Lakhoni

The Guide and the Sword #1

by Jared Garrett

Lakhoni has been left for dead. When the King's guards attack his village and slaughter his people, he regains consciousness only to find his sister has been taken captive.

Armed with only a bow, Lakhoni must traverse a brutal wilderness, face deadly warriors, and battle legendary tattooed assassins, all in order to save his sister's life. But along the way, he discovers the truth about his parents: they were not the simple villagers they seemed. Instead, they were hiding a great secret that goes back to the First Fathers and may determine the fate of the kingdom itself.

But Lakhoni isn’t the only one who wants the king dead. Ancient enemies are poised to strike while traitors poison the kingdom from within. With the life of the king and the fate of the kingdom hanging in the balance, can Lakhoni avenge his parents’ death without becoming a murderer himself?

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Book Club, Historical Fiction

342 pages, Paperback

First published January 16, 2016

Reviews

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an adventure based on ancient America. It feels like a fantasy, but there’s no actual magic in it, so that’s why I call historical fantasy.

The story follow Lakhoni, lone survivor of his village’s destruction. He encounters several different groups of people as he journeys toward the capital, where he hopes to take revenge on the king. I was less interested in the journey and survival parts, but the escapes and fights were very suspenseful and exciting, as was the ending.

Some violence; clean content otherwise.

Disclaimer: I know Jared personally. But not too well.

Book Blog

[Booked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous and fun adventure story! It's set in an interesting world, like maybe an alternate history? It seems like a fantasy landscape but there's no magic in the story, unless you count how some of the characters have special training so they can fight and jump like characters in a Chinese martial arts movie or something. Very entertaining, I'm waiting for the next installment!

[Allison · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book. It seemed like a fun departure from my norm. But... for me, the character and backstory development wasn't quite deep enough, and the writing was basic. I mean, I couldn't write a book, so I can't really judge too much, but the whole time, I just kept having flashbacks of high school teachers saying "show, don't tell".

Now, if this story was written by Sarah Maas, with all her twisty, plotty, evil, amazing genius, it would've been great. The plot was absolutely ripe with opportunity to make some great twists or develop relationships. I wish the author had capitalized on those chances some more - it would have made a huge difference for me!

In the end, I just rushed through to the finish because it was a book club book. If it hadn't been, I would've put it down....

[Arlene Arredondo · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic tale of courage beyond imagining.
Fast paced and full of action, this story takes us in a great journey that will begin with our main character, Lakhoni, getting struck and left for dead while his village is destroyed and his sister taken. A young boy must become a warrior to avenge his family and save his sibling. Enduring training from and unusual source, he will struggle to keep up and use his wits to save himself from all the obstacles that he will encounter.

This story is very appealing for young adults, and the plot twists will keep you guessing till the end.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of Lakhoni from Future House Publishing in exchange for an unbiased review.

Honestly I did not want this to end. The whole lead up to the ending was great, action packed and...yes a major cliffhanger. But the build up and the big reveals at the end that helped set up the next book were perfect. So you have been warned, if you pick this one up you will not want it to end and you will be wanting to grab the next book right away(unfortunately it's not out yet but fortunately you have lots of time to wait in anticipation and to be eager for it's release).

I enjoyed it lots! I just had to put that out there because I really did. I was a book fanatic from the first time I realized I could open a book, sound out the words and the story came alive inside my head. I created the pictures yet the author created the characters and adventures. My mom couldn't keep up with books fast enough for me to read through. I was always at the library bringing home stacks upon stacks of books and every time that scholastic book order was sent home, or the book fair came around, well I'm sure you can guess who was circling every book in the catalog or who was first in line with a stack of books....yep you guessed it ME! So with that little background about me I have to say this book reminded me of one of my absolute favorite adventure series that I picked up when I was about 9 and over 20 years later I am still waiting for the final book of the series to come out. The book series is Tennis Shoes Among the Nephites and if any of you are or aren't familiar with it quick recap for you. A brother and sister and another boy search for a cave in Wyoming and find a time portal back to ancient times. The adventures they have are epic and continue throughout their lives and their children's lives. Great, fun captivating adventures with the similar setting and time period as Lakhoni.(If you're looking for a fun series for any age I highly recommend that one)! Ok that little blurb over onto more of my thoughts about Lakhoni.

Lakhoni is a perfect example of the hero's journey. The struggle the hero experiences and how he learns and grows and ultimately conquers. Lakhoni lives in a village far from the main city of the kingdom, he is happy and loves his family and the close knit lives of the village members. The beginning of the book starts out with very descriptive and fast paced wording. Lakhoni is out hunting and happens to see the king's men (who are assassins) and tries to race them back to his village to warn his people. He is then hit over the head and left for dead. When he comes to all that he knows and loves is gone. The author, Jared Garrett, does a great job of showing the depth of emotions that Lakhoni is feeling and going through. I really enjoyed his use of words, it's amazing how powerful simple things as letters combined together to create words and how those words put together just right can evoke so much emotion and understanding.

Lakhoni realizes his sister Alronna is missing among the villagers bodies and realizes that he is going to go after her. Another step along his hero's journey comes at this point when a group called the "living dead" find him and force him to return with them to their hidden home in a large cavern. Lakhoni comes to realize that he does not belong with this group and plays it smart by learning everything he can from them, how to be a strong warrior, how to be stealthy and how to bring justice to his people. Lakhoni plans his escape and leaves this group of the separated(another name for them in the book). He runs out of provisions and is close to death when he again comes across another group of people. They are unsure of him and his allegiance to either the king or the usurpers of the land(another major part of the story-group of brothers who divide when the father dies and the two groups want to lead the people but the people divide and follow the two different groups of brothers). Lakhoni is nursed back to health and becomes very close to the village healer's daughter Shimra. Once again he must struggle against the constraints of others to try to keep him from his mission of rescuing his sister and seeking justice for the death of his whole village.

Man, can we say that this hero really has everything thrown at him and many obstacles that continue to get put in his way and through his desire to do what's right and save his sister he shoulders on through everything. I love the moments in the book when Lakhoni realizes that he needs to calm himself and have a moment of inner focus to realize what's important, as well as how to solve problems.

He again escapes from this village, with lots of regret at leaving behind Shimra and vowing to return to her someday(one early setup for the next book-I'm guessing here). As he once again runs out of supplies he comes across a caravan and uses his skills and knowledge to join them and make his way to the king.

I'm trying not to make this epically long because yes you should read the book but I know I enjoy reviews to know if I am going to want to put the time into certain books. So I will wrap this up soon, I promise.

Lakhoni arrives in the kingdom and still must have more trials until he can be reunited with his sister. Without giving away any spoilers I will say that he sees her and maybe talks to her before the book is finished, you'll have to read it to know for sure. There is a big reveal as to why his village, why his sister and connections(coincidences for the plot line) of him meeting certain people in his journey.

The ending is really fast paced and full of action and intensity. I was turning pages(ok finger swiping on my digital copy) very fast the last, um probably 30 minutes of the book. I am really looking forward to the next part in the book. I can't wait to see how the characters that were grouped together continue forward, how some secondary characters from this first book will want revenge in the second. Will they find what they are looking for. Duh, Duh, Duuuuuh. This is definitely a read that is fit for pretty much anyone, but I think the YA age group will probably enjoy it most(ok I am definitely not a young adult anymore and I really enjoyed it so it's up for anyone to enjoy)! If you need a good adventure with intrigue, mystery, a hero's journey and more(even a little bit of sweet budding romance, it's there) grab it and let me know what you think!

Happy Reading!!!

[Buttercupp77 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this novel. Clearly not intended to be a standalone work, it entails the triggering element and subsequent stages of a quest for Lakhoni.

I found that the story moved along at a pretty good pace. I think there were some scenes and characters that are likely important for future installments, but they didn't really add much to this particular tale. (I do understand the choice to include them - it allows the chronology to make sense, but I think it did sacrifice some tautness in the main story for this volume).

The main characters are vividly rendered and well fleshed out (considering that we only really experience them through Lakhoni's or Ree's perspectives). I think that certain (usually those with smaller roles) characters were a little flat - some ambiguity would have helped them seem less like caricatures.

My biggest concern was in the world-building. I found it very difficult to settle myself into this universe. The cover art and Lakhoni's name, as well as the fact that it was advertised as "historical fiction" led me to believe that this was featuring Mayan or Aztec cultures
(and, for a long time, I though the Usurpers were Colonial explorers/invaders), but the descriptions and cultures portrayed really didn't match with my understanding of those I mentioned. I spent much of the novel trying to determine where and when this was set. Once I accepted it as a fantasy or speculative fiction novel, I was able to just enjoy it for what it is. I think the marketing choices were the culprit behind most of my discomfort, but I do feel that more intense and clear world-building would have overcome the notions I was led to develop.

I think this is an interesting series, although more distinctive world-building would elevate it to a whole other level. I would be interested in reading more as the plot was interesting and while the twists were straightforward, they were well-written and the author did a good job of ensuring they weren't bolts completely out of the blue.

I received a copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of Lakhoni from Future House Publishing in exchange for an unbiased review

This is the first book in a series.

The story is set in a world that is reminiscent of Ancient America. The author creates a world full of different tribes, mystical artifacts and secret conspiracies. It is a story of a boy – Lakhoni - and his rite of passage to become a man. On his way he encounters people that will become his friends and some who might be his foes – but you can never be quite sure who is which - and experiences thrilling adventures that will lead him to the secret he never knew even existed in the first place.

This first book introduces all the important characters and sets the basis for a story full of deceit, the quest for justice and the rekindling of family ties.

One thing I believe the author could improve on in the sequel is the pacing. The story was a bit slow though some important events felt rushed while other incidents that were not essential to the plot were too detailed for my taste.

I do believe though Lakhoni’s adventures will lead him to uncover even more secrets in the future and will empower him to become a hero for the people he cares about and loves.

[Rita McDowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cliffhanger Alert

Really loved and enjoyed this book but to leave the reader hanging?! Not fair! Now I will wonder what the check happened to the characters in this outstanding book!! Well done.

[Shaun DeVore · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT!!! Give me more!!

[Anya Josephs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read it, I'm not 100% sure if Lakhoni, by Jared Garrett, counts as fantasy. There's no magic--however, it's set in a completely invented world, and full of the fantasy tropes we know and love: action, adventure, heroic rescues, chosen ones--so I think it counts! Certainly it feels like fantasy. It's a great adventure story.
Lakhoni is a wonderful example of the classic YA fantasy hero: young, naive, good-hearted, thrust by the cruel actions of others into a heroic role he never wanted and wasn't prepared for. He's very easy to root for, and that make reading about the many hardships he faces particularly compelling. I am also a true sucker for a story about siblings--I was rooting for his rescue of his sister all the way! There is also a TERRIFIC twist at the end.
Strongly recommend!

[Whitney Goyette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this from the author through For Voracious Readers. This was a great epic adventure. If you like epic tomes, along the lines of Tolkien you'll enjoy this! The characters are well developed, the plot and story are well thought out, well organized. It was a joy to read. I actually found myself slowing down to really savor the moments in this book. I'm usually a bit of a speed reader (I work full time and have a six year old so speed is usually a requirement for me to finish a book). I would definitely recommend this book, it's well worth a read or two.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. This story is beautifully written with vivid, fresh imagery and very real characters. I was drawn into Lakhoni's story right away, and I never wanted to put the book down. It's a fantastic, clean, and very creatively imagined fantasy novel. Would definitely recommend this story to anyone. I only wish it had been longer! I'm glad there are two more books in the series!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only*

[Pamela Cunningham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in The Guide and the sword series

This was a great start to a new Historical/Fantasy series I don't know much about the Aztec empire of their legends so I can't really comment on it's accuracy but this was quite and interesting first book . This book was fast paste and full of action intrigue great world building interesting characters looking forward too the next book in this series .

[Jena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book that keeps your interest

Loved this book. Right from the beginning it reaches out and grabs you. It was hard to put this book down and go to sleep at night. This book has something for everyone. Action, suspence, mystery, and a little romance. I would defiantly recommend this book for reluctant readers as it is very captivating and makes you want more. I cant wait to read the next book.

[Karsa Orlong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

Really love this story. A young man struggle to find the last of his family, and seeks vengeance for wrong committed against him. Jared tells a good story with good characters.

[Richard Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of Lakhoni from Future House Publishing in exchange for an unbiased review.

Lakhoni is an adventure based on revenge. You might say there is something for everyone in this book which might be true, but when an author tries to give something to every reader he typically limits the use of his own strengths. This is what happened here.
The writing – There isn’t a problem with the writing. It is written fine, but doesn’t have much personality. Even though it doesn’t have any glaring grammatical errors, it still seems to be missing something. I think it has a lot to do with the type of book. Just like a horror book will have a lot of suspense and the use of long sentences and a romance is heavy on description, this book as an adventure seems to be out of place. It is heavy on description, but not during action. Instead we get lots of paragraphs that are nothing but description followed by the action afterwards. There were one or two odd words included, but they were used often so it maybe just be a part of the author’s vocabulary I’m not familiar with.
The characters – The protagonist is decently fleshed out. There are a few others as well, but the smaller characters and the antagonists are somewhat flat. All the villains seem to be singularly motivated leaving them feeling very fictional.
The plot – The plot is fine, but is a little overly twisty. There are a lot of things that happen that seem unimportant to the story, but I am assuming since this feels very much like the first entry in a series that these things will come back around. I would have liked them to come back into play during this first book, but it feels nothing is going to be left pointless. Seeing how everything breaks into small sections the book would have been much better serialized.

The book is good, but not great. The adventure is often fun, but it is also commonly dark and slightly depressing. There is a basic writing sin, an emotional scene before the reader has had a chance to identify and care. But, in the end it is an interesting and entertaining adventure. The complaints I have are keeping this book from being great literature, but it does succeed as a good read.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

What??? I seriously thought this was a stand-alone book! But apparently there is at least one sequel planned. Since the book ended on a total cliff-hanger -- and a really ambiguous one at that!

This is basically a tale of a young man trying to avenge his family, rescue his presumably kidnapped sister, and along the way try to do what is right. Unfortunately, for him, these things don’t seem to coincide with each other very well! Regardless, he remains brave and steadfast throughout, even when questioning himself, his motives and his options.

The author does a good job of world-building, creating a very believable predominantly meso-American style backdrop for the story. The story-telling is such that you feel aware enough of the workings of the prevailing cultural system to appreciate the atmosphere without being inundated by it.

There are a host of strong characters throughout the story. Some of them I definitely hope will make a return appearance in the sequel; and a few that I want to know more about, including further information about their backstories.

There are connections between characters that unfold as the story progresses that I never would have imagined at the outset. Not to mention surprising plot twists and intrigue from unexpected sources.

One of the only things that I didn’t like in the narrative was the vast amount of bad luck and poor circumstances that befall this kid. And I did find it a bit of a stretch to imagine that he emerged as relatively unscathed as he did from each encounter with all of the forces fighting against him.

But overall it was a great read; a very entertaining story with an encompassing writing style that just draws you into the story and doesn’t let go. I truly can’t wait to read the sequel!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on to your butts, folks! Lakhoni has it all: Courage, action, mystery, vengeance, angst, and edge-of-your-seat suspense!

Open on Lahkoni, injured and assumed deceased, in the middle of the devastation of his home village. Alronna, his sister, has been taken by the perpetrators. Drawing from the courage and strength just building inside him, Lahkoni must take a journey of adventure, danger, intrigue and revenge. The genre this book would best fit into is a hero’s journey.

Heads up: this is not the happily ever after you might want - this does have a cliff hanger ending, in preparation for the next book. So don’t be upset - I warned you!

As I don’t like to spoil anything, I’ll just tell you about Lahkoni. He is spirited, loving, passionate and young. But he is also endowed with a private reserve of strength, tenacity and will to go on. Every obstacle he encounters is met with the same tenacity and courage. One would be hard put to not like this hero.

I also loved Shimra - the village healer’s daughter who Lahkoni develops a fancy for. I do hope she is in the next installment!

Only negatives: The setting is not specifically explained, but the villages are “primitive” and I pictured it somewhere in early central Americas. And also, this was not my normal book genre, but I wanted to try it out.

Audience: Young adults, adults who like adventures, fans of vengeance stories and plot twists.

Note: I received this product free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an intriguing novel! As I read this book, I felt that the characters were long ago friends of mine. It was very easy to connect and relate to them. In this story, we follow Lakhoni on his journey from his small village to the King's Temple to rescue his sister. I got the impression that the book is set in ancient America, though an exact location is not mentioned (that I recall). There are small villages where the inhabitants must hunt for their own food and draw water from a well and they live in mud huts. This book was unlike any other that I’ve read, and I absolutely loved it. I can’t wait to read the next one!