What do you think?
Rate this book
Fractured Throne #1
Fractured Throne
The Shadow is claiming souls all across the realm. With the help of a dragon, a drunk, and a mad prince, Emethius hopes to save the world.
Emethius has never been one for killing. As captain of the Red Company, he has always let the men serving under him do the dirty work. But when Crown Prince Meriatis attempts a coup against the throne, Emethius can't keep his hands clean.
Feeling guilt over his actions, Emethius tries to figure out why Prince Meriatis rebelled. Everyone believes the prince is simply insane, but Emethius has his own dark theory. Meriatis appears to have been afflicted by the Blackheart, a sickness in which one slowly loses their mind to an ancient deity known as the Shadow.
There are rumors of a sorceress who can cure the affliction, but she has gone into hiding somewhere in the fallen Empire of Cella. With more and more people contracting the Blackheart, Emethius sets out to find her. He only has two leads: a map written in blood, and the advice of a dragon who clearly has ulterior motives.
Emethius has never been one for killing. As captain of the Red Company, he has always let the men serving under him do the dirty work. But when Crown Prince Meriatis attempts a coup against the throne, Emethius can't keep his hands clean.
Feeling guilt over his actions, Emethius tries to figure out why Prince Meriatis rebelled. Everyone believes the prince is simply insane, but Emethius has his own dark theory. Meriatis appears to have been afflicted by the Blackheart, a sickness in which one slowly loses their mind to an ancient deity known as the Shadow.
There are rumors of a sorceress who can cure the affliction, but she has gone into hiding somewhere in the fallen Empire of Cella. With more and more people contracting the Blackheart, Emethius sets out to find her. He only has two leads: a map written in blood, and the advice of a dragon who clearly has ulterior motives.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
103 people are currently reading
1447 people want to read
About the author
Lee H. Haywood
10 books142 followersI am the author of The Gods and Kings Chronicles and Fractured Throne. I currently live in Arizona with my family. When I am not writing (which seems to take up more of my time these days) I enjoy playing soccer, tinkering with Photoshop, and exploring the world.
If you interested in following my exploits, please visit my website, follow me on facebook, or check me out on twitter . If you would like to receive promotional offers for my future publications, please sign up for my newsletter.
Thank you for your support!
If you interested in following my exploits, please visit my website, follow me on facebook, or check me out on twitter . If you would like to receive promotional offers for my future publications, please sign up for my newsletter.
Thank you for your support!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 24, 2018
Darn you, Lee H. Haywood! *shakes fist* Darn you to heck!!
So, the aforementioned Mr. Haywood sent me a message, asking if I'd like a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review. I was like, "Eh, sure. Free books are neat. I'll absolutely give it a read." It was a bit of a slow starter for me, to be honest. But then all of a sudden BAM!! I didn't want to put this book down. I was so completely drawn into the story! The characters are believable, and even though I felt like the story might have religious tones (I'm an atheist), the story was so well-crafted that I wasn't bothered by that possibility.
With about one-third of the book left, I was horrified to realize that there was no way everything would be resolved by the end. Hence my fist-shaking. I fell into the all-too-common reader trap. Now I HAVE to read the next books to find out what happens. *sighs* My life is so hard.
Thank you, Mr. Haywood, for taking the time to send me the message, and sending me a copy of your book. I eagerly await the coming volumes, and the continuation of the story!
So, the aforementioned Mr. Haywood sent me a message, asking if I'd like a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review. I was like, "Eh, sure. Free books are neat. I'll absolutely give it a read." It was a bit of a slow starter for me, to be honest. But then all of a sudden BAM!! I didn't want to put this book down. I was so completely drawn into the story! The characters are believable, and even though I felt like the story might have religious tones (I'm an atheist), the story was so well-crafted that I wasn't bothered by that possibility.
With about one-third of the book left, I was horrified to realize that there was no way everything would be resolved by the end. Hence my fist-shaking. I fell into the all-too-common reader trap. Now I HAVE to read the next books to find out what happens. *sighs* My life is so hard.
Thank you, Mr. Haywood, for taking the time to send me the message, and sending me a copy of your book. I eagerly await the coming volumes, and the continuation of the story!
September 28, 2018
Fractured Throne (Fractured Throne - Book 1)
By Lee H. Haywood
Genre - Epic Fantasy/Adventure
Pages - 225
Publication Info - Free Dominion Publishing (October 9, 2018)
Format - Digital
Stars - 📙📙📙📙📙
Just finished reading my ARC of Fractured Throne (Fractured Throne - Book 1) by Lee H. Haywood. Due for release October, 9, 2018. If you’ve read The Gods and Kings Chronicles you will have some idea as to how talented and skilled this author is at developing worlds and creating well thought out characters. Fast paced, action packed and wonderfully written this one takes place on the Continent of Elandria within the Four Realms of Eremel. Lee breathes life into each character with well measured and melodic narrative. Lee will transport you to, and drop you right in the middle of conversations and locations he’s created with artful and detailed descriptions. Once again, Lee shows that there is something to be said about the Young Adult/Epic Fantasy genre - and that is that he is among some of the best in this genre and he has earned his place amongst them. If you’re looking for creative, imaginative and damn good writing this is a must read. Prepare yourself for an journey limited only by one's imagination, and let Lee do the rest and take you to a world filled with danger, adventure and excitement. A most enjoyable read.
From the back cover: The Blackheart is no ordinary plague. It targets its victims, polluting their minds and forcing them to perform unthinkable acts. Civilization teeters on the brink, and when the crown prince contracts the Blackheart, the realm plunges into civil war.
Trapped in the midst of the chaos is Emethius, best friend of the afflicted prince. Emethius grew up in the royal palace, his friendship buying him admittance into the best academies, and later command of the High Lord's most elite cavalry unit. Emethius owes everything to the prince, but it's hard to show gratitude to a man you're supposed to kill.
After rebels loyal to the prince kidnap the High Lord, Emethius volunteers to undertake a dangerous rescue mission. The mission doesn't go as planned, and now dark rumors are swirling around the palace; whispers of a sorceress performing miracles, and of a cure the gods don't want mortals to have.
When Emethius discovers the afflicted prince, the mysterious sorceress, and the rumored cure are all connected, he is thrust upon a journey into the ruined Kingdom of Cella, a place where civilization has collapsed and the madness of the Blackheart reigns supreme. Will Emethius find the cure? And if he does manage to return home, will there be anyone left to save?
About the author: Lee H. Haywood is the author of The Gods and Kings Chronicles. After majoring in history, Lee spent his days serving his community as a high school history teacher, while at night he honed his craft as a writer. His first book, THE GUARDIAN, came out in December of 2015 and became a featured story on Wattpad, eventually garnering over 60,000 reads. Lee currently lives in Arizona with his wife and dog. When not writing Lee enjoys playing soccer, tinkering with Photoshop, and exploring the world.
Other books by Lee H. Haywood: The Order (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Prequel), The Wizards Dark Dominion (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 1), The Guardian (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 2), The Guardian Stone (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 3)
By Lee H. Haywood
Genre - Epic Fantasy/Adventure
Pages - 225
Publication Info - Free Dominion Publishing (October 9, 2018)
Format - Digital
Stars - 📙📙📙📙📙
Just finished reading my ARC of Fractured Throne (Fractured Throne - Book 1) by Lee H. Haywood. Due for release October, 9, 2018. If you’ve read The Gods and Kings Chronicles you will have some idea as to how talented and skilled this author is at developing worlds and creating well thought out characters. Fast paced, action packed and wonderfully written this one takes place on the Continent of Elandria within the Four Realms of Eremel. Lee breathes life into each character with well measured and melodic narrative. Lee will transport you to, and drop you right in the middle of conversations and locations he’s created with artful and detailed descriptions. Once again, Lee shows that there is something to be said about the Young Adult/Epic Fantasy genre - and that is that he is among some of the best in this genre and he has earned his place amongst them. If you’re looking for creative, imaginative and damn good writing this is a must read. Prepare yourself for an journey limited only by one's imagination, and let Lee do the rest and take you to a world filled with danger, adventure and excitement. A most enjoyable read.
From the back cover: The Blackheart is no ordinary plague. It targets its victims, polluting their minds and forcing them to perform unthinkable acts. Civilization teeters on the brink, and when the crown prince contracts the Blackheart, the realm plunges into civil war.
Trapped in the midst of the chaos is Emethius, best friend of the afflicted prince. Emethius grew up in the royal palace, his friendship buying him admittance into the best academies, and later command of the High Lord's most elite cavalry unit. Emethius owes everything to the prince, but it's hard to show gratitude to a man you're supposed to kill.
After rebels loyal to the prince kidnap the High Lord, Emethius volunteers to undertake a dangerous rescue mission. The mission doesn't go as planned, and now dark rumors are swirling around the palace; whispers of a sorceress performing miracles, and of a cure the gods don't want mortals to have.
When Emethius discovers the afflicted prince, the mysterious sorceress, and the rumored cure are all connected, he is thrust upon a journey into the ruined Kingdom of Cella, a place where civilization has collapsed and the madness of the Blackheart reigns supreme. Will Emethius find the cure? And if he does manage to return home, will there be anyone left to save?
About the author: Lee H. Haywood is the author of The Gods and Kings Chronicles. After majoring in history, Lee spent his days serving his community as a high school history teacher, while at night he honed his craft as a writer. His first book, THE GUARDIAN, came out in December of 2015 and became a featured story on Wattpad, eventually garnering over 60,000 reads. Lee currently lives in Arizona with his wife and dog. When not writing Lee enjoys playing soccer, tinkering with Photoshop, and exploring the world.
Other books by Lee H. Haywood: The Order (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Prequel), The Wizards Dark Dominion (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 1), The Guardian (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 2), The Guardian Stone (The Gods and Kings Chronicles, Book 3)
June 4, 2021
Author Lee Haywood provided a print copy of Fractured Throne for review.
It is interesting to note that the cover art for this book on Amazon shows the same artwork but with the added title The Promise of Dragons. My deduction; an early printing. No matter, the book is great.
Your basic fantasy quest tale, but very well presented. Good character development and enough background that the reader does not feel lost jumping directly into the heart of the story.
Our hero, Emethius, is a Soldier of the Faith, a group that sounds somewhat Christian although not specifically so. He is tasked with finding the cure to the Blackheart, a plague destroying the population without regard to station or status.
All the best aspects of the quest are here including a partner who provides the comedy relief. No sex, good action, intrigue and political maneuvering.
If you like medieval quest settings this should be your cup of tea (or pages of a book if you prefer). Fractured Throne does appear to be the first in a series. As evidenced by the fact (SPOILER ALERT!) that our hero does not find the cure in this volume. The detective in me figured that out all by myself!
Anyway, good escapist fun for fantasy enthusiasts like me. Enjoy!
It is interesting to note that the cover art for this book on Amazon shows the same artwork but with the added title The Promise of Dragons. My deduction; an early printing. No matter, the book is great.
Your basic fantasy quest tale, but very well presented. Good character development and enough background that the reader does not feel lost jumping directly into the heart of the story.
Our hero, Emethius, is a Soldier of the Faith, a group that sounds somewhat Christian although not specifically so. He is tasked with finding the cure to the Blackheart, a plague destroying the population without regard to station or status.
All the best aspects of the quest are here including a partner who provides the comedy relief. No sex, good action, intrigue and political maneuvering.
If you like medieval quest settings this should be your cup of tea (or pages of a book if you prefer). Fractured Throne does appear to be the first in a series. As evidenced by the fact (SPOILER ALERT!) that our hero does not find the cure in this volume. The detective in me figured that out all by myself!
Anyway, good escapist fun for fantasy enthusiasts like me. Enjoy!
September 28, 2018
Received from the author in exchange for a review. Cross-posted to GoodReads and Amazon, once available.
First in a new series by author Lee Haywood, and off to an excellent start. I had to put the book down twice and resented it both times because I was deep into the story line, and didn't want to come out of it (despite animals looking at me pathetically and the need for sleep!) Each time, I was surprised at how far through the book I had made it, and there was a lot of story packed into the book. The author did a fine job with the first book, giving out information, and yet leaving mysteries that will draw me and others into the next books as he releases them.
Mr. Haywood's books have been of consistent quality right from the original books to now, and each book has gotten better. It's always a pleasure to dive into his books, because he does a great job of getting me out of my head and into another world.
First in a new series by author Lee Haywood, and off to an excellent start. I had to put the book down twice and resented it both times because I was deep into the story line, and didn't want to come out of it (despite animals looking at me pathetically and the need for sleep!) Each time, I was surprised at how far through the book I had made it, and there was a lot of story packed into the book. The author did a fine job with the first book, giving out information, and yet leaving mysteries that will draw me and others into the next books as he releases them.
Mr. Haywood's books have been of consistent quality right from the original books to now, and each book has gotten better. It's always a pleasure to dive into his books, because he does a great job of getting me out of my head and into another world.
October 4, 2018
This is the first book by Lee Haywood that I have read. He was gracious enough to send me an advanced copy which I have independently decided to leave a review on because this book was just absolutely magnificent. I loved the writing, I loved the story line, I loved the intrigue and the mystery, and the interwoven hidden meanings. Have I said I loved this book? Ok, good, because I loved it!
For a little insight on what this is about.... We have a brotherhood of soldiers who have sworn themselves to the faith and completing good works for the empire. They are lead by Emethius who has a kind heart and means well with all. He wants his works done without killing anyone. His best friend Malrich is a drunkard and unruly but he has his own vices and a reason for his madness. Beneath this is a scheme with the high lord and the herald. We have an affliction of the Blackheart that is taking over the entire empire. Emethius is doing his best to save everyone but doesn't have the time or the resources to do so.
Towards the end of this book I began to get the feeling I was reading one of Michael J Sullivan's books where Royce and Hadrian go on some quest to help someone and save the world. I really think that Emethius and Malrich could turn into LHH's Royce and Hadrian and I think he's hit a home run with book one of the Fractured Throne. I cannot wait to read what he cooks up next!
For a little insight on what this is about.... We have a brotherhood of soldiers who have sworn themselves to the faith and completing good works for the empire. They are lead by Emethius who has a kind heart and means well with all. He wants his works done without killing anyone. His best friend Malrich is a drunkard and unruly but he has his own vices and a reason for his madness. Beneath this is a scheme with the high lord and the herald. We have an affliction of the Blackheart that is taking over the entire empire. Emethius is doing his best to save everyone but doesn't have the time or the resources to do so.
Towards the end of this book I began to get the feeling I was reading one of Michael J Sullivan's books where Royce and Hadrian go on some quest to help someone and save the world. I really think that Emethius and Malrich could turn into LHH's Royce and Hadrian and I think he's hit a home run with book one of the Fractured Throne. I cannot wait to read what he cooks up next!
October 16, 2018
I had previously read Mr. Haywood "Gods and Kings Chronicles" series and I was less than impressed with the series. I was surprised when he contacted me with an offer to read and review an advance copy of his first book in his new series. (Fractured Throne) I impressed by with the fact that the author would pick someone who did not like his first series, so I agreed to read and write a review.
I downloaded the new book on my Kindle not knowing what to expect and I was hooked after the 2nd chapter. I finished the book in under 2 days. I was surprised by the contrast between the first series and the start of the 2nd. The character were engaging, the storyline was detailed and complex. The story was fast paced and kept you wanting to finish when you should have been asleep 2 hours ago. I can not wait for Book 2 in this series. It is impressive how much his writing\storytelling has improved (my opinion). I would rate this book a 4.5 as there is always room for improvement.
If you had asked me before this book if I would have ever read another Lee Haywood book, I would have said "No" but now I would\have recommend(ed) to family and friends.
I downloaded the new book on my Kindle not knowing what to expect and I was hooked after the 2nd chapter. I finished the book in under 2 days. I was surprised by the contrast between the first series and the start of the 2nd. The character were engaging, the storyline was detailed and complex. The story was fast paced and kept you wanting to finish when you should have been asleep 2 hours ago. I can not wait for Book 2 in this series. It is impressive how much his writing\storytelling has improved (my opinion). I would rate this book a 4.5 as there is always room for improvement.
If you had asked me before this book if I would have ever read another Lee Haywood book, I would have said "No" but now I would\have recommend(ed) to family and friends.
October 10, 2018
Having thoroughly enjoyed Haywood's "Gods and Kings Chronicles" I delved into this book with great anticipation. Haywood creates great characters and moves them along at a good pace. The stage is definitely set for the upcoming sequels. And the final chapters introduce us to a whole new set of players who may influence the upcoming plot. If I have one regret it is that the book's ending leaves me wanting more: Who is the sorceress? Can she really help with the Blackheart? Who are the mysterious figures following our protagonists in the end? Are their intentions good or evil? Usually I'm able to find the answers immediately (I normally have a rule that I don't read a series until it is complete, for just this reason, but I broke it since I was offered an advance copy and happily took advantage of it). But I'll have to wait for "The Wayward Prince" now (but not for too long, Fall 2018).
November 2, 2018
I'm still not sure if I liked this book. For someone who loves battles and military type stuff you'll love it, but I thought the book would be more about finding the cure than the battles and court issues. It's very complex and at times sluggish. There were many times I wondered why the scene was included since it didn't help explain how the main character would find the cure. Maybe these scenes are relevant to future books in the series, but I didn't see how it helped the plot of the book move forward. By the end of the book you're left hanging because the main character is still on his quest to find the cure with no real insights to what it is or how he's going to solve it and it just ends after he crosses a river and recovers. I don't think I'll finish the series since I had a hard time wanting to finish this one, but others might enjoy the complexity of future books.
October 2, 2018
Wow! This...was...amazing! Lee H. Haywood's talent continues to floor me! He delivers masterfully told stories with characters and adventures that transport you into a fantastical world that you never want to leave. The adventure reminded me of Nicholas Eames' Kings of the Wyld (without the language)--which is one of my favorites! It grips you right from the beginning, keeps you on the edge of your seat, until the very last heart-stopping moment!
I am still left in awe! His passion, his talent is going to crush indie stigmas, because it is truly phenomenal!
If you like Nicholas Eames, Brandon Sanderson, and Patrick Rothfuss, you're going to love this adventure.
I am still left in awe! His passion, his talent is going to crush indie stigmas, because it is truly phenomenal!
If you like Nicholas Eames, Brandon Sanderson, and Patrick Rothfuss, you're going to love this adventure.
October 11, 2018
As an avid reader of all of Lee Haywood's books, I was delighted to receive an ARC of this newest offering. I find myself repeating this with every book, but once again I found this to be his best yet! I continue to be so impressed with his writing style and in awe of his ability to create characters that I care about and whose exploits I follow with such anxious anticipation. I don't like spoilers, so I assure you the story he crafts is an excellent one, leading the reader to want more....as I do! I just can't wait to see what happens next. Write faster, Mr. Haywood....the suspense is killing me!
February 25, 2020
I read all 3 released books and they are at best, best, MEDIOCRE. Why then read them you ask? I was bored, and they were not expansive. Why the five stars reviews I have no idea. Books are short, too short. No much word building, characters are bland and uninteresting. Writing is also nothing particularly good. Plot does have some intrigue but lacking all the other elements it's forgettable. These book can be read to pass the time on airplane but that is it. People give 5 stars to anything these days.
October 9, 2018
I received an advance review copy from Lee Haywood, and I have to say that this book is awesome. You simply cant put it down. This book entices you to simply drive on as you are captivated. this is one of those books that the characters come alive in the writing, with the excellent plot. I simply have to say it is highly recommended for you to read this book. I am definitely a new fan. the books is fast paced, full of action and adventure and written masterfully.
October 10, 2018
I was given this book by the author in exchange for review, this is the first book I've read by the author.
It is a rare book that I fall for immediately and this is such a book. The story, flow, and characters are great. The story doesn't waste any time drawing you into the think of it. Gods, armies, rebels, war, and court intrigue what more can you ask for in a fantasy novel. My only disappointment is that the next book doesn't come out until some time next year.
It is a rare book that I fall for immediately and this is such a book. The story, flow, and characters are great. The story doesn't waste any time drawing you into the think of it. Gods, armies, rebels, war, and court intrigue what more can you ask for in a fantasy novel. My only disappointment is that the next book doesn't come out until some time next year.
October 10, 2018
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this story. It was full of action and intrigue. Complexities I didn't expect and twists I was caught off guard by are just a couple of the qualities I've come to expect from this author. I look forward to seeing where this series goes.
September 19, 2018
An amazing start to a series that looks to be an interesting journey. I can't wait to see what is in store.
November 2, 2018
I received copy of this book for my review. What a read a nice introduction to new characters with very good pacing. I am looking forward to the next book!!
January 3, 2019
Riviting
As the story unfolds from each character's segment you find yourself becoming more and more involved. Anxious to read the next books .
As the story unfolds from each character's segment you find yourself becoming more and more involved. Anxious to read the next books .
October 3, 2018
loved it a book that really is hard to put down Lee h Haywood's is destined to become one of the all time greats the book had a plot and characters that that i really enjoyed and cant wait for more . i would defantly recomend it if you enjoy fantasy you will love the fractured throne
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews