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Light from Aphelion #1
Rising from Dust
FIGHT FOR JUSTICE. DIE FOR LOVE.
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the Frozen Mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies, prepared to meet death…or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing, they are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
Rising from Dust is an epic journey where gritty fantasy and history cross paths. A graphic story of loyalty, violence, magic, court plots, and unwavering love where no one is what they seem.
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the Frozen Mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies, prepared to meet death…or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing, they are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
Rising from Dust is an epic journey where gritty fantasy and history cross paths. A graphic story of loyalty, violence, magic, court plots, and unwavering love where no one is what they seem.
452 pages, Paperback
Published January 7, 2016
13 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
Martine Carlsson
4 books46 followersMartine Carlsson lives in the middle of the Swedish forest. Martine is French and graduated librarian and historian from the University of Liege.
Carlsson’s first book, Rising from dust introduces the philosophy of the French revolution to a medieval-fantasy society. Surfing on the question “Can you imagine if Aragorn had been a terrible king?” Carlsson proposes “Can you imagine if the man newly crowned is a killer of kings?” In Tears of winter and Born to liberty, Carlsson shows how the new ideas of liberty and equality not only have an impact on the population, but have inherent paradoxes.
Carlsson’s Light from aphelion is a dark fantasy series mixing gritty realism, geopolitics, gay love, horror, and is rich with historical details.
Carlsson’s first book, Rising from dust introduces the philosophy of the French revolution to a medieval-fantasy society. Surfing on the question “Can you imagine if Aragorn had been a terrible king?” Carlsson proposes “Can you imagine if the man newly crowned is a killer of kings?” In Tears of winter and Born to liberty, Carlsson shows how the new ideas of liberty and equality not only have an impact on the population, but have inherent paradoxes.
Carlsson’s Light from aphelion is a dark fantasy series mixing gritty realism, geopolitics, gay love, horror, and is rich with historical details.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 19, 2024
It has been a long time since I have read old-school fantasy with a heroic quest to save the kingdom, having elements like orcs and dragons. But before you think this just another fantasy story, it has more. This is a finding yourself story and accepting who you are and what you have to do to follow your heart and duties. But most prominently, this addresses the questions about social issues on a personal level and on a national level where other people's greed and close-mindedness leave behind destitute. A promising start for a series with LGBT characters.
July 25, 2017
Интересная задумка, но до хорошего фэнтези не дотягивает. Мир проработан очень слабо. Магические артефакты и существа появляются, когда это удобно автору без какого-либо обоснуя. Из-за этого со временем перестаешь волноваться за героев, зная, что в какой бы смертельной опасности они не оказались, спасение может появиться буквально из воздуха.
Иногда мне казалось, что я читаю не законченное произведение, а его пересказ. Все битвы и квесты описаны очень скомкано. На одной странице герой собирается в опасный путь через горы, на следующей выясняется, что он его уже проделал. Или герои отправляются на поиски артефакта, который поможет им убить дракона, не зная ни где именно он находится, ни как он выглядит. Вдруг один из них нечаянно падает в туннель и через несколько минут приносит артефакт. Как он его достал опять осталось за кадром. С одной стороны такой подход к повествованию - большая недоработка автора, с другой события стремительно сменяют друг друга и читатель не успевает заскучать.
С главными героями тоже не все гладко. Опытные воины привыкшие, казалось бы, к нелегкой жизни, рыдают по поводу и без. И вообще ведут себя крайне непоследовательно.
Больше всего разочаровала романтика. Герои переспали в первый же день знакомства. Я не спорю, что их можно понять: четырехлетнее воздержание, война, неуверенность в завтрашнем дне...Но за несостоявшийся slow burn обидно.
В общем, претензий у меня - не перечесть. Но продолжение читать буду и надеюсь, что автор доведет серию до конца.
November 2, 2020
Rising From Dust by Martine Carlsson is the first book in the 'Light From Aphelion' trilogy. It's a fantasy novel with male to male romance set in the kingdom of Trevalden. We see a hermit, Selen and an archivist, Louis.
We also see hints of historical fiction and epic fantasy feels to it. The starting chapters are kinda slow and world building is set beautifully in the first book. The book at times dives into new things very fast and it creates confusion.
The unexpected journey and occurances with twists and turns makes the reading more interesting and pleasant. The book is a like just another medieval fantasy, but we see different hints of magic at various parts in the book. I would love to see Lissandro more in the coming books.
We see a perfect balance between the action packed wars and battles along with some steamy romance in between. I personally liked the character building of Selen more than Louis. Having elements like orcs and dragons also brings in the elements of high fantasy.
We also see hints of historical fiction and epic fantasy feels to it. The starting chapters are kinda slow and world building is set beautifully in the first book. The book at times dives into new things very fast and it creates confusion.
The unexpected journey and occurances with twists and turns makes the reading more interesting and pleasant. The book is a like just another medieval fantasy, but we see different hints of magic at various parts in the book. I would love to see Lissandro more in the coming books.
We see a perfect balance between the action packed wars and battles along with some steamy romance in between. I personally liked the character building of Selen more than Louis. Having elements like orcs and dragons also brings in the elements of high fantasy.
Read
March 26, 2017I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Rising From Dust is a high fantasy novel with a strong m/m component, and one that evolves from the very typical tropes of the genre into something rather interesting. It manages to combine romance with epic action even as it falls into some of the more usual pitfalls of the genre.
The worldbuilding, always a very important aspect in fantasy, is competent albeit very traditional. Expect the mandatory medieval setting, complete with strong homophobia that plays a big role given the gay theme, and plenty of magic sprinkled throughout. While the overall background is not particularly original and draws very heavily from earlier entries in the genre, the great detail in depicting this alternate medieval world, down to very accurate vocabulary, lends it a sense of credibility.
The pacing is well accomplished and creates a balance between the bloody battles and the borderline sugary romance between the two leads, Selen and Louis. As a result Lissandro, the third main character, despite his supposedly status as a major player, ends up taking a very secondary role. His part in the quest becomes almost negligible since he is absent from most of it and his exclusion from the romantic element seals the deal. This may well be ratified in future entries to the franchise.
The characters are not precisely multilayered but there is enough to them to avoid two dimensional cliches. It is interesting to note that while Selen is close to girlish in appearance and close to an empath, he is also an accomplished warrior whose prowess in battle is crucial to his character. Louis has plenty going for him as well, being deeply flawed even as he is heroic and justice driven. Once again, Lissandro is not as fully explored but his more realistic bend and mischiveous nature are a good addition to the plot.
Said plot starts out full of mystery and suspense which helps to garner interest before anything major happens. By not shying from even graphic violence, it sets the tone for a very harsh environment and makes the very pure relationship between Louis and Selen shine all the brighter. On the other hand, while the sex scenes are for the most part well placed, the first stages of the relationship are rushed and it eventually reaches levels of cloying sweetness with 'love' every other line, both in reported and direct speech.
By adding homophobia as the ruling social attitude the novel engages with a serious issue and almost overreaches the confines of fantasy proper. It is not just in this particular point that Rising From Dust almost defies the limits of the genre. The way it addresses social issues as a whole and even importantly its engagement in solving societal problems, is very refreshing and one hopes that it will continue to be a main thrust in the franchise.
Unfortunately, the novel does not always rise above the less appealing traits of fantasy. In fact, one of its greatest downfalls of the novel is directly linked with to the genre as a whole. Namely, its typification based on outward appearance. It is possible to identify how evil a character is by how ugly they look and the opposite applies as well, with virtually all beautiful characters being good and kind. It is not so much that ugliness equals evil as the inner evil being displayed outwardly but it still sits very ill in a narrative that aims at realism. More, this direct correspondence is also immediately visible to the characters who seem to know at a first glance just who is traitorous at heart simply based on how they look.
Readers looking for solid fantasy with plenty of adventure, full of harrowing battles, balanced by a strong romantic element of the gay kind are encouraged to try this one. Those looking for something truly novel, however, may be disappointed.
Rising From Dust is a high fantasy novel with a strong m/m component, and one that evolves from the very typical tropes of the genre into something rather interesting. It manages to combine romance with epic action even as it falls into some of the more usual pitfalls of the genre.
The worldbuilding, always a very important aspect in fantasy, is competent albeit very traditional. Expect the mandatory medieval setting, complete with strong homophobia that plays a big role given the gay theme, and plenty of magic sprinkled throughout. While the overall background is not particularly original and draws very heavily from earlier entries in the genre, the great detail in depicting this alternate medieval world, down to very accurate vocabulary, lends it a sense of credibility.
The pacing is well accomplished and creates a balance between the bloody battles and the borderline sugary romance between the two leads, Selen and Louis. As a result Lissandro, the third main character, despite his supposedly status as a major player, ends up taking a very secondary role. His part in the quest becomes almost negligible since he is absent from most of it and his exclusion from the romantic element seals the deal. This may well be ratified in future entries to the franchise.
The characters are not precisely multilayered but there is enough to them to avoid two dimensional cliches. It is interesting to note that while Selen is close to girlish in appearance and close to an empath, he is also an accomplished warrior whose prowess in battle is crucial to his character. Louis has plenty going for him as well, being deeply flawed even as he is heroic and justice driven. Once again, Lissandro is not as fully explored but his more realistic bend and mischiveous nature are a good addition to the plot.
Said plot starts out full of mystery and suspense which helps to garner interest before anything major happens. By not shying from even graphic violence, it sets the tone for a very harsh environment and makes the very pure relationship between Louis and Selen shine all the brighter. On the other hand, while the sex scenes are for the most part well placed, the first stages of the relationship are rushed and it eventually reaches levels of cloying sweetness with 'love' every other line, both in reported and direct speech.
By adding homophobia as the ruling social attitude the novel engages with a serious issue and almost overreaches the confines of fantasy proper. It is not just in this particular point that Rising From Dust almost defies the limits of the genre. The way it addresses social issues as a whole and even importantly its engagement in solving societal problems, is very refreshing and one hopes that it will continue to be a main thrust in the franchise.
Unfortunately, the novel does not always rise above the less appealing traits of fantasy. In fact, one of its greatest downfalls of the novel is directly linked with to the genre as a whole. Namely, its typification based on outward appearance. It is possible to identify how evil a character is by how ugly they look and the opposite applies as well, with virtually all beautiful characters being good and kind. It is not so much that ugliness equals evil as the inner evil being displayed outwardly but it still sits very ill in a narrative that aims at realism. More, this direct correspondence is also immediately visible to the characters who seem to know at a first glance just who is traitorous at heart simply based on how they look.
Readers looking for solid fantasy with plenty of adventure, full of harrowing battles, balanced by a strong romantic element of the gay kind are encouraged to try this one. Those looking for something truly novel, however, may be disappointed.
November 9, 2016
4.25 STARS
For a first novel, this is an excellent High Fantasy ( and in a slight way an Urban Fantasy too)
Conceptually excellent, with excellent writing and great MC's.
For a first novel, this is an excellent High Fantasy ( and in a slight way an Urban Fantasy too)
Conceptually excellent, with excellent writing and great MC's.
July 15, 2020
Titel: Rising From Dust
Författare: Martine Carlsson
Sidantal: 449
Handling:
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the frozen mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies. Prepared to meet death… or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing. They are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
Mina tankar:
Detta är författaren Martine Carlssons debutbok, hon har valt att skriva den på engelska. Detta är första boken i en serie, andra delen finns redan och den heter Tears of Winter. Detta är till stora drag en berättelse i den klassiska fantasygenren, men den döljer även lite mer än detta.
Detta är som sagt en klassisk fantasyberättelse i den formen att den utspelar sig i en medeltida värld. Ett krig har brutit ut, det är smutsigt och våldsamt. I handlingen finns det även varelser som orcher och en drake spelar en roll i det hela också. Som man märker många saker som man känner igen, men det finns även saker som bryter det klassiska också.
Martine blandar in en del historiska element, kanske en eller annan överraskning förekommer här utan att avslöja allt för mycket. Så hon mixar lite olika genrestilar på ett bra sätt.
Sedan har hon valt att lägga stor vikt på kärleksrelation och just sexuella läggningen på huvudkaraktärerna. De två personerna som det handlar om mest är homosexuella och i denna värld är det detsamma som en dödsdom om detta kommer ut, kyrkan motsätter sig detta totalt. Hbtq-temat i denna bok är en viktig punkt och det känns att författaren brinner för detta och vill lyfta fram det. Jag tycker att hon får till relationsbiten riktigt bra. Sedan kanske en liten varning för de läsare som inte vill läsa något av det erotiska håller, boken innehåller en del scener av detta.
Handlingen är riktigt spännande och medryckande. Det är en intressant bild av världen som målas upp. Karaktärerna har fått en djup och det är inte alltid så svart och vitt, många har sina egna inre demoner att slåss emot.
En sak jag märkte i boken var att när det hettade till för att bli våldsamt och krigiskt så blev det inte så utdraget som det kan vara i andra böcker, det var inte långa belägringar eller långa scener med personer som slogs med vapen. När det hettade till på detta sätt så blev det rätt så snabbt ett avgörande och någon går ut på den vinnande sidan. Jag var lite delad på detta, först så tänkte jag att det spolades förbi allt för snabbt, att det var lite för enkelt, jag ville ha mera av det innan det tog slut. Men så tänkte jag efter en gång till och funderade på hur en riktigt tvekamp på liv och död skulle vara och kom fram till att den mycket troligen skulle vara över rätt så snabbt, så fort den ene gör ett misstag så är det över då det rör som om dödliga vapen. Så detta var mera realistiskt än vad man kanske är van vid när det kommer till böcker och filmer. Nu är detta min totalt amatörmässiga tankegång med absolut noll erfarenhet av kampsport med vapen.
Då jag inte är så van vid att läsa på engelska kommer jag inte att gå in på om själva språket, då det är svårt för mig att avgöra om det är ett bra språk eller inte. Det är lite mera avancerat än vad jag har läst tidigare, finns en del ord som jag troligen inte hade förstått om jag inte hade haft dem i en mening. Jag förstod handlingen bra, så det var inget problem att hänga med i texten, så är man mera van än vad jag är på att läsa på engelska borde det inte vara några problem alls.
Så om du vill läsa en klassisk fantasy som bjuder på en del överraskningar, samt gillar att den bryter med sitt centrala hbtq-tema. Samt även har intressanta karaktärsportätt så är detta boken för dig. Jag har andra boken i serien och det skall bli spännande att se vart denna serie tar vägen, då jag fått lite hintat att den kanske bryter med genre på ett annat sätt i andra boken.
http://hakanshylla.blogspot.com
Författare: Martine Carlsson
Sidantal: 449
Handling:
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the frozen mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies. Prepared to meet death… or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing. They are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
Mina tankar:
Detta är författaren Martine Carlssons debutbok, hon har valt att skriva den på engelska. Detta är första boken i en serie, andra delen finns redan och den heter Tears of Winter. Detta är till stora drag en berättelse i den klassiska fantasygenren, men den döljer även lite mer än detta.
Detta är som sagt en klassisk fantasyberättelse i den formen att den utspelar sig i en medeltida värld. Ett krig har brutit ut, det är smutsigt och våldsamt. I handlingen finns det även varelser som orcher och en drake spelar en roll i det hela också. Som man märker många saker som man känner igen, men det finns även saker som bryter det klassiska också.
Martine blandar in en del historiska element, kanske en eller annan överraskning förekommer här utan att avslöja allt för mycket. Så hon mixar lite olika genrestilar på ett bra sätt.
Sedan har hon valt att lägga stor vikt på kärleksrelation och just sexuella läggningen på huvudkaraktärerna. De två personerna som det handlar om mest är homosexuella och i denna värld är det detsamma som en dödsdom om detta kommer ut, kyrkan motsätter sig detta totalt. Hbtq-temat i denna bok är en viktig punkt och det känns att författaren brinner för detta och vill lyfta fram det. Jag tycker att hon får till relationsbiten riktigt bra. Sedan kanske en liten varning för de läsare som inte vill läsa något av det erotiska håller, boken innehåller en del scener av detta.
Handlingen är riktigt spännande och medryckande. Det är en intressant bild av världen som målas upp. Karaktärerna har fått en djup och det är inte alltid så svart och vitt, många har sina egna inre demoner att slåss emot.
En sak jag märkte i boken var att när det hettade till för att bli våldsamt och krigiskt så blev det inte så utdraget som det kan vara i andra böcker, det var inte långa belägringar eller långa scener med personer som slogs med vapen. När det hettade till på detta sätt så blev det rätt så snabbt ett avgörande och någon går ut på den vinnande sidan. Jag var lite delad på detta, först så tänkte jag att det spolades förbi allt för snabbt, att det var lite för enkelt, jag ville ha mera av det innan det tog slut. Men så tänkte jag efter en gång till och funderade på hur en riktigt tvekamp på liv och död skulle vara och kom fram till att den mycket troligen skulle vara över rätt så snabbt, så fort den ene gör ett misstag så är det över då det rör som om dödliga vapen. Så detta var mera realistiskt än vad man kanske är van vid när det kommer till böcker och filmer. Nu är detta min totalt amatörmässiga tankegång med absolut noll erfarenhet av kampsport med vapen.
Då jag inte är så van vid att läsa på engelska kommer jag inte att gå in på om själva språket, då det är svårt för mig att avgöra om det är ett bra språk eller inte. Det är lite mera avancerat än vad jag har läst tidigare, finns en del ord som jag troligen inte hade förstått om jag inte hade haft dem i en mening. Jag förstod handlingen bra, så det var inget problem att hänga med i texten, så är man mera van än vad jag är på att läsa på engelska borde det inte vara några problem alls.
Så om du vill läsa en klassisk fantasy som bjuder på en del överraskningar, samt gillar att den bryter med sitt centrala hbtq-tema. Samt även har intressanta karaktärsportätt så är detta boken för dig. Jag har andra boken i serien och det skall bli spännande att se vart denna serie tar vägen, då jag fått lite hintat att den kanske bryter med genre på ett annat sätt i andra boken.
http://hakanshylla.blogspot.com
November 5, 2020
⚠TW: violence, gore, sex, rape, homophobia
A medieval fantasy set in the Kingdom of Trevalden with male to male romance
The book was very spontaneous at first wherein the main character, Selen, woke up in the middle of the woods without knowing why. He decided to go on a journey to find where he truly belongs. He met Louis, an archivist, along the way and their lives have never been the same.
The characters were in some way irritating because they trust strangers too quickly yet some of them manage to pique my interest. Louis was an embodiment of what a leader truly faces. Selen and Lissandro, on the other hand, had good backgrounds as well. Folc demonstrated what people do when they are in danger.
This book somehow broke the stigmas surrounding masculinity. Love has no gender as well as emotions. Men should not be limited to what society dictates them to be and I rarely see that in books. The little hints of magic in the form of dragons and orcs were a nice touch for the story.
💕 Special thanks to @pridebooktours and @martinecarlsson for my review copy. 💕
A medieval fantasy set in the Kingdom of Trevalden with male to male romance
The book was very spontaneous at first wherein the main character, Selen, woke up in the middle of the woods without knowing why. He decided to go on a journey to find where he truly belongs. He met Louis, an archivist, along the way and their lives have never been the same.
The characters were in some way irritating because they trust strangers too quickly yet some of them manage to pique my interest. Louis was an embodiment of what a leader truly faces. Selen and Lissandro, on the other hand, had good backgrounds as well. Folc demonstrated what people do when they are in danger.
This book somehow broke the stigmas surrounding masculinity. Love has no gender as well as emotions. Men should not be limited to what society dictates them to be and I rarely see that in books. The little hints of magic in the form of dragons and orcs were a nice touch for the story.
💕 Special thanks to @pridebooktours and @martinecarlsson for my review copy. 💕
February 4, 2016
SNSBAH Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lillian's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Can your destiny be decided against your will? Three different men are on a quest and they are expected to save as many people as they can from a enemy so evil & cruel.
Selen is a quiet man who has just remembered some of his past, he knows that he is meant for a greater calling but at what cost?
Louis is a born leader who will fight what is right but is he too focused on his role within the army.
Can Selen & Louis maintain their relationship or will their destinies tear them apart?
Lissandro became separated from his new friends, he is hoping to find them again as he has been shown some of his quest and he needs them so that they can work together.
They all meet obstacles in their paths and some of harder than others. I did fear for Louis as he was becoming lost and Selen was just too accepting. How can they fight against beings from fairy tales when they have so little men can they work together and fulfil their quest or will all be lost.
A good story full of fighting, love and just plain survival. To think 3 men from complete backgrounds can make such a difference to other people's lives and great cost to themselves. I am certain that other fantasy lovers will enjoy this first book in the series. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
~~~~~~~~~~Lillian's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Can your destiny be decided against your will? Three different men are on a quest and they are expected to save as many people as they can from a enemy so evil & cruel.
Selen is a quiet man who has just remembered some of his past, he knows that he is meant for a greater calling but at what cost?
Louis is a born leader who will fight what is right but is he too focused on his role within the army.
Can Selen & Louis maintain their relationship or will their destinies tear them apart?
Lissandro became separated from his new friends, he is hoping to find them again as he has been shown some of his quest and he needs them so that they can work together.
They all meet obstacles in their paths and some of harder than others. I did fear for Louis as he was becoming lost and Selen was just too accepting. How can they fight against beings from fairy tales when they have so little men can they work together and fulfil their quest or will all be lost.
A good story full of fighting, love and just plain survival. To think 3 men from complete backgrounds can make such a difference to other people's lives and great cost to themselves. I am certain that other fantasy lovers will enjoy this first book in the series. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
February 14, 2016
C'est un ouvrage surprenant, déroutant, étonnant et, qui sait, qui pourrait devenir détonnant par son sujet.
L'histoire de trois hommes mis en situation particulière arrivant et se rencontrant dans un pays en émoi est captivante , inquiétante et palpitante de bout en bout.
L'écriture anglaise, de bonne facture, par une Française vivant en Suède et ayant fait ses études en Belgique se prête vraiment au rythme du récit," Fantasy " comme disent les Anglo-saxons. Il s'agit en effet d'un roman, d'une histoire avec un petit "h" mais qui rejoint par touches successives et inattendues , l'Histoire avec un grand H. Les clins d'œil parsemés au cours de l'ouvrage ne peuvent échapper aux lecteurs professionnels et amateurs, amoureux de la Muse Clio. La mise en scène, le fantastique et l'étude des caractères des personnages sur fond philosophique de l'intrigue en font un roman distrayant mais aussi perturbant. Il est enfin l'occasion pour les curieux des chemins de traverses d'ouvrir des barrières souvent bien fermées de l'Histoire officielle.
L'histoire de trois hommes mis en situation particulière arrivant et se rencontrant dans un pays en émoi est captivante , inquiétante et palpitante de bout en bout.
L'écriture anglaise, de bonne facture, par une Française vivant en Suède et ayant fait ses études en Belgique se prête vraiment au rythme du récit," Fantasy " comme disent les Anglo-saxons. Il s'agit en effet d'un roman, d'une histoire avec un petit "h" mais qui rejoint par touches successives et inattendues , l'Histoire avec un grand H. Les clins d'œil parsemés au cours de l'ouvrage ne peuvent échapper aux lecteurs professionnels et amateurs, amoureux de la Muse Clio. La mise en scène, le fantastique et l'étude des caractères des personnages sur fond philosophique de l'intrigue en font un roman distrayant mais aussi perturbant. Il est enfin l'occasion pour les curieux des chemins de traverses d'ouvrir des barrières souvent bien fermées de l'Histoire officielle.
February 10, 2016
In Rising From Dust, we get to know 3 different men who are all on the same quest. They get obstacles thrown in their why it seems as soon as the finish with one. Each character is unique and brings his own views into how to handle the situation. You have quiet Selen who is trying to find his calling, born leader Louis who fights for what is right and Lissandro who is lost and needs to find his new companions to finish the quest. This is a fantasy, action, romance that introduces its reader to a new world and 3 men who are trying to save lives no matter what the cost.
Review by Raychel
Review by Raychel
March 13, 2016
Page by page Martine drags you into a new world with all it's love & war. And after the last page you feel like asking when is book nr2 ready? Happy reading, you will be happily surprised :)
November 10, 2020
🌟🌟🌟🌟
.
This book follows our main characters: The easily mistaken but a strong warrior Selen, Confident and an embodiment of a leader Louis, playful yet a thinker Lissandro. It's an Urban High Fantasy set during a medical time in the Kingdom of Trevalden. There are a lot of Triggers in this book, so make sure to keep that in mind before you pick this one up.
.
First, this book had one of my favorite first chapters ever. It grabbed my attention immediately and set the tone of the story overall. It starts with Selen waking up unconscious without his memory. It gave an air of mystery and adventure and I loved that. I really liked the characters introduced in the book (main characters as well as all the side Characters). They gave so much depth to the story and made the personalities shine.
.
Second, if there is one thing I love about any High fantasy, it's the world setting, building and writing. The author managed to capture all of them really well with this plot-line. I loved the medival setting as well as the appropriate dialect/slang used that gave an authenticity to the story and made me realize just how much research would have gone into creating this world. The world building was done well and the personalities of all the characters complimented it really well.
.
Now coming to character arcs and writing style, I think I loved following Selen's journey. With no memory of who he is, his journey to finding himself gave me a sense of satisfaction as things happened. The first half of the book dealt more with the world building, character introduction and a steady pacing, whereas the second half was more into action, things happening, erratic pacing and a lot of interesting choices. The concept wasn't something very new, but the way it was written and explained gave it a new and fresh twist. The chemistry between Selen and Louis felt a little too rushed given the circumstances, but it still was believable and they had good chemistry. With these two taking up most of the attention, I missed having Lissandro and wanted to know more about him and his antics. It doesn't end in a cliffhanger perse, but it gave a lot of questions and left a lot unanswered. The ending was weirdly satisfying to read about and gave a sense of completion.
.
Overall, this book ticked a lot of my favorite things in a High fantasy and a M/M romance and it also made sure to deliver a good story with amazing Characters. Since it's the first book in the series, I'm really looking forward to the next installments so that I can know more about the Characters!
.
Thank you Pride book tours and the author for the review copy!
Kindle/ Review copy/ November 2020
.
This book follows our main characters: The easily mistaken but a strong warrior Selen, Confident and an embodiment of a leader Louis, playful yet a thinker Lissandro. It's an Urban High Fantasy set during a medical time in the Kingdom of Trevalden. There are a lot of Triggers in this book, so make sure to keep that in mind before you pick this one up.
.
First, this book had one of my favorite first chapters ever. It grabbed my attention immediately and set the tone of the story overall. It starts with Selen waking up unconscious without his memory. It gave an air of mystery and adventure and I loved that. I really liked the characters introduced in the book (main characters as well as all the side Characters). They gave so much depth to the story and made the personalities shine.
.
Second, if there is one thing I love about any High fantasy, it's the world setting, building and writing. The author managed to capture all of them really well with this plot-line. I loved the medival setting as well as the appropriate dialect/slang used that gave an authenticity to the story and made me realize just how much research would have gone into creating this world. The world building was done well and the personalities of all the characters complimented it really well.
.
Now coming to character arcs and writing style, I think I loved following Selen's journey. With no memory of who he is, his journey to finding himself gave me a sense of satisfaction as things happened. The first half of the book dealt more with the world building, character introduction and a steady pacing, whereas the second half was more into action, things happening, erratic pacing and a lot of interesting choices. The concept wasn't something very new, but the way it was written and explained gave it a new and fresh twist. The chemistry between Selen and Louis felt a little too rushed given the circumstances, but it still was believable and they had good chemistry. With these two taking up most of the attention, I missed having Lissandro and wanted to know more about him and his antics. It doesn't end in a cliffhanger perse, but it gave a lot of questions and left a lot unanswered. The ending was weirdly satisfying to read about and gave a sense of completion.
.
Overall, this book ticked a lot of my favorite things in a High fantasy and a M/M romance and it also made sure to deliver a good story with amazing Characters. Since it's the first book in the series, I'm really looking forward to the next installments so that I can know more about the Characters!
.
Thank you Pride book tours and the author for the review copy!
Kindle/ Review copy/ November 2020
September 24, 2020
Warning: mentions homophobia, death, rape, R Rated scenes...
🦄🦄🦄
FIGHT FOR JUSTICE. DIE FOR LOVE.
🦄🦄🦄
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the Frozen Mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies, prepared to meet death…or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing, they are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
🦄🦄🦄
Rising From Dust is the first book in the Light From Aphelion series by Martine Carlson and is LGBTQ+ Fantasy with a historical feel to it.
The storyline mixes adventure and mystrey but felt a bit dragged on and the writing was a bit unrefined for me. There were definitely areas where things that did not add value to the book in general could have been eliminated.
The beginning of the book had me very confused because there was som much going on but as we progress the main theme of this book becomes clear and when we get to the what, why and how it's not something that was expected and at first I thought was unusual but it did fit the overall vibe of the book. There re quite a handful of unexpected occurunces that made this a pleasure to read.
I love Selen and Louis (mainly Louis) but I wish I got more of Lilo who's not the main character but an important one. But their relationship, I have to admit I wasn't a fan of how it began but over time I fell in love.
FYI - chapter 4 made me think, "that was quick". 😂
Let's talk about the world the author created, it's nothing new, however the author's take on it and the way it's described does make it sound like a place you'd want to visit even if it's for a day. (P.s. we've got --sorry it's a spoiler--😂)
Overall, it's quite a lengthy read but it's a great beginning and the Review for the sequel will be up soon. 💖
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
FIGHT FOR JUSTICE. DIE FOR LOVE.
🦄🦄🦄
War is raging in the kingdom of Trevalden. Up north in the Frozen Mountains, the amnesic hermit Selen survives as the pariah in his community. Drawn by a mysterious call, he travels to Trevalden and meets Louis, an enigmatic archivist. Together, as Selen remembers his past, they face the desolation of war with a group of misfits. For the sake of the people, they fight back the king’s armies, prepared to meet death…or a new dawn. As Selen and Louis understand that their feelings for each other may be their undoing, they are torn between their emotions and the greater good. But in the end, what is the greater good?
While they try to find their place in an unknown world, they carry a secret that will shatter the society and make them realize that the hardest fights are not against dragons but within oneself.
🦄🦄🦄
Rising From Dust is the first book in the Light From Aphelion series by Martine Carlson and is LGBTQ+ Fantasy with a historical feel to it.
The storyline mixes adventure and mystrey but felt a bit dragged on and the writing was a bit unrefined for me. There were definitely areas where things that did not add value to the book in general could have been eliminated.
The beginning of the book had me very confused because there was som much going on but as we progress the main theme of this book becomes clear and when we get to the what, why and how it's not something that was expected and at first I thought was unusual but it did fit the overall vibe of the book. There re quite a handful of unexpected occurunces that made this a pleasure to read.
I love Selen and Louis (mainly Louis) but I wish I got more of Lilo who's not the main character but an important one. But their relationship, I have to admit I wasn't a fan of how it began but over time I fell in love.
FYI - chapter 4 made me think, "that was quick". 😂
Let's talk about the world the author created, it's nothing new, however the author's take on it and the way it's described does make it sound like a place you'd want to visit even if it's for a day. (P.s. we've got --sorry it's a spoiler--😂)
Overall, it's quite a lengthy read but it's a great beginning and the Review for the sequel will be up soon. 💖
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8/10
Melina L.
August 31, 2019
*I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review*
When strangers Louis, Selen and Lissandro are mysteriously drawn together they find themselves not only fighting for the land that they have been re-born into but also piecing together their former lives. Each is terrified that the tragedies that befell them the first time will repeat themselves once more.
Louis is a heroic warrior who does not hesitate to put his friends’ lives above his own. Driven by his strong ideals and desire to make the world a better place, his determination sometimes prevents him from seeing the truth in how things are vs how he wishes to see it.
Selen, whilst also a warrior, is a gentler character and his sense of compassion is also a positive influence on Louis. He is fiercely loyal to his friends and shares Louis vision for the future of their world.
Selen and Louis are in a relationship which, if discovered, would get them both killed. Their relationship is one of my favourite aspects of the novel. It is beautifully written and you can really feel just how much they care for each other.
Lissandro’s character has a more accepting and practical view of the world that they now live in. His advice and guidance to Louis is more practical and he’s not afraid to speak out if he feels his friend is making a mistake. I feel that perhaps his character was not explored fully in book 1 and look forward to seeing much more of him in book 2.
I absolutely loved this first novel in the Light from Aphelion series. It combines two of my favourite genres; fantasy and history. The immersive world and wonderful main characters draws you in right from the beginning and I just didn’t want to put this book down. I enjoyed slowly uncovering the details of the characters previous lives and how they were linked to world-history. The detail in the battle scenes, whilst quite graphic in places, was brilliantly written and I really could imagine that I was right there along with them.
There is never a dull moment in this novel and there are plenty of twists and turns that I did not see coming. The finale of book 1 is beautiful and couldn’t be more perfect.
I can’t recommend Rising from Dust (Light from Aphelion 1) enough and cannot wait to read book 2 in the series.
When strangers Louis, Selen and Lissandro are mysteriously drawn together they find themselves not only fighting for the land that they have been re-born into but also piecing together their former lives. Each is terrified that the tragedies that befell them the first time will repeat themselves once more.
Louis is a heroic warrior who does not hesitate to put his friends’ lives above his own. Driven by his strong ideals and desire to make the world a better place, his determination sometimes prevents him from seeing the truth in how things are vs how he wishes to see it.
Selen, whilst also a warrior, is a gentler character and his sense of compassion is also a positive influence on Louis. He is fiercely loyal to his friends and shares Louis vision for the future of their world.
Selen and Louis are in a relationship which, if discovered, would get them both killed. Their relationship is one of my favourite aspects of the novel. It is beautifully written and you can really feel just how much they care for each other.
Lissandro’s character has a more accepting and practical view of the world that they now live in. His advice and guidance to Louis is more practical and he’s not afraid to speak out if he feels his friend is making a mistake. I feel that perhaps his character was not explored fully in book 1 and look forward to seeing much more of him in book 2.
I absolutely loved this first novel in the Light from Aphelion series. It combines two of my favourite genres; fantasy and history. The immersive world and wonderful main characters draws you in right from the beginning and I just didn’t want to put this book down. I enjoyed slowly uncovering the details of the characters previous lives and how they were linked to world-history. The detail in the battle scenes, whilst quite graphic in places, was brilliantly written and I really could imagine that I was right there along with them.
There is never a dull moment in this novel and there are plenty of twists and turns that I did not see coming. The finale of book 1 is beautiful and couldn’t be more perfect.
I can’t recommend Rising from Dust (Light from Aphelion 1) enough and cannot wait to read book 2 in the series.
November 6, 2019
Personally, I love it when writers dare to think outside the box and not just stick to the recipe for a specific genre. When you dare to mix and explore. In Rising from dust Martine Carlsson shows us that she masters this flawlessly, blending fantasy, romance, history and idea history in the same book. Not only does she manage to make it work, but to make the story better, precisely because of the genre mix.
As a reader you soon notice that the fantasy world in which the story takes place, is built up through solid knowledge of both history and philosophy. The author is also experimenting and letting a real, historical person take the lead role in this alternative reality.
The book begins with a young man, Selen, waking up alone and naked in the woods, without remembering anything from his past life. In time he manages to get a decent, albeit very lonely existence, in a cottage outside a small village. Then suddenly one day, after almost four years, he begins to feel a very strong urge to travel south, towards the war-torn area that everyone else is fleeing from.
On his way he meets Louis, who turns out to have had the same experience as himself. The two young men find an immediate attraction to each other, both mentally and physically.
Together they continue south to seek out the resistance army formed in the hope of once again setting the country free of the tyrant usurper who is holding it.
The characters that Carlsson paints are genuine, heartfelt and well-rounded. For example, Louis, the political idealist executing bone hard reprimands on insolent subordinates, who only dares to show his soft and caring sides when he is alone with his lover. Or Selen, the gentle, conciliatory mediator, who at the same time does not hesitate to kill his opponents.
One of the things that really makes the book stand out from the noise is that, unlike many others (especially fantasy stories), it does not end immediately after the last battle, but instead takes new momentum in the depiction of the structure of the new society.
As a reader you soon notice that the fantasy world in which the story takes place, is built up through solid knowledge of both history and philosophy. The author is also experimenting and letting a real, historical person take the lead role in this alternative reality.
The book begins with a young man, Selen, waking up alone and naked in the woods, without remembering anything from his past life. In time he manages to get a decent, albeit very lonely existence, in a cottage outside a small village. Then suddenly one day, after almost four years, he begins to feel a very strong urge to travel south, towards the war-torn area that everyone else is fleeing from.
On his way he meets Louis, who turns out to have had the same experience as himself. The two young men find an immediate attraction to each other, both mentally and physically.
Together they continue south to seek out the resistance army formed in the hope of once again setting the country free of the tyrant usurper who is holding it.
The characters that Carlsson paints are genuine, heartfelt and well-rounded. For example, Louis, the political idealist executing bone hard reprimands on insolent subordinates, who only dares to show his soft and caring sides when he is alone with his lover. Or Selen, the gentle, conciliatory mediator, who at the same time does not hesitate to kill his opponents.
One of the things that really makes the book stand out from the noise is that, unlike many others (especially fantasy stories), it does not end immediately after the last battle, but instead takes new momentum in the depiction of the structure of the new society.
March 9, 2020
Author: Martine Carlsson
Title: Rising From Dust
Series: Light From Aphelion #1
Publisher: Self published
Published: 2016
Genre: Fantasy
I was given a complimentary copy of Rising From Dust by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To start, this book is self-published. It's pretty and easy to read and the story moves you forward in rapid succession. It gets you interested from the very start, wondering where this is heading, since the characters can't remember anything from their pasts and we get glimpses of the world. It's also quite the classic high fantasy, with the world building, the story, the characters. But for the fact of Selen and Louis's blossoming relationship. Lissandro isn't as closely described and we don't get to know him quite as well as the other two mains. I'm hoping he gets a bit more screen time, so to speak, in the coming books. Anyway, I liked the relationship, though, it was written beautifully, even though it went quite fast in the beginning, considering the small fact that it might get them killed.
Another thing I liked about this book was how we got to know the characters bit by bit, not only in present time, but also their pasts. Carlsson has made them their own persons, which I appreciate. Sure, they're not the deepest kinds of portraits, but I've got enough of them to fell compassion and making me root for them. The story goes from brutal fighting to sweet love and it's done quite nicely.
Even though this fantasy takes on subjects like homophobia, alienation and social issues in general, it is pretty basic. It has all the elements of a fantasy, like I said earlier. You can kind of guess what's going to happen and even though I liked the mysteries of the world and their lives, there weren't any huge surprises. But all this shows is that the author is an avid fantasy reader and knows how a fantasy world is supposed to be. It is an easy read, though the way it's written, the language can make it less... flowy. For the lack of better words. It could use another read-through, to better the flow of the conversations and interactions. The environmental descriptions are definitely better paced.
This book is for the ones who likes high fantasy with all its intrigues, twists and turns, blossoming relationships and fighting for what is right and good and what you believe in.
3 of 5
View the review on my blog
/ Denise
Title: Rising From Dust
Series: Light From Aphelion #1
Publisher: Self published
Published: 2016
Genre: Fantasy
I was given a complimentary copy of Rising From Dust by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To start, this book is self-published. It's pretty and easy to read and the story moves you forward in rapid succession. It gets you interested from the very start, wondering where this is heading, since the characters can't remember anything from their pasts and we get glimpses of the world. It's also quite the classic high fantasy, with the world building, the story, the characters. But for the fact of Selen and Louis's blossoming relationship. Lissandro isn't as closely described and we don't get to know him quite as well as the other two mains. I'm hoping he gets a bit more screen time, so to speak, in the coming books. Anyway, I liked the relationship, though, it was written beautifully, even though it went quite fast in the beginning, considering the small fact that it might get them killed.
Another thing I liked about this book was how we got to know the characters bit by bit, not only in present time, but also their pasts. Carlsson has made them their own persons, which I appreciate. Sure, they're not the deepest kinds of portraits, but I've got enough of them to fell compassion and making me root for them. The story goes from brutal fighting to sweet love and it's done quite nicely.
Even though this fantasy takes on subjects like homophobia, alienation and social issues in general, it is pretty basic. It has all the elements of a fantasy, like I said earlier. You can kind of guess what's going to happen and even though I liked the mysteries of the world and their lives, there weren't any huge surprises. But all this shows is that the author is an avid fantasy reader and knows how a fantasy world is supposed to be. It is an easy read, though the way it's written, the language can make it less... flowy. For the lack of better words. It could use another read-through, to better the flow of the conversations and interactions. The environmental descriptions are definitely better paced.
This book is for the ones who likes high fantasy with all its intrigues, twists and turns, blossoming relationships and fighting for what is right and good and what you believe in.
3 of 5
View the review on my blog
/ Denise
September 12, 2020
Louis is my favorite character because he does his best in any given situation, although he isn't perfect as no human being is. I love his irritability and impatience and his sense of rightness. I identified myself with him a lot. I love how he gets guided or calmed down by Selen's wisdom when things make him boil.
All characters become my favorite characters for a moment during the story. They all overcome their weaknesses, turning them into strengths in an altruistic way. They fight for truth and justice.
There are many passages in this book that can be applied to our own lives. Nothing is perfect, clean, or easy.
We come across pure honesty and authenticity through the characters.
Selen and Louis' relationship brought me back to great memories of my favorite yaoi characters and book series, where they love and respect each other.
The author has a good grasp of pace and progression. She invites us to learn more about the characters and join their journey keeping it simple and adding more information and more fantasy elements. We want to know their origin and purpose since the start. How they'll defeat the army of orcs or the dragon. Or how they'll keep their relationships. I don't mind that the fantasy elements serve to create a mood for their story. I swear that sometimes the author made me feel like I could smell the sweat, and the leather, and the camps, or feel the wine soaking the documents on the table... I thought I was there most of the time.
Dragon and orcs apart, it's not a predictable book at all. There are many elements at the end that surprise us.
All characters become my favorite characters for a moment during the story. They all overcome their weaknesses, turning them into strengths in an altruistic way. They fight for truth and justice.
There are many passages in this book that can be applied to our own lives. Nothing is perfect, clean, or easy.
We come across pure honesty and authenticity through the characters.
Selen and Louis' relationship brought me back to great memories of my favorite yaoi characters and book series, where they love and respect each other.
The author has a good grasp of pace and progression. She invites us to learn more about the characters and join their journey keeping it simple and adding more information and more fantasy elements. We want to know their origin and purpose since the start. How they'll defeat the army of orcs or the dragon. Or how they'll keep their relationships. I don't mind that the fantasy elements serve to create a mood for their story. I swear that sometimes the author made me feel like I could smell the sweat, and the leather, and the camps, or feel the wine soaking the documents on the table... I thought I was there most of the time.
Dragon and orcs apart, it's not a predictable book at all. There are many elements at the end that surprise us.
June 2, 2017
Books 1&2 were provided free from the author in return for an honest review (via Goodreads Don’t Buy My Love program). The following contains a general review for both books.
It’s been a long time since I read an epic fantasy of such length. Book one - Rising from Dust is listed at almost 550 pages, while Book 2 - Tears of Winter is listed at about 475 pages. The length was daunting, but I persevered, sometimes feeling like I was plodding through a outline. (I will also say that the writing improved dramatically towards the end of book 2.)
Rising from Dust, in general, is the story of three gay men from our modern world, but different time periods who, upon their death, are sucked out of our dimension and into the land of Trevalen. Here, with amnesia, they establish new lives for four years until a “pull” draws them together. So, kinda cool premise, right? The story, however, runs ramshod over “time” with a host of characters and choppy dialogue.
Oh, there are glimpses of perfection in descriptions and interactions, but in both books this doesn’t happen until near the end. There are questions pervading the storyline that are never answered and some question never asked by the characters. One isn’t even questioned until the last 30 pages of book two, while I’d been asking myself HOW?? for the entirety of it.
When the main characters retrieve their memories, we learn quite a lot about who Louis was in our dimension, but Selen and Lissandro not so much. Louis is headstrong, leading the way, just as he did in his prior life. Selen, though a royal guard, is relinquished to a more feminine role, and making Lissandro a vampire? Nope, lost me on that one. The variety of truthful history mixed with the paranormal sort of ruined the effect that the author added factual truth.
In one respect, I’ll be talking about these books for a while, because again, the premise was amazing. Pulling three characters through time/space into a new world where they have to defeat evil (book 1) and find a cure for a mysterious plague (book 2)… Unfortunately, I’ll also be talking about how they could have been better.
It’s been a long time since I read an epic fantasy of such length. Book one - Rising from Dust is listed at almost 550 pages, while Book 2 - Tears of Winter is listed at about 475 pages. The length was daunting, but I persevered, sometimes feeling like I was plodding through a outline. (I will also say that the writing improved dramatically towards the end of book 2.)
Rising from Dust, in general, is the story of three gay men from our modern world, but different time periods who, upon their death, are sucked out of our dimension and into the land of Trevalen. Here, with amnesia, they establish new lives for four years until a “pull” draws them together. So, kinda cool premise, right? The story, however, runs ramshod over “time” with a host of characters and choppy dialogue.
Oh, there are glimpses of perfection in descriptions and interactions, but in both books this doesn’t happen until near the end. There are questions pervading the storyline that are never answered and some question never asked by the characters. One isn’t even questioned until the last 30 pages of book two, while I’d been asking myself HOW?? for the entirety of it.
When the main characters retrieve their memories, we learn quite a lot about who Louis was in our dimension, but Selen and Lissandro not so much. Louis is headstrong, leading the way, just as he did in his prior life. Selen, though a royal guard, is relinquished to a more feminine role, and making Lissandro a vampire? Nope, lost me on that one. The variety of truthful history mixed with the paranormal sort of ruined the effect that the author added factual truth.
In one respect, I’ll be talking about these books for a while, because again, the premise was amazing. Pulling three characters through time/space into a new world where they have to defeat evil (book 1) and find a cure for a mysterious plague (book 2)… Unfortunately, I’ll also be talking about how they could have been better.
November 19, 2022
(3.25/5 stars)
For more of my reviews, I'm on Instagram!
This book was a mixed bag, though overall mostly positive. I've said before, some people squirm at a 3-star rating, but it doesn't mean the book was bad.
There's more telling than there needs to be, which, as usual, also caused some repetition and face-value sentences. Plenty of conflicts, though most minor, are brought up and swiftly resolved like this. It leads to a lack of tension in a fantasy adventure, but this tension did increase as the book continued. Overall, the writing improved as well. I don't believe English is Carlsson's first language, so this is even more impressive.
There are also some typos, and sentence fragments, probably due in part to how Carlsson seems to favor very short sentences.
Finally, there are the stereotypes that one often sees in M/M romances. Boy that gets mistaken for girl. Rape. Fatphobia. Some of it is my personal distaste, though, and I can see why Carlsson chose to have some of it in her novel.
Despite some of these setbacks, the writing is not amateurish and the world-building has unique aspects and some fitting twists, so there's a lot of potential here. While sometimes awkward, most of the dialogue choices fit the time period and add to the immersion. Some character interactions feel forced, especially in the first half, however environment description is where Carlsson consistently shines. It took a while, but the characters have grown on me. I have little doubts about continuing.
For more of my reviews, I'm on Instagram!
This book was a mixed bag, though overall mostly positive. I've said before, some people squirm at a 3-star rating, but it doesn't mean the book was bad.
There's more telling than there needs to be, which, as usual, also caused some repetition and face-value sentences. Plenty of conflicts, though most minor, are brought up and swiftly resolved like this. It leads to a lack of tension in a fantasy adventure, but this tension did increase as the book continued. Overall, the writing improved as well. I don't believe English is Carlsson's first language, so this is even more impressive.
There are also some typos, and sentence fragments, probably due in part to how Carlsson seems to favor very short sentences.
Finally, there are the stereotypes that one often sees in M/M romances. Boy that gets mistaken for girl. Rape. Fatphobia. Some of it is my personal distaste, though, and I can see why Carlsson chose to have some of it in her novel.
Despite some of these setbacks, the writing is not amateurish and the world-building has unique aspects and some fitting twists, so there's a lot of potential here. While sometimes awkward, most of the dialogue choices fit the time period and add to the immersion. Some character interactions feel forced, especially in the first half, however environment description is where Carlsson consistently shines. It took a while, but the characters have grown on me. I have little doubts about continuing.
December 5, 2020
This book lacks nothing. Detail, grit, emotion... It has it.
The relationship between Selen and Louis progressed and developed, blossoming from lust to a need for acceptance to something truly beautiful.
And yet, this isn't a sappy romance. It has action, blood, and gore when called for. And it certainly calls for it. The fate of their entire kingdom hangs in the balance, caught between visceral evil and virtue.
Between the very steamy sex scenes and the depictions of violence, this book is definitely meant for mature audiences. But it delivers.
Now, there were a few points where I could've done with a little less description of scenery or clothing, but that's just me. I like to have a lot of details left out so my imagination can fill things in.
But this is historical fantasy.
Detail is kinda the name of the game.
And it was executed well and factually. The author gives a thorough and well-researched depiction of what a medieval setting would actually look (and smell) like, not a romanticized, let's ignore the lack of plumbing or basic personal hygiene type of depiction. That last bit actually becomes a running joke between a couple characters, and I absolutely loved that touch of humor.
There was a bit of an unexpected intervention at the end. It was built up to, but there was enough mystery surrounding it that I did not see it coming.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to the rest of the series.
The relationship between Selen and Louis progressed and developed, blossoming from lust to a need for acceptance to something truly beautiful.
And yet, this isn't a sappy romance. It has action, blood, and gore when called for. And it certainly calls for it. The fate of their entire kingdom hangs in the balance, caught between visceral evil and virtue.
Between the very steamy sex scenes and the depictions of violence, this book is definitely meant for mature audiences. But it delivers.
Now, there were a few points where I could've done with a little less description of scenery or clothing, but that's just me. I like to have a lot of details left out so my imagination can fill things in.
But this is historical fantasy.
Detail is kinda the name of the game.
And it was executed well and factually. The author gives a thorough and well-researched depiction of what a medieval setting would actually look (and smell) like, not a romanticized, let's ignore the lack of plumbing or basic personal hygiene type of depiction. That last bit actually becomes a running joke between a couple characters, and I absolutely loved that touch of humor.
There was a bit of an unexpected intervention at the end. It was built up to, but there was enough mystery surrounding it that I did not see it coming.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to the rest of the series.
November 14, 2020
It was one of my resolution for this year to explore more genres especially LGBT and Contemporary so when I came across the tour sign up form for this book, I knew I had to get my hands on it!
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book, the setting and especially the characters were so well portrayed! And what can I say about the romance aspect of this book, it was so damn GOOD!
I’m a freak for monarch and friends to lovers trope and this book definitely accomplished in delivering that kind of magical and full of adventure plot, I’ve become a fan of the author’s simple yet elegant writing style. I’m definitely going to continue with this series (yes, it’s a series!) as I’m way too curious about the fate of all the characters.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book but I won’t recommend it to the young readers as it contains extremely explicit content but if you’re used to reading dark and explicit content then trust me, this book won’t disappoint you!
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book, the setting and especially the characters were so well portrayed! And what can I say about the romance aspect of this book, it was so damn GOOD!
I’m a freak for monarch and friends to lovers trope and this book definitely accomplished in delivering that kind of magical and full of adventure plot, I’ve become a fan of the author’s simple yet elegant writing style. I’m definitely going to continue with this series (yes, it’s a series!) as I’m way too curious about the fate of all the characters.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book but I won’t recommend it to the young readers as it contains extremely explicit content but if you’re used to reading dark and explicit content then trust me, this book won’t disappoint you!
October 17, 2020
A story of romance, adventure and a kingdom at war against terrifying fantasy creatures from Hell! This book kept me hooked from the first page. By far, one of the best fantasy books I have read in a long time. It didn’t read like fantasy at first. I was enjoying the story & suddenly, when the 3 MCs came together, I was thrilled to realise that the fantasy element had been there all along, right from the start but I never even noticed it. Carlsson creates a world that seems so close to our own and yet so different that you can’t help getting drawn into it. Selen, Louis & Lissandro are suffering from amnesia. Four years ago, they awoke in different corners of the kingdom of Trevalden unable to recall their past lives, except their names and skills. Agroln has unleashed an army of Orcs, coupled with a fire-breathing dragon, upon his own people in an attempt to gain control after the death of the King. Carnage prevails in the south of the Trevalden. Louis rides out of the Iron Marches in the hope of fighting for justice. Selen is drawn from the Frozen mountains in the North by a mysterious fire in his heart. Lissandro leaves his dear fishing boat in the Windy Isles to find answers to the visions that trouble him every night. Their paths converge in a strange little tavern that seems to herald their new destiny. They set out together to fight for justice or die for love.
November 1, 2017
I found the short narrative very refreshing for the genre. The story flows very quickly but evenly from one character to the other, but only when the plot demands it.
Related historic significance makes this an interesting novel to also read up on your history books.
The book can be read with widespread intervals, retaining details of important events without unnessescary repetition. I am looking forward to Tears of Winter.
Related historic significance makes this an interesting novel to also read up on your history books.
The book can be read with widespread intervals, retaining details of important events without unnessescary repetition. I am looking forward to Tears of Winter.
February 1, 2022
Louis is my favorite character because he does his best in any given situation, although he isn't perfect as no human being is. I love his irritability and impatience and his sense of rightness. I identified myself with him a lot. I love how he gets guided or calmed down by Selen's wisdom when things make him boil.
All characters become my favorite characters for a moment during the story. They all overcome their weaknesses, turning them into strengths in an altruistic way. They fight for truth and justice.
There are many passages in this book that can be applied to our own lives. Nothing is perfect, clean, or easy.
We come across pure honesty and authenticity through the characters.
Selen and Louis' relationship brought me back to great memories of my favorite yaoi characters and book series, where they love and respect each other.
The author has a good grasp of pace and progression. She invites us to learn more about the characters and join their journey keeping it simple and adding more information and more fantasy elements. We want to know their origin and purpose since the start. How they'll defeat the army of orcs or the dragon. Or how they'll keep their relationships. I don't mind that the fantasy elements serve to create a mood for their story. I swear that sometimes the author made me feel like I could smell the sweat, and the leather, and the camps, or feel the wine soaking the documents on the table... I thought I was there most of the time.
Dragon and orcs apart, it's not a predictable book at all. There are many elements at the end that surprise us.
All characters become my favorite characters for a moment during the story. They all overcome their weaknesses, turning them into strengths in an altruistic way. They fight for truth and justice.
There are many passages in this book that can be applied to our own lives. Nothing is perfect, clean, or easy.
We come across pure honesty and authenticity through the characters.
Selen and Louis' relationship brought me back to great memories of my favorite yaoi characters and book series, where they love and respect each other.
The author has a good grasp of pace and progression. She invites us to learn more about the characters and join their journey keeping it simple and adding more information and more fantasy elements. We want to know their origin and purpose since the start. How they'll defeat the army of orcs or the dragon. Or how they'll keep their relationships. I don't mind that the fantasy elements serve to create a mood for their story. I swear that sometimes the author made me feel like I could smell the sweat, and the leather, and the camps, or feel the wine soaking the documents on the table... I thought I was there most of the time.
Dragon and orcs apart, it's not a predictable book at all. There are many elements at the end that surprise us.
February 16, 2017
Great fantasy... With a sweet romance subplot.
I was skeptical in the first 10 to 14? 18 the most percent of the book.
But it turned out to be good...
You can not, not love Louis and Selen...
I was skeptical in the first 10 to 14? 18 the most percent of the book.
But it turned out to be good...
You can not, not love Louis and Selen...
May 22, 2016
Voici un livre particulièrement passionnant. L'histoire est à la fois fantastique mais pas seulement. La trame passe aussi par l'histoire avec un grand H, accompagnée d'une démarche philosophique. Le choix des trois personnages principaux est inhabituel et il n'est pas anodin. Celui-ci permet une approche inédite que l'on pourrait mettre en corrélation avec le contexte actuel. Comme le film "La vie d'Adèle" avait traité d'une relation amoureuse, ce roman, sous son angle différent, pourrait aussi faire l'objet d'une réalisation cinématographique. Au final, de belles analyses psychologiques qui pourraient nourrir des débats.
February 4, 2016
Great 1st book in the series. 3 different men have all been sent on a quest without knowing the reason. Can they find what they are meant to? Fantasy lovers will enjoy this book. Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
This is a fantasy, action, romance that introduces its reader to a new world and 3 men who are trying to save lives no matter what the cost.
ARC provided for honest review for United Indie Book Blog
ARC provided for honest review for United Indie Book Blog
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews