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Prelude to the Shards
Welcome to Ismia. A world controlled by the Witches of the Coven. A world of forbidden magic and dark plots. Get three exciting stories set in the world of Ismia. A world you won't soon forget.
"Intellect"
Quint is accused of murdering his love.
Innocent, and on the run, his only hope to seek the counsel of the Witch of Time, whose ability to delve a person’s timeline is the only way to prove his innocence.
With the help of his unique companion, Wren, he must travel to Covenhome, the seat of power for the Coven. Hunted by a man for his own dark purposes, Quint must elude capture and avoid becoming a pawn in a much larger game.
"Race of the Witchguard"
Who will be chosen to become a Witchguard?
For generations, the Race has been an important event on the isle of Hail. Men and women compete to be chosen for the Witchguard, the protectors of the Coven.
For Sojin and Lyyra this year’s Race was to be like all of the Races of the past, but a mysterious stranger is about to change everything they thought they knew and believed.
"A Town Called Ghost"
Ghost isn't like other towns.
Once it was a thriving port on a vast lake. When the lake mysteriously dried up, so did the town. Once rich and prosperous, it became a town for the lost and forgotten.
A place where, for a price, anything can be had. A place ruled by gangs and thieves.
Whisp isn't like other thieves.
Barely into her teens, her skill far exceeds her age. That's because Whisp has a secret- she wields Essence magic, one of the magics forbidden by the Coven.
Now, the Shen, the magic hunters, have come for her, but they have made a mistake. They came to Ghost, and this is her town.
"Intellect"
Quint is accused of murdering his love.
Innocent, and on the run, his only hope to seek the counsel of the Witch of Time, whose ability to delve a person’s timeline is the only way to prove his innocence.
With the help of his unique companion, Wren, he must travel to Covenhome, the seat of power for the Coven. Hunted by a man for his own dark purposes, Quint must elude capture and avoid becoming a pawn in a much larger game.
"Race of the Witchguard"
Who will be chosen to become a Witchguard?
For generations, the Race has been an important event on the isle of Hail. Men and women compete to be chosen for the Witchguard, the protectors of the Coven.
For Sojin and Lyyra this year’s Race was to be like all of the Races of the past, but a mysterious stranger is about to change everything they thought they knew and believed.
"A Town Called Ghost"
Ghost isn't like other towns.
Once it was a thriving port on a vast lake. When the lake mysteriously dried up, so did the town. Once rich and prosperous, it became a town for the lost and forgotten.
A place where, for a price, anything can be had. A place ruled by gangs and thieves.
Whisp isn't like other thieves.
Barely into her teens, her skill far exceeds her age. That's because Whisp has a secret- she wields Essence magic, one of the magics forbidden by the Coven.
Now, the Shen, the magic hunters, have come for her, but they have made a mistake. They came to Ghost, and this is her town.
- GenresFantasy
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 3, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 24, 2026
Intellect
Quint is on the run for a murder he didn't commit - he must reach the Coven to prove his innocence. But the journey is far and the road treacherous.
"There was little he feared in life, but magic was one of those things."
His only companion, Wren, happens to be a sword. A magic sarcastic sword, but a sword nonetheless.
His pursuer, Captain Murl Johns, knows more about the murder than Quint could ever suspect. And will do anything (anything) to prevent Quint from reaching his destination - even if it includes contacting the Mage...
This one hit the the ground running. I loved all the action and the back-and-forth between Quint and Wren. Sarcastic inanimate objects are my spirit animal.
The story was definitely fun and the mage was terrifyingly creepy!
Race of the Witchguard
Once a child becomes of age, they are allowed to compete for the honored position of Witchguards.
"May fortune favor those who run strong and true."
The Races trek through the treacherous island, where the participants must compete not only against each other but also against the terrain and the terrible beasts that live within.
Sojin's dream is to become a guard and there is little he thinks of more...well...except for Lyyra.
Despite swearing off their romance until after the races, Lyyra cannot deny her budding feelings towards Sojin.
But once the race begins, there is little left to think of besides their survival.
This one as pretty good - I enjoyed the creativity in the creatures and the cleverness of the plot twist.
"...terrible clawed legs unfolded from beneath its body to reach out..."
However, I thought the plot was going to go farther than it actually did. There was a lot of build, then the twist and then...the end. I just expected more.
Though, this is a collection of prequel short stories so perhaps there is more that is revealed later on...?
A Town Called Ghost
Whisp is belongs to Telsin's gang in a small town named Ghost.
"If word got out she had powers - forbidden powers..."
She practices Essence magic - something that is absolutely forbidden - and she tries to hide it as much as she can...but sometimes she can't resist using a little bit here and there for her various gang-related activities.
When disaster strikes, she will have to team up with Telsin for a mission...but she needs to be careful. A single foot placed in the wrong place could make this mission her last one.
I liked the overall concept of this one but I had a bit of trouble connecting to the story.
Whisp causes the death of a minor character in the beginning and her lack of remorse and general lack of emotions made it difficult for me to feel for her and care about her issues later on in the book.
That being said, her story was left the most open out of the three and I am certainly intrigued to see where it goes next!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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August 14, 2018
A cover and blurb that sucked me in. The characters were fairly predictable but overall a great story.
My Rating: 4 stars
My Rating: 4 stars
January 13, 2019
Prelude to the Shards is a set of three prequel novellas that take place in Michael Timmins' Shards of the Coven series. Each story is about a different set of characters who come from vastly different places and cultures but who are all a part of the same world. These three stories seem to come directly before the first book and give backgrounds for the main characters of the series. Even though the three stories seem very different the comprehensive world-building in the first story continues throughout both of the following stories in such a way that it seamlessly weaves the three together and gives the book an overall feeling of cohesion.
This book has several main characters, all of whom I ended up liking immensely (something that is very important for my own personal reading enjoyment. If I dislike the main characters I just don't care what happens to them and thusly don't care what happens at all). Each of the main characters have unique personalities and skill sets, I could see them forming an interesting group (if that's the way the story is headed, and I really hope it is).
The intricate world-building is done in a way that fits within the plot and doesn't seem jarring. You learn all about the characters' cultures, abilities, and homes without feeling as if you've been taken out of the story. Along with an intriguing set of plots, there is also plenty of action throughout all three stories to keep a reader on the edge of their seat.
I enjoyed each of the three stories, and am now eagerly looking forward to Starfall, the next part of these characters' stories.
Recommended to fans of epic fantasy, well-crafted world building, and interesting well-thought-out characters
This book has several main characters, all of whom I ended up liking immensely (something that is very important for my own personal reading enjoyment. If I dislike the main characters I just don't care what happens to them and thusly don't care what happens at all). Each of the main characters have unique personalities and skill sets, I could see them forming an interesting group (if that's the way the story is headed, and I really hope it is).
The intricate world-building is done in a way that fits within the plot and doesn't seem jarring. You learn all about the characters' cultures, abilities, and homes without feeling as if you've been taken out of the story. Along with an intriguing set of plots, there is also plenty of action throughout all three stories to keep a reader on the edge of their seat.
I enjoyed each of the three stories, and am now eagerly looking forward to Starfall, the next part of these characters' stories.
Recommended to fans of epic fantasy, well-crafted world building, and interesting well-thought-out characters
Want to Read
November 4, 2019Once again Mr. Timmons has delivered a fantastic read! And set in a rich new world with witches instead of Lycans. The world building in this prequel was visionary delight! I really enjoyed these three introductions to upcoming MCs and how Mike successfully managed to weave all three tales into one tapestry even though they were completely different backstories.
I really prefer books that do not have lots of POV changes and fewer MCs because it is normally quite tedious to keep with everything and everyone. This book does have tons of MCs (like hi Lycan War Saga) but so far I did not have trouble navigating through the tides of MCs and places.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes modern writing with daring plots that do not conform to the normal standards in fiction. Also anyone who has not read anything by Mike because he is doing some great thing over there in his writing lab. I have yet to read anything but perfection in each of his offerings.
I really prefer books that do not have lots of POV changes and fewer MCs because it is normally quite tedious to keep with everything and everyone. This book does have tons of MCs (like hi Lycan War Saga) but so far I did not have trouble navigating through the tides of MCs and places.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes modern writing with daring plots that do not conform to the normal standards in fiction. Also anyone who has not read anything by Mike because he is doing some great thing over there in his writing lab. I have yet to read anything but perfection in each of his offerings.
September 11, 2019
Great
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I will be reading more of his work shortly. He brought my imagination alive. These storylines were gripping. The characters great.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I will be reading more of his work shortly. He brought my imagination alive. These storylines were gripping. The characters great.
August 15, 2018
I usually enjoy stories in which witches aren’t portrayed as evil creatures only bent on destroying others, and these are good examples of exactly that. Just like any group of people, evil and good depend on individual personalities and choices, not an inherent ability or pursuit of magic. The world-building in these tales are delightful, and kudos to the author for finding interesting, unusual names without making them unpronounceable and overcomplicated. The connection between the tales is subtle but strong, and the magic system is complex and well-constructed. This is an intriguing world and I would love to read more in the future.
July 30, 2018
What an interesting start to a series. I really liked how this was broken into three separate stories each giving more information about the world of Ismia.
"Intellect": 5 stars
- I loved how Michael gave information throughout this story. We learned about the plot and background of the story and characters, in bits and pieces throughout.
- The world building was great in this story and it pulled me in.
- Interesting magic system and I also really enjoyed the whole storyline with the magical sword. Magical sword stories are ones that always intrigue me and yours is one of the best that I have read.
(quite unique)
- Loved the relationship between Quint and Wren, the sarcastic companion was just a great idea in general. I love characters like this and having it be who it was, was awesome.
- Really want to see more of Quint's story now.
"Race of the Witchguard"- 3.5 stars
- I like how we got to see another side of this same world, especially how members are chosen for the Witchguard.
- This did not draw me into the story as much as the first. I connected much more with the characters of Quint and Wren, but I did like this story and enjoyed seeing more of this world.
"A Town Called Ghost"- 4 stars
- Whisp is a character that I enjoyed reading about a lot. Her story sort of reminded me of the Thieves Guild in Terry Pratchett's Discworld series. She is another character that I want to see more of.
Overall, this is a collection of stories that I believe fantasy fans will enjoy. I want to read more from this world and find out what happens to the characters after the end of these stories.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.*
"Intellect": 5 stars
- I loved how Michael gave information throughout this story. We learned about the plot and background of the story and characters, in bits and pieces throughout.
- The world building was great in this story and it pulled me in.
- Interesting magic system and I also really enjoyed the whole storyline with the magical sword. Magical sword stories are ones that always intrigue me and yours is one of the best that I have read.
(quite unique)
- Loved the relationship between Quint and Wren, the sarcastic companion was just a great idea in general. I love characters like this and having it be who it was, was awesome.
- Really want to see more of Quint's story now.
"Race of the Witchguard"- 3.5 stars
- I like how we got to see another side of this same world, especially how members are chosen for the Witchguard.
- This did not draw me into the story as much as the first. I connected much more with the characters of Quint and Wren, but I did like this story and enjoyed seeing more of this world.
"A Town Called Ghost"- 4 stars
- Whisp is a character that I enjoyed reading about a lot. Her story sort of reminded me of the Thieves Guild in Terry Pratchett's Discworld series. She is another character that I want to see more of.
Overall, this is a collection of stories that I believe fantasy fans will enjoy. I want to read more from this world and find out what happens to the characters after the end of these stories.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.*
August 6, 2018
Prelude to the Shards contains three distinct stories within the same fantastical world. One, a story of a man trying to clear his name over the death of the woman he loved, ending in a bittersweet cliffhanger. The second is about a group of people who organize a treacherous race every year to find the best of the best to send to protect the Coven who rule over them. Amazing world building as you get to explore more of the dangerous flora and fauna and get to know 2 mainstays of the Hailatian people and a returning familiar face who holds all the dirty secrets of their people. The third is about a gang of thieves living in a lawless town, one of which is a young essence mage, who along with the leader of the gang take on a daunting theft and all the aftermath.
As the stories progress, you can see how they are uniquely connected by the magic that runs through their world, witch aspect magic and the banned blood and essence magic. Its greatest strength is the intricacy of the magic, the intrigue of the still unknown Covenhome and witches, the witch hunters or shen, and the way it’s all tied together in genuinely likable characters.
It’s saying something when my biggest problem with a story is minor editing/proofreading mistakes. There were occasional instances of missing punctuation and prepositions, an extra word here or there and the rare incorrect verb tense. There was one scene in the first story that was gratuitously graphic as well that I didn’t think needed to be what it was but I suppose it did lend weight to a particular character that wouldn’t have been there without it. Overall a fantastic read and I can’t say this sincerely enough - I can’t wait for more.
Thanks as always to NetGalley, the publishers and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
As the stories progress, you can see how they are uniquely connected by the magic that runs through their world, witch aspect magic and the banned blood and essence magic. Its greatest strength is the intricacy of the magic, the intrigue of the still unknown Covenhome and witches, the witch hunters or shen, and the way it’s all tied together in genuinely likable characters.
It’s saying something when my biggest problem with a story is minor editing/proofreading mistakes. There were occasional instances of missing punctuation and prepositions, an extra word here or there and the rare incorrect verb tense. There was one scene in the first story that was gratuitously graphic as well that I didn’t think needed to be what it was but I suppose it did lend weight to a particular character that wouldn’t have been there without it. Overall a fantastic read and I can’t say this sincerely enough - I can’t wait for more.
Thanks as always to NetGalley, the publishers and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
October 17, 2018
This book comprises three separate stories. I really connected mostly with the third of them which is called: a Town Called Ghost, which I felt was the best of the three. I will focus my review on this third story. The short follows a girl called Whisp, a very young girl who works the streets of Ghost as a thief for a local gang. She is written as a young person and thinks like a young person, which is refreshing as authors tend to write children more adult for their own ease. Nonetheless, her life has given her a streetwise confidence which is shown throughout the story. Her life is turned upside down when she is inlisted in a special mission by the leader of the gang. There is a dynamic between the two which I think helps a reader feel for her. Beside her jokes and insults there is an underlying fear of abandonment and appreciation for the gang leader who took her in. Her gift which is a type of magic is at odds with the times she lives in and to keep her place in the gang and her life she knows she must hide it. More so I feel she fears losing the respect of the gang leader if he was to find out.
The story is a bit predictable, as is often the problem with shorts, but no way less enjoyable. She must use her magic and the result causes a chain of unstoppable events. It is a story or gang life, magic, but also a story of a young girl trying to hang on to the only place in the world she has seen as constant. In a style like a cross between Robin Hobb and Stephen Lawhead I'm sure Mike Timmins will go far.
October 26, 2019
Prelude to the Shards contains three stores that are all set in the same world and introduce us to the different aspects/groups/races of Ismia. Three different locations, three different groups, three different problems - all in a world governed by the Coven, a group of witches that control the use of magic in Ismia. Magic is banned, except for that of the Coven. Through these three stories, Timmins shows us an intriguing world of forbidden magic and compelling characters. The three stories together give us the back story of Quint, Lyrra, Sojin, and Whisp - all of whom will then hopefully feature in Timmins new Shards of the Coven series.
Looking for a new fantasy world? These stories will draw you in and make you look forward to Star Fall and the future of our new heroes.
Looking for a new fantasy world? These stories will draw you in and make you look forward to Star Fall and the future of our new heroes.
July 24, 2018
I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the first book I read by this author so I was excited to get my hands on this one and I was not disappointed. I was intrigued from the beginning. I really enjoyed the charcaters and the start of eahc story and look forward to reading more about each and every one. The stories can be a little confusing at first but as you go one the more interesting they get. I can't wait for more.
Review done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fan site at http://www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
I really enjoyed the first book I read by this author so I was excited to get my hands on this one and I was not disappointed. I was intrigued from the beginning. I really enjoyed the charcaters and the start of eahc story and look forward to reading more about each and every one. The stories can be a little confusing at first but as you go one the more interesting they get. I can't wait for more.
Review done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fan site at http://www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
June 9, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and the start to what is promising to be an epic fantasy series. Although it is packaged as three unrelated stories I have hope that in the sequels these characters might come together and meet. The world building is excellent and not everything is explained about the structure and more is focused on character development which I prefer. There is a lot of mystery that promises more interesting books to come. The 5 main characters really shone and I enjoyed reading about each one, though Whisp was my favorite character. I would definitely recommend this book and I'm eagerly looking forward to the sequels!
April 14, 2020
Three different character stories, in three different walks of life. The author created fascinating social structures which pulls each character out of their childhood as brutal realities hit. A great build of these tensions keep you turning the page, knowing there's something bigger to come.
Enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next one!
Enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next one!
March 19, 2019
Never heard about this author before, but the cover got me, so here I am. I really liked the stories, the last one was my favourite one. The second one was a little bit tedious but overall I like the book, I can't wait to continue the story
September 25, 2020
Great introduction to the characters.
Each group of characters have their own story. The weaving of the larger plot is hinted at within the frame of each characters journey. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next episode.
Each group of characters have their own story. The weaving of the larger plot is hinted at within the frame of each characters journey. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next episode.
January 14, 2019
Very Interesting as well as fast paced and very well written
I think my heading says it all was a very good and interesting tale of trying to find and live in peace and harmony.
I think my heading says it all was a very good and interesting tale of trying to find and live in peace and harmony.
May 5, 2020
Good read. Remind me of Wizards First Rule By Terry Goodkind
July 25, 2018
SOJIN IS MY FAVORITE!!!
This is completely different than what I usually read—I do have to say that this book really caught my attention. In the beginning it was a little rough but most books are anyways.
The book is basically 3 beginning stories of different characters (that hopefully come together in the second book & their reasons).
It’s a little confusing but as you read the book it gets more interesting. Can’t wait for the second book to come out to see what happens.
This is completely different than what I usually read—I do have to say that this book really caught my attention. In the beginning it was a little rough but most books are anyways.
The book is basically 3 beginning stories of different characters (that hopefully come together in the second book & their reasons).
It’s a little confusing but as you read the book it gets more interesting. Can’t wait for the second book to come out to see what happens.
November 30, 2018
Quint, Sojin, Lyra, Maik & Whisp
Three stories open this series of books about the world Ismia. Magic is forbidden, although the world is run by the coven.
Quint is accused of murder and is fleeing. He is attempting to reach Covenhome to have the Timewitch clear him.
Sonjin, Lyra, and Msik compete in the race to become Witchguards.
Whisp is a thief with a secret. She has magic.
Excelent characterization & plotting.
Three stories open this series of books about the world Ismia. Magic is forbidden, although the world is run by the coven.
Quint is accused of murder and is fleeing. He is attempting to reach Covenhome to have the Timewitch clear him.
Sonjin, Lyra, and Msik compete in the race to become Witchguards.
Whisp is a thief with a secret. She has magic.
Excelent characterization & plotting.
March 29, 2021
A Well-Written and Well-Executed Beginning for a New Series
I enjoyed Prelude to the Shards. It was well written, had interesting and deep characters, and excellent world-building. Though it’s a typical start to an epic fantasy series, with several significant protagonists being introduced within their own plotline and background stories, it’s also really well done and put together. And unlike similar novels where each chapter shifts to a different protagonist’s POV, the three individual stories in Prelude are written as self-contained novellas.
Each story in Prelude to the Shards is perfectly executed. The characters are introduced along with details about their background, personality, and quirks; their motivations for uprooting their lives and traveling, which I imagine will ultimately lead them to crossing paths in future books, start to develop as each story ends. All three narratives are deep and descriptive, providing bits and details that slowly build the world and explain its politics, magic systems, and cultures. If every book in this series is as well done, this will be an excellent series.
My only gripe about Prelude to the Shards isn’t really a drawback -- it’s actually something that is executed well. All three stories contain their own mini-plots, but each ends right after the narrative climax but before anything is really, truly resolved. The end feels rather sudden. You could say that each story ends “right when it was getting good.” But the word “Prelude” is right there in the title, so I suppose I should have expected as much. It’s infuriating because it leaves me with tons of unresolved questions, but I have to say that the author has done an excellent job hooking me, and now I want to read the next book in the series, which isn’t out yet (as of the time I’m writing this). So that’s a bit irritating. But I guess if the only negative thing I can say about a book is that it left me wanting more, it’s not a negative thing.
C. J. Grey does a pretty good job narrating the audio version of the book. He does excellent, unique voices for the characters, matches the tone of the writing, and manages to pull off both male and female voices well. Prelude to the Shards was already good, and the excellent performance makes it that much better.
Special thanks to Michael Timmins, who provided me with this book at my request.
I enjoyed Prelude to the Shards. It was well written, had interesting and deep characters, and excellent world-building. Though it’s a typical start to an epic fantasy series, with several significant protagonists being introduced within their own plotline and background stories, it’s also really well done and put together. And unlike similar novels where each chapter shifts to a different protagonist’s POV, the three individual stories in Prelude are written as self-contained novellas.
Each story in Prelude to the Shards is perfectly executed. The characters are introduced along with details about their background, personality, and quirks; their motivations for uprooting their lives and traveling, which I imagine will ultimately lead them to crossing paths in future books, start to develop as each story ends. All three narratives are deep and descriptive, providing bits and details that slowly build the world and explain its politics, magic systems, and cultures. If every book in this series is as well done, this will be an excellent series.
My only gripe about Prelude to the Shards isn’t really a drawback -- it’s actually something that is executed well. All three stories contain their own mini-plots, but each ends right after the narrative climax but before anything is really, truly resolved. The end feels rather sudden. You could say that each story ends “right when it was getting good.” But the word “Prelude” is right there in the title, so I suppose I should have expected as much. It’s infuriating because it leaves me with tons of unresolved questions, but I have to say that the author has done an excellent job hooking me, and now I want to read the next book in the series, which isn’t out yet (as of the time I’m writing this). So that’s a bit irritating. But I guess if the only negative thing I can say about a book is that it left me wanting more, it’s not a negative thing.
C. J. Grey does a pretty good job narrating the audio version of the book. He does excellent, unique voices for the characters, matches the tone of the writing, and manages to pull off both male and female voices well. Prelude to the Shards was already good, and the excellent performance makes it that much better.
Special thanks to Michael Timmins, who provided me with this book at my request.
September 10, 2024
I absolutely was enthralled by this very exciting book, in which we got a prelude to three stories about the land of Ismia, which was run by the coven of witches, who forbade the use of magic, killing those who showed any element of blood or essence magic. This is the first time I have read anything by this author but it will definitely not be my last. I loved the three stories about Quint, a man accused of murdering his beloved, who was on the run and aiming to reach the witch of time in order to clear his name, with his only companion being Wren, his sentient sword. The next story is about two young people, Sojin and Lyyra who woud be participating in the race, which took place every three years and through which the next batch of Witchguards would be chosen, however these two meet up with Malk, a stranger who divulges the lies behind the race and the risk to all their lives. The last tale is about a young thief Whisp, who lives by the docks amongst thugs and other ruffians in a city run by the gangs. Apart from being a thief though, she was also an essence mage, one whose magic was forbidden by the coven and if caught would get her killed. She was part of a gang and Ghost was her town, so when the shen came searching for her they took on more than they could chew. I love the way we got to get a taste of the world of Ismia with all its excitement, magical fantasy and with all three books ending with a cliffhanger which makes me want to read the next book immediately.
April 21, 2021
Great New Series Starter, for +17 readers
Parents: Depending on your stance on gore and sexual content, this is most likely best suited to 17+ readers. The language is moderate but there are no f-bombs. In terms of violence it's very descriptive with: drawn and quartered child, sword fights, and in terms of the level of gore. The sexual content has references to “laying” with people, descriptions in detail of body types, and references to rape/whoring.
All that being said the story is fast paced and very enjoyable. There are several stories and this reads fairly straightforward in terms of being a setup/groundwork novel. Without giving anything away, this book was engulfing to say the least and the second book is likely to be equally enjoyable. I look forward to the opportunity to see what cliffhangers are answered in the next installment.
The narrator has a good voice, decent pace (I sped up to 1.5x).
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Parents: Depending on your stance on gore and sexual content, this is most likely best suited to 17+ readers. The language is moderate but there are no f-bombs. In terms of violence it's very descriptive with: drawn and quartered child, sword fights, and in terms of the level of gore. The sexual content has references to “laying” with people, descriptions in detail of body types, and references to rape/whoring.
All that being said the story is fast paced and very enjoyable. There are several stories and this reads fairly straightforward in terms of being a setup/groundwork novel. Without giving anything away, this book was engulfing to say the least and the second book is likely to be equally enjoyable. I look forward to the opportunity to see what cliffhangers are answered in the next installment.
The narrator has a good voice, decent pace (I sped up to 1.5x).
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 12, 2023
A fast-paced, enjoyable book! It includes several stories, all pretty easy to go through and pave the groundwork for the next installment. Hopefully some cliffhangers will be addressed! All the stories are connected in subtle ways, and the magic system is new, complex and well built.
What I liked about this book is that good and evil doesn't depend on what type of creature you are, but what type of personality the characters are and their choices.
From all the stories, Intellect was my favourite. The villain is creepy and it's action packed. It definitely takes off very quickly, and I just loved Quint's and Wren's interactions.
I'm curious to see where this goes next!
Thanks Netgalley for the advanced copy!
What I liked about this book is that good and evil doesn't depend on what type of creature you are, but what type of personality the characters are and their choices.
From all the stories, Intellect was my favourite. The villain is creepy and it's action packed. It definitely takes off very quickly, and I just loved Quint's and Wren's interactions.
I'm curious to see where this goes next!
Thanks Netgalley for the advanced copy!
March 19, 2022
This story was gifted to me in audio format for an honest review.
3 star listen, narration fits the story.
Story is broken up into three story’s with three different main characters set in the same world.
I think my favourite of the three would have been the last story. In my opinion it is the most interesting and written the best.
All are short stories, how they all end prelude to the second book.
Hea? Ummmm I believe they are all hfn or in cliffhanger
Strong characters? Yes
Genre would be fantasy.
3 star listen, narration fits the story.
Story is broken up into three story’s with three different main characters set in the same world.
I think my favourite of the three would have been the last story. In my opinion it is the most interesting and written the best.
All are short stories, how they all end prelude to the second book.
Hea? Ummmm I believe they are all hfn or in cliffhanger
Strong characters? Yes
Genre would be fantasy.
August 18, 2020
What a great start to a fantasy series. I listened to the audiobook in one sitting. Well written characters overcoming very personal tragedies in a unique universe. I'm amazed with the author's world building and can't wait to continue the adventures of some of my new favorite book characters.
My favorite story in this Anthology was Whisp in Ghost Town. I'm hoping in book 2 we see all of these characters meet.
My favorite story in this Anthology was Whisp in Ghost Town. I'm hoping in book 2 we see all of these characters meet.
March 21, 2022
Excellent fantasy
A super series of atmospheric, action packed stories. Michael Timmons has created a fascinating descriptive world with strong characters and great settings. All the stories feature a quest or a journey, a man on the run from a crime he did not commit, a race and a thief with forbidden magic. I liked all the stories but the story of the race to join the coven guard was my favourite. I look forward to reading more by this author. Highly recommended.
A super series of atmospheric, action packed stories. Michael Timmons has created a fascinating descriptive world with strong characters and great settings. All the stories feature a quest or a journey, a man on the run from a crime he did not commit, a race and a thief with forbidden magic. I liked all the stories but the story of the race to join the coven guard was my favourite. I look forward to reading more by this author. Highly recommended.
July 24, 2023
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is 3 Fantasy stories, introducing 5 characters for the future series.
Each story was enjoyable with good character / world, building.
You were certainly left wanting to no more about the characters and how there lives would combine.
Which I suppose was the whole idea of the book.
This is 3 Fantasy stories, introducing 5 characters for the future series.
Each story was enjoyable with good character / world, building.
You were certainly left wanting to no more about the characters and how there lives would combine.
Which I suppose was the whole idea of the book.
June 4, 2022
Three short, unpredictable stories.
The author is laying the background for five main and very interesting characters. These three stories are easy to read, fast paced action adventures. Looking forward to the the series.
The author is laying the background for five main and very interesting characters. These three stories are easy to read, fast paced action adventures. Looking forward to the the series.
August 5, 2019
Good, but
Characterization and storyline are good and enjoyable. Unfortunately, it's lacking in the technical aspects of writing. A little editing assistance, and it would improve greatly.
Characterization and storyline are good and enjoyable. Unfortunately, it's lacking in the technical aspects of writing. A little editing assistance, and it would improve greatly.
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