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Runebound #1
Rune Empire
Four hundred years ago the Alkomian Empire clawed its way from the long dark, uniting the splintered factions of mankind under one banner. Harnessing the mysterious power of runes, the empire of man spread across the land, exploring and inhabiting the ancient fortresses that they plundered for runestones. For centuries humanity has stood unopposed, masters of their own destiny.
Until now.
In the east a darkness stirs. An evil beyond myth and memory sends its agents to plant the seeds of mankind's destruction. From the forgotten wastelands the vanguard of an invasion starts its slow but inexorable march.
On the border of the empire a novice blacksmith, disillusioned with his life, dreams of challenge and adventure.
In the imperial palace a young soldier embarks on her first mission as a member of the most elite fighting force in the empire.
As ruin descends upon the empire, two young heroes will be forged from blood and chaos.
Until now.
In the east a darkness stirs. An evil beyond myth and memory sends its agents to plant the seeds of mankind's destruction. From the forgotten wastelands the vanguard of an invasion starts its slow but inexorable march.
On the border of the empire a novice blacksmith, disillusioned with his life, dreams of challenge and adventure.
In the imperial palace a young soldier embarks on her first mission as a member of the most elite fighting force in the empire.
As ruin descends upon the empire, two young heroes will be forged from blood and chaos.
- GenresFantasy
346 pages, Paperback
Published May 18, 2017
About the author
Sandell Wall
15 books66 followersSandell is a lifelong reader of science-fiction and fantasy. He has long dreamed of writing his own books and is excited to have completed his latest series The Shattered Son. He lives in Michigan with his wonderful wife and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
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August 7, 2017"You are a Rune Guard. Your father trained you, your mother came before you. The blood of champions flows through you."
So this was a really fun book.
Sandell Wall's debut High Fantasy novel is made up of two perspectives. Remus is a young blacksmith taken with the idea of living a life of importance, constantly pushing the boundaries of his own potential. Aventine is a new soldier in the Emperor's elite fighting force, the Rune Guard, and eager to live up to her mother's legacy.
I enjoyed both perspectives & felt both are incredibly well balanced with how much screen time they receive. Especially as the parallel between the two characters becomes clearer & their stories progress. The main characters had some engaging scenes that strongly characterized their personalities & make it clear how much they are striving be more that what they are.
"You cannot trap the ocean in a barrel."
I do wish that each had experienced a bit more growth over the course of the book. Remus in particular experiences a mini quest that feels random before he eventually finds the track that leads him on his primary journey. But neither character majorly evolves from who they are on page 1.
The magic system in this world has me quite intrigued. When powered, runestones lend certain abilities to items that have had the proper runes carved into them. The runes present a unique element to the story & I loved seeing their different powers put into action.
I also quite fancied Wall's writing style. His words had a nice flow & provided some really excellent imagery.
"Intricate foil work on the parchment shimmered like rivulets of colored mercury, reflecting the light of the rune in Axid's hand."
However, when it comes to dialogue I felt there could be some more differentiation between how each character speaks. Often I found the conversations between characters a bit too cheesy & unrealistic.
The most detrimental detail came in the form of being able to read the main characters' thoughts. It was distracting in the midst of such lovely writing to read an italicized line of thought instead of having those sentiments integrated into a normal sentence or two.
The major threat that sets events in motion is a bit too vaguely explained in this first installment for my liking. I don't feel entirely satisfied with how much I know about the different races the populate this world, the politics of the empire, or the side characters now that I've finished. But this is a small criticism, I really want to know more.
In many ways, this novel could really benefit from being longer. I felt as though most of the situations presented were about 3/4 of the way through their development, and I would've liked to spend just a little more time getting my bearings with these characters & in this world.
Overall, this debut is quite an achievement. I am definitely interested in seeing where things go from here! As my reading of this novel is part of the SPFBO contest, I will not be giving it a rating.
This review and other reviews of mine can be found on Book Nest!
So this was a really fun book.
Sandell Wall's debut High Fantasy novel is made up of two perspectives. Remus is a young blacksmith taken with the idea of living a life of importance, constantly pushing the boundaries of his own potential. Aventine is a new soldier in the Emperor's elite fighting force, the Rune Guard, and eager to live up to her mother's legacy.
I enjoyed both perspectives & felt both are incredibly well balanced with how much screen time they receive. Especially as the parallel between the two characters becomes clearer & their stories progress. The main characters had some engaging scenes that strongly characterized their personalities & make it clear how much they are striving be more that what they are.
"You cannot trap the ocean in a barrel."
I do wish that each had experienced a bit more growth over the course of the book. Remus in particular experiences a mini quest that feels random before he eventually finds the track that leads him on his primary journey. But neither character majorly evolves from who they are on page 1.
The magic system in this world has me quite intrigued. When powered, runestones lend certain abilities to items that have had the proper runes carved into them. The runes present a unique element to the story & I loved seeing their different powers put into action.
I also quite fancied Wall's writing style. His words had a nice flow & provided some really excellent imagery.
"Intricate foil work on the parchment shimmered like rivulets of colored mercury, reflecting the light of the rune in Axid's hand."
However, when it comes to dialogue I felt there could be some more differentiation between how each character speaks. Often I found the conversations between characters a bit too cheesy & unrealistic.
The most detrimental detail came in the form of being able to read the main characters' thoughts. It was distracting in the midst of such lovely writing to read an italicized line of thought instead of having those sentiments integrated into a normal sentence or two.
The major threat that sets events in motion is a bit too vaguely explained in this first installment for my liking. I don't feel entirely satisfied with how much I know about the different races the populate this world, the politics of the empire, or the side characters now that I've finished. But this is a small criticism, I really want to know more.
In many ways, this novel could really benefit from being longer. I felt as though most of the situations presented were about 3/4 of the way through their development, and I would've liked to spend just a little more time getting my bearings with these characters & in this world.
Overall, this debut is quite an achievement. I am definitely interested in seeing where things go from here! As my reading of this novel is part of the SPFBO contest, I will not be giving it a rating.
This review and other reviews of mine can be found on Book Nest!
October 15, 2022
The idea with the runes was cool, but sadly nothing stood out to me and the male protagonist really annoyed especially at the beginning
June 3, 2017
Good fast paced book. Lot's of action and no nonsense. We hope to see Pricker become the main character in the next book.
November 11, 2017
It was okay-ish. I liked the start but I think it fizzled out a bit as the story progressed. The two main characters, Remus and Aventine were so-so. Interesting at start but I found them too rigid and didn't really end up caring for them.
Plot was ok, there were some interesting dynamics but some of it felt a little off. Anyway it was a decent novel, although personally I couldn't quite get into it, for me it had a strong start but my interest in the book tapered off as it continued.
Plot was ok, there were some interesting dynamics but some of it felt a little off. Anyway it was a decent novel, although personally I couldn't quite get into it, for me it had a strong start but my interest in the book tapered off as it continued.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2017
Everything
Delivery of a very interesting story and plot could not put this book down. can't wait for the next book
Delivery of a very interesting story and plot could not put this book down. can't wait for the next book
May 27, 2017
Worth reading
Good read, slow at first but speeds up as the characters are developed. Well developed plot. Multi level story. Will be looking forward to the next book.
Good read, slow at first but speeds up as the characters are developed. Well developed plot. Multi level story. Will be looking forward to the next book.
December 8, 2020
Una interesante propuesta de fantasía a base de armaduras runicas y un par de protagonistas (chico y chica) que cada cual se cruzan sus caminos ocasionalmente pero ambos haciendo su parte para proteger y defender al Imperio. Me gusta el balance que tiene de acción junto con política y misterio, con personajes muy interesantes y los protagonistas siendo los que mayor profundidad tienen, es difícil decidirme por uno o por otro a quien apoyar porque son muy distintos entre si y su forma de afrontar las cosas es igual de distinta pero fascinante.
Me han dejado con la intriga de que va a pasar con la guerra en el siguiente libro, además que quisiera saber mas sobre las armaduras y como se fabrican.
Me han dejado con la intriga de que va a pasar con la guerra en el siguiente libro, además que quisiera saber mas sobre las armaduras y como se fabrican.
May 22, 2017
Great story by an interesting new author. I enjoyed the unique writing style by having two main characters with equally alternating points of view. It was like getting two stories in one, both fast paced and entertaining. The writing is clean, no fluff in this book, which makes it for a fun and fast read. The story progresses quickly and doesn't let up. By the end of the book it's surprising how far the characters come in their growth, attitudes and story lines. I like the subtle system of the runes and look forward to seeing these more in use in the future books. Great start to a cool new series, ready for the next book!
July 1, 2018
This book was extremely rushed. I have no idea on how the magic system works. I don’t know who is trying taking over the empire and why. I don’t know who the real villain is and I have no idea who I’m supposed to cheer for. Well, I do but some of the characters in this novel are very annoying and extremely arrogant. It’s very hard for me to care about them. I know this is the first novel in the book however, it leaves a lot of questions and answered which could’ve been answered easily in the first novel. I don’t think I’ll be ready in the next two books in the series. Very disappointed good story but very disappointed and too rushed
March 31, 2018
A gripping tale of epic proportions
"Rune Empire" is the first step in Sandell Wall's epic tale of duplicity, hope, and courage. Remus and Aventine are two untried heroes who must follow their own paths to help save their empire. The empire is being torn apart from inside and Aventine, a newly commissioned Rune Guard, must find the strength and courage to find those still loyal to the emperor and battle those vying for power. Mean while, a dark and sinister power is pushing their barbarian enemies and a people not yet known out of their lands and into conflict with the floundering empire. Remus is a young blacksmith with a sense of a higher purpose. He must find within himself the strength and wisdom to bring his people to the aid of his enemies, else the empire will be next in the path of destruction.
Sandell Wall has written a fast paced and gripping tale with numerous twists and turns. One has to wonder though how the empire has lasted. It seems that EVERYONE is either betraying it from within or attacking it from without. Frankly, both main characters seem to be spoiled, unbending, arrogant, and at times ignorant. Despite that and the frustration I felt, I thoroughly enjoyed "Rune Empire". There were a few minor editoral issues, which you can tell from my reviews that I HATE, but not enough for a thumbs down. The character development is actually pretty good, at least in the case of Aventine. She is highly emotional, but seems to grow as time goes by. Remus, on the other hand remains the same arrogant character from beginning to end. He is obviously much more than he appears. Part of me cannot wait to see who/what he is, another hopes someone puts him in his place. I still highly recommend "Rune Empire" and look forward to the next in line.
"Rune Empire" is the first step in Sandell Wall's epic tale of duplicity, hope, and courage. Remus and Aventine are two untried heroes who must follow their own paths to help save their empire. The empire is being torn apart from inside and Aventine, a newly commissioned Rune Guard, must find the strength and courage to find those still loyal to the emperor and battle those vying for power. Mean while, a dark and sinister power is pushing their barbarian enemies and a people not yet known out of their lands and into conflict with the floundering empire. Remus is a young blacksmith with a sense of a higher purpose. He must find within himself the strength and wisdom to bring his people to the aid of his enemies, else the empire will be next in the path of destruction.
Sandell Wall has written a fast paced and gripping tale with numerous twists and turns. One has to wonder though how the empire has lasted. It seems that EVERYONE is either betraying it from within or attacking it from without. Frankly, both main characters seem to be spoiled, unbending, arrogant, and at times ignorant. Despite that and the frustration I felt, I thoroughly enjoyed "Rune Empire". There were a few minor editoral issues, which you can tell from my reviews that I HATE, but not enough for a thumbs down. The character development is actually pretty good, at least in the case of Aventine. She is highly emotional, but seems to grow as time goes by. Remus, on the other hand remains the same arrogant character from beginning to end. He is obviously much more than he appears. Part of me cannot wait to see who/what he is, another hopes someone puts him in his place. I still highly recommend "Rune Empire" and look forward to the next in line.
January 5, 2019
I should probably start by saying that I listened to this book in audio format and that is probably the reason why I give it 3 instead of 4 stars.
The truth is, I would give the audio book 1 star, because the narration by Steven Brand was absolutely HORRENDOUS!
Completely flat from the beginning to the end each and every sentence starts with a sharp intake of breath. Everything is read in the same monotonously aggressive tone, sometimes even slurred or barely articulate. The diversity of the various characters' accents is completely lost and it is nearly impossible to distinguish the dialogues from the main narration or which of the characters is speaking.
Basically, it felt like listening to a dull sports game commentary and I had a hard time focusing on the story.
Having said that, there are so many elements of this book that remind me of (or seem influenced by) the works of Brandon Sanderson, starting from the chapters layout, the high fantasy world building with its own diverse races and magic system, the varying POV's and at least one strong female character, to name a few. However, unlike Sanderson's works, it significantly lacks depth and complexity in both the plotline and the characters. While the story itself, as well as the characters, have great potential for further development, they do fall flat in this book (though in this case that might be the fault of Steven Brand).
Overall, the first part of this series does feel somewhat shallow, but there is a promising potential for the storyline and character development, so I might look for the (printed) sequel.
The truth is, I would give the audio book 1 star, because the narration by Steven Brand was absolutely HORRENDOUS!
Completely flat from the beginning to the end each and every sentence starts with a sharp intake of breath. Everything is read in the same monotonously aggressive tone, sometimes even slurred or barely articulate. The diversity of the various characters' accents is completely lost and it is nearly impossible to distinguish the dialogues from the main narration or which of the characters is speaking.
Basically, it felt like listening to a dull sports game commentary and I had a hard time focusing on the story.
Having said that, there are so many elements of this book that remind me of (or seem influenced by) the works of Brandon Sanderson, starting from the chapters layout, the high fantasy world building with its own diverse races and magic system, the varying POV's and at least one strong female character, to name a few. However, unlike Sanderson's works, it significantly lacks depth and complexity in both the plotline and the characters. While the story itself, as well as the characters, have great potential for further development, they do fall flat in this book (though in this case that might be the fault of Steven Brand).
Overall, the first part of this series does feel somewhat shallow, but there is a promising potential for the storyline and character development, so I might look for the (printed) sequel.
November 17, 2017
This was an interesting start to the series. The characters were well written and overall the writing was technically sound. I enjoyed the story and it definitely kept me interested all the way through. I thought some of the logistics with regard to the world building were a little less well developed and it was at times hard to get a feel for how this society actually works. For example, at times, the characters seemed surprised by inhuman characters and yet at other times they treat it as normal. I can't really tell if the society is old fashioned and patriarchal. It seems like it at times as although the author makes the odd note here and there of there being women amongst the Legion ranks, you really don't encounter any. But then one of the main characters is a female Rune guard, as was her mother before her and this isn't treated as though it was some anomaly. Either way, it doesn't really matter but it it's just hard to envision exactly what this society is like. It's also hard to tell how the Volgrath fit in to things, where they've really come from or how they've developed so differently from the Empire people. Maybe more will be revealed as the story continues.
On the whole, I enjoyed the story and I will likely read the next one in the series to find out what happens.
On the whole, I enjoyed the story and I will likely read the next one in the series to find out what happens.
December 26, 2018
An empire of man founded on magical runes which were left behind by some unknown force. That sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Yep. And disaster makes for great reading, especially when it’s as well executed as this! A few minor grumbling points, but this series looks to be a cracker.
Rune Empire is about… Well, it pretty much says it up front. It’s about a human empire founded on mystical runes which are effectively magical. And of course, the empire of man is using these runes with little regard for the source of all this delicious magic. No, of course not. So, what we have is much taking and harnessing of magic with little in the way of giving in return. That’s a formula that’s never going to work, right? Correct. Cue the conflict.
Now, the fantasy elements of this world all revolve around the runes (as-well as perhaps the interactions of a few non-human species). And this rune world is very cleverly thought out, with some really great examples of magical use (the “mining” town is really cleverly conceived). The whole world gels together nicely too, and this must be testament to the work that has gone into creating this consistency. Nice.
And the execution is good too. The language throughout the book is well constructed, with some specific areas which really go above and beyond. There are some word choices which are just really delightful, and this can raise a passage to another level. Very well done.
The pace was good too. This was a dead easy read, in part because the language was really great, but also because the story moved on at a great pace, never letting up but never getting too far ahead of itself. Maybe not an addictive page-turner, but you’re guaranteed to finish this fairly pronto.
Anything that didn’t quite work? Well, it didn’t quite conclude for me. As ever with fantasy books, this is part of a series, but the end of this novel did not end in its own right. Sure it tees up a fascinating second book, but it doesn’t quite satisfy as a standalone novel (not that it will stop me from reading on!)
There was quite a bit of head-hopping in here too. You know the stuff - we are well entrenched in the main characters thoughts and perceptions, and then for just the most fleeting moment we switch to the secondary character. Jarring to say the least. Need to be careful with this, especially in a book which has a few perspectives to deal with.
And finally, the protagonists cried just a little too much for me. You heard that right - cried. Tears. I really don’t mind a bit of crying (these are young characters being thrown into a brutal world), but surely not all the time? I think the effect would have been greater had the tears being used more sparingly.
So, overall this is a really well thought out book with a lot of unique elements, and well executed too. You won’t be disappointed, that’s for sure.
Rune Empire is about… Well, it pretty much says it up front. It’s about a human empire founded on mystical runes which are effectively magical. And of course, the empire of man is using these runes with little regard for the source of all this delicious magic. No, of course not. So, what we have is much taking and harnessing of magic with little in the way of giving in return. That’s a formula that’s never going to work, right? Correct. Cue the conflict.
Now, the fantasy elements of this world all revolve around the runes (as-well as perhaps the interactions of a few non-human species). And this rune world is very cleverly thought out, with some really great examples of magical use (the “mining” town is really cleverly conceived). The whole world gels together nicely too, and this must be testament to the work that has gone into creating this consistency. Nice.
And the execution is good too. The language throughout the book is well constructed, with some specific areas which really go above and beyond. There are some word choices which are just really delightful, and this can raise a passage to another level. Very well done.
The pace was good too. This was a dead easy read, in part because the language was really great, but also because the story moved on at a great pace, never letting up but never getting too far ahead of itself. Maybe not an addictive page-turner, but you’re guaranteed to finish this fairly pronto.
Anything that didn’t quite work? Well, it didn’t quite conclude for me. As ever with fantasy books, this is part of a series, but the end of this novel did not end in its own right. Sure it tees up a fascinating second book, but it doesn’t quite satisfy as a standalone novel (not that it will stop me from reading on!)
There was quite a bit of head-hopping in here too. You know the stuff - we are well entrenched in the main characters thoughts and perceptions, and then for just the most fleeting moment we switch to the secondary character. Jarring to say the least. Need to be careful with this, especially in a book which has a few perspectives to deal with.
And finally, the protagonists cried just a little too much for me. You heard that right - cried. Tears. I really don’t mind a bit of crying (these are young characters being thrown into a brutal world), but surely not all the time? I think the effect would have been greater had the tears being used more sparingly.
So, overall this is a really well thought out book with a lot of unique elements, and well executed too. You won’t be disappointed, that’s for sure.
July 29, 2017
One of those books that makes me wish I could give half stars. It's very close to a four but doesn't quite make it.
The world of Runebound is an interesting take on the genre tropes. However it felt like there were too many things happening for me to really get a handle on it all. Just as I began understanding the nature of one setting and how it relates to the characters, the plot would already be moving on to the next location. The plot becomes a little hard to keep up with and suffers as a result.
Characterwise, I'm split between the protagonists. Remus felt inconsistent, bouncing back and forth between a callow teen and some kind of hardened fighter. I found it a little grating that he appears to have some innate talent that makes him on par with veteran soldiers. Aventine was more to my taste, because she seemed a better blend of the traits, years of training and naive expectations paired with no actual field experience.
While not perfect, It's enough for me to look forward to the sequel.
The world of Runebound is an interesting take on the genre tropes. However it felt like there were too many things happening for me to really get a handle on it all. Just as I began understanding the nature of one setting and how it relates to the characters, the plot would already be moving on to the next location. The plot becomes a little hard to keep up with and suffers as a result.
Characterwise, I'm split between the protagonists. Remus felt inconsistent, bouncing back and forth between a callow teen and some kind of hardened fighter. I found it a little grating that he appears to have some innate talent that makes him on par with veteran soldiers. Aventine was more to my taste, because she seemed a better blend of the traits, years of training and naive expectations paired with no actual field experience.
While not perfect, It's enough for me to look forward to the sequel.
August 19, 2020
A decent read
Not bad. It is a unique and potentially interesting take on a fantasy world, avoiding worn out tropes. The writing style is pretty good with the potential to be great. Some characters are a little basic. They’re very flawed, presumably for room to grow. If this was the intention it was a little heavy handed. Sadly the map included was a total joke. Very very basic. Little to no value as a reference. A big and important chunk is in a large an labeled area. It uses overly large stylized icons that make understanding distances difficult. It’s not oriented correctly for the kindle version at least, and so cluttered with these large icons it can only contain the places directly related to the story. Despite this, I think the author did well, especially if s/he keeps improving. I’ll probably read the next one as well.
Not bad. It is a unique and potentially interesting take on a fantasy world, avoiding worn out tropes. The writing style is pretty good with the potential to be great. Some characters are a little basic. They’re very flawed, presumably for room to grow. If this was the intention it was a little heavy handed. Sadly the map included was a total joke. Very very basic. Little to no value as a reference. A big and important chunk is in a large an labeled area. It uses overly large stylized icons that make understanding distances difficult. It’s not oriented correctly for the kindle version at least, and so cluttered with these large icons it can only contain the places directly related to the story. Despite this, I think the author did well, especially if s/he keeps improving. I’ll probably read the next one as well.
September 25, 2017
Good rrad
Interesting read. Some action some world building. Good character development
. Main characters are powerful and. Niave at the same time. I will definitely read the 2nd installment I recommend this story to fellow epic fantasy readers.
Interesting read. Some action some world building. Good character development
. Main characters are powerful and. Niave at the same time. I will definitely read the 2nd installment I recommend this story to fellow epic fantasy readers.
September 8, 2018
It was the best of times...
Aventine was thrilled to be a new member of the emperors guards. Remus was dreaming of being important. Both of their lives were about to be turned upside down.
Aventine was thrilled to be a new member of the emperors guards. Remus was dreaming of being important. Both of their lives were about to be turned upside down.
March 31, 2019
One of my first medieval fantasy books. If you're looking for flawed but well written main characters, gritty circumstances, a mysterious and engaging plot as well as heart-pumping action then you can't go wrong with this book.
4/5
4/5
June 22, 2017
Where's the second?!
Waiting in suspense. Hurry up and write the next!! Omg so well written, I was drawn in to this book
Waiting in suspense. Hurry up and write the next!! Omg so well written, I was drawn in to this book
July 16, 2017
I love every thing about this book. So Intense, so riveting and scary at certain time.
September 5, 2017
Great read
Very fast paced and full of fighting action. I had a hard time putting this one down. The characters are realistic, flawed but very sympathetic.
Very fast paced and full of fighting action. I had a hard time putting this one down. The characters are realistic, flawed but very sympathetic.
September 5, 2017
Good read
I enjoyed the storyline and character development. I'll read number two for sure. Well written and an easy enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the storyline and character development. I'll read number two for sure. Well written and an easy enjoyable read.
January 22, 2019
Both the main characters in this book are rude, small minded people. This story could've been great but the main characters ruined it.
March 16, 2019
The plot was average, but the MC wasn't likable at all, so I didn't care the slightest what happened.
May 15, 2023
OK, the story is OK, nothing amazing both main characters are super annoying and that spoils it a bit.
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December 13, 20244/5 Stars
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