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The Chronicles of the Black Gate: Books 1-3
This omnibus edition contains the first three parts of the series, and is over 1500 pages of epic heroic fantasy. Includes bonus prequel: Escape from Bythos.
When his hated liege lord dies in battle against invading heretics, Asho thinks his dream of becoming a knight has become a possiblity. However, with war engulfing the empire and old enemies seeking the destruction of his new Lady, Asho soon realizes that he may have to sacrifice everything - even his dreams of valor and honor - if they are to survive.
Driven into exile and hunted by countless foes both mundane and demonic, Asho must rely on his burgeoning power and the unlikeliest of allies if he is to survive - and decide if he wishes to save the empire from the ancient secrets that are tearing it apart, or bend his will to destroying it.
The Path of Flames (Book 1)
A war fueled by the dark powers of forbidden sorcery is about to engulf the Ascendant Empire. Agerastian heretics, armed with black fire and fueled by bitter hatred, seek to sever the ancient portals that unite the empire - and in so doing destroy it.
Asho--a squire with a reviled past--sees his liege, the Lady Kyferin, and her meager forces banished to an infamous ruin. Beset by tragedy and betrayal, demons and an approaching army, the fate of the Kyferins hangs by the slenderest of threads. Asho realizes that their sole hope of survival may lie hidden within the depths of his scarred soul--a secret that could reverse their fortunes and reveal the truth behind the war that wracks their empire.
The Black Shriving (Book 2)
After a harrowing battle Lady Kyferin and her stalwart followers have earned themselves a brief respite from Lord Laur's fury. They know, however, that the next assault will be impossible to resist. Their sole hope of survival lies in forging an alliance with the only force capable of resisting the empire's might: the Agerastian heretics themselves.
The Siege of Abythos (Book 3)
Lady Iskra and her followers have survived the onslaught of demons, forged powerful alliances, and are finally ready to wreck righteous vengeance on their enemies. Yet even as they begin their endgame, a new danger arises that threatens to annihilate everything in its path, heretic or no: Tharok, the greatest peril to humanity since Ogri the Destroyer.
When his hated liege lord dies in battle against invading heretics, Asho thinks his dream of becoming a knight has become a possiblity. However, with war engulfing the empire and old enemies seeking the destruction of his new Lady, Asho soon realizes that he may have to sacrifice everything - even his dreams of valor and honor - if they are to survive.
Driven into exile and hunted by countless foes both mundane and demonic, Asho must rely on his burgeoning power and the unlikeliest of allies if he is to survive - and decide if he wishes to save the empire from the ancient secrets that are tearing it apart, or bend his will to destroying it.
The Path of Flames (Book 1)
A war fueled by the dark powers of forbidden sorcery is about to engulf the Ascendant Empire. Agerastian heretics, armed with black fire and fueled by bitter hatred, seek to sever the ancient portals that unite the empire - and in so doing destroy it.
Asho--a squire with a reviled past--sees his liege, the Lady Kyferin, and her meager forces banished to an infamous ruin. Beset by tragedy and betrayal, demons and an approaching army, the fate of the Kyferins hangs by the slenderest of threads. Asho realizes that their sole hope of survival may lie hidden within the depths of his scarred soul--a secret that could reverse their fortunes and reveal the truth behind the war that wracks their empire.
The Black Shriving (Book 2)
After a harrowing battle Lady Kyferin and her stalwart followers have earned themselves a brief respite from Lord Laur's fury. They know, however, that the next assault will be impossible to resist. Their sole hope of survival lies in forging an alliance with the only force capable of resisting the empire's might: the Agerastian heretics themselves.
The Siege of Abythos (Book 3)
Lady Iskra and her followers have survived the onslaught of demons, forged powerful alliances, and are finally ready to wreck righteous vengeance on their enemies. Yet even as they begin their endgame, a new danger arises that threatens to annihilate everything in its path, heretic or no: Tharok, the greatest peril to humanity since Ogri the Destroyer.
- GenresFantasyEpic Fantasy
1422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2017
560 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Phil Tucker
49 books1,310 followersThanks for visiting my page! I'm Phil Tucker, a Brazilian/Brit who currently resides in Asheville, NC, where I resist the siren call of the forests and mountains to sit inside and hammer away on my laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 1, 2018
A unique world of adventure
I loved these books and the world described in them. From start to finish the story is beautifully described and you lose yourself in this action packed adventure.. If you loved Elizabeth Moon's "the deeds of panksinarion" ,you will love these books.
I am eager to read the next book.😀
I loved these books and the world described in them. From start to finish the story is beautifully described and you lose yourself in this action packed adventure.. If you loved Elizabeth Moon's "the deeds of panksinarion" ,you will love these books.
I am eager to read the next book.😀
August 19, 2018
Excellent series. Took a lot of well-used tropes and turned them into something intriguing, unique, and massive in scale.
I was worried at the end of book one that the protagonists had become too powerful, too predictable, and that the storyline was traveling a still fun but well worn path. Book two made me wonder, and book three really turned that on its head.
Really well worth a read. The writing gets better and better, the characters grow and the world becomes so much more engaging as you go along.
I was worried at the end of book one that the protagonists had become too powerful, too predictable, and that the storyline was traveling a still fun but well worn path. Book two made me wonder, and book three really turned that on its head.
Really well worth a read. The writing gets better and better, the characters grow and the world becomes so much more engaging as you go along.
October 14, 2018
Finally a series worth reading!!!
Phil Tucker, you sucked me into your world, one I haven't seen before, instantly!!! I love your writing style, the non-stop action, the attention you gave to develop each of your characters, just can't express how much I appreciate reading such a well developed series with new twists that make it rise above the same old, same old!!! Off to read the next book :) Please keep writing! It's getting harder to find books like yours! Lately all I find is authors focused on quantity, not quality! A great book is worth waiting for!!!
Phil Tucker, you sucked me into your world, one I haven't seen before, instantly!!! I love your writing style, the non-stop action, the attention you gave to develop each of your characters, just can't express how much I appreciate reading such a well developed series with new twists that make it rise above the same old, same old!!! Off to read the next book :) Please keep writing! It's getting harder to find books like yours! Lately all I find is authors focused on quantity, not quality! A great book is worth waiting for!!!
August 3, 2018
Huge thanks to Michael J. Sullivan for recommendation to Phil Tucker's book sale in his newsletter. If I remember correctly, it was something about indie authors... But this? This was totally unexpected, whole series is more then one star above all 5 stars I red this year. I almost feel ashamed to spent only 2 bucks for 1500 pages of great story. At least it wast fastest buy ever when I found out there are more books in the series! Hurray.
Anyway, this is the time I regret my luck of skill in written English. I would like to write a book about how this book was great, how I love the characters, narative, angles of view, everything. So stop reading rewies and buy first 3 books bundle now, its only $ 1.2 and worth at least 20 times more. And start reading of course.
Anyway, this is the time I regret my luck of skill in written English. I would like to write a book about how this book was great, how I love the characters, narative, angles of view, everything. So stop reading rewies and buy first 3 books bundle now, its only $ 1.2 and worth at least 20 times more. And start reading of course.
July 28, 2019
Book 1: The Path of Flames
My review of this book is in the standalone novel The Path of Flames .
Book 2: The Black Shriving
The story is told through six POVs. The POVs are Audsley (a scholar/sorcerer), Iskra (widow of Lord Kyferin of Ennoia), Tiron (a sworn sword to Lady Iskra), Asho (Bythian knight and Sin Caster or Flame Walker), Tharok (highland kragh warlord), Kethe (Alabaster and Lady Iskra's daughter). There are four storylines for most of the book.
Worldbuilding and magic systems grow and expand. There's a lot of creativity and action in the various storylines, seemingly more than in the first book of the series. Admittedly there are more than a few deus ex machina occurrences so the magic didn't feel quite as organic as it could have been. Nevertheless the plot inexorably advances and it is an entertaining story.
Book 3: The Siege of Abythos
In some ways this is a transitional book in the series. Many of the main characters are travelling, being moved into position for the next arc and accumulating powers, magical and otherwise. The opening salvos of war appear; death coming for combatants and innocents alike. Characters battle their inner demons (figuratively and literally) and adapt to rapidly evolving conditions. The editing is less thorough than in previous novels - more errors in the text. Still, it's an exciting and imaginative story, addicting even. The last few chapters are all "WOWs"! The books in this series just keep getting better.
My review of this book is in the standalone novel The Path of Flames .
Book 2: The Black Shriving
The story is told through six POVs. The POVs are Audsley (a scholar/sorcerer), Iskra (widow of Lord Kyferin of Ennoia), Tiron (a sworn sword to Lady Iskra), Asho (Bythian knight and Sin Caster or Flame Walker), Tharok (highland kragh warlord), Kethe (Alabaster and Lady Iskra's daughter). There are four storylines for most of the book.
Worldbuilding and magic systems grow and expand. There's a lot of creativity and action in the various storylines, seemingly more than in the first book of the series. Admittedly there are more than a few deus ex machina occurrences so the magic didn't feel quite as organic as it could have been. Nevertheless the plot inexorably advances and it is an entertaining story.
Book 3: The Siege of Abythos
In some ways this is a transitional book in the series. Many of the main characters are travelling, being moved into position for the next arc and accumulating powers, magical and otherwise. The opening salvos of war appear; death coming for combatants and innocents alike. Characters battle their inner demons (figuratively and literally) and adapt to rapidly evolving conditions. The editing is less thorough than in previous novels - more errors in the text. Still, it's an exciting and imaginative story, addicting even. The last few chapters are all "WOWs"! The books in this series just keep getting better.
December 6, 2018
Just excellent!
What an unexpected journey! For the last week, my nights have been filled with Kraghs, Sin Casters, Virtues, and much more! I eagerly awaited what Iskra would do next and wondered if old knights ever gained back their honor. Alas, I have to wait a little longer in finding out the answers to some of my questions. But, there's almost a relief, as these novels are non-stop action and emotion and I need time to catch my breath!
The writing is high caliber and there's not an overzealous attempt to solidify a standing as a "real author". The proof is in the world building; the different regions are just distinct enough to be a proper melting pot with ideals and religion flowing through. The magic system is well constructed and neither too much nor too little for the relative density of the population. There's exotic fauna that fit appropriately and have relevance to both the structure of the interior and outlying areas.
There's quite a bit of "Gray" characters with intent being the only, apparent, distinction between some. Can one be truly good powered by truly evil? My favorite character, Audsley, may answer that very question.
In all, it's a solid 4.8 stars, but I rounded up for the sheer exhaustion-the good kind- I've been feeling while trying to get in an extra word before my eyes and brain abandon me for sleep. I'm excited to read book 4 and would HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who loves an epic tale of love, honor, and fighting the system. I believe it to be appropriate reading for many ages, though it's not a young adult book.
What an unexpected journey! For the last week, my nights have been filled with Kraghs, Sin Casters, Virtues, and much more! I eagerly awaited what Iskra would do next and wondered if old knights ever gained back their honor. Alas, I have to wait a little longer in finding out the answers to some of my questions. But, there's almost a relief, as these novels are non-stop action and emotion and I need time to catch my breath!
The writing is high caliber and there's not an overzealous attempt to solidify a standing as a "real author". The proof is in the world building; the different regions are just distinct enough to be a proper melting pot with ideals and religion flowing through. The magic system is well constructed and neither too much nor too little for the relative density of the population. There's exotic fauna that fit appropriately and have relevance to both the structure of the interior and outlying areas.
There's quite a bit of "Gray" characters with intent being the only, apparent, distinction between some. Can one be truly good powered by truly evil? My favorite character, Audsley, may answer that very question.
In all, it's a solid 4.8 stars, but I rounded up for the sheer exhaustion-the good kind- I've been feeling while trying to get in an extra word before my eyes and brain abandon me for sleep. I'm excited to read book 4 and would HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who loves an epic tale of love, honor, and fighting the system. I believe it to be appropriate reading for many ages, though it's not a young adult book.
June 20, 2019
Started out good
I felt like this book started out good. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. But by the time I was halfway through the second book, I was mostly skimming. The book would benefit from an editor. There are errors in grammar and spelling, as well as continuity errors such as the wrong name used for who is speaking and the misspelling of names (example: Roddick is the correct spelling, but there are a few pages where Rodrick is used instead).
One issue I had with the story was the frequent changing of character perspectives. Every chapter was a different viewpoint (no pattern to it), with each character playing out a different story. It made reading this story more difficult.
The theology of Ascension slowly started to drive me nuts. The unfairness of it. If that’s what the author wanted to convey, then they succeeded.
I didn’t like how it seemed like the characters were unable to stick to their beliefs, especially in the third book.
I got a general feeling of despair from the book. Maybe it’s because of the details into how the characters felt? If so, good job on the author’s part. Overall, it was a good story, although it was a little tedious to read.
I felt like this book started out good. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. But by the time I was halfway through the second book, I was mostly skimming. The book would benefit from an editor. There are errors in grammar and spelling, as well as continuity errors such as the wrong name used for who is speaking and the misspelling of names (example: Roddick is the correct spelling, but there are a few pages where Rodrick is used instead).
One issue I had with the story was the frequent changing of character perspectives. Every chapter was a different viewpoint (no pattern to it), with each character playing out a different story. It made reading this story more difficult.
The theology of Ascension slowly started to drive me nuts. The unfairness of it. If that’s what the author wanted to convey, then they succeeded.
I didn’t like how it seemed like the characters were unable to stick to their beliefs, especially in the third book.
I got a general feeling of despair from the book. Maybe it’s because of the details into how the characters felt? If so, good job on the author’s part. Overall, it was a good story, although it was a little tedious to read.
July 8, 2019
When I picked up this book, I didn't realize that it was a 6 book series instead of a trilogy. I may have not bought it but now I'm glad I did after reading the first three books. I had started it and set it down to read other books but finally finished it.
This was a stereotypical book that had two young people rise to their powers pretty quickly then have to deal with the consequences. It is also good versus evil but with a twist. There are more factions than two and it sometimes gets blurred on who is supposed to be the 'good' and who is supposed to be the 'evil.' The characters experience growth and they aren't one dimension. I particularly liked that the characters acknowledged their flaws and moved forward with what they felt right and righteous.
I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and will definitely finish the series by getting the last three books.
This was a stereotypical book that had two young people rise to their powers pretty quickly then have to deal with the consequences. It is also good versus evil but with a twist. There are more factions than two and it sometimes gets blurred on who is supposed to be the 'good' and who is supposed to be the 'evil.' The characters experience growth and they aren't one dimension. I particularly liked that the characters acknowledged their flaws and moved forward with what they felt right and righteous.
I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and will definitely finish the series by getting the last three books.
July 1, 2018
Excellent series
The writing style is similar to Tom Clancey. Each chapter tells you where you are. Disparate happenings can be seen coming together often with surprising results and not always pleasant. I learned many new words like reading Edgar Allen Poe. Only complaint and caused the 4 instead of 5 stars was the spattering of common vulgarity. It was not needed and came across as coarse and forced. This is another time and place it should not be commonised with cheap words. The poetry and mystique was sullied by the vulgarity.
The writing style is similar to Tom Clancey. Each chapter tells you where you are. Disparate happenings can be seen coming together often with surprising results and not always pleasant. I learned many new words like reading Edgar Allen Poe. Only complaint and caused the 4 instead of 5 stars was the spattering of common vulgarity. It was not needed and came across as coarse and forced. This is another time and place it should not be commonised with cheap words. The poetry and mystique was sullied by the vulgarity.
November 24, 2018
This set includes the story of an empire on the edge of change. Recommended reading for those who love a saga.
The Empire is corrupt in more ways than can be imagined, but a set of unlikely hero's will make change in ways they never imagined. Rich characters, intriguing lands, love and longing combine to provide a reader with a very satisfying story. I especial!y enjoyed the great use of words creating easy visages to keep my imagination active. Do indulge. Happy reading.
The Empire is corrupt in more ways than can be imagined, but a set of unlikely hero's will make change in ways they never imagined. Rich characters, intriguing lands, love and longing combine to provide a reader with a very satisfying story. I especial!y enjoyed the great use of words creating easy visages to keep my imagination active. Do indulge. Happy reading.
January 7, 2019
Wow! I came to the pinnacle of the trilogy while home with the flu. But I felt like a little kid in my big bed reading this epic , I mean EPIC story! Totally swept up, swept away, swept into this maelstrom of lives, events, good vs evil all playing out. I could stop it all momentarily to refill my ginger ale or whatever then open my book/kindle and dive right back into total immersion. Whoa.
Thanks for a thoroughly entertaining read and getting me thru the flu. Onto book 4.
Thanks for a thoroughly entertaining read and getting me thru the flu. Onto book 4.
February 10, 2018
A fun , action packed book. Good female protagonists
Lots of action, and battles. Two basic plotlines, basically you see both sides of the war. Interesting magic/religion system. The world is caste based, which of course leads to conflict. Iskara and Kethe are good female characters, not just tropes.
Lots of action, and battles. Two basic plotlines, basically you see both sides of the war. Interesting magic/religion system. The world is caste based, which of course leads to conflict. Iskara and Kethe are good female characters, not just tropes.
October 26, 2018
Overall, this series ticks most fantasy readers’ boxes – epic in scale, though certainly not hard to get through; an original setting, with a hint of mystery; and engaging characters. I would thoroughly recommend!
For my full review, visit-
http://jamieedmundson.com/index.php/2...
For my full review, visit-
http://jamieedmundson.com/index.php/2...
April 9, 2019
Intriguing.
Definitely kept me wanting to read more every time I picked this trilogy up . Was rather hoping it would come to a conclusion as I fear it could devalue by continuing for much longer . Hopefully another book but have found out at least two more ?
Definitely kept me wanting to read more every time I picked this trilogy up . Was rather hoping it would come to a conclusion as I fear it could devalue by continuing for much longer . Hopefully another book but have found out at least two more ?
June 21, 2018
Great Story
This is one of those stories which will draw you in. You'll become a part of it. I hope book 4 is released soon.
This is one of those stories which will draw you in. You'll become a part of it. I hope book 4 is released soon.
June 23, 2018
Page turner.
I loved it. Will definitely be reading 4 and 5th book, and the prequel. Love the characters, couldn't put it down.
I loved it. Will definitely be reading 4 and 5th book, and the prequel. Love the characters, couldn't put it down.
July 23, 2018
Review
The Chronicles of the Black Gate kept me spellbound as the characters faced transformative events that changed the very fabric of reality as they knew it.
The Chronicles of the Black Gate kept me spellbound as the characters faced transformative events that changed the very fabric of reality as they knew it.
August 2, 2018
Brilliant
Once I started it was impossible to put down. Can't wait to read the rest. Kept thrilled to the very end
Once I started it was impossible to put down. Can't wait to read the rest. Kept thrilled to the very end
November 5, 2018
Excellent read
A very well written series with only a few typos and a few spelling mistakes.some continuity errors but generally an enjoyable read
A very well written series with only a few typos and a few spelling mistakes.some continuity errors but generally an enjoyable read
November 16, 2018
Once you get into the character changes, a good read
Once you get into the character changes, a good read. With plenty of twists and turns to keep the interest
Once you get into the character changes, a good read. With plenty of twists and turns to keep the interest
April 11, 2019
Jakoo dobra knjiga
Knjiga je jako dobroo napisana, likovi i svijet u kojem se nalaze razrađen. Radnja je jako dinamicna, napet i ne mozes se lako odvojiti od kniige.
Knjiga je jako dobroo napisana, likovi i svijet u kojem se nalaze razrađen. Radnja je jako dinamicna, napet i ne mozes se lako odvojiti od kniige.
December 7, 2019
Holy sh.. that was un-ucking-believable!!
What an awesome series. ! How this is not part of the bestseller lists I have no idea....truly truly amazing!!!
A must must read...
What an awesome series. ! How this is not part of the bestseller lists I have no idea....truly truly amazing!!!
A must must read...
November 10, 2020
Great read. Have the fourth book but taking a break from the series. Not a waste of time.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews