. Hence, the historical backdrop remains in the background and doesn't intrude much on the tale itself.
The other plot point that felt as though it would be fascinating was the Isle of Twelve itself, where the cruel Masters train the most powerful spellcasters in the world. But though a few flashback scenes revisit Cassius' formative years on the island, we learn very little about that mysterious order of wizards. Magic plays an important role in this novel and several sequences exist only to showcase another magical showdown. Still, as spectacular as some of those battles turned out to be, I would have liked to learn more about Rune magic and what it can do other than in a fight. As I mentioned, a good chunk of The Burning Isle focuses on spellcasters blowing shit up and little else. I loved how Panzo turned things around and made wizards killers instead of the clichéd weak-bodied but super smart nerds. But to turn them into generic badass gladiator-like figures that have nothing else to offer was disappointing.
Lastly, the island of Scipio, with its savage natives and local gods, was meant to be a mystical and secretive place. Unfortunately, that particular facet is never properly explored and has very little bearing on the plot. Overall, Will Panzo introduces some interesting concepts throughout this novel. Yet he fails to elaborate and flesh out most of them, which means that we end up with a work that shows a lot of promise but fails to deliver.
Another problem would have to be the characterization. Cassius is the main protagonist, with inexplicable motives and a shadowy past. A number of flashback scenes provide clues that allow readers to gradually puzzle out the young man's past. The revelation of Cassius' true identity toward the end was fantastic and forces you to look back on everything that has occurred with new eyes. Having said that, there is no denying that Cassius simply isn't engaging enough to carry this story on his shoulders. The supporting cast features some interesting characters, chief among them Lucian and Sulla, and Vorenicus. But Cassius takes center stage throughout and, try as I might, I can't recall a less sympathetic protagonist in a speculative fiction work. For some reason, he left me totally indifferent. Cassius is not a character you root for, nor is he the type of protagonist you love to hate. I just couldn't bring myself to care, one way or the other.
The structure of The Burning Isle is similar to that of Scott Lynch's The Lies of Locke Lamora. The better part of he book takes place in the present, while various flashback scenes are meant to flesh out Cassius by showing him at different stages of his life growing up. The novel starts with a bang and at first the mystery keeps you interested and turning those pages. But for a while, things don't make a whole lot of sense and the bad guys are too easily fooled by Cassius' transparent attempts to foment chaos and play one against the other. Add to that several scenes that serve no other purpose than to have Cassius get into another magical battle with other spellcasters and you end up with a plot that rapidly goes down the crapper. It takes way too long for the endgame to begin, and when it does it's a case of too little, too late.
Sadly, having everyone else fall for Cassius' ploys makes the last portion of the book decidedly predictable and robs the end of any impact it was meant to have. Which means that, regardless of what it had going for it early on, The Burning Isle can be nothing but a disappointment. . .
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com.
Perhaps my expectations were too high for this fantasy debut. After all, it was a work that had yet to garner any reviews when I first set out to read it. There were some pretty cool sequences that demonstrate that the author can be brilliant at times. But in the end, the plot and the characterization suffer from too many shortcomings to make this one a satisfying read.
Here's the blurb:
A powerful and gripping debut grimdark fantasy novel, set in a world of criminals, pirates, assassins, and magic…
“A man has only three reasons for being anywhere: to right a wrong, to earn a coin, or because he is lost.”
Cassius is not lost…
The mage Cassius has just arrived on the island of Scipio. Five miles of slum on the edge of fifty miles of jungle, Scipio is a lawless haven for criminals, pirates, and exiles. The city is split in two, each half ruled by a corrupt feudal lord. Both of them answer to a mysterious general who lives deep in the jungle with his army, but they still constantly battle for power. If a man knows how to turn their discord to his advantage, he might also turn a profit…
But trained on the Isle of Twelve, Cassius is no ordinary spellcaster, and his goal is not simply money. This is a treacherous island where the native gods are restless and anything can happen…
One of the aspects that interested me the most was the worldbuilding. Panzo eschews the traditional European medieval fantasy setting for an environment that is an analog to the Roman Empire. I was hoping for something akin to what Alan Smale has done with his series. Alas, other than the presence of legionnaires, centurions, and mentions of the Senate and other imperial provinces/territories, that piece of worldbuilding doesn't play much of a role in the greater scheme of things. Hence, the historical backdrop remains in the background and doesn't intrude much on the tale itself.
The other plot point that felt as though it would be fascinating was the Isle of Twelve itself, where the cruel Masters train the most powerful spellcasters in the world. But though a few flashback scenes revisit Cassius' formative years on the island, we learn very little about that mysterious order of wizards. Magic plays an important role in this novel and several sequences exist only to showcase another magical showdown. Still, as spectacular as some of those battles turned out to be, I would have liked to learn more about Rune magic and what it can do other than in a fight. As I mentioned, a good chunk of The Burning Isle focuses on spellcasters blowing shit up and little else. I loved how Panzo turned things around and made wizards killers instead of the clichéd weak-bodied but super smart nerds. But to turn them into generic badass gladiator-like figures that have nothing else to offer was disappointing.
Lastly, the island of Scipio, with its savage natives and local gods, was meant to be a mystical and secretive place. Unfortunately, that particular facet is never properly explored and has very little bearing on the plot. Overall, Will Panzo introduces some interesting concepts throughout this novel. Yet he fails to elaborate and flesh out most of them, which means that we end up with a work that shows a lot of promise but fails to deliver.
Another problem would have to be the characterization. Cassius is the main protagonist, with inexplicable motives and a shadowy past. A number of flashback scenes provide clues that allow readers to gradually puzzle out the young man's past. The revelation of Cassius' true identity toward the end was fantastic and forces you to look back on everything that has occurred with new eyes. Having said that, there is no denying that Cassius simply isn't engaging enough to carry this story on his shoulders. The supporting cast features some interesting characters, chief among them Lucian and Sulla, and Vorenicus. But Cassius takes center stage throughout and, try as I might, I can't recall a less sympathetic protagonist in a speculative fiction work. For some reason, he left me totally indifferent. Cassius is not a character you root for, nor is he the type of protagonist you love to hate. I just couldn't bring myself to care, one way or the other.
The structure of The Burning Isle is similar to that of Scott Lynch's The Lies of Locke Lamora. The better part of he book takes place in the present, while various flashback scenes are meant to flesh out Cassius by showing him at different stages of his life growing up. The novel starts with a bang and at first the mystery keeps you interested and turning those pages. But for a while, things don't make a whole lot of sense and the bad guys are too easily fooled by Cassius' transparent attempts to foment chaos and play one against the other. Add to that several scenes that serve no other purpose than to have Cassius get into another magical battle with other spellcasters and you end up with a plot that rapidly goes down the crapper. It takes way too long for the endgame to begin, and when it does it's a case of too little, too late.
Sadly, having everyone else fall for Cassius' ploys makes the last portion of the book decidedly predictable and robs the end of any impact it was meant to have. Which means that, regardless of what it had going for it early on, The Burning Isle can be nothing but a disappointment. . .
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com.
December 11, 2016
Review at The Book Nympho.
http://thebooknympho.com/2016/11/the-...
Again, I find myself reading a book because I'm an Ace Roc star. It is not one I would have chosen myself. I used to think I didn't like historical type fantasy and now I know that's not exactly true. Ace Roc has given me such an opportunity to grow and discover new things. I appreciate it.
The Burning Isle is the first book in a new series by a new author. There's a nice interview at The Qwillery. I added the content warning because this book is dark. Magic is a factor here and it's my favorite supernatural type. The primary themes here are revenge and justice. The violence on page does not feel real to me, perhaps being desensitized by so much of it and in a war like setting. This and the historical aspects made a break from reality for me.
Perhaps because I didn't connect to the main character, Cassius, to feel I was him? This meant it was more an intellectual read rather than an emotional one. This is not all a bad thing, other than I am not sure how I feel about it. I liked it. There are plenty of thought-provoking ideas to race around in my head, revenge, justice, good, evil, greed, and loyalty to family and friends. To some, things are black and white; for some they are gray; and others don't care to understand or classify things. This is a difficult world showing more evil than good; any solutions are in my gray zone.
While I didn't become Cassius in my head, I still cared about him. We learn his history and his present. I guessed at his past, just barely before it was revealed. Now I want to know about his future.
http://thebooknympho.com/2016/11/the-...
Again, I find myself reading a book because I'm an Ace Roc star. It is not one I would have chosen myself. I used to think I didn't like historical type fantasy and now I know that's not exactly true. Ace Roc has given me such an opportunity to grow and discover new things. I appreciate it.
The Burning Isle is the first book in a new series by a new author. There's a nice interview at The Qwillery. I added the content warning because this book is dark. Magic is a factor here and it's my favorite supernatural type. The primary themes here are revenge and justice. The violence on page does not feel real to me, perhaps being desensitized by so much of it and in a war like setting. This and the historical aspects made a break from reality for me.
Perhaps because I didn't connect to the main character, Cassius, to feel I was him? This meant it was more an intellectual read rather than an emotional one. This is not all a bad thing, other than I am not sure how I feel about it. I liked it. There are plenty of thought-provoking ideas to race around in my head, revenge, justice, good, evil, greed, and loyalty to family and friends. To some, things are black and white; for some they are gray; and others don't care to understand or classify things. This is a difficult world showing more evil than good; any solutions are in my gray zone.
While I didn't become Cassius in my head, I still cared about him. We learn his history and his present. I guessed at his past, just barely before it was revealed. Now I want to know about his future.
October 22, 2016
I finished this book a couple of weeks ago, and I'm still trying to figure out exactly what to say about it. The story kept me reading through every one of the 400+ pages. Then I got to the final sentence and I thought, "Huh." The whole thing left me feeling a little dazed.
Now that my eyes have lost their glaze, I'm here attempting to put some perspective on my reading experience. I can't say I loved the book, but I definitely didn't dislike it. One thing I can say with certainty is that this story is memorable.
This book would make a fantastic movie. The action is intense and brutal. Magic and violence come alive. The setting is vivid, like the island of Scipio has a personality of its own. These aspects, in my opinion, are where the author excels.
The characters, though, had my head spinning. We have a whole lot of them, constantly moving in and out of the story, and none are particularly well developed. This makes it difficult to connect and understand their functions within the story, particularly through the first third or so, before we get our feet on somewhat solid ground.
Even Cassius, the central character, is rather vague, more like a shadow within the brilliant colors of the surrounding tapestry. I know much of Cassius's personality and history is intentionally cloaked in mystery, but this had the unfortunate byproduct of leaving me somewhat indifferent to his plight.
The plot is fast-paced, unique, and action-driven. But, through most of the book I remained confused by the purpose of the Isle of Twelve, the vicious training, the destruction within Scipio, and the point of it all. Even now, I'm not sure I grasped all of the intended intricacies. I would have enjoyed the story more had I not been working so hard to make sense of all these people and their behavior.
In the end, the best I can offer is this: If you want an intense, violent, magical read set within a brilliant fantasy realm, definitely give this book a try.
*I was provided with an advance ebook copy by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
Now that my eyes have lost their glaze, I'm here attempting to put some perspective on my reading experience. I can't say I loved the book, but I definitely didn't dislike it. One thing I can say with certainty is that this story is memorable.
This book would make a fantastic movie. The action is intense and brutal. Magic and violence come alive. The setting is vivid, like the island of Scipio has a personality of its own. These aspects, in my opinion, are where the author excels.
The characters, though, had my head spinning. We have a whole lot of them, constantly moving in and out of the story, and none are particularly well developed. This makes it difficult to connect and understand their functions within the story, particularly through the first third or so, before we get our feet on somewhat solid ground.
Even Cassius, the central character, is rather vague, more like a shadow within the brilliant colors of the surrounding tapestry. I know much of Cassius's personality and history is intentionally cloaked in mystery, but this had the unfortunate byproduct of leaving me somewhat indifferent to his plight.
The plot is fast-paced, unique, and action-driven. But, through most of the book I remained confused by the purpose of the Isle of Twelve, the vicious training, the destruction within Scipio, and the point of it all. Even now, I'm not sure I grasped all of the intended intricacies. I would have enjoyed the story more had I not been working so hard to make sense of all these people and their behavior.
In the end, the best I can offer is this: If you want an intense, violent, magical read set within a brilliant fantasy realm, definitely give this book a try.
*I was provided with an advance ebook copy by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
May 8, 2018
In my quest for solid dark fantasy stories, I picked this up, intrigued by the quasi-Roman Empire setting. The main character is Cassius, a mysterious "killer" (spellcaster) who's arrived at a small city on a remote island at the edge of the Empire. He's clearly a man with a plan, and rapidly finds and manipulates a local innkeeper and fence into aiding his mysterious purpose, which involves the two crime lords who rule over the city.
I pretty quickly realized this was a re-imagining of the Yojimbo / Fistful of Dollars story mashed up with the Kurtzian portion of Heart of Darkness, and for a while was kind of interested to see how this would play out in the fantasy setting. However, Cassius is such a tortured soul, and his visions and drive are so ponderous and labored that I couldn't really get behind him as an antihero. Probably the main problem of the book is that there really isn't anyone else besides him for the reader to get invested in -- it's entirely his story, and all other characters exist as plot mechanics off him.
The book is laden with fight scenes, full of magical combat. And while I liked the main mechanic of the magic (to cast a spell, you have to have a gem corresponding to the spell embedded in gauntlets you wear), the fights were all pretty similar, almost exclusively featuring fireballs and summoned monsters. The way magical healing is done is also pretty inventive, but since Cassius is basically indestructible, even that element is wasted.
If the book had been shorter, I might be a little more generous to it, but it's kind of a long-winded slog to get through. By about halfway through, any inventiveness had been exhausted, and I had a pretty clear picture of where the story was headed, and there were not really any surprises after that. The story ends poised for a sequel, but my interest in Cassius is exhausted.
I pretty quickly realized this was a re-imagining of the Yojimbo / Fistful of Dollars story mashed up with the Kurtzian portion of Heart of Darkness, and for a while was kind of interested to see how this would play out in the fantasy setting. However, Cassius is such a tortured soul, and his visions and drive are so ponderous and labored that I couldn't really get behind him as an antihero. Probably the main problem of the book is that there really isn't anyone else besides him for the reader to get invested in -- it's entirely his story, and all other characters exist as plot mechanics off him.
The book is laden with fight scenes, full of magical combat. And while I liked the main mechanic of the magic (to cast a spell, you have to have a gem corresponding to the spell embedded in gauntlets you wear), the fights were all pretty similar, almost exclusively featuring fireballs and summoned monsters. The way magical healing is done is also pretty inventive, but since Cassius is basically indestructible, even that element is wasted.
If the book had been shorter, I might be a little more generous to it, but it's kind of a long-winded slog to get through. By about halfway through, any inventiveness had been exhausted, and I had a pretty clear picture of where the story was headed, and there were not really any surprises after that. The story ends poised for a sequel, but my interest in Cassius is exhausted.
February 5, 2017
Bloody. Readable but not great.
November 17, 2016
4.5 stars. Impressive debut. Full review at Facets of Fantasy.
April 3, 2018
Great book, Cassius is an amazing character. You root for him, but you don't exactly like him. I could feel he is a little vain, very arrogant. His motives are somewhat noble, but the way he searches how to make his vengeance happen are ruthless.
A ilha de Scipio, um lugar sem lei. Uma cidade habitada pelo pior que a sociedade produz, aqueles que querem fugir das leis do Império constroem aqui seu lar. Governada por dois senhores do crime, a cidade é dividida entre Alta e Baixa, entre Piso e Cinna. Alguns quilômetros dentro da perigosa selva que faz limite com a cidade, o lendário general Quintus está acampado com o seu exército, que anos atrás impediu uma rebelião, a violência utilizada por ele ainda marca a memória dos cidadãos de Scipio.
Neste cenário, vemos a chegada de um jovem, Cassius, até a ilha. Logo nos primeiros momentos conhecemos uma das poucas boas almas da história, Lucian, o dono da taverna onde Cassius está hospedado. Também conhecemos Sulla, uma mulher forte e desconfiada que conhece a vida bandida na cidade e vai arrumar uma luta para Cassius. Uma luta introdutória, para que as pessoas o notem, pois Cassius é um Conjurador (spellcaster) ou Matador (killer), como são mais conhecidos, feiticeiros, que não possuindo magia própria, tiram suas forças de runas que acumulam em suas manoplas, runas que convocam as magias capturadas de outros povos.
Sulla pretende conseguir uma luta fácil, porém Cassius mostra sua impetuosidade ao desafiar, derrotar e tirar a vida de um dos melhores Matadores de Piso, um dos chefes criminosos da cidade. Cassius utiliza este acontecimento para ser contratado por Cinna, o chefe rival.
Após isto, vemos cada vez mais decisões contraditórias e erráticas de Cassius, mas que parecem ter um sentido em sua mente. Vamos conhecendo um pouco mais sobre este mago criado na Ilha dos Doze, a melhor escola de Matadores do mundo. Descobrimos que ele é um “tocado”, que pode utilizar magia até sua morte, não tendo um limite de cansaço. Conhecemos Vorenicus, o filho honesto e idealista de Quintus, que sonha com uma Scipio que seja um lugar decente e honrado.
O livro é mais um daqueles que vão causar estranheza em alguns, provavelmente sendo adorado ou odiado. Não vemos um grande aprofundamento nas histórias e até personalidades dos personagens, o mundo em que vivem não é detalhado. Percebemos que é uma analogia ao Império Romano, mas muito pouco é esclarecido. O sistema de magias não é explicado em pormenores, entendemos como funciona e só.
A meu ver, isto dá um charme a história, nos é apresentado o necessário, o livro parece um filme de ação se desenrolando, porém um filme de ação com um ótimo roteiro. Falando em ação, as cenas em que acontecem as lutas são muito boas, bem descritivas, principalmente as lutas entre os Matadores.
Outros três fatores me fizeram gostar bastante de The Burning Isle: A tensão causada pelo desgaste físico e mental sofrido por Cassius, a antipatia que senti pelo personagem e o seu plano, que só vem fazer mais sentido e se mostrar ao leitor bem no final do livro.
É passado ao leitor que o uso das runas causa desgaste no mago, que precisa descansar bem após cada luta, Cassius porém, além de ser Tocado é obstinado, ele não pensa em si mesmo, ele segue inexoravelmente até seu objetivo. Ele usa magia, não dorme, sofre ataques físicos constantes, você fica no aguardo daquele colapso que nunca chega, ele sempre desmaia, levanta e continua.
Sobre a antipatia, outros leitores podem não sentir o mesmo, pessoas menos sensíveis que eu. Cassius se mostra para mim uma pessoa quase que completamente apática e indiferente ao que os outros possam sofrer, desde que ele cumpra os seus objetivos. Vejam, ele algumas vezes tenta proteger alguns personagens de receberem fogo amigo, mas esses são apenas os que ele considera “amigos”, não mostrando qualquer rancor em se utilizar das mortes de pessoas comuns para cumprir seus objetivos. Amigos se encontra em aspas anteriormente, pois ele mostra várias vezes possuir dificuldade em se relacionar com as pessoas, até mesmo causando estranhamento em Sulla por chamá-la de amiga, já que eles se conhecem a pouco tempo e só trataram de negócios.
E seu plano que mesmo sendo no final, como quase tudo na literatura, um apanhado de tropos (termo do Tio Nitro) acaba sendo meio complicado de acompanhar e entender, não por ter sido mal escrito. Ao contrário, justamente pelo autor conseguir nos fazer acompanhar as ações de Cassius sem nos esclarecer diretamente o que ele anseia com cada decisão tomada, causa esta sensação maravilhosa de não estar preparado para o final.
The Burning Isle é o livro de estreia de Will Panzo, que só descobri ao final da leitura que já foi editor na Marvel, uma leitura bem diferente do que estou acostumado, o que para mim, sempre é algo ou muito bom ou muito ruim. Nunca consegui avaliar de forma moderada uma leitura mais diferenciada. Fico feliz em afirmar que adorei o primeiro livro de fantasia de Will Panzo e espero ansiosamente pelos seus próximos trabalhos.
A ilha de Scipio, um lugar sem lei. Uma cidade habitada pelo pior que a sociedade produz, aqueles que querem fugir das leis do Império constroem aqui seu lar. Governada por dois senhores do crime, a cidade é dividida entre Alta e Baixa, entre Piso e Cinna. Alguns quilômetros dentro da perigosa selva que faz limite com a cidade, o lendário general Quintus está acampado com o seu exército, que anos atrás impediu uma rebelião, a violência utilizada por ele ainda marca a memória dos cidadãos de Scipio.
Neste cenário, vemos a chegada de um jovem, Cassius, até a ilha. Logo nos primeiros momentos conhecemos uma das poucas boas almas da história, Lucian, o dono da taverna onde Cassius está hospedado. Também conhecemos Sulla, uma mulher forte e desconfiada que conhece a vida bandida na cidade e vai arrumar uma luta para Cassius. Uma luta introdutória, para que as pessoas o notem, pois Cassius é um Conjurador (spellcaster) ou Matador (killer), como são mais conhecidos, feiticeiros, que não possuindo magia própria, tiram suas forças de runas que acumulam em suas manoplas, runas que convocam as magias capturadas de outros povos.
Sulla pretende conseguir uma luta fácil, porém Cassius mostra sua impetuosidade ao desafiar, derrotar e tirar a vida de um dos melhores Matadores de Piso, um dos chefes criminosos da cidade. Cassius utiliza este acontecimento para ser contratado por Cinna, o chefe rival.
Após isto, vemos cada vez mais decisões contraditórias e erráticas de Cassius, mas que parecem ter um sentido em sua mente. Vamos conhecendo um pouco mais sobre este mago criado na Ilha dos Doze, a melhor escola de Matadores do mundo. Descobrimos que ele é um “tocado”, que pode utilizar magia até sua morte, não tendo um limite de cansaço. Conhecemos Vorenicus, o filho honesto e idealista de Quintus, que sonha com uma Scipio que seja um lugar decente e honrado.
O livro é mais um daqueles que vão causar estranheza em alguns, provavelmente sendo adorado ou odiado. Não vemos um grande aprofundamento nas histórias e até personalidades dos personagens, o mundo em que vivem não é detalhado. Percebemos que é uma analogia ao Império Romano, mas muito pouco é esclarecido. O sistema de magias não é explicado em pormenores, entendemos como funciona e só.
A meu ver, isto dá um charme a história, nos é apresentado o necessário, o livro parece um filme de ação se desenrolando, porém um filme de ação com um ótimo roteiro. Falando em ação, as cenas em que acontecem as lutas são muito boas, bem descritivas, principalmente as lutas entre os Matadores.
Outros três fatores me fizeram gostar bastante de The Burning Isle: A tensão causada pelo desgaste físico e mental sofrido por Cassius, a antipatia que senti pelo personagem e o seu plano, que só vem fazer mais sentido e se mostrar ao leitor bem no final do livro.
É passado ao leitor que o uso das runas causa desgaste no mago, que precisa descansar bem após cada luta, Cassius porém, além de ser Tocado é obstinado, ele não pensa em si mesmo, ele segue inexoravelmente até seu objetivo. Ele usa magia, não dorme, sofre ataques físicos constantes, você fica no aguardo daquele colapso que nunca chega, ele sempre desmaia, levanta e continua.
Sobre a antipatia, outros leitores podem não sentir o mesmo, pessoas menos sensíveis que eu. Cassius se mostra para mim uma pessoa quase que completamente apática e indiferente ao que os outros possam sofrer, desde que ele cumpra os seus objetivos. Vejam, ele algumas vezes tenta proteger alguns personagens de receberem fogo amigo, mas esses são apenas os que ele considera “amigos”, não mostrando qualquer rancor em se utilizar das mortes de pessoas comuns para cumprir seus objetivos. Amigos se encontra em aspas anteriormente, pois ele mostra várias vezes possuir dificuldade em se relacionar com as pessoas, até mesmo causando estranhamento em Sulla por chamá-la de amiga, já que eles se conhecem a pouco tempo e só trataram de negócios.
E seu plano que mesmo sendo no final, como quase tudo na literatura, um apanhado de tropos (termo do Tio Nitro) acaba sendo meio complicado de acompanhar e entender, não por ter sido mal escrito. Ao contrário, justamente pelo autor conseguir nos fazer acompanhar as ações de Cassius sem nos esclarecer diretamente o que ele anseia com cada decisão tomada, causa esta sensação maravilhosa de não estar preparado para o final.
The Burning Isle é o livro de estreia de Will Panzo, que só descobri ao final da leitura que já foi editor na Marvel, uma leitura bem diferente do que estou acostumado, o que para mim, sempre é algo ou muito bom ou muito ruim. Nunca consegui avaliar de forma moderada uma leitura mais diferenciada. Fico feliz em afirmar que adorei o primeiro livro de fantasia de Will Panzo e espero ansiosamente pelos seus próximos trabalhos.
December 21, 2018
purplemanatees.org
Title: The Burning Isle
Author: Will Panzo
Pages: 417
Genre: Adult Fiction, Politics, Magic
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
A fantasy story that follows a man named Cassius and his plan for revenge. On the island of Scipio, our main character embarks on an extensive plan that is years in the making. He joins in magical fights and goes undercover in order to get his revenge. This is a very long story where we get to see both sides of a war with a complete world being built in between. Although this book was greatly written it was definitely not my cup of tea.
Oh No's
There were random chapters inserted throughout the novel that seemed to portray other characters. I hated leaning away from the main plot and felt that this was meant as either world-building or additional word count. The stories never correlated with the main plot and were always different from the next. I only realized halfway through that this is Cassius' story through life but the lack of consistent names really threw me off every time. I understand the reason for them no a lie lol
There was something that just left me so bored reading this book. The fights were amazing and there was a constant build up to read. Unfortunately, I just didn't enjoy this book as much.
Yay's
The Magic was greatly thought out and explained. The concept of gauntlets and only a certain number of runes that could be used was fascinating to read about. You can win these runes or spells from other spell casters after winning battles and then use them for yourself. Cassius finds himself being touched which means that he can freely use his magic but we never really witnessed anyone running out of their magic? It was a really cool detail but it was never shown.
Cassius' inner fight between good and evil was wonderful to witness in the middle of the novel. Watching him try to fight that thin line between harming for good or for his revenge. Of course, he is supposed to be the stoic revenge taker but he gets attached to people often and of course everyone and their mother pretty much gets hurt in some way in this novel. Therefore, watching that struggle actually be voiced was relieving.
Finally,
This fantasy-ish novel was definitely a wild ride. The plot was pretty straight forward and honestly quite predictable that I wish there was some sort of twist/ There wasn't though and I can still respect that. The author stuck to their guns and wrote a great book. Just not one that I enjoyed.
My similar recommendation for this book would be Breach by W.L. Goodwater. They both have a very similar rules to the use of magic and the politics took a big part of these novels.
Favorite Quote
"My men cry out for revenge...Should I deny them? If I do, they'll think me weak. And what about honor? About loyalty and justice? My friend is dead. Don't I owe him vengeance?"
ARC
│Goodreads│Instagram│Previous Post│
-P
Title: The Burning Isle
Author: Will Panzo
Pages: 417
Genre: Adult Fiction, Politics, Magic
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
A fantasy story that follows a man named Cassius and his plan for revenge. On the island of Scipio, our main character embarks on an extensive plan that is years in the making. He joins in magical fights and goes undercover in order to get his revenge. This is a very long story where we get to see both sides of a war with a complete world being built in between. Although this book was greatly written it was definitely not my cup of tea.
Oh No's
There were random chapters inserted throughout the novel that seemed to portray other characters. I hated leaning away from the main plot and felt that this was meant as either world-building or additional word count. The stories never correlated with the main plot and were always different from the next. I only realized halfway through that this is Cassius' story through life but the lack of consistent names really threw me off every time. I understand the reason for them no a lie lol
There was something that just left me so bored reading this book. The fights were amazing and there was a constant build up to read. Unfortunately, I just didn't enjoy this book as much.
Yay's
The Magic was greatly thought out and explained. The concept of gauntlets and only a certain number of runes that could be used was fascinating to read about. You can win these runes or spells from other spell casters after winning battles and then use them for yourself. Cassius finds himself being touched which means that he can freely use his magic but we never really witnessed anyone running out of their magic? It was a really cool detail but it was never shown.
Cassius' inner fight between good and evil was wonderful to witness in the middle of the novel. Watching him try to fight that thin line between harming for good or for his revenge. Of course, he is supposed to be the stoic revenge taker but he gets attached to people often and of course everyone and their mother pretty much gets hurt in some way in this novel. Therefore, watching that struggle actually be voiced was relieving.
Finally,
This fantasy-ish novel was definitely a wild ride. The plot was pretty straight forward and honestly quite predictable that I wish there was some sort of twist/ There wasn't though and I can still respect that. The author stuck to their guns and wrote a great book. Just not one that I enjoyed.
My similar recommendation for this book would be Breach by W.L. Goodwater. They both have a very similar rules to the use of magic and the politics took a big part of these novels.
Favorite Quote
"My men cry out for revenge...Should I deny them? If I do, they'll think me weak. And what about honor? About loyalty and justice? My friend is dead. Don't I owe him vengeance?"
ARC
│Goodreads│Instagram│Previous Post│
-P
October 13, 2022
My mind was blown away by this novel! So many twists and turns throughout this book that I wanted more and more. If you know your history then you know who Cassius is and the role he played in the Roman Empire. In this story, Cassius has magical powers and certainly instigated many if not all of the events written in this book. I can picture him at times pointing to himself saying “me??? I did no such thing!”
Other novels I have read in the past with this many plot twists I would find myself re-reading previous chapters reminding myself who did what. Here, it was easy to follow and the characters (good and bad) were outstanding! The author gave vivid descriptions of the battles as well as the spellcasters. I liked the fights between them immensely. It has been a long time since I have given five stars yet if I could I would give more. Heck, it is my review so 8⭐️.
The author’s writing was exceptional. He didn’t overuse or burden the reader with fluff ( fluff meaning over describing landscapes, individuals, or buildings). The novel was just amazing.
PS. After I finished the novel I wanted to see if the author wrote anything else and saw that he did an interview shortly after this book was released. In it, he mentioned that he is working on another one and will use some of the characters in this novel. As of yet, there is no update to another book but I definitely will be getting it when it happens.
Other novels I have read in the past with this many plot twists I would find myself re-reading previous chapters reminding myself who did what. Here, it was easy to follow and the characters (good and bad) were outstanding! The author gave vivid descriptions of the battles as well as the spellcasters. I liked the fights between them immensely. It has been a long time since I have given five stars yet if I could I would give more. Heck, it is my review so 8⭐️.
The author’s writing was exceptional. He didn’t overuse or burden the reader with fluff ( fluff meaning over describing landscapes, individuals, or buildings). The novel was just amazing.
PS. After I finished the novel I wanted to see if the author wrote anything else and saw that he did an interview shortly after this book was released. In it, he mentioned that he is working on another one and will use some of the characters in this novel. As of yet, there is no update to another book but I definitely will be getting it when it happens.
June 3, 2017
I couldn't wait to finish this book ... so I could go back to reading a good book.
It started with potential and then fell apart. A choppy story, dialogue between characters that doesn't make it clear who's speaking and nonsensical sentences plague the book. I held out hope it would get better, but that was wishful thinking.
I think a good editor may have been able to save this book, because the bones of a good story are there.
One star - a big disappointment.
It started with potential and then fell apart. A choppy story, dialogue between characters that doesn't make it clear who's speaking and nonsensical sentences plague the book. I held out hope it would get better, but that was wishful thinking.
I think a good editor may have been able to save this book, because the bones of a good story are there.
One star - a big disappointment.
February 6, 2025
I was at a Half Price Books with my friend as a washed up reader, when I decided to pick up a few $5 books. I am beyond grateful that this is one of the books that I picked and that this is the book that I read first.
The Burning Isle is a thrilling fantasy grim dark story that reignited my love for reading. Will, I need more books so I can support your writing ventures.
The Burning Isle is a thrilling fantasy grim dark story that reignited my love for reading. Will, I need more books so I can support your writing ventures.
June 3, 2018
This was a bit of a slog. I didn't fall into it easily or enjoy it easily. I persevered and finished it, but it was bloody and a little convoluted and felt...wishy-washy? Watching person after person fall for someone's scheme gets boring after a while.
January 6, 2017
Most Parts were very solid, and some parts needed work. A fantasy told in a parallel to the Roman Republic with intrigue, magic, and death.
July 17, 2018
Well enough written, this book’s ending left a foul taste in my mouth. I cannot decide if I would read another book in the same storyline.
November 14, 2018
There wasnt really anything bad about the writing itself or anything, I just personally did not care for this one.
January 21, 2019
Great book. I started it this morning and it immediately grabbed me to the point where I finished it before the day was done.
July 16, 2021
Ludicrous book. I kept putting it down and picking it up hoping to discover the plot. I never did figure out the purpose of the story.
December 13, 2022
2.5 stars
April 3, 2019
I'm generally a sucker for authors that take another genre and then mix it up with fantasy. Ben Dobson's *Scriber*, which is basically a Da Vinci Code (i.e. search for clues to unlock a historical secret) + fantasy mashup, is another example.
This book is basically *Yojimbo* turned into a fantasy book. A new hired gun shows up in a town that has two rival gangs. He sets them against one another. Even though the story is a *too* derivative of *Yojimbo* I was willing to let it slide because I haven't really seen it done before in a fantasy setting.
Where the book flags is in the pacing: *Yojimbo* wraps up when the two gangs self-destruct. The author here adds a third act -- that feels like the final part of Apocalypse Now -- with a third group that *also* needs to be brought down. By that point I was fairly exhausted and could have done without it.
The book is "only" 450 pages but it felt more like 600 pages and that third act had a lot to do with it.
I did like how the protagonist struggled with the path he set himself on. He decides to be a righteous avenging force and, since he's not actually a soulless killer, he struggles with the amount of collateral damage that results. He tries to convince himself (and others) that there are no innocents, etc, etc but he doesn't entirely believe what he's saying.
It was also refreshing to read a fantasy book that is a one-shot. Everything is wrapped up. No 3- or 5- or 7-books to have to read. Just one & done. I wish there were more like this!
This book is basically *Yojimbo* turned into a fantasy book. A new hired gun shows up in a town that has two rival gangs. He sets them against one another. Even though the story is a *too* derivative of *Yojimbo* I was willing to let it slide because I haven't really seen it done before in a fantasy setting.
Where the book flags is in the pacing: *Yojimbo* wraps up when the two gangs self-destruct. The author here adds a third act -- that feels like the final part of Apocalypse Now -- with a third group that *also* needs to be brought down. By that point I was fairly exhausted and could have done without it.
The book is "only" 450 pages but it felt more like 600 pages and that third act had a lot to do with it.
I did like how the protagonist struggled with the path he set himself on. He decides to be a righteous avenging force and, since he's not actually a soulless killer, he struggles with the amount of collateral damage that results. He tries to convince himself (and others) that there are no innocents, etc, etc but he doesn't entirely believe what he's saying.
It was also refreshing to read a fantasy book that is a one-shot. Everything is wrapped up. No 3- or 5- or 7-books to have to read. Just one & done. I wish there were more like this!
November 18, 2016
Fantasy is one of the genres that a lot of people have issues with. The reasons for this may be the fantastical elements, the shattering of the suspension of disbelief that may occur when a farm boy can slay dragons or the mere fact that the desire of the heart displayed in the tale is difficult to relate to. The best, of any genre fiction, are the stories that create something new, something different. In some fantasy novels it can be a strong sense of reality like the books by Joe Abercrombie, a female hero who puts a common myths on its ear like Zimmer Bradley’s Mists of Avalon or it may, while still using the genre specific tropes and themes, place the setting in an inventive area like Beaulieu’s Twelve Kings or Lays of Anuskaya, and that is what Will Panzo does in the Burning Isle.
The spellcaster Cassius shows up on the island of Scipio, a hotbed, described as a slum, of criminal activity mostly due to the fact that the inhabitants are unable to live in other parts of the Republic. The council that is supposed to run the island are more or less for show as the power is divided by the gang leaders Piso and Cinna. They, themselves are at war for the ultimate power of the island. Cassius is unknown when he comes to Scipio, having spent years in training at another island. He displays great power of the runes, that spellcasters control through gauntlets, the magical source in this world when he manages to kill a man during a prizefight. This catches the eye of Piso and they form a relationship wherein Cassius begins doing jobs for the mobster. It becomes more and more clear that Cassius has more plans than just running errands and he begins to stir the pot by doing jobs for Cinna as well. The violence begins to escalate until it surely must boil over.
There are a lot of things to enjoy in Panzo’s tale of treason and conflict in the underworld. Firstly he places the story in the new setting of a sort of Roman world, complete with words and classifications used during that era and when one initially reads the book it easy to believe that it’s a historic fiction. It creates a link between the reader and the author as a lot of the terms and concepts are easily recognizable and most everyone has an image of Rome and the people therein. Panzo’s language is also sharp and would appeal to a great spectrum of readers and not much is lost between sender and receiver among the pages. The plot in itself is simple enough, yet the actual goal of the protagonist is not revealed until half way through the story and this is good, although the first half reads like a sandbox type of game in the vein of Skyrim or Grand Theft Auto. This does get tiresome at times as it feels like Cassius only moves from place to place aimlessly, but as it advances his agenda and reasons become clear, and this is done in a very clever way. Though the Republic as such is never really revealed the history of Scipio is dealt with and the reader is privy to the background of the gangs on the island. Scipio, home to those rejected by society on other islands, becomes a representation of nations today where the government is no more than a faceless puppet and those who actually rule threaten to tear it apart due to their own petty personalities and egos. Cassius becomes a kind of vigilante in the den of corruption and violence, a representative of the people, the anti hero reminiscent of the old hard boiled detective of yore. As such he isn’t all powerful, he may be a great spellcaster, but he is often injured or hurt and this way he retains his humanity and Panzo manages to keep the suspension of disbelief intact.
There is so much that is good in The Burning Isle, from its language, to its setting and to the character development. We recognize the tropes, the people, the intrigue and the setting, but from different places. It’s all so familiar, yet we have seldom witnessed it in this constellation and that is what makes it unique and a great read.
The spellcaster Cassius shows up on the island of Scipio, a hotbed, described as a slum, of criminal activity mostly due to the fact that the inhabitants are unable to live in other parts of the Republic. The council that is supposed to run the island are more or less for show as the power is divided by the gang leaders Piso and Cinna. They, themselves are at war for the ultimate power of the island. Cassius is unknown when he comes to Scipio, having spent years in training at another island. He displays great power of the runes, that spellcasters control through gauntlets, the magical source in this world when he manages to kill a man during a prizefight. This catches the eye of Piso and they form a relationship wherein Cassius begins doing jobs for the mobster. It becomes more and more clear that Cassius has more plans than just running errands and he begins to stir the pot by doing jobs for Cinna as well. The violence begins to escalate until it surely must boil over.
There are a lot of things to enjoy in Panzo’s tale of treason and conflict in the underworld. Firstly he places the story in the new setting of a sort of Roman world, complete with words and classifications used during that era and when one initially reads the book it easy to believe that it’s a historic fiction. It creates a link between the reader and the author as a lot of the terms and concepts are easily recognizable and most everyone has an image of Rome and the people therein. Panzo’s language is also sharp and would appeal to a great spectrum of readers and not much is lost between sender and receiver among the pages. The plot in itself is simple enough, yet the actual goal of the protagonist is not revealed until half way through the story and this is good, although the first half reads like a sandbox type of game in the vein of Skyrim or Grand Theft Auto. This does get tiresome at times as it feels like Cassius only moves from place to place aimlessly, but as it advances his agenda and reasons become clear, and this is done in a very clever way. Though the Republic as such is never really revealed the history of Scipio is dealt with and the reader is privy to the background of the gangs on the island. Scipio, home to those rejected by society on other islands, becomes a representation of nations today where the government is no more than a faceless puppet and those who actually rule threaten to tear it apart due to their own petty personalities and egos. Cassius becomes a kind of vigilante in the den of corruption and violence, a representative of the people, the anti hero reminiscent of the old hard boiled detective of yore. As such he isn’t all powerful, he may be a great spellcaster, but he is often injured or hurt and this way he retains his humanity and Panzo manages to keep the suspension of disbelief intact.
There is so much that is good in The Burning Isle, from its language, to its setting and to the character development. We recognize the tropes, the people, the intrigue and the setting, but from different places. It’s all so familiar, yet we have seldom witnessed it in this constellation and that is what makes it unique and a great read.
December 17, 2016
So let me start off that I think my dislike for this book is a big case of it not being my cup of tea. While I didn't enjoy it the book definitely was not poorly written so if your considering picking up this book don't let that scare you away. Instead let me explain why this book didn't mesh with me.
First, I wasn't very found of the main character. While at many points of the story I found him clever or felt bad for him it still wasn't enough to make me like him. But it also wasn't enough to make me hate him. In fact I didn't have any strong feelings for Cassius at all. Which for me was kind of a bummer. I really like books that make strongly for a character either way. And for most of this book I was either feeling 'meh' for Cassius or only vaguely caring.
I also didn't really care much for the other characters in this book. The cast is pretty small and not what I would really call diverse. Why they do come from different backgrounds most of the characters were men. I tend to go for books with a diverse cast so having one so small was sort of a bummer for me.
The setting was interesting and while I don't normally go for criminal underbelly stories I did find myself wanting to know more about Scipio. I especially wanted to know more about the natives who lived there and their story. If there was ever a prequel to this book then I would almost think of picking it up just to learn more about them.
The magic system was one that I found pretty different and fun to read about. There were a lot of fight scenes in the book and while I enjoyed them at first I got a little bored of them as the book goes on. But if you enjoy fight scenes this might be a plus for you.
All in all The Burning Isle was not the worse book I read this year but we just didn't get along.
First, I wasn't very found of the main character. While at many points of the story I found him clever or felt bad for him it still wasn't enough to make me like him. But it also wasn't enough to make me hate him. In fact I didn't have any strong feelings for Cassius at all. Which for me was kind of a bummer. I really like books that make strongly for a character either way. And for most of this book I was either feeling 'meh' for Cassius or only vaguely caring.
I also didn't really care much for the other characters in this book. The cast is pretty small and not what I would really call diverse. Why they do come from different backgrounds most of the characters were men. I tend to go for books with a diverse cast so having one so small was sort of a bummer for me.
The setting was interesting and while I don't normally go for criminal underbelly stories I did find myself wanting to know more about Scipio. I especially wanted to know more about the natives who lived there and their story. If there was ever a prequel to this book then I would almost think of picking it up just to learn more about them.
The magic system was one that I found pretty different and fun to read about. There were a lot of fight scenes in the book and while I enjoyed them at first I got a little bored of them as the book goes on. But if you enjoy fight scenes this might be a plus for you.
All in all The Burning Isle was not the worse book I read this year but we just didn't get along.
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