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Aeonica #1
The Lost Redeemer
Aeons once ruled the world. Now, their empire lies in ruin, and the survivors hide on the fringes of society.
Nahlia is a librarian's apprentice who's obsessed with Aeon lore, scavenging for hints of their legendary power.
But others are searching too, including the Templars who seek to hunt down the Aeon survivors. When the Templars attack her family, Nahlia is forced to infiltrate a secret academy and rise beyond everything she's ever known.
Nahlia is a librarian's apprentice who's obsessed with Aeon lore, scavenging for hints of their legendary power.
But others are searching too, including the Templars who seek to hunt down the Aeon survivors. When the Templars attack her family, Nahlia is forced to infiltrate a secret academy and rise beyond everything she's ever known.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2022
983 people are currently reading
1048 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 18, 2020
In as few words as possible, attempting to minimize annoying hyperbolic praise, this was a very clever, well told, action packed, hooked from the first chapter, loved the nuanced characters and their growth arch, beginning of a saga that deserves to be praised and well circulated.
A few things I particularly liked:
Generally I skip scenes and paragraphs that describe fighting. I skim looking for some sort of action that is essential to the story rather than building suspense for suspense’s sake. I did not skim one fight scene because they all were essential to the plot or development of the characters. Not one instance of the Mel Gibson-esque “see the brutality of my wounds and physical pain and how I continue to fight through it even as it attempts to defeat me.” Fight scènes important, not fluff.
The protagonists beginning with Nahlia and her father were flawed. The simple kind of flaws that everyone carries, not tragic hero flaws. Nahlia is helplessly naive but not simply innocent. Thane underestimates his opponents and over estimates his skills. Noble Elias fails to defend his twin sister though he understands her motivations and resentments. They all painfully grow as a result of their weaknesses.
Although this is book one of a series, it is a complete book. It ends when it should end, when it has told the story it set out to tell. No cheap cliff hanger although the ending leaves the reader breathlessly searching for the next book, which to my happy surprise was only recently completed!
This is a slightly violent book, but not salaciously violent. I don’t recall any cursing, though there may have been an ass or hell in there which I wouldn’t have even noticed. This book is an exciting read for adults and kids.
A few things I particularly liked:
Generally I skip scenes and paragraphs that describe fighting. I skim looking for some sort of action that is essential to the story rather than building suspense for suspense’s sake. I did not skim one fight scene because they all were essential to the plot or development of the characters. Not one instance of the Mel Gibson-esque “see the brutality of my wounds and physical pain and how I continue to fight through it even as it attempts to defeat me.” Fight scènes important, not fluff.
The protagonists beginning with Nahlia and her father were flawed. The simple kind of flaws that everyone carries, not tragic hero flaws. Nahlia is helplessly naive but not simply innocent. Thane underestimates his opponents and over estimates his skills. Noble Elias fails to defend his twin sister though he understands her motivations and resentments. They all painfully grow as a result of their weaknesses.
Although this is book one of a series, it is a complete book. It ends when it should end, when it has told the story it set out to tell. No cheap cliff hanger although the ending leaves the reader breathlessly searching for the next book, which to my happy surprise was only recently completed!
This is a slightly violent book, but not salaciously violent. I don’t recall any cursing, though there may have been an ass or hell in there which I wouldn’t have even noticed. This book is an exciting read for adults and kids.
May 10, 2022
I got all the way to the invasion and just had to quit.
This is trying to be an epic political drama rife with betrayal and intrigue. It just fails. The details fail, the plot is unbelievable, the characters act as needed to further a shaky story. This is an epic fail on multiple levels.
This is trying to be an epic political drama rife with betrayal and intrigue. It just fails. The details fail, the plot is unbelievable, the characters act as needed to further a shaky story. This is an epic fail on multiple levels.
October 16, 2020
I read the initial book that you published on Wattpad. Loved it then, I am sure the re-write is even better. Super excited to read your upcoming work!
September 19, 2023
The Lost Redeemer by David Musk had a strong coming of age / young adult flavour to it. I personally am happy to read both YA and adult fantasy, so I didn't mind, but if you're looking for a very epic series with adult characters / themes, this might not be for you.
I did like the tone and voice of the main character, a girl that's much more into reading and studying than combat so far, but wants to learn how to fight to not be helpless in the future. There's bits of PTSD, but it's not going very deep on the topic, compared with other adult series I read. It still gave it t some more depth and added to the character.
There's the well loved magic school trope in here, as well as quite some mysteries and clues from the past. There's an epic scale as a backdrop, but so far we focus on small pieces of the world, as we follow mostly one main character, which just a few scenes from other POVs. I fully expect we'll explore more of the world and about the deceits and intrigues in book two.
All in all a quick read that had me well entertained!
I did like the tone and voice of the main character, a girl that's much more into reading and studying than combat so far, but wants to learn how to fight to not be helpless in the future. There's bits of PTSD, but it's not going very deep on the topic, compared with other adult series I read. It still gave it t some more depth and added to the character.
There's the well loved magic school trope in here, as well as quite some mysteries and clues from the past. There's an epic scale as a backdrop, but so far we focus on small pieces of the world, as we follow mostly one main character, which just a few scenes from other POVs. I fully expect we'll explore more of the world and about the deceits and intrigues in book two.
All in all a quick read that had me well entertained!
July 21, 2025
Hum ok yeah I dig it
Book one was interesting. I'm a hard sell ,very picky. I enjoyed the story. There were a few parts I skimmed over ... Battle description in detail doesn't do it for me personally. That being said the author wasn't extra wordy. Character development is good. I was surprised by a few betrayals I didn't see coming. I'm looking forward to book two.
Book one was interesting. I'm a hard sell ,very picky. I enjoyed the story. There were a few parts I skimmed over ... Battle description in detail doesn't do it for me personally. That being said the author wasn't extra wordy. Character development is good. I was surprised by a few betrayals I didn't see coming. I'm looking forward to book two.
June 1, 2022
Amazing book!!!
I didn't want this book to end!! I enjoyed it and couldn't stop reading. I am anxiously waiting for the next book.
I didn't want this book to end!! I enjoyed it and couldn't stop reading. I am anxiously waiting for the next book.
February 4, 2025
Couldn't put it down!
I really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down for anything, and I mean anything like bathroom breaks, eating & so on. Yeah, it really keeps u enthralled.
I really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time putting it down for anything, and I mean anything like bathroom breaks, eating & so on. Yeah, it really keeps u enthralled.
April 10, 2022
I was a beta reader for this book and its sequel, and they just got better and better each time. I love how David constructed this story and the many plot twists and mind blowing revelations that occur whilst reading the book. Also, the fact that it isn’t just about one person, and you follow different stories kept me on my toes. Totally recommend if you want that action/fantasy with a touch of romance that you’ve been waiting for!
April 9, 2022
I was a beta reader for this book and believe me people it is a BIG must read!!!!! David is an excellent writer and he had me hooked from the first page.... O and the twist and turns🙏🏻 you will never guess what happens next, I had a few WHAT???!!! and OMG moment with this book. One of my favorite books ever!!!!!!!!
April 8, 2022
I love this book, the world building , the characters, the relationship on each of the characters is so good! I happen to stumble upon this and goodness I am so lucky!!!
April 12, 2022
The lost Redeemer is the first of a captivating series carefully woven and with profound depth. It vividly describes the world of the aeons and once picked, keeps you trapped and craving for more. The book is more than worth ones time. I look forward to other books by David.
October 22, 2019
Fun concept!
June 8, 2021
this is such a good book I love it
September 23, 2024
Excellent storyline and world building. Unique!
Enjoyed this read very much, definitely headed for an epic fantasy series here. Momentum was good if a bit confusing at the beginning, but as the story went on and developed it regained clarity and the plots and subplots had me turning the pages faster to see what was going to happen next. Characters developed well along with the revealing of the world. Love that it's a unique take on fantasy, something of a combined sci-fi/fantasy but with plenty of fantasy to satisfy.
Hope the pace will be kept up with the next book!
Enjoyed this read very much, definitely headed for an epic fantasy series here. Momentum was good if a bit confusing at the beginning, but as the story went on and developed it regained clarity and the plots and subplots had me turning the pages faster to see what was going to happen next. Characters developed well along with the revealing of the world. Love that it's a unique take on fantasy, something of a combined sci-fi/fantasy but with plenty of fantasy to satisfy.
Hope the pace will be kept up with the next book!
September 3, 2024
Absolutely delightful
I came across this book as a suggestion on Facebook. The excerpt there and the description on Amazon were enough to pick it up.
The pacing is quick, but not without places to catch your breath. The world building is intricate and I look forward to learning more about the history of these peoples in future volumes. I enjoyed this one very much and devoured it in one sitting.
I came across this book as a suggestion on Facebook. The excerpt there and the description on Amazon were enough to pick it up.
The pacing is quick, but not without places to catch your breath. The world building is intricate and I look forward to learning more about the history of these peoples in future volumes. I enjoyed this one very much and devoured it in one sitting.
June 5, 2023
Fun mysterious adventure
I really enjoyed this one! It was a fun different type of fantasy with the magic or battle school vibes. Not all the characters were exactly what I expected and could have taken multiple paths. The story did have some parts that were predictable but some I found surprising too. Overall I had a good time with this one.
I really enjoyed this one! It was a fun different type of fantasy with the magic or battle school vibes. Not all the characters were exactly what I expected and could have taken multiple paths. The story did have some parts that were predictable but some I found surprising too. Overall I had a good time with this one.
May 19, 2025
A great story.
This book is filled with characters that bring you into the conflicts and success of their magic systems. Filled with characters, both evil and noble. It pulls you into the storyline. The book kept me interested until the last page when I was not ready to stop reading. Thankfully there is another book in the series.
This book is filled with characters that bring you into the conflicts and success of their magic systems. Filled with characters, both evil and noble. It pulls you into the storyline. The book kept me interested until the last page when I was not ready to stop reading. Thankfully there is another book in the series.
June 28, 2025
Hooked From the Start
I must say I wasn’t expecting myself to be hooked from the start. I started reading a couple pages of the beginning to pass a little time, and from there I couldn’t stop. Amazing! Usually it takes a chapter or so to get enough details to where I need to know more.
I must say I wasn’t expecting myself to be hooked from the start. I started reading a couple pages of the beginning to pass a little time, and from there I couldn’t stop. Amazing! Usually it takes a chapter or so to get enough details to where I need to know more.
June 4, 2023
Un-put-downable!
Well told, fast moving story...stayed up really late to finish it. Ella is an unusual but believable character...her circumstances, surroundings are unique and pull ya right in...twisty plots and subplots keep everything interesting!!!
Well told, fast moving story...stayed up really late to finish it. Ella is an unusual but believable character...her circumstances, surroundings are unique and pull ya right in...twisty plots and subplots keep everything interesting!!!
June 9, 2024
Love this series
I read the book back before it was properly published and I've read it again many times since. The world building is amazing and has so much originalality. I'll continue to reread these books for years to come.
I read the book back before it was properly published and I've read it again many times since. The world building is amazing and has so much originalality. I'll continue to reread these books for years to come.
November 22, 2024
Coming if age for a trauma survivor
A fast pace read full of action and intrigue. Fully developed characters and interesting story about a woman who realizes her gifts under intense pressure.
A fast pace read full of action and intrigue. Fully developed characters and interesting story about a woman who realizes her gifts under intense pressure.
July 26, 2024
Fantastic
Excellent first book, great world building and character development. I couldn't put it down - downloading the next book straight away!
Excellent first book, great world building and character development. I couldn't put it down - downloading the next book straight away!
January 14, 2025
An amazing Fantasy read
I loved the whole story. From beginning to end. I stayed up almost alright, fell a sleep and then started back right away after 4 hrs sleep.
I loved the whole story. From beginning to end. I stayed up almost alright, fell a sleep and then started back right away after 4 hrs sleep.
May 29, 2025
Engaging Story
Good start to a potentially fantastic epic story. Hoping the storyline stays as engaging with good character development and interactions.
Good start to a potentially fantastic epic story. Hoping the storyline stays as engaging with good character development and interactions.
August 27, 2025
worth the plunge
Worth the read . Can’t wait too start book 2 . This book will keep you in it’s grip and you will never want to wait for what’s next
Worth the read . Can’t wait too start book 2 . This book will keep you in it’s grip and you will never want to wait for what’s next
June 27, 2023
I enjoyed the story, the characters and the imagination of the author. The story moved at a steady pace going from one exciting event to another keeping me wanting to keep reading.
August 1, 2024
While the story and characters are interesting, there are big inconsistencies or issues. Because of them, the entire story doesn't make sense.
Why would Zidane try to kill Nahlia when he knew he would ultimately need her to retrieve the artifact? Why was Thane focused on getting Nahlia to disclose the location of the enclave when Zidane, a member of the enclave's Council, was working with the Templars all along and knew the location? How could Aaron Cole (a human) have incredible speed/skill to fight off scores of soldiers that echoed the power Ciena (an Aeon) had with deflecting bullets if he is a mere mortal? How could the stronger party (the Templars who sent 5000 grown soldiers) in a war lose hundreds of soldiers while the less skilled side (the Aeons with 20-year-old captains and teenage soldiers) only lose 45? Why would the Aeon Council know special powers exist, work to conceal the truth, but still doubt Nahlia's use of them during the fighting? But most importantly, what was the purpose of all those deaths when Zidane only needed the pendants from Thane and Nahlia to retrieve the artifact, which would have accomplished the same goal of destabilizing the Aeons?
I love a good plot twist, but the writing in this book fell short.
In attempting to craft suspense, the author seems to contradict his own plot instead of revealing treachery in a way that brings clarity. The contradictions unravel the initial motivations for the entire story. I could buy the storyline of the Cole family (Aaron, Lyraina, Nahlia) despite Cole's unusual skills until the end, where we find out Laraina is still alive. I might even buy the role of Zidane as a traitor until the scene in the secret chamber where we see huge flaws in his strategy and actions. Zidane is the most problematic character because he is so crucial to how everyone was pulled together and the stage that's being set for the next book. Additionally, Marwyn doesn't make sense for the importance of his role, the acknowledgment of Ethermancy, helping Nahlia to recover buried memories, and the contradiction of his support followed by his apathy.
I won't be reading the second book. It still gets 4 stars for world crafting, engaging main characters, and imaginative super powers.
Why would Zidane try to kill Nahlia when he knew he would ultimately need her to retrieve the artifact? Why was Thane focused on getting Nahlia to disclose the location of the enclave when Zidane, a member of the enclave's Council, was working with the Templars all along and knew the location? How could Aaron Cole (a human) have incredible speed/skill to fight off scores of soldiers that echoed the power Ciena (an Aeon) had with deflecting bullets if he is a mere mortal? How could the stronger party (the Templars who sent 5000 grown soldiers) in a war lose hundreds of soldiers while the less skilled side (the Aeons with 20-year-old captains and teenage soldiers) only lose 45? Why would the Aeon Council know special powers exist, work to conceal the truth, but still doubt Nahlia's use of them during the fighting? But most importantly, what was the purpose of all those deaths when Zidane only needed the pendants from Thane and Nahlia to retrieve the artifact, which would have accomplished the same goal of destabilizing the Aeons?
I love a good plot twist, but the writing in this book fell short.
In attempting to craft suspense, the author seems to contradict his own plot instead of revealing treachery in a way that brings clarity. The contradictions unravel the initial motivations for the entire story. I could buy the storyline of the Cole family (Aaron, Lyraina, Nahlia) despite Cole's unusual skills until the end, where we find out Laraina is still alive. I might even buy the role of Zidane as a traitor until the scene in the secret chamber where we see huge flaws in his strategy and actions. Zidane is the most problematic character because he is so crucial to how everyone was pulled together and the stage that's being set for the next book. Additionally, Marwyn doesn't make sense for the importance of his role, the acknowledgment of Ethermancy, helping Nahlia to recover buried memories, and the contradiction of his support followed by his apathy.
I won't be reading the second book. It still gets 4 stars for world crafting, engaging main characters, and imaginative super powers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2023
Using the word “Epic”…
…always seems a little presumptuous to me. Fortunately for this book it isn’t a misnomer but closer to the truth. Musk writes with purpose and confidence in his story. The interactions and action propels the reader from one to the next almost seamlessly. My only complaint may sound picayune: he steps out of his role as story teller to express a need for classical prose. It doesn’t offend me just felt out of place in a modern vernacular.
Otherwise, epic story…
…always seems a little presumptuous to me. Fortunately for this book it isn’t a misnomer but closer to the truth. Musk writes with purpose and confidence in his story. The interactions and action propels the reader from one to the next almost seamlessly. My only complaint may sound picayune: he steps out of his role as story teller to express a need for classical prose. It doesn’t offend me just felt out of place in a modern vernacular.
Otherwise, epic story…
January 3, 2024
I absolutely enjoyed the first half of the book! The beginning really grabbed my attention! Which I loved.
Classic book “style” of a series where there is a lot of information and backstory for a first book. I can see where some may say it got boring, but you need all of the information to understand the story and books going forward. Enjoyed the capture the flag game in the story as well.
Classic book “style” of a series where there is a lot of information and backstory for a first book. I can see where some may say it got boring, but you need all of the information to understand the story and books going forward. Enjoyed the capture the flag game in the story as well.
June 2, 2024
It's on the good side of ok
This was an ok start. The world building is interesting and the Heroine is fleshed out alright, but all the side characters are quite flat. I don't really care that much about any of them tbh, but I'm willing to try book 2 as often book 1 is just the set up. So we'll see how we go.
This was an ok start. The world building is interesting and the Heroine is fleshed out alright, but all the side characters are quite flat. I don't really care that much about any of them tbh, but I'm willing to try book 2 as often book 1 is just the set up. So we'll see how we go.
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