What do you think?
Rate this book
The Octagon's Eight #1
The Octagon's Eight
You know when you enter the Octagon because it tells you.
Every year the city of Hanging Hold hosts an event.
Eight prisoners condemned to death are sent out to sea - none are expected to return but if they do, they win their freedom.
The dark-elf Dirian has grown up Below, the brand on his face testament to his place as a scout and skills as a warrior. Now he finds himself on a mission gone wrong, abandoned in a foreign Surface world and forced on an adventure bound to end in his demise.
Follow Dirian and his companions of varying enthusiasm as they set sail and face the harsh forces of nature, impossible creatures and magical wonders all to unlock the mysteries of the Octagon and escape with their lives in this perilous tale of discovery.
Every year the city of Hanging Hold hosts an event.
Eight prisoners condemned to death are sent out to sea - none are expected to return but if they do, they win their freedom.
The dark-elf Dirian has grown up Below, the brand on his face testament to his place as a scout and skills as a warrior. Now he finds himself on a mission gone wrong, abandoned in a foreign Surface world and forced on an adventure bound to end in his demise.
Follow Dirian and his companions of varying enthusiasm as they set sail and face the harsh forces of nature, impossible creatures and magical wonders all to unlock the mysteries of the Octagon and escape with their lives in this perilous tale of discovery.
193 pages, Hardcover
First published July 12, 2022
6 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 12, 2023
Why is no one reading this?! It’s a fantasy, found family with a great plot!
The world building is somehow so rich even though the books is just under 200 pages.
Hoping and praying there’ll be a second book!
The world building is somehow so rich even though the books is just under 200 pages.
Hoping and praying there’ll be a second book!
June 19, 2022
*ARC review*
First of all, I'd just like to say that although I received an advanced review copy, I was asked to write an HONEST review. And that's what this is- honest.
Considering this was a debut novel, I thought it was freaking spectacular.
The plot is simple yet utterly magical- the characters start off strangers, but their development is really well spaced. The narration from the main character's perspective is also so engaging in its retrospectiveness. The world building is beautifully simple- you get a real sense for the richness of the world without spending too long on it, and it leaves a lot to be explored in (hopefully) later novels. There is a little romance, but it's not a focus- the characters overcoming their own weaknesses and learning to work together is, which I thought was refreshing.
The only things I think I could say that would have made it even better are-
1) I think I'd have preferred it if it was longer.
2) it needs a good map.
All in all, I really enjoyed it and can't wait to see more from this author!
Ps, I need more Fort.
First of all, I'd just like to say that although I received an advanced review copy, I was asked to write an HONEST review. And that's what this is- honest.
Considering this was a debut novel, I thought it was freaking spectacular.
The plot is simple yet utterly magical- the characters start off strangers, but their development is really well spaced. The narration from the main character's perspective is also so engaging in its retrospectiveness. The world building is beautifully simple- you get a real sense for the richness of the world without spending too long on it, and it leaves a lot to be explored in (hopefully) later novels. There is a little romance, but it's not a focus- the characters overcoming their own weaknesses and learning to work together is, which I thought was refreshing.
The only things I think I could say that would have made it even better are-
1) I think I'd have preferred it if it was longer.
2) it needs a good map.
All in all, I really enjoyed it and can't wait to see more from this author!
Ps, I need more Fort.
June 29, 2022
"Will he forget his old ties? Will he look out with fresh eyes? Will he shut out his qualms? And haul rope with strong arms? Will he pull his weight? In the Octagon's Eight?"
I finally had a chance to sit down and read this (mostly) uninterrupted, and honestly (since I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review), I really did enjoy this debut overall! At first, though, I wasn't sure if I would like it as much as I did in the end. There's a lot packed into the first few chapters, and I couldn't find myself getting interested in the story from the get-go. However, if you find yourself in a similar situation, I promise that sticking it out and reading a few more chapters will be entirely worth it. At least stick it out until you meet Fort. Pretty sure everyone who reads this will love Fort - it's impossible not to. Even people who hate Fort, like Fort.
Do I wish there was more? Yes. Even the narrator wishes he could give us more, and maybe he would have if he'd known how to write at the time of his adventures. But what we're given is a fast-paced fantasy filled with interesting world-building and characters whose' diversities balance out the group as a whole. Sprinkle in just a bit of romance that develops naturally and *chef's kiss*.
I finally had a chance to sit down and read this (mostly) uninterrupted, and honestly (since I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review), I really did enjoy this debut overall! At first, though, I wasn't sure if I would like it as much as I did in the end. There's a lot packed into the first few chapters, and I couldn't find myself getting interested in the story from the get-go. However, if you find yourself in a similar situation, I promise that sticking it out and reading a few more chapters will be entirely worth it. At least stick it out until you meet Fort. Pretty sure everyone who reads this will love Fort - it's impossible not to. Even people who hate Fort, like Fort.
Do I wish there was more? Yes. Even the narrator wishes he could give us more, and maybe he would have if he'd known how to write at the time of his adventures. But what we're given is a fast-paced fantasy filled with interesting world-building and characters whose' diversities balance out the group as a whole. Sprinkle in just a bit of romance that develops naturally and *chef's kiss*.
October 17, 2024
It is time for a review, and you all know how much I read - especially fantasy fiction. I pride myself on having a discerning taste and, admittedly, can be a bit of a snob when it comes to the intellectual quality of writing. So, when I picked up this book by a friend of 13 years, I was nervous. What if I didn’t enjoy it? Could I remain objective?
Fortunately, my worries were unfounded. I thoroughly enjoyed the read! I'd describe it as 'cozy fantasy,' the kind that envelops you like a warm blanket. The writing is sharp and clear, indicative of a truly intelligent author, a stark contrast to some (Sarah J Maas 😒)
What truly sets this book apart is its main character, Dirian. Unlike the typical male protagonists (either the cocky asshole hero or the brooding antihero) Dirian is uniquely crafted: cluelessly violent yet endearing, devout yet humorous. His inner monologues had me laughing aloud, a proof of vividness of his voice.
While other characters didn't shine as brightly, likely due to the book's length, each was crafted with care and contributed to the story's texture. The 'change in environment' was meticulously described, creating a palpable sense of realism that immersed me in the story's world. This attention to detail extended to the depictions of bodily harm, climate, and hunger, all of which felt tangibly authentic. A recent read of mine was a sea adventure novel by Brandon Sanderson, where remarkably, a character who had never sailed before experienced no seasickness whatsoever!
I appreciated that the narrative included mundane activities alongside magical escapades. These scenes, rich in dialogue and everyday actions, were often more enjoyable (to me) than the primary plot challenges, highlighting the charm of 'cozy fantasy'…there's no overwhelming sense of dread, just a confidence in the characters' abilities to prevail.
If I could wish for anything more, it would be to extend Dirian’s character development across multiple books, his grumpiness was a delight to read. The book outshines many bestsellers on the shelves today, both in intellect and engagement.
"The only praise I was accustomed to was the knowledge that I was still alive" …lines like this made me laugh but also underscored the brilliance of your writing. Thank you for this gift, and I eagerly anticipate your future works. Keep writing, it’s what you were meant to do!
Fortunately, my worries were unfounded. I thoroughly enjoyed the read! I'd describe it as 'cozy fantasy,' the kind that envelops you like a warm blanket. The writing is sharp and clear, indicative of a truly intelligent author, a stark contrast to some (Sarah J Maas 😒)
What truly sets this book apart is its main character, Dirian. Unlike the typical male protagonists (either the cocky asshole hero or the brooding antihero) Dirian is uniquely crafted: cluelessly violent yet endearing, devout yet humorous. His inner monologues had me laughing aloud, a proof of vividness of his voice.
While other characters didn't shine as brightly, likely due to the book's length, each was crafted with care and contributed to the story's texture. The 'change in environment' was meticulously described, creating a palpable sense of realism that immersed me in the story's world. This attention to detail extended to the depictions of bodily harm, climate, and hunger, all of which felt tangibly authentic. A recent read of mine was a sea adventure novel by Brandon Sanderson, where remarkably, a character who had never sailed before experienced no seasickness whatsoever!
I appreciated that the narrative included mundane activities alongside magical escapades. These scenes, rich in dialogue and everyday actions, were often more enjoyable (to me) than the primary plot challenges, highlighting the charm of 'cozy fantasy'…there's no overwhelming sense of dread, just a confidence in the characters' abilities to prevail.
If I could wish for anything more, it would be to extend Dirian’s character development across multiple books, his grumpiness was a delight to read. The book outshines many bestsellers on the shelves today, both in intellect and engagement.
"The only praise I was accustomed to was the knowledge that I was still alive" …lines like this made me laugh but also underscored the brilliance of your writing. Thank you for this gift, and I eagerly anticipate your future works. Keep writing, it’s what you were meant to do!
July 10, 2022
Advanced Review Copy given in exchange for a Review.
The Octagon's Eight is an enjoyable adventure with note of Dungeons & Dragon's campaign, not too dissimilar from Dragonlance series. The prose is well written without being the typical flowery language found in high fantasy. The story is engaging, I found myself genuinely interested in the mystery and perils presented by the sea and the adventure the characters were thrust upon. The characters themselves were interesting and the dialogue flowed well between them. Despite the earlier D&D comparison, the action did not feel like rolling dice on a table. It felt organic, without feeling like it needed to happen a certain way because of plot reasons. Dirian genuinely grows as a character, his story arc remaining believable without sacrificing his personality. This is a feat I find many authors struggle with.
My one issue with this is the story is that I feel its lacking a bit of flesh. This is not a long book and I wish there were more character interactions. More scenes, more conversations, more observations. It feels too little. I would like to have seen a book twice as large, but for it's size it's a really wonderful story.
The Octagon's Eight is an enjoyable adventure with note of Dungeons & Dragon's campaign, not too dissimilar from Dragonlance series. The prose is well written without being the typical flowery language found in high fantasy. The story is engaging, I found myself genuinely interested in the mystery and perils presented by the sea and the adventure the characters were thrust upon. The characters themselves were interesting and the dialogue flowed well between them. Despite the earlier D&D comparison, the action did not feel like rolling dice on a table. It felt organic, without feeling like it needed to happen a certain way because of plot reasons. Dirian genuinely grows as a character, his story arc remaining believable without sacrificing his personality. This is a feat I find many authors struggle with.
My one issue with this is the story is that I feel its lacking a bit of flesh. This is not a long book and I wish there were more character interactions. More scenes, more conversations, more observations. It feels too little. I would like to have seen a book twice as large, but for it's size it's a really wonderful story.
July 12, 2022
*I will like to start by saying that I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
I gotta say that if I would have seen this book in a shelf I would have probably pass it, and unknowingly missed out on an amazing story. From the get go I was hooked. The author chose a very interesting way of narrative, it felt very personal and thus making want to keep reading. We truly get to explore this world through the main characters eyes and experience as he not only grows, but constantly battles with the customs and beliefs of his people, basically all that he's known and truly enters uncharted territory.
I wish we could've learned about more about the different countries, but I'm also glad we dove right into the octagon.
I do feel that it could've been longer but it's not really something bad for me. I just didn't really wanted it to it. I look forward to the next book.
I gotta say that if I would have seen this book in a shelf I would have probably pass it, and unknowingly missed out on an amazing story. From the get go I was hooked. The author chose a very interesting way of narrative, it felt very personal and thus making want to keep reading. We truly get to explore this world through the main characters eyes and experience as he not only grows, but constantly battles with the customs and beliefs of his people, basically all that he's known and truly enters uncharted territory.
I wish we could've learned about more about the different countries, but I'm also glad we dove right into the octagon.
I do feel that it could've been longer but it's not really something bad for me. I just didn't really wanted it to it. I look forward to the next book.
August 8, 2022
If you love a driven fantasy plot with nautical themes and morally grey characters, then this is definitely a book for you. It's easy to read (no overly flowery prose that requires too much focus to follow, for example), with a story that carries you quickly through each chapter without feeling too rushed or forced, and packed full of all the best parts of fantasy - magic, mystery, and adventure.
Admittedly, I can be a little picky when it comes to the fantasy books I read, but this one gripped me from the earliest chapters and I practically had to force myself to pace my reading so that I could savour it for longer than a mere few hours. The first couple of chapters might feel slow to some readers and there's a lot of lore and worldbuilding that gets thrown at you at once so it might be a lot to take in, but it's all relevant to the plot and helps to shape the first impressions of the main character, Dirian.
Now, I love a morally grey main character and of all the characters introduced in this debut, I feel like Dirian definitely has the most growth (whilst still maintaining who he is). Every character is wonderfully unique in their personalities and roles in reference to the story and you really can't help but like all of them for one reason or another (yes, even the necromancer). The setting is great for helping to build and flesh out the relationships between them all and show the different facets to their personalities and it all feels *real* in how they interact with each other, and react to the various circumstances they're thrown into.
I could definitely have read a longer book and I would have loved to see more of those interactions between the characters and some more exploration/discovery of the Octagon, but as a debut I think it's the perfect length and a great introduction to the world, particularly with the promise of a follow-up story in the works. A lot of fantasy novels can often feel daunting to some people due to their size and so I think shorter fantasy novels definitely have their place.
It is a shame that a map never made it to publication as I know there were hopes for one - I do love a good map - but hopefully this will be fixed in future installments in the series. Given that the majority of the story is set largely in one (albeit vast) place, I think it still works fine without a map, though it would have been interesting to see the different Seas of the Octagon laid out on the page so you could follow their path through.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely be recommending it to others. If you're reading this review and thinking of picking it up, it's definitely worth it.
Admittedly, I can be a little picky when it comes to the fantasy books I read, but this one gripped me from the earliest chapters and I practically had to force myself to pace my reading so that I could savour it for longer than a mere few hours. The first couple of chapters might feel slow to some readers and there's a lot of lore and worldbuilding that gets thrown at you at once so it might be a lot to take in, but it's all relevant to the plot and helps to shape the first impressions of the main character, Dirian.
Now, I love a morally grey main character and of all the characters introduced in this debut, I feel like Dirian definitely has the most growth (whilst still maintaining who he is). Every character is wonderfully unique in their personalities and roles in reference to the story and you really can't help but like all of them for one reason or another (yes, even the necromancer). The setting is great for helping to build and flesh out the relationships between them all and show the different facets to their personalities and it all feels *real* in how they interact with each other, and react to the various circumstances they're thrown into.
I could definitely have read a longer book and I would have loved to see more of those interactions between the characters and some more exploration/discovery of the Octagon, but as a debut I think it's the perfect length and a great introduction to the world, particularly with the promise of a follow-up story in the works. A lot of fantasy novels can often feel daunting to some people due to their size and so I think shorter fantasy novels definitely have their place.
It is a shame that a map never made it to publication as I know there were hopes for one - I do love a good map - but hopefully this will be fixed in future installments in the series. Given that the majority of the story is set largely in one (albeit vast) place, I think it still works fine without a map, though it would have been interesting to see the different Seas of the Octagon laid out on the page so you could follow their path through.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely be recommending it to others. If you're reading this review and thinking of picking it up, it's definitely worth it.
December 12, 2023
This book was a nice story to read but at times a little confusing I feel the author left out a lot of detail and that the ending was cut a little short?
November 5, 2024
Earlier this year when I was at Fantasy Forest with Smash Bear Publishing promoting my book, I promised myself I was going to stop by another author’s stall and pick up a copy of their book, which I had heard so much about through a mutual friend. This author was self-publishing and self-promoting their work, with no publisher to help them, so I wanted to pop along and support them a little bit. It’s hard enough getting your work out there with a publisher at your back, let alone on your own! The author’s name is Mairon Oakley, and the book was The Octagon’s Eight.
The premise is fantastic D&D material – a dark elf sent as a spy to the surface under orders from the priestesses who rule his underground society, captured and sent out to sea with seven others on an impossible quest to investigate a mysterious, Bermuda Triangle-like section of open sea where magical energies are high and ships mysteriously disappear. During the journey he is forced to co-operate with people he would ordinarily enslave or kill without a second thought, and he comes to question his upbringing and treasure his new found family.
The book is wonderfully written. The narrative trots (or should I say ‘sails’?) along at a steady pace, and the characters easy to love. I think my favourite is Marrow, the librarian half-orc who prefers dresses to leathers and furs. Life at sea is described vividly, helping to transport the reader onto the raft along with the characters. Like any good D&D game, the action is regular and varied, with the group encountering different challenges the further into the Octagon they venture.
I think there are only two criticisms I can level at the book. First, some of the encounters feel a little rushed, in particular (avoiding spoilers) when Dirian finds himself dealing with a presence from his past (and Eldrin – I wanted more from Eldrin!). I would have liked a little more description, a little more to the encounter to make it feel a bit more significant and less fleeting, especially when it is a moment of such importance to the main character.
The second criticism is regarding the ending, when the group reach their journey’s end. It is left deliberately vague, leaving you wondering about what they found and how they got home. Now, there is a second book in the works, so it may well be that my complaints will be answered by that when it comes out. But for now I am left feeling a little disappointed and confused about what happened at the end, and when the rest of the book was so good, it is a bit of a shame.
That being said, it is still well worth your time to grab a copy of this book and read it. You will enjoy it, you will fall in love with the characters, and you will be waiting impatiently for the next one, like I am!
The premise is fantastic D&D material – a dark elf sent as a spy to the surface under orders from the priestesses who rule his underground society, captured and sent out to sea with seven others on an impossible quest to investigate a mysterious, Bermuda Triangle-like section of open sea where magical energies are high and ships mysteriously disappear. During the journey he is forced to co-operate with people he would ordinarily enslave or kill without a second thought, and he comes to question his upbringing and treasure his new found family.
The book is wonderfully written. The narrative trots (or should I say ‘sails’?) along at a steady pace, and the characters easy to love. I think my favourite is Marrow, the librarian half-orc who prefers dresses to leathers and furs. Life at sea is described vividly, helping to transport the reader onto the raft along with the characters. Like any good D&D game, the action is regular and varied, with the group encountering different challenges the further into the Octagon they venture.
I think there are only two criticisms I can level at the book. First, some of the encounters feel a little rushed, in particular (avoiding spoilers) when Dirian finds himself dealing with a presence from his past (and Eldrin – I wanted more from Eldrin!). I would have liked a little more description, a little more to the encounter to make it feel a bit more significant and less fleeting, especially when it is a moment of such importance to the main character.
The second criticism is regarding the ending, when the group reach their journey’s end. It is left deliberately vague, leaving you wondering about what they found and how they got home. Now, there is a second book in the works, so it may well be that my complaints will be answered by that when it comes out. But for now I am left feeling a little disappointed and confused about what happened at the end, and when the rest of the book was so good, it is a bit of a shame.
That being said, it is still well worth your time to grab a copy of this book and read it. You will enjoy it, you will fall in love with the characters, and you will be waiting impatiently for the next one, like I am!
July 13, 2025
My gosh this was SO good!! I will be writing a full review tonight but in the meantime, the characters, the story, everything - wonderful!!
FULL REVIEW: (12/07/2022)
My gosh. This was one of those books where once I picked it up I just couldn’t stop reading. No, really, I had a few days off last week and with the cold weather I don’t think I did much else! There is so much to love about Oakley’s debut novel that I am not sure where to start, but I do need to start somewhere.
I found the world building for this novel truly wonderful. It was recognisable as classic fantasy, with all the familiar species, class division, magic, and belief systems, but with Oakley’s own twist on them. It also feels very full bodied without trying too hard, or making the reader feel bogged down with information. Making this world a new favourite of mine to read about. Especially with the rather straightforward plot which encouraged the characters and their growth to shine.
Though at face value, the plot was rather simple, it was engaging and exciting. It left room for the characters to really shine! I found that every time I had to put the book down, I needed to know what happened next. Especially with the high stakes of the quest – life and death. Something which manages to bring the unlikely group of characters together (and working together too, despite their differences).
It didn’t take long for the group of main characters to completely steal my heart! I was invested from very early on, and loved seeing their growth throughout the novel. They were all beautifully complex, and so interesting to follow. I found myself holding my breath in really intense scenes, needing them to be okay! I also really love how there was a little romance, but it is so subtly brought into the story, and in such a clever way at it felt so natural for those characters, and not out of place.
I highly recommend this book to other fantasy readers who are looking for an exciting read with high stakes and wonderful characters!
Thank you to the publisher, Tebreus Press and the author, Mairon Oakley for gifting me this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy). I am leaving this review voluntarily.
FULL REVIEW: (12/07/2022)
My gosh. This was one of those books where once I picked it up I just couldn’t stop reading. No, really, I had a few days off last week and with the cold weather I don’t think I did much else! There is so much to love about Oakley’s debut novel that I am not sure where to start, but I do need to start somewhere.
I found the world building for this novel truly wonderful. It was recognisable as classic fantasy, with all the familiar species, class division, magic, and belief systems, but with Oakley’s own twist on them. It also feels very full bodied without trying too hard, or making the reader feel bogged down with information. Making this world a new favourite of mine to read about. Especially with the rather straightforward plot which encouraged the characters and their growth to shine.
Though at face value, the plot was rather simple, it was engaging and exciting. It left room for the characters to really shine! I found that every time I had to put the book down, I needed to know what happened next. Especially with the high stakes of the quest – life and death. Something which manages to bring the unlikely group of characters together (and working together too, despite their differences).
It didn’t take long for the group of main characters to completely steal my heart! I was invested from very early on, and loved seeing their growth throughout the novel. They were all beautifully complex, and so interesting to follow. I found myself holding my breath in really intense scenes, needing them to be okay! I also really love how there was a little romance, but it is so subtly brought into the story, and in such a clever way at it felt so natural for those characters, and not out of place.
I highly recommend this book to other fantasy readers who are looking for an exciting read with high stakes and wonderful characters!
Thank you to the publisher, Tebreus Press and the author, Mairon Oakley for gifting me this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy). I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 7, 2022
Thank you to the publisher for gifting me an ARC to review.
The Octagon's Eight starts with our main character Dirian, a dark-elf who's been brought up as a fierce warrior in faith of his god, introducing us to his story on the sea and how his mission on the Surface met an uncalculated end. The book then splices between his written re-telling and 1st person anecdotes/comments on what happen/is to happen. I unfortunately found these chapter splits a little jarring and out of place, especially as they didn't continue throughout the whole novel.
I would've loved some more time Below at the beginning and less time getting stuck on Surface. However, once we got to sea, the stakes got higher and we really managed to get stuck to Dirian and his unlikely crew. I really loved the magic and mystery that surrounds the sea and the challenges they had to face felt worth it.
I'm giving it a 4 star because I feel like we could've done with some more time learning about the crew and the ending felt rushed leaving me confused as to what happened. I'm not sure if this was intentional, but we spent the whole book awaiting the meeting the centre of the sea and never got a real moment there.
I think this 1st book definitely gives a lot of room to explore the world further, and I'm really excited to see what else Oakley writes.
The Octagon's Eight starts with our main character Dirian, a dark-elf who's been brought up as a fierce warrior in faith of his god, introducing us to his story on the sea and how his mission on the Surface met an uncalculated end. The book then splices between his written re-telling and 1st person anecdotes/comments on what happen/is to happen. I unfortunately found these chapter splits a little jarring and out of place, especially as they didn't continue throughout the whole novel.
I would've loved some more time Below at the beginning and less time getting stuck on Surface. However, once we got to sea, the stakes got higher and we really managed to get stuck to Dirian and his unlikely crew. I really loved the magic and mystery that surrounds the sea and the challenges they had to face felt worth it.
I'm giving it a 4 star because I feel like we could've done with some more time learning about the crew and the ending felt rushed leaving me confused as to what happened. I'm not sure if this was intentional, but we spent the whole book awaiting the meeting the centre of the sea and never got a real moment there.
I think this 1st book definitely gives a lot of room to explore the world further, and I'm really excited to see what else Oakley writes.
December 12, 2023
This is a wonderful debut novel from a new author. The book itself is short, but doesn't necessarily feel that way. The world is familiar, but centers around Dirian, the Dark elf main character, who is very emotional and observant, and spends the entire book wrestling with who he was, who he is, and who he has the potential to be. He is VERY cute, not because of him being particularly loveable, but because of how grumpy he gets when he starts realizing that the companions on his journey have become his friends regardless of his feelings on the matter. It's like watching a cat receive pets it doesn't want. Very charming.
The book itself is largely a fraught, dangerous journey oversea in a boat not well-equipped to handle the eight seemingly-unwilling occupants, and the author does a great job of making all of these very unique characters have a unique voice and motivations.
I would have liked to see a few more drawn-out interactions between them, because watching Dirian change and grow was by far the best part of this book.
Suitable for YA readers as much as adult, I'm very much looking forward to the next book!!
The book itself is largely a fraught, dangerous journey oversea in a boat not well-equipped to handle the eight seemingly-unwilling occupants, and the author does a great job of making all of these very unique characters have a unique voice and motivations.
I would have liked to see a few more drawn-out interactions between them, because watching Dirian change and grow was by far the best part of this book.
Suitable for YA readers as much as adult, I'm very much looking forward to the next book!!
December 5, 2024
Wow vilken bra bok! Jag gick in i blindo när jag började läsa ”The Octagon’s Eight” och så förvånad jag blev! Vilken bra bok!
Vi får följa ett otippat gäng, som skickas iväg på ett litet skepp för att utforska den mystiska ”Octagon” mitt ute i havet som lurar med mystisk magi… Ingen har lyckats överleva en resa dit någonsin…
Vår huvudkaraktär är Dirian, en svartalv, sen har vi dvärgarna Siv, Magnus och Mats, halv-alven Malva, halv-orchen Morrow och nekromanen Eldrin.
På resan får vi följa hur resenärerna tar sig an det mystiska havet och alla dess mystiska varelser och krafter…
Å asså wow vilket bra litet fantasy-äventyr! Jag älskade verkligen våra karaktärer! Hur de har såna fördomar emot varandra från början, men slutar som bästa vänner. Det var fantastiskt att få följa dem!
Jag tyckte också att det var så roligt att få följa resan och ta del av alla fantastiska interaktioner och mysterium! En verkligen mysig och epic fantasy!
Det var dock lite drygt att det blev en sån cliffhanger när vi väl kom till the Octagon. Fattade inte riktigt vad som hände med Malva heller?
Aaa, men en skitbra bok! Den bygger upp så bra för nästa bok också, som jag är så taggad på! Så en fyra får den!
Vi får följa ett otippat gäng, som skickas iväg på ett litet skepp för att utforska den mystiska ”Octagon” mitt ute i havet som lurar med mystisk magi… Ingen har lyckats överleva en resa dit någonsin…
Vår huvudkaraktär är Dirian, en svartalv, sen har vi dvärgarna Siv, Magnus och Mats, halv-alven Malva, halv-orchen Morrow och nekromanen Eldrin.
På resan får vi följa hur resenärerna tar sig an det mystiska havet och alla dess mystiska varelser och krafter…
Å asså wow vilket bra litet fantasy-äventyr! Jag älskade verkligen våra karaktärer! Hur de har såna fördomar emot varandra från början, men slutar som bästa vänner. Det var fantastiskt att få följa dem!
Jag tyckte också att det var så roligt att få följa resan och ta del av alla fantastiska interaktioner och mysterium! En verkligen mysig och epic fantasy!
Det var dock lite drygt att det blev en sån cliffhanger när vi väl kom till the Octagon. Fattade inte riktigt vad som hände med Malva heller?
Aaa, men en skitbra bok! Den bygger upp så bra för nästa bok också, som jag är så taggad på! Så en fyra får den!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2022
Every year eight prisoners are sent out to sea, if they return they are free.
This is actually one of the best debuts I've read in a long time.
Firstly, the worldbuilding is rich, detailed, and unique. I love the concept of the surface world and the world below.
The characters are well-formed and distinct. I especially loved the morally grey main character Dirian.
I really enjoyed the way the book is narrated also, with Dirian looking back and telling you his story.
A couple of minor things:
- I would have loved a map in the book.
- Things start out slightly confusing.
Overall this was a very fun fantasy adventure and something different!
I'd recommend this if you're looking for:
- a rich fantasy world.
- morally grey characters.
- a fast-paced read.
- well-written prose.
- a unique plot.
- character growth.
Thank you Tebreus Press for providing me with this review copy.
This is actually one of the best debuts I've read in a long time.
Firstly, the worldbuilding is rich, detailed, and unique. I love the concept of the surface world and the world below.
The characters are well-formed and distinct. I especially loved the morally grey main character Dirian.
I really enjoyed the way the book is narrated also, with Dirian looking back and telling you his story.
A couple of minor things:
- I would have loved a map in the book.
- Things start out slightly confusing.
Overall this was a very fun fantasy adventure and something different!
I'd recommend this if you're looking for:
- a rich fantasy world.
- morally grey characters.
- a fast-paced read.
- well-written prose.
- a unique plot.
- character growth.
Thank you Tebreus Press for providing me with this review copy.
July 12, 2022
If you ever want to read a book written like a classic but not full of outdated language and things that don't do too well with the passage of time, this is the book for you. I adored the writing style and how it read like an old book, but the elements of fantasy were done super well and I just had a great time reading it. The premise of the story is so interesting too, its giving LOTR and Eragon but in a new way, and the interjections of the narrator made it so fun to figure out what happens next, because you know that the main character can't die because they are the one who is telling the story, but that doesn't mean that they don't come close to death. I'm so excited for the next instalment and can't wait to dive back into this world.
July 14, 2023
“Let her survive, take me and let her survive. I will face Mel’acenath for her. Let her live. Let her return to her books and her illuminated writing. Let her tell our story. Let her live. Please, please, let her live.”
I’m so shocked that so few people have read this. It such an amazing book! For all of you who love fantasy and adventures this is the book for you. Even though the book is less than 200 pages it was still amazing to read. The world building was well developed and the character development was amazing even though the book was so short, This goes to show that you can write a good adventure book without making it 400+ pages. So this is definitely a tips for you who don’t really like long books.
I’m so shocked that so few people have read this. It such an amazing book! For all of you who love fantasy and adventures this is the book for you. Even though the book is less than 200 pages it was still amazing to read. The world building was well developed and the character development was amazing even though the book was so short, This goes to show that you can write a good adventure book without making it 400+ pages. So this is definitely a tips for you who don’t really like long books.
July 19, 2022
The book starts very densely with a lot of world building in a short space of time which was intimidating and quite frankly dragged a little, but all of this is necessary to understand the characters motivations going forward.
I wish there was story from other characters perspectives but that is just a personal want and I am definitely going to pick up the sequel and any other books in the universe.
Once you get over the initial hump the story becomes quite fast paced and even has some unexpected twists. Think Lord of the Rings had a baby with The Labyrinth.
I am unapologetic Morrow trash.
I wish there was story from other characters perspectives but that is just a personal want and I am definitely going to pick up the sequel and any other books in the universe.
Once you get over the initial hump the story becomes quite fast paced and even has some unexpected twists. Think Lord of the Rings had a baby with The Labyrinth.
I am unapologetic Morrow trash.
September 8, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. I've read it multiple times now because it's super easy to relax with and the story is thoroughly enjoyable.
The characters are very well written and nicely developed and I've come to realise just how well the world around the characters, especially the main character, Dirian, has been executed. Cannot recommend enough. A brilliant debut novella(?) from Oakley that's fast paced and full of fun. A great story with undertones of religious guilt done very well. I could tell parts of the story were likely inspired by Oakley's own experiences which made parts ever more believable. Looking forward to the next book.
The characters are very well written and nicely developed and I've come to realise just how well the world around the characters, especially the main character, Dirian, has been executed. Cannot recommend enough. A brilliant debut novella(?) from Oakley that's fast paced and full of fun. A great story with undertones of religious guilt done very well. I could tell parts of the story were likely inspired by Oakley's own experiences which made parts ever more believable. Looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2023
This may be my new comfort read. I have read it twice now and keep thinking about abandoning my to-read list to read it again.
A perfect travel book! Small enough to keep in a carry-on and a rich enough world to transport you instantly.
From the very first chapter you are wrapped in a fantasy world that feels old and real but not overwhelming. It eases you in until suddenly you cannot stop turning pages and you don't know when it happened but you cannot put it down until the very end.
If you like found family and magical adventure, buy this. You won't regret it.
A perfect travel book! Small enough to keep in a carry-on and a rich enough world to transport you instantly.
From the very first chapter you are wrapped in a fantasy world that feels old and real but not overwhelming. It eases you in until suddenly you cannot stop turning pages and you don't know when it happened but you cannot put it down until the very end.
If you like found family and magical adventure, buy this. You won't regret it.
December 2, 2023
Took me a while to get into this, and I think because of the writing style. It read a little like a mimicry of older fantasy authors- a little too concerned with whether they're good writers and not whether the reader can follow.
There were moments I really enjoyed, and moments that faltered. It's a fun story to get caught up in, but it can read a little like a D&D campaign, where threads are just forgotten when you've moved on.
Overall, it was a fun short read, but I'm not eagerly awaiting the sequel.
There were moments I really enjoyed, and moments that faltered. It's a fun story to get caught up in, but it can read a little like a D&D campaign, where threads are just forgotten when you've moved on.
Overall, it was a fun short read, but I'm not eagerly awaiting the sequel.
January 2, 2024
This was a wonderful little fantasy novel. There were similarities to other known fantasy sources (ie: the main characters' race and home reminded me much of the Drow in the underdark from DnD), but the author was able to twist the origins to create something new and exciting.
I especially loved the sea fairing adventures and magical elements to the world the characters traversed (ie: without spoilers, going through the different circles). It's definitely a novel worth reading. I highly recommend it!
I especially loved the sea fairing adventures and magical elements to the world the characters traversed (ie: without spoilers, going through the different circles). It's definitely a novel worth reading. I highly recommend it!
July 26, 2024
A really enjoyable read of found family and adventure. Reminiscent of a d&d campaign so right up my street. I'm not usually a fan of first person but glad I picked it up, hope to read the next installment when it comes.
Another review mentions how the end feels almost like it's missing a chapter, and whilst I do get where they're coming from I think the omission of that section reads as a clear narrative choice. I do think though perhaps the final chapter should have been titled as an epilogue to clearer define it.
Another review mentions how the end feels almost like it's missing a chapter, and whilst I do get where they're coming from I think the omission of that section reads as a clear narrative choice. I do think though perhaps the final chapter should have been titled as an epilogue to clearer define it.
January 7, 2025
After a long time of not reading all that many books (and wanting change as a former prolific reader), and many attempts to "get back into it", this was the book that finally reignited my love for reading - and more specifically, reignitied my love for fantasy. I picked this book up and barely put it down again until it was finished. Some reviews say that it was too short - for me, it was perfect and accessible. Filled with adventures, emotions and magic, I could immerse myself into the world of The Octagon's Eight without it being a chore in the least.
June 13, 2023
Wonderful book bursting with the cosy feeling of a long retired hero recounting their extraordinary life to a rapt audience by the fireside. Brilliantly paced, with a well rounded cast of characters that made me so invested in their adventure that I couldn't put the book down. A book you will want to read over and over again so you can, once again, experience some time in the fantastical world of The Octogon's Eight.
July 9, 2022
This was a good read however its not my kind of book. Im not a big fantasy reader but thought I'd give it a go. I was fairly confused at times but again mainly because it's not something I usually read. I would definitely recommend for fantasy readers and the writing was brilliant.
Thank you Tebreus Press for sending me a copy of this.
Thank you Tebreus Press for sending me a copy of this.
June 12, 2023
Like others, I found myself wanting "more", so much so that I've read it twice now, but at the same time I kind of like the fact that it isn't 600+ pages long, it makes it easier to pick up when I just want to chill out and get lost at sea for a little while. I love the immersive world the author has crafted, and though it is a debut novel, it doesn't really read like one, which makes me quite excited to see what he writes next.
June 13, 2023
I am a sucker for a good fantasy read and this certainly delivers! The world building is exceptional, with genuinely interesting characters and relationships.
I will also say that it is a very easy read, I struggle with dyslexia and reading can become a challenge, but the text is so engaging and easy to follow!
I will also say that it is a very easy read, I struggle with dyslexia and reading can become a challenge, but the text is so engaging and easy to follow!
March 18, 2025
It was fine. To some degree it felt a bit underbaked and flat. It also felt a bit like I was expected to know things, possibly from D&D or something like that, which I do but it made me feel like the author was taking shortcuts and leaving information out.
It also felt too fast, like we got a summary of the events rather than the story of it, and relationships seemed to speout out of nowhere.
It also felt too fast, like we got a summary of the events rather than the story of it, and relationships seemed to speout out of nowhere.
June 12, 2023
I wanted to enjoy this book, however, the inconsistent tense changes, patchy plot and time jumps did not hold my attention. Perhaps the author should invest in further editing, character development and writing classes.
June 14, 2023
A great and well written fantasy novel with beautiful illustrations! I can imagine a youth audience with a taste for a bit darker fantasy really appreciating it. I know that I would when I was younger, I would have loved it.
Looking forward to next book!
Looking forward to next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews