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The Anterra Collection #1
The Orphans of New Lur
Iona and Nero are Human orphans: one born with powers she can’t explain, the other bound to a terrifying friend no one else can see, both hunted by a woman that does not fail. The Anterra Collection is perfect for fans of Mistborn, looking for a fresh, new epic fantasy series.
When a ragtag bunch of five orphans stumble upon glowing canisters that contain ethereal weapons designed to fuse with a Human’s soul, they unwittingly risk life and sanity by opening them.
One canister is overlooked as it appears empty, but a lack of light in their world does not correlate to a lack of power in the other. Nero opens it to find an otherworldly being that cannot survive unless it finds a host; a being that must decide to either kill Nero or accept his offering…
Confused and exhilarated, the empowered orphans must adapt to their new abilities to keep each other alive, as Isis, a woman of incomparable will, is determined to pursue these Humans in search of secrets to an ancient civilization.
When a ragtag bunch of five orphans stumble upon glowing canisters that contain ethereal weapons designed to fuse with a Human’s soul, they unwittingly risk life and sanity by opening them.
One canister is overlooked as it appears empty, but a lack of light in their world does not correlate to a lack of power in the other. Nero opens it to find an otherworldly being that cannot survive unless it finds a host; a being that must decide to either kill Nero or accept his offering…
Confused and exhilarated, the empowered orphans must adapt to their new abilities to keep each other alive, as Isis, a woman of incomparable will, is determined to pursue these Humans in search of secrets to an ancient civilization.
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2020
36 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Blake Vanier
9 books12 followersGrowing up, I loved stories. In high school, a friend named Frankie inspired me to take it to the next level by creating one of my own. In 2008, taking the train back from an internship at Lockheed-Martin, I got the idea that was the seed for my Anterra series. I finished my Masters in Aerospace Engineering with the series outlined and the first few chapters complete. When I finally thought it was done, I reworked a lot of it. Then, with some constructive criticism, I rewrote almost the entire thing… I did that at least one or two more times… It was painful. Thankfully, I have finally forged this into something that I'm truly proud of. It's time to share it with the world.
When I’m not working on this series, I’m either playing with science; inventing in the shop with a CNC milling center; or studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
When I’m not working on this series, I’m either playing with science; inventing in the shop with a CNC milling center; or studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
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October 20, 2021
“The Orphans of New Lur” Book One of The Anterra Collection
By Brett Salter
Opening Line: “The relaxing buzz of the radio mixes with the sounds of clanging pans and running water.”
Favorite Lines: “Saraf’s expression shows shocked disgust. “Because they do cool things? That’s the best answer your feeble brain could come up with?” He exhales sharply. “We may be in trouble.””
The Review:
“The Orphans of New Lur” is book one of author Blake Vanier’s The Anterra Collection series which follows several main protagonists’ adventures around the continent of Majirin on the planet Anterra.
The titular orphans of New Lur are (in order of my favorite to least favorite) Nero, Korbin, Thea, Ryder, and Iona. I use the words “least favorite” extremely loosely as all five of these characters are very well-defined and make for exceptionally fun reading. Please don’t get me wrong. They all have personalities and intricacies that make them loveable, I just wanted to show my order for you guys! We get the most time inside Nero’s and Iona’s perspectives while the other three do not have this insight in the first book. It’s very rare that a book can pack five characters into it while not confusing the reader with who is who or who did what. That is a testament to the author’s ability to make these characters original enough to stand alone in several scenes of the book. Their personalities and interactions with one another define their most applicable traits excellently.
With reviews, I usually follow the plot of a story, but with this one, I am going to focus on the world and characters, so I don’t spoil anything or “read the book for you”. Anyone who likes this genre should one thousand percent check it out. That is a given. I want to tell you what to EXPECT not what you will read. And you WILL read it!
I just want to start out by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It easily has all the elements one would come to expect from a book that fits right in with a modern-day, sci-fi adventure. Blake Vanier has created an absolutely prismatic world with Anterra that is vivid and beautiful and dangerous and intricate. His creativity knows no bounds in the first book introducing us to the 3 “main” races of Anterra. The Humans, the Borukins, and the Erohsians (though other races ARE introduced, the first book focuses on these 3 humanoid ones). Each of these races has their own distinct culture that is explored in the pages. We learn that the technology-dependent Erohsians are borderline oppressors in this world to the Humans, whereas the Borukins seem to draw influence from more peaceful societies. If I were to make a comparison, I would say the Borukin are a combination of the Na’vi from Avatar and the samurai culture of premodern Japan. Both being respectful, pensive, and artistic yet able to fight when pushed. The Borukin race is thoroughly studied in the first book, and we learn about their weaponry, their rituals, their form of government (monarchy), and even their traditions throughout. Sometimes it can be tricky to comprehend, but Blake has provided a glossary in the novel for assistance which readily clears up any questions.
The Humans also play an important role in this book as we enter the world during the fledgling rise of a revolutionary group called Catalyst that wishes to put an end to the Erohsian (the Mini’s) rule over them. The history of this world plays out in a variety of ways including exposition by several Borukin characters and even a short, narrative diary interwoven into the main story. The different tactics Blake uses to infuse this into the book are masterful and fresh each time. There’s not one character that just rattles on and on for chapters at as time telling us what we need to know. It was well crafted and planned, indeed. I don’t want to spoil anything because I want all of you to read this book, but the second book sets up for even more involvement with the Humans and their attempt to right the world.
Then, there is the world itself; Anterra. Wow! Blake has created a planet that is so rich in world-building that you cannot help but imagine the scenes in your mind’s eye as they take place on the page. From the treacherous jungles to the bustling towns, there is life all over this planet. And although most of it is nonviolent, there are plenty of threats that look to snuff out five orphan lives at every turn. I will say that at least the Humans have the ability to control Aether in order to survive the harsh wilds and other menaces which hit closer to home.
So, now that you know you are getting into a deep world with plenty of relatable characters, lets do the positives of the book. Blake’s vocabulary is tremendous which I find as a positive since I had to look up a couple words like “hackles” and “coprophagist” (heehee). Expanding my knowledge can ONLY be seen as a positive to me. There are a LOT of secondary characters in this book, but most stand out in their own way. From the mysterious woman who helps a couple times to the Borukin shopkeepers and royalty who provide plenty of exposition dumps, each one has their role in setting up the separate acts of the book. Sosimo is my favorite character. I love how he is given quirky traits, a believable backstory, and a solid character arc through the interaction with the orphans. I fully expect him to have an expanding role in the next books as well. A close second would be the Erohsian, Isis whose arc in the first book is that of pursuing antagonist. But I can feel changes on the horizon for her as well. My predictions aside, I look for a much larger role for her in the future volumes.
Lastly, the use of Aether is a fantastic and innovative ability for these characters. And the mystery of Nero’s special relationship with Aether is extremely cool. I really hope it unfolds more as the series progresses. The other orphans and their Aethersottos are equally as interesting. Again, no spoilers here, but I am fascinated to see Ryder’s use of his Biat Aether, awestruck by Thea’s quadcast status, and a little nervous to see what Korbin does with his Ru Aether. The Aether is such a cool idea and a fresh take on things like Avatar The Last Airbender or Fullmetal Alchemist where characters use different elements or energies to wield incredible powers. Cheers to that!
This is a great book! I mean it! It is easily one of the better ones I’ve read in the genre, and it DOES harken me back to the Mistborn series. So, that is high praise. I only had one problem with this book, and it is such a teensy-weensy nitpick that I hardly think it will deter any readers of the series. I am just not a fan of present tense writing. I know! So small a thing, right? I understand WHY the book is in present tense, but it threw me for a loop near the beginning. I will say, after a while I did not even notice it anymore as the book is very heavy in dialogue, so the tense doesn’t even matter. But that’s it! I had no other qualms or issues with the book at all. So, do yourself a service and go get it! And then, reach out to me so we can theorize the series together!
I would recommend this book for anyone interested in Sci-fi/Fantasy over the age of 14. There is mild cussing and fear, offscreen death, and child slave trafficking which may trigger younger readers.
Final Review: 4.7 Borukin styx out of 5 (4.7 / 5)
Purchase “The Orphans of New Lur” on Amazon.com
https://www.amazon.com/Orphans-New-An...
Contact this phenomenal author:
Blake Vanier
Instagram: @blakesbooksandstuff
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter: @BlakeAVanier
Website: https://blakevanier.com/anterra/
By Brett Salter
Opening Line: “The relaxing buzz of the radio mixes with the sounds of clanging pans and running water.”
Favorite Lines: “Saraf’s expression shows shocked disgust. “Because they do cool things? That’s the best answer your feeble brain could come up with?” He exhales sharply. “We may be in trouble.””
The Review:
“The Orphans of New Lur” is book one of author Blake Vanier’s The Anterra Collection series which follows several main protagonists’ adventures around the continent of Majirin on the planet Anterra.
The titular orphans of New Lur are (in order of my favorite to least favorite) Nero, Korbin, Thea, Ryder, and Iona. I use the words “least favorite” extremely loosely as all five of these characters are very well-defined and make for exceptionally fun reading. Please don’t get me wrong. They all have personalities and intricacies that make them loveable, I just wanted to show my order for you guys! We get the most time inside Nero’s and Iona’s perspectives while the other three do not have this insight in the first book. It’s very rare that a book can pack five characters into it while not confusing the reader with who is who or who did what. That is a testament to the author’s ability to make these characters original enough to stand alone in several scenes of the book. Their personalities and interactions with one another define their most applicable traits excellently.
With reviews, I usually follow the plot of a story, but with this one, I am going to focus on the world and characters, so I don’t spoil anything or “read the book for you”. Anyone who likes this genre should one thousand percent check it out. That is a given. I want to tell you what to EXPECT not what you will read. And you WILL read it!
I just want to start out by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It easily has all the elements one would come to expect from a book that fits right in with a modern-day, sci-fi adventure. Blake Vanier has created an absolutely prismatic world with Anterra that is vivid and beautiful and dangerous and intricate. His creativity knows no bounds in the first book introducing us to the 3 “main” races of Anterra. The Humans, the Borukins, and the Erohsians (though other races ARE introduced, the first book focuses on these 3 humanoid ones). Each of these races has their own distinct culture that is explored in the pages. We learn that the technology-dependent Erohsians are borderline oppressors in this world to the Humans, whereas the Borukins seem to draw influence from more peaceful societies. If I were to make a comparison, I would say the Borukin are a combination of the Na’vi from Avatar and the samurai culture of premodern Japan. Both being respectful, pensive, and artistic yet able to fight when pushed. The Borukin race is thoroughly studied in the first book, and we learn about their weaponry, their rituals, their form of government (monarchy), and even their traditions throughout. Sometimes it can be tricky to comprehend, but Blake has provided a glossary in the novel for assistance which readily clears up any questions.
The Humans also play an important role in this book as we enter the world during the fledgling rise of a revolutionary group called Catalyst that wishes to put an end to the Erohsian (the Mini’s) rule over them. The history of this world plays out in a variety of ways including exposition by several Borukin characters and even a short, narrative diary interwoven into the main story. The different tactics Blake uses to infuse this into the book are masterful and fresh each time. There’s not one character that just rattles on and on for chapters at as time telling us what we need to know. It was well crafted and planned, indeed. I don’t want to spoil anything because I want all of you to read this book, but the second book sets up for even more involvement with the Humans and their attempt to right the world.
Then, there is the world itself; Anterra. Wow! Blake has created a planet that is so rich in world-building that you cannot help but imagine the scenes in your mind’s eye as they take place on the page. From the treacherous jungles to the bustling towns, there is life all over this planet. And although most of it is nonviolent, there are plenty of threats that look to snuff out five orphan lives at every turn. I will say that at least the Humans have the ability to control Aether in order to survive the harsh wilds and other menaces which hit closer to home.
So, now that you know you are getting into a deep world with plenty of relatable characters, lets do the positives of the book. Blake’s vocabulary is tremendous which I find as a positive since I had to look up a couple words like “hackles” and “coprophagist” (heehee). Expanding my knowledge can ONLY be seen as a positive to me. There are a LOT of secondary characters in this book, but most stand out in their own way. From the mysterious woman who helps a couple times to the Borukin shopkeepers and royalty who provide plenty of exposition dumps, each one has their role in setting up the separate acts of the book. Sosimo is my favorite character. I love how he is given quirky traits, a believable backstory, and a solid character arc through the interaction with the orphans. I fully expect him to have an expanding role in the next books as well. A close second would be the Erohsian, Isis whose arc in the first book is that of pursuing antagonist. But I can feel changes on the horizon for her as well. My predictions aside, I look for a much larger role for her in the future volumes.
Lastly, the use of Aether is a fantastic and innovative ability for these characters. And the mystery of Nero’s special relationship with Aether is extremely cool. I really hope it unfolds more as the series progresses. The other orphans and their Aethersottos are equally as interesting. Again, no spoilers here, but I am fascinated to see Ryder’s use of his Biat Aether, awestruck by Thea’s quadcast status, and a little nervous to see what Korbin does with his Ru Aether. The Aether is such a cool idea and a fresh take on things like Avatar The Last Airbender or Fullmetal Alchemist where characters use different elements or energies to wield incredible powers. Cheers to that!
This is a great book! I mean it! It is easily one of the better ones I’ve read in the genre, and it DOES harken me back to the Mistborn series. So, that is high praise. I only had one problem with this book, and it is such a teensy-weensy nitpick that I hardly think it will deter any readers of the series. I am just not a fan of present tense writing. I know! So small a thing, right? I understand WHY the book is in present tense, but it threw me for a loop near the beginning. I will say, after a while I did not even notice it anymore as the book is very heavy in dialogue, so the tense doesn’t even matter. But that’s it! I had no other qualms or issues with the book at all. So, do yourself a service and go get it! And then, reach out to me so we can theorize the series together!
I would recommend this book for anyone interested in Sci-fi/Fantasy over the age of 14. There is mild cussing and fear, offscreen death, and child slave trafficking which may trigger younger readers.
Final Review: 4.7 Borukin styx out of 5 (4.7 / 5)
Purchase “The Orphans of New Lur” on Amazon.com
https://www.amazon.com/Orphans-New-An...
Contact this phenomenal author:
Blake Vanier
Instagram: @blakesbooksandstuff
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter: @BlakeAVanier
Website: https://blakevanier.com/anterra/
December 2, 2019
An exciting story of some well developed, interesting characters. The magical elements are creative and intriguing. The book climaxes with an edge of your seat page turner finale that left me wanting more.
December 21, 2021
This was a most enjoyable read. The orphans at the heart of the story make for a wonderful team that is fun to follow and easy to root for. The action is fast, the secondary characters are well developed and the world is beautifully conceived. I very much enjoyed my time on the planet of Anterra.
The power on this world rests on control of a type of energy called Aether. This substance offers a unique concept that allows the story to exist in a nice little sweet-spot halfway between science fiction and fantasy. Aether is a complex thing. There are different types and casts with countless ways of measuring, storing and controlling it that can all become quite confusing at times. Luckily, there is a 13-page Glossary in the back of the book that helps you keep it all straight. For me, this complexity is a good thing. I prefer sci-fi to fantasy, so terms like Riner Ratio and Boltz Scale are music to my ears. I think some younger readers may find some of it a bit hard to follow, so you might want to consider that if you are thinking of introducing this book to someone younger than 12 or so.
My only real problem with the book is its narrative style. I happen to be one of those people annoyed by third person, present tense narration - it always feels funny rattling around in my brain as I read it. I realize, of course, that this is a 'me' problem, so I have no intention of holding it against the author. I simply mention it for the benefit of those similarly afflicted.
All in all, I found this to be a wonderful story and I would recommend it to anyone who likes to root for the underdogs as they fight to make their world a better place.
The power on this world rests on control of a type of energy called Aether. This substance offers a unique concept that allows the story to exist in a nice little sweet-spot halfway between science fiction and fantasy. Aether is a complex thing. There are different types and casts with countless ways of measuring, storing and controlling it that can all become quite confusing at times. Luckily, there is a 13-page Glossary in the back of the book that helps you keep it all straight. For me, this complexity is a good thing. I prefer sci-fi to fantasy, so terms like Riner Ratio and Boltz Scale are music to my ears. I think some younger readers may find some of it a bit hard to follow, so you might want to consider that if you are thinking of introducing this book to someone younger than 12 or so.
My only real problem with the book is its narrative style. I happen to be one of those people annoyed by third person, present tense narration - it always feels funny rattling around in my brain as I read it. I realize, of course, that this is a 'me' problem, so I have no intention of holding it against the author. I simply mention it for the benefit of those similarly afflicted.
All in all, I found this to be a wonderful story and I would recommend it to anyone who likes to root for the underdogs as they fight to make their world a better place.
December 18, 2021
In The Orphans of New Lur by Blake Vanier, we follow five orphans Iona, Ryder, Thea, Korbin and Nero, as they travel around on the planet Anterra. This book is the first one of The Anterra Collection.
Firstly, I would like to say kudos to the author for being innovative in his book! It’s difficult to come across unique stories these days, but Blake has done it with distinctive characters, an original world and an enthralling plot.
A more detailed review is available here.
Firstly, I would like to say kudos to the author for being innovative in his book! It’s difficult to come across unique stories these days, but Blake has done it with distinctive characters, an original world and an enthralling plot.
A more detailed review is available here.
January 9, 2021
Creative world building and characters you can connect with!
Solid world building in a way that isn't overwhelming. The characters and their relationships draw the reader from the first few pages. The multiple points of views also help to flesh out the story, giving the reader a new perspective (and helping to build the world) every chapter. Overall a great read that keeps you hooked from the first few pages until the end.
Solid world building in a way that isn't overwhelming. The characters and their relationships draw the reader from the first few pages. The multiple points of views also help to flesh out the story, giving the reader a new perspective (and helping to build the world) every chapter. Overall a great read that keeps you hooked from the first few pages until the end.
February 13, 2021
3.75💫
This is the first book in The Anterra Collection and it was a well crafted story with magic and aether at it's centre.
The author has put in a lot of thought on character development and researching, and it shines through the chapters.
I loved the idea of a group of children embarking on a magical quest. The pure tenacity to fight and live for oneself while keeping others safe as well was quite good. I loved the banter between them and the thirst to prove one's worth. The action sequences were written beautifully keeping you at the very edge of your seat. There were quite a few incidents when one was totally taken aback by the surprise of it.
I'm quite new to the scientific fiction genre but was totally sold on the synopsis. Anything having even a teeny element of mystery, I'm ready for it!
•••••
The book had a great plot line but was lacking in some aspects. It was at times, too descriptive and the plot twists were over in a jiffy, like a moment it was there, and the next gone. I couldn't feel it passing. I wanted more from it.
The character that grew on me the most was Nero. I loved his simplicity and presence of mind. He was just awesome in his own treacherous ways.
•••••
The writing is good and is well paced. There were times, I had to consult a dictionary, but that's on the positive.
Really excited for the next installment in the series!!!
•••••
Recommended for anyone new to the genre and interested in some post apocalyptic kinda storyline.
This is the first book in The Anterra Collection and it was a well crafted story with magic and aether at it's centre.
The author has put in a lot of thought on character development and researching, and it shines through the chapters.
I loved the idea of a group of children embarking on a magical quest. The pure tenacity to fight and live for oneself while keeping others safe as well was quite good. I loved the banter between them and the thirst to prove one's worth. The action sequences were written beautifully keeping you at the very edge of your seat. There were quite a few incidents when one was totally taken aback by the surprise of it.
I'm quite new to the scientific fiction genre but was totally sold on the synopsis. Anything having even a teeny element of mystery, I'm ready for it!
•••••
The book had a great plot line but was lacking in some aspects. It was at times, too descriptive and the plot twists were over in a jiffy, like a moment it was there, and the next gone. I couldn't feel it passing. I wanted more from it.
The character that grew on me the most was Nero. I loved his simplicity and presence of mind. He was just awesome in his own treacherous ways.
•••••
The writing is good and is well paced. There were times, I had to consult a dictionary, but that's on the positive.
Really excited for the next installment in the series!!!
•••••
Recommended for anyone new to the genre and interested in some post apocalyptic kinda storyline.
December 3, 2019
A great first novel of a series. The magic rules are unique and intricately developed. The characters feel distinct and believable. I felt lost in the story arc most of the time but that may have been due to the way I read it: a few pages a night over 2.5 months. The end is a cliff hanger of sorts begging for the next book.
November 17, 2019
In the first page of chapter one, I already cared about Nero/Sam and his struggles. His foster siblings were just as real-endearing, annoying, hilarious... I feel invested in finding out what they do next. The world they live in is unlike any other, and at the same time so much like our own. I can't wait for book 2 to come out!
April 6, 2021
The Orphans of New Lur: An Epic Science Fantasy Adventure is the first book from The Anterra Collection series. There was very little that I anticipated about this book when I started reading it and was overwhelmed by Blake’s powerful creativity and imagination skills as I flipped through its pages.The combination of Science Fiction and young adult fantasy is indeed a beautiful blend that has resulted in producing such a fascinating story.
It’s a brilliantly composed story about the journey of young boy Nero and his foster friends who go on an adventure with compelling and complex villains and heroes. I appreciate the way the author has created such a magical world with every finite detail. I enjoyed every element in the spot, and it’s great to read.
The characterization has been very well thought out, and I loved the way the story travelled through the magical landscapes along with plenty of humour on the main characters. I was able to sense the way the author has set in the direction of the plot and the way it went with the series.He has given a distinct point of view on every character in the book and treated them with a unique moment.
This book deal with many personal feelings for some of the characters and I like that development. More explanations into the magic and affinities are always great. The language is simple and lucid and the book cover illustration is amazing. I commend the designer for such beautiful work.
I was extremely impressed with this book, and I am going to re-read this before I proceed to read the second book of this series. I would rate this book with 5 out of 5 stars, and the author has given a real gift in this series which makes the reader wanting to go deeper into the universe the author has created.
It’s a brilliantly composed story about the journey of young boy Nero and his foster friends who go on an adventure with compelling and complex villains and heroes. I appreciate the way the author has created such a magical world with every finite detail. I enjoyed every element in the spot, and it’s great to read.
The characterization has been very well thought out, and I loved the way the story travelled through the magical landscapes along with plenty of humour on the main characters. I was able to sense the way the author has set in the direction of the plot and the way it went with the series.He has given a distinct point of view on every character in the book and treated them with a unique moment.
This book deal with many personal feelings for some of the characters and I like that development. More explanations into the magic and affinities are always great. The language is simple and lucid and the book cover illustration is amazing. I commend the designer for such beautiful work.
I was extremely impressed with this book, and I am going to re-read this before I proceed to read the second book of this series. I would rate this book with 5 out of 5 stars, and the author has given a real gift in this series which makes the reader wanting to go deeper into the universe the author has created.
April 4, 2021
Updated review after listening to the audiobook:
Most of my original review still stands. The only difference is that now that I was able to listen to it in a much shorter period of time, I was a lot less confused about what was going on for most of the story, though I was still a bit lost in the last 1/3 or 3/4. Having a better grasp on the overall story arc made me appreciate the characters more and their development, mainly Nero. It also made me hate Korbun even more (as intended I believe) haha. I also noticed that the characters have a whole lot of meals in this book; maybe that's not uncommon in novels but it's not something I've noticed before and now I'm going to be listening for it in other novels as well. The narration had really good audio quality and clarity.
Original review:
A great first novel of a series. The magic rules are unique and intricately developed. The characters feel distinct and believable. I felt lost in the story arc most of the time but that may have been due to the way I read it: a few pages a night over 2.5 months. The end is a cliff hanger of sorts begging for the next book.
Most of my original review still stands. The only difference is that now that I was able to listen to it in a much shorter period of time, I was a lot less confused about what was going on for most of the story, though I was still a bit lost in the last 1/3 or 3/4. Having a better grasp on the overall story arc made me appreciate the characters more and their development, mainly Nero. It also made me hate Korbun even more (as intended I believe) haha. I also noticed that the characters have a whole lot of meals in this book; maybe that's not uncommon in novels but it's not something I've noticed before and now I'm going to be listening for it in other novels as well. The narration had really good audio quality and clarity.
Original review:
A great first novel of a series. The magic rules are unique and intricately developed. The characters feel distinct and believable. I felt lost in the story arc most of the time but that may have been due to the way I read it: a few pages a night over 2.5 months. The end is a cliff hanger of sorts begging for the next book.
March 15, 2025
Like every epic scifi, this book is a sprawling adventure with plenty of world-building and lots of new settings that get explored! I liked that each of the main characters had a unique internal struggle they grappled with. I also liked the dynamics of the group, where they often struggled to work together and had to learn to be a team, understanding and helping each other in their weakness. I also appreciated that the content was clean. The story isn't stressful or traumatic. The violence is minimal. Apart from a few swear words, this is definitely a family friendly read.
The book reads like watching a TV series with different, almost self-contained adventures strung together, rather than one streamlined, focused plot. I'd recommend this book for YA, middle grade, or any reader looking for a more relaxed epic scifi book!
The book reads like watching a TV series with different, almost self-contained adventures strung together, rather than one streamlined, focused plot. I'd recommend this book for YA, middle grade, or any reader looking for a more relaxed epic scifi book!
December 5, 2020
Simply reading the description by this new author has my mind hooked to this book. His passion and way of writing has made me want to put down my study, pick up his book and read until my eyes are sore and I need to turn a light on to continue. As a person who used to read books a lot, I was very picky and usually only picked them if they had a good blurb/description. This has knocked that out of the park, and it's safe to say the book will be brilliant. Great talent by this new author, has a good future in writing ahead of him. 5/5 stars, would 100% recommend
January 20, 2021
After reading sci-fi/fantasy for 50 years, you think you've been to the limits of human imagination, but Blake proved me wrong with the world he has created. Rich is detail, Anterra comes to life through Blake's words. The kids in the story are feel very real, with their emotions ranging from kind to cruel. Nero, the main character, with his insecurities and doubts, is very relatable, at least for me. An enjoyable read, this book is worth spending time with!
March 23, 2021
i do not generally read this genre. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am planning to get the second book in this series.
May 9, 2020
Great entry
The story sets what seems to be a long journey of discovery and mystery it does a really good job at leaving you wanting more . My only gripe is how little background is known about the world and the different races that inhabited. I understand that the author will unravel the mysteries as the next installments are released however I found it a little jarring how little is answering the whole book and how many questions are left unanswered as more questions like up.
The story sets what seems to be a long journey of discovery and mystery it does a really good job at leaving you wanting more . My only gripe is how little background is known about the world and the different races that inhabited. I understand that the author will unravel the mysteries as the next installments are released however I found it a little jarring how little is answering the whole book and how many questions are left unanswered as more questions like up.
June 3, 2020
Great fast paced start to the book that gets you hooked. I connected with the characters immediately. The middle of the book is a bit slower with some necessary world building coupled with an interesting exposition of the intricate and unique magic system. While one might classify this book as a fantasy epic, I'd say that it blends fantasy and science fiction to give you an experience outside that of the typical fantasy adventure. The book ends with an exciting sequence leaving you wanting more. Can't wait for the next installment.
March 29, 2020
This was a fun and engaging read. I enjoyed the world building in this first book, I found it fascinating, peaking my curiosity for more history and background.
I liked that the orphans were believable as children, they have youthful resilience, dealing with situations of fear and loss but still being caring and silly.
I'm looking forward to seeing the story develop and unfold as well as exploring the world more in the books to come!
I liked that the orphans were believable as children, they have youthful resilience, dealing with situations of fear and loss but still being caring and silly.
I'm looking forward to seeing the story develop and unfold as well as exploring the world more in the books to come!
January 15, 2020
Let me preface this by saying, Bravo! For a first Book, this far exceeded my expectations.
Vanier’s intricate weaving of characters and story lines is as delicate, complex, and intriguing as any of the iconic authors we have grown up loving. The attention to every detail is evident as you find yourself yearning to turn the page for more.
I always judge a good book by the amount of sleep I am willing to forgo so I can find out what happens next. This book easily checks that box, and I can’t wait to see what is to come with the next in the series!
Do yourselves a favor, and read this one! I believe in my heart that you too, will thoroughly enjoy reading this, and yet very excited about what is still to come from this author.
Vanier’s intricate weaving of characters and story lines is as delicate, complex, and intriguing as any of the iconic authors we have grown up loving. The attention to every detail is evident as you find yourself yearning to turn the page for more.
I always judge a good book by the amount of sleep I am willing to forgo so I can find out what happens next. This book easily checks that box, and I can’t wait to see what is to come with the next in the series!
Do yourselves a favor, and read this one! I believe in my heart that you too, will thoroughly enjoy reading this, and yet very excited about what is still to come from this author.
November 2, 2019
The mark of a good story is when my mind creates the environment and feel of the story as if I've been there, stood in that place and experienced the events along with the characters, even when I'm not reading the book and often well after.
The Orphans of New Lur is just that type of story. Set in a dystopian world where humans are the underdogs, it follows a group of resourceful children and the mysterious forces they learn to harness through friends and foes. It's a great read - the characters are relatable and interesting (even the bad ones), and the plot is well constructed and fun to follow. Looking forward to the second installment.
The Orphans of New Lur is just that type of story. Set in a dystopian world where humans are the underdogs, it follows a group of resourceful children and the mysterious forces they learn to harness through friends and foes. It's a great read - the characters are relatable and interesting (even the bad ones), and the plot is well constructed and fun to follow. Looking forward to the second installment.
November 10, 2019
Building a world like Anterra is no easy task, and Vanier exceeds what is expected for an entirely new universe that is consistent with it's own laws of physics! The story is fresh and innovative, drawing inspiration from sci-fi/fantasy powerhouses while still maintaining originality. The story opens with the Orphans, who are thrust into a world larger than they have ever known, with mysterious forces, races, and circumstances that challenge the very core of their being in this new exciting Part 1 of the Anterra Collection!
November 29, 2019
A fun story that takes on a life of it's own and brings you along for the ride. In the vein of good modern fantasy, it's an open world adventure with a compelling group of characters. Each character has a distinctive personality and the way the orphans team up is well done. Much like real world adventures, the orphans find themselves in situations they don't really understand as they are part of larger forces beyond their current understanding. A fun adventure with compelling and complex villians and heros and a cliffhanger ending that will have you wanting to read the next book. Can't wait!
October 26, 2019
The book mixes a fun story with some relatable characters. You quickly find yourself caring about the protagonist at the same time you can feel their flaws. Also some interesting magic rules in the universe. Do wish it got started a little faster but once it gets going you get swept up in the story.
December 4, 2019
The combination of adventure, magic, and mystery make it easy to get sucked into this book. The story is set in an intricate, well-thought out world full of intriguing magical elements and interesting lifeforms. The lighthearted nature of the main characters and their silly antics make the reading fun. This book builds a great foundation for an exciting series. Looking forward to the next book!
September 14, 2019
Fantastic first novel of what it seems like a series of epic journeys! The characters are deep and versatile. The writing in this book is so exciting that I felt like a kid again eager for each turn of the page.
January 14, 2020
Vivid scenes and even more vivid characters. A complex and engaging plot, interwoven with humor, suspense, and childhood adventure. This story plants you in a new world. Can't wait to go back with the next book!
January 16, 2020
A deliciously intricate and well woven tale. The Orphans of New Lur were my traveling companions on a recent vacation. So sad to turn the last page before returning home. Am waiting for the next book.
January 25, 2021
An imaginative blend of fantasy and science fiction. The story line was engaging and I really connected with the characters. The world-building was very well thought out and unique. I can't wait to read more in this series.
December 25, 2020
Fantastic Magical Page Turner
This book is an amazing page turner and I couldn’t wait to find out what’s next to happen with Nero on his adventure. The author did wonderful job creating a magical place and such a refreshing read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
This book is an amazing page turner and I couldn’t wait to find out what’s next to happen with Nero on his adventure. The author did wonderful job creating a magical place and such a refreshing read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
September 30, 2019
What a great story, could not put it down.
Will there be a second?????
Will there be a second?????
October 26, 2019
I was drawn in by the very real characters and the children's struggles as they search for who they are. A very good first book. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
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