Beginning of Arrogance

by Bryan Cole

Paladins are nothing but trouble. Stories about paladins are everywhere, noble warriors riding magic steeds into battle against terrible foes. Champions of their gods. Heroes to everyone, except those who already have everything. Paladins are notorious for upsetting the balance of power, to the detriment of any who don't worship their deity.

So when Krell is called to service by the capricious god of the seas and skies, ReckNor, those with wealth and power can't help but be concerned. ReckNor hasn't called a paladin in years, and his nature is ever-changing and erratic. The fact that Krell is also an uneducated nobody with a stubborn streak as wide as the sea turns their concerns into fear.

All of which matters less than the threat clawing its way from the waves, ready to turn the ocean red with spilled blood...

Genres: Fantasy, High Fantasy

418 pages, Paperback

Published June 30, 2022

About the author

Bryan Cole is a long time fan of the fantasy and science fiction genres, having grown up reading and watching everything he could find in those domains. He has had a long career in the enterprise software space, delivering countless presentations and technical sessions to customers all over the world.

His love for stories about heroes, villains, magic, and dragons has never dimmed, and in 2022 published his first book is Beginning of Arrogance which is a story about what it means to be a paladin in a world where the gods are manifestly real.

Bryan is a complete optimist on the outside, believing that anyone can accomplish any task they set themselves to. He'd suggest that he's a great example, since his first published book came out of nowhere to all of his friends and family!

It was a strange journey that led him to writing, but decades of building business presentations gave him a surprising amount of practice in crafting words and conveying emotion (an often overlooked aspect of selling), and he finally made the time in 2022 to take the hundreds of pages of random notes, stories, and adventure ideas he had and committed them to the page.

“Being brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared. Being brave means you are scared, really scared, badly scared, and you do the right thing anyway.”

― Neil Gaiman, Coraline

Pick up a pen (or sit down in front of your keyboard) and write! Everyone has a story and you never know what you can create if you don't try!

Reviews

[Reads With Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Transparency: This review was commissioned by the author, however this does not affect my rating)
Video:
https://youtu.be/GUVIbm9yGZ0

“I’m a barely educated peasant that an angry and chaotic god is using to screw up the world in ways that nobody understands”

If you like dungeons and dragons, and the version of the lord of the rings: fellowship of the ring audiobook that has the background audio and feels like A PRODUCTION rather than just a narration, music and all that, a whole fuckin experience, YOU SHOULD READ THIS.

My actual rating is 3.5 because this is not plot-focused BUT THATS A PREFERENCE THING (okay I will stop yelling now). If you like a ragtag group of unlikely almost-friends but more like coworkers who are going on quests together in a fantasy realm, you’re gonna eat this up.

But it’s more than that and the reason I loved it even though my plot-loving heart didn’t find a traditional plot arc here, this book is doing things i love in very unique and compelling ways that I want to see more of. Not even just in this series. I want to see more authors doing “there’s a god in my head talking to me” the way this book does. Take a normal dude, in this case Krell, and see what a really chaotic god (in this book, ReckNor) can do with him and through him. Something about that really works for me.
There’s this great line actually where Krell says: “I’m a barely educated peasant that an angry and chaotic god is using to screw up the world in ways that nobody understands. Nobody is safe near me, *especially me*.”
And I’m like yes, yes, good, let’s see how this pans out. I love chaos.
And it’s not even that ReckNor is BAD. Hes just A GOD. He is neither good nor evil. Now Krell, is good. He is so fantastically good. And I love that he is dedicated to ReckNor yet also sees that ReckNor is kind of wild and dangerous and simply by being his paladin, Krell’s life expectancy is pretty short. This is so layered, not this cut and dry, easy, morally black and white nonsense but something sort of dangerous-feeling to watch play out. Like I like Krell and i care about him, but i also want to see if he’s gonna get into some fucked up shit and how ReckNor is gonna respond to it. I really liked that the link between them allowed Krell to feel the emotions that ReckNor was feeling and that we kept up this theme of how ReckNor would feel things that, typically, a human would not feel in certain situations. Really lending an understanding to how he is just not human. I like how hard it is for me to wrap my head around gods in fiction. Its a lot easier to explore that idea in fiction than in real life.

I think in general the conversation here around deities is really interesting. How different people can serve the same deity and end up on such different paths. How ReckNor really wants praise is something Ive often thought was weird about the Christian version of god (especially having grown up fundie) and the way its examined here was interesting for me to look at as an ex-fundamentalist. I almost hope that Krell gets arrogant enough and pissed off enough in further books to ask ReckNor, why do you need so much praise?

As much as i enjoyed ReckNor not being some perfect god, I also love that Krell isn’t some super nice, perfect dude. He’s pretty nice and tries to do the right thing where he can, but he’s (and this is stated in text a lot) pretty arrogant and as much as I like him, I hope a woman comes along and checks him on it.

I was dying for more badass women in this. Theres one later on in the book, but I couldve had her been introduced sooner and I think I wouldve enjoyed the book a bit more. I’ve said this about fellowship of the ring as well, actually. I just needed a badass woman to enter the scene and stay, sooner.

There are A LOT of players here though, and Cole does a great job very early on laying out who they are and how they all interact with each other and making it very enjoyable to watch. So much great chemistry here in our ragtag group going on adventures and killing monsters, be that chemistry where Krell is making friends or butting heads. Each character has their distinct voice and I loved watching these adventures play out. But be careful in getting attached to characters because Cole has no issue killing folks off.

This is a world with a lot of danger and violence, and it’s basically nonstop quests and action. If thats your jam, pick this up. Especially the audio if you want to get fully immersed.

I do wish it had a typical plot arc, as i usually do, but this is a strong book that I recommend for fantasy lovers who love to see action, unhinged deities, and also a dragon who is quite cute.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can see where the title came from and it fits the book perfectly. Once, you meet Krell, you will know what I mean. He comes from no where, had nothing, but maybe that was Recknor’s plan. Recknor is the god of the seas and skies. Paladins are champions of the gods, but Recknor thinks they are nothing but trouble. If that is the case, why did he choose to raise a paladin?

A holy warrior going out to work his will on the world.

Krell is naive in the ways of the world. Deserted on a desert island after the first shipwreck, he had to learn to fend for himself. Olgar was on the dock when he was rescued the second time. Hmmm…is this all part of Recknor’s plan?

Krell is such a fascinating character. He does not see himself as a leader, though there are those that will follow him, does not seem himself as a lover, though there are those that would give themselves to him freely, only sees himself as himself. Others see him as arrogant, stubborn, prone to act without thinking, never shying from danger, but diving right into it. I loved when he got his first understanding of the difference between the haves and the have nots and his sense of justice is awakened.

There are many laughs to be had at his expense over his arrogance and stubborness. I laughed right along with the characters, of which they all played a pivotal role in Krell’s life.

“You think we can survive?”

“Of course he does. His arrogance makes it impossible for him to see any other outcome.”

:”I am here to be Recknor’s sword, to keep his followers alive, and to slaughter his enemies”

We have monstrous beings, ocotpus bats, sea devils, orcs, halflings, fey, magical talents, and a battle to be won. The sea devils made me think of the blob with teeth and claws. We even have a dragon named Fortis, who has bonded with Krell. Can you imagine a tiny dragon curling up in your lap conveying his feelings of happiness to be with you to you? He is only ten inches tall right now, but what will happen when he is full grown? He brings treats, like a cat, to Krell’s doorstep. How cute is that?

I have visions running through my mind of what is to come from their bonding and the ongoing story and I can hardly wait to get to the next chapter in their lives. I see so much coming and I am going to love watching Krell grow into the man Olgar and Recknor believed he would become. Krell is a fabulously written character that grows and develops along with the story. He has come to realize he can make his own family, choosing and meeting those who will come to lay their life down for him as he would for them. So many varied, high strung, strong personalities.

Krell’s story is far from over and I look forward to seeing him again in Futility Of Defense by Bryan Cole.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Krell is a paladin of ReckNor, a god that generally is not known to call paladins - unlike some other gods. ReckNor is the god of the sea and has very few rules. As long as you respect him and ask for calm water and clear skies in a reverent enough manner, you'll be fine. He is not a god who interferes with humanity much. So it comes as a surprise to many when he calls on Krell, who has a rather interesting back story (no spoilers here!).
Krell isn’t what you’d expect a paladin to be - and I’m quite glad about that because when I picked the book up, I was a bit worried about the story being too religious or too condescending. But, let’s get that out of the way right away: This has been one of the most entertaining books I have recently read. It’s not perfect, but it’s the first book in a long time that I didn’t really want to end.
As you may suspect, a story about a paladin connected to the god of the sea will somehow have a story connected to the sea - and you’re right about that. Initially, we follow Krell on a few adventures and see how he becomes part of a group of pretty interesting side characters, including your usual arrogant elf magician.
“Beginning of Arrogance” by Bryan Cole would look good as a TV series, especially considering that this is the first book in a series (at least I assume so, as the ending implies more adventures).
I enjoyed the characters and how each of them was different. Yes, of course, you get your usual fantasy tropes - but there’s nothing to complain about if it’s done well.
While there are a couple of small things I would have preferred in a different way, I enjoyed my hours with this book so much that I have to give it five stars. Compared to other stuff I’ve recently read, this is great!

[Chasity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action around every turn

I found this book very appealing and was never dull. It had plenty of action and the story kept me wanting more.

[Samantha Barthe · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I’m a barely educated peasant that an angry and chaotic god is using to screw up the world in ways that nobody understands”

Krell is an unlikely hero in a very unassuming fantasy book. Chosen to become a paladin for an insane god after being found shipwreck on a deserted island, Krell has been thrust into a life of magical swords and sea monsters. Krell quickly falls into a group with other unlikely heroes, including, a wizard, an orc, a dwarf, and a priest. This band then finds themselves on several quests, with the simple goal of glory and gold.

Beginning of Arrogance presents itself as having the potential to be merely a gory testosterone fueled fantasy book but instead creates a quest-like journey that will have readers questioning what a “hero” truly is and falling in love with a group of ridiculously likeable characters. The imagery Bryan Cole creates with magic and monsters is fantastic and will have the reader believing they’ve transported into a video game. One of the aspects that was most enjoyable in this book was the real-world consequences to the battles these characters find themselves in, fair warning, characters will die. Krell himself is a character that readers were meant to love, he is a simple and humble man attempting to navigate his way through understanding what a “hero” truly is and what his insane god intends for his future. The character growth in this book is wild but not unbelievable, Bryan Cole presents less of a “found family” and more of a Cousin Vinny-esque journey where you as a reader get to ride the highs and lows of a true group dynamic. The plot created a well-paced storyline that engages the reader and allows for growth in the characters and a steady development of the setting.

I would highly recommend Beginning of Arrogance to any reader who enjoys a good D&D group or plays quest-styled video games. This is a book worthy to invest some time and emotions in.


Thank you to reedsyDiscovery for this free ARC! If you're interested in getting paid to review books, check out my link below!

https://reedsy.com/discovery/reviewer...

[Eric Lard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cole has created some characters here. Krell, the unlikely paladin for an insane God is the MC, and deservedly so. He's got a mysterious past, is new to the craft of both swordplay and magic, and has the thundering voice of his god in his ear nearly all the time -- mostly laughing at his missteps but also guiding and helping, though largely as it benefits his own hidden agenda. This makes for a lot of decision-driven action through which Krell grows in strength, ability, and fame/infamy. Though some characters can be hard to keep straight at times because there are many and they come and go, they tend to be distinct and color the narrative and shift the course of the story through their presence, which is as it should be.
With its Lit-RPG roots, this could have been absolutely awful. While at times it does feel a bit like a story pulled directly from someone's D&D campaign (this is totally possible, by the way), it didn't suck. I know that doesn't sound like high praise, but really it is. Cole has a great character, a world full of danger and double-cross, and a way of bringing creatures we may have grown up with into vivid and riveting detail.
I will say that while there is a wide range of complex character interactions going on, I didn't see some of the emotional development that I would have liked (hence the 4-star review rather than the full 5). That change over time tended to be focused on the team as a whole rather than the characters themselves who seemed to be pretty well set in stone, with only their opinions changing over time. Still, I will be reading more of Cole's work and if the second book in the series is better than the first, I'll be hooked for the whole thing.

[TM · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I’m a barely educated peasant that an angry and chaotic god is using to screw up the world in ways nobody understands. Nobody is safe near me, especially me."
Krell is something like a fierce god's human warrior. The perks of the job include magical fighting and healing powers. Along with a band of his own, they go around slaying monsters around the town.
I liked the concept behind this book. It somehow combines epic fantasy adventure with a dash of mystery, especially where gods are concerned.
Krell is not the only star either. All his companions are skilled in their own right and know how to kick ass.
My only issue is I feel this book would have worked better as a collection of short stories. For most of the novel, the adventures just seem like random back to back events. It's only at the end we realise much of the stuff is connected.
And of course, every time I find a book that doesn't bore us to tears with romantic musings, I have to shout it to the skies! Praise ReckNor!
I cannot wait to read more of Krell and the team's adventures.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beginning of Arrogance

By

Bryan Cole

Rating:5/5

Description:

Paladins are nothing but trouble. Stories about paladins are everywhere, noble warriors riding magic steeds into battle against terrible foes. Champions of their gods. Heroes to everyone, except those who already have everything. Paladins are notorious for upsetting the balance of power, to the detriment of any who don't worship their deity.So when Krell is called to service by the capricious god of the seas and skies, ReckNor, those with wealth and power can't help but be concerned. ReckNor hasn't called a paladin in years, and his nature is ever-changing and erratic. The fact that Krell is also an uneducated nobody with a stubborn streak as wide as the sea turns their concerns into fear.

All of which matters less than the threat clawing its way from the waves, ready to turn the ocean red with spilled blood...

Review:

👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.

👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable . The plot revolves around KRELL who is a paladin, Paladins are just stubborn and they just create trouble around. Their stories are quite famous everywhere as they are noble warriors who rides magic steeds in the battle with their powerful enemy. They are heroes to almost everyone except those who have everything.So when KRELL is called by RECKNOR, the capricious god of the seas and skies, there raise a matter of concern for those who has everything as RECKNOR normally do not seek help from a Paladin but this time it is something else as something big is about to happen that could cause bloodshed which can turn the blue sea to red. So what dangers lies ahead? and how KRELL and RECKNOR are going to deal with it? Read the book

Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book

For complete read do order the book on @amazondotin @amazondotcom

👉I just loved reading the book ...

Happy reading!

[Aditya · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my personal opinion, the fantasy troupe is a bit overused but I never closed out the possibility of receiving a surprise fantasy novel that is different from others. And here we are, I am reviewing one such book. So here are my thoughts on this wonderful book.

You can only fantasize about spoilers while reading the reviews because there are none.

The story and the setting are not crazy unique. This is your usual world of fantasy. But the core story is very unique. The way the author twisted the story to focus on the main character as well as every other character he meets, is just genius. The pacing of the story makes this story all so exciting.

For me the strongest point of this story is its characters, they are just impeccably written. Although it's a fantasy world the world-building is believable and the character development is relatable. I love the characters, their struggles, moral obligations, and temptations, everything is so well executed by the author.

All in all, it was a wonderful read. I loved every second of it. If you are interested in the fantasy genre and want something good to read, then this is the book. Thank you to the author for writing this book and we hope you can continue to do the same.

Thank you
Regards

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bryan Cole’s book is filled with imagery of monsters and magic that engages the readers and makes them feel like they are in a video game. The novel is an epic fantasy suitable for diverse types of audiences who enjoy Paladin stories. Though it contains some form of violence, sexual descriptions, and explicit language. Paladins are seen as heroes who protect their people but at the same time, they are hated by those in power. The reason being that they disrupt the balance of power especially to the people who do not worship the paladin’s god. The people with power feel uneasy when god of the seas ReckNor calls upon Krell into his service. It is astounding how the author produced his own deities rather than using the common Greek gods. Krell is portrayed as a character who was meant to be loved by the readers, he is humble, simple, and managed to understand ReckNor’s teachings without any sort of arrogance. I loved the book as the author was just genius with how he depicted the characters. They were written impeccably, and the character growth is just wild. Everything from their temptations, struggles engages the reader, though I wish I saw more on the emotional development.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are few books where pain, agony, and frustration reflect the book. I could feel the intense emotions Krell was experiencing, not only battling the paladins and the gods but the emotional struggle he was having discovering his true purpose. The political and entrepreneurial references flowed brilliantly, and Krell’s journey came to life right before my eyes. This book reflects how evil and powerful others’ judgment can impact the outcome of an event and someone’s life. Krell is not the most educated human being which made the people of status and power very judgmental. Little does everyone know intelligence comes on many levels, and Krell expresses emotional intelligence, significantly impacting the battle's outcome. It’s not the size of the man in the war but the size of the war in the man.

Beginning of Arrogance is an inspiring book with a story that will leave a lasting impression in the reader’s thoughts. This book gets five stars.

[Lily A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beginning of Arrogance" is one of those books one stumbles upon that is voyeuristic in all the right ways. Turns emotional, horrifying, pleasant, and elsewhere poignant, readers will experience an array of emotions. This epic fantasy book has well-fleshed-out characters that I enjoyed following from the beginning.
I loved seeing Krell grow as a character and his emotional intelligence is notable in many scenes. Perhaps the feather on the cap of this text is the author's ability to aptly inject magical elements with ease along with evocative dialogue and through this, an entirely addictive tale is born. The depth of imagination is equally impressive and along with its satisfying twists, turns this narrative on its head. In my opinion, Cole's storytelling defies the creative limitations of any set genre. Great work!

[Kriss Judd · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing journey!

Is the next book out yet? Because I'm ready to read it asap! Krell and his band of warriors, magicians, and a true priest are amazing. I was sad to see that nobody knows what happened to Lily. Maybe she'll reappear in another novel? I'd also love to see a romance for Krell, maybe with Verbena. Can paladins have romantic relationships? I imagine that with RekNor, they can! I'm also looking forward to seeing id Krell gets to do anything with his incredible acquisitions- and not just his new home-to-be. If you're looking for an action-packed fantasy with a god who is all about free will and the consequences thereof behind the scenes, you'll love Beginning of Arrogance!

[Donna Costello · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic book to sink my teeth into. The characters were so wonderfully designed, they seemed to step right off the page. The plot was intriguing and kept me completely captivated. The world that the author has managed to generate and express is really one of the most potent parts of this book. It was a world in which I became entirely immersed. I was thoroughly entertained and couldn’t put the novel down.

[Felicity Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would make an amazing tv/animated series, its just a shame that on ocassion the writing felt as if the author had this mind.
At first I worried that this was going to be a testosterone-charged read however, book one in a series, as the book progressed it proved itself to be a promising quest/epic fantasy type read.

High on imagery, the world building fantastic, the creatures, oh my goodness, some of the creatures, even more so. However, if I had one small gripe it would be that on occasion I felt myself transported into what felt very much like the idea for a video game ... something that will doubtlessly appeal to some readers, for me personally, not so much.

As for the characters, Hmm!

Yes, Krell was well developed; we got to know much of his background, of where he had come from, of what he was about, however, whilst, on the face of it most of the other characters {and there are sooo many of them} appeared to be of the usual fantasy types, I didn't feel as if I'd meaningfully got to know them. Maybe a deliberate ploy? After all it would seem other books are to follow, however, after 410 pages, I would have hoped for a better understanding of the characters {and ideally as individuals rather than as one of the group} and, most of all, I'd have liked to have formed some kind of emotional attachment to at least some of them.

All in all, an impressive debut novel full of promise of greater things to come, it will be interesting to see where further instalments take us

Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... Read and reviewed on behalf of the author, the thoughts are mine and mine alone, no financial compensation was asked for nor given

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are very few books that have the power to capture the reader's attention from the first page itself. Bryan Cole's 'Beginning of Arrogance' is one such book.

ReckNor, the god of the seas and skies chooses Krell to be his paladin. Krell was found by Olgar. Olgar raised him and even let Captain Gijwolf see how capable Krell is. Krell was sent on several missions. Those missions were small and went well. But now Krell has a challenging mission that involves danger. Paladin's are believed to be nothing but trouble. How does Krell prove himself? Will he survive the most dangerous battle?

The story involves action and sword fights. I enjoyed that. Krell's character is both stubborn and arrogant. Therefore, the title of the book is suitable. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down until the last page. It's a book worth reading. Go ahead with it without any second thoughts.

[Alison Galloway · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first want to thank Travelling Pages Tour and the author for providing me with a copy of this book.

I actually give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars, but most platforms don't let you do half stars. I've watched fantasy shows and movies like Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, but I'm just now starting to dive into those types of fantasy books, with Elves, Orcs, Dwarfs, Dragons, ect.


This fantasy book is fast paced and filled with plenty of action scenes with, in my opinion, little lull in between so you don't get bored, but there is still the right amount of "down time" to get a great story and background of the characters. I really enjoyed the adventures this group of companions took together and I can't wait for the next book.

[Taylor · Rating 2 out of 5]

Easy Read with Lots of Detail

I would like to start with the things I enjoyed about this book. It is true that the plot seemed to be reasonably well thought out, there were a lot of layers, and the characters weren’t forgettable. Everything was very well described, the author painted a vivid picture, even in violent scenes.

The biggest problem for me was that it was written in such a peculiar way, using words from the past sporadically while most of the dialogue seemed like it was happening in present day.

This would be a good recommendation for someone who is looking for an easy read but isn’t heavily concerned with writing style.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Krell wasn't what you'd typically expect a hero to be - which makes him all the more perfect to be the star of this book. If you're a fan of D&D games, you'll easily fall in love with Krell and his odd group of companions as they adventure together. Cole does an excellent job of bringing both the characters and the world to life, and it's so easy to get sucked into the story for hours. The plot moves along smoothly at a nice pace, and things aren't always sunshine and rainbows. I won't give anything away, but this was an excellent fantasy and I look forward to reading more books in the series!

[Adrienne Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Recommended for fans of DnD, classic fantasy action-adventures, and Lit RPGs*

Krell is a Paladin. But unlike most Paladins you’ll be familiar with, he doesn’t serve the god of justice, light, or fluffy kittens. Krell serves a chaotic god; ReckNor, lord of the sea, storms, and shipwrecks.

This is an amazing idea and that alone makes ‘Beginning of Arrogance’ a compelling read. Unlike many ensemble fantasy stories, Cole makes the excellent choice of choosing the most interesting character as the protagonist. Negotiating the idea of free will while having a god living in your head is an existential issue that Krell navigates in compelling and nuanced ways. The relationship between Krell and his god is also very well-developed, and unique from many such relationships I’ve seen play out in classic fantasy. Something to mention here is that ReckNor takes a pretty active (and vocal) part in the story. If you like that (I did – it’s well implemented), great; if the presence of gods in books annoys you, you’ve been warned.

Another stand-out feature of ‘Beginning of Arrogance’ I’d like to highlight is its humour, as I haven’t seen this mentioned in other reviews of the title. I want to stress that Cole’s dialogue features some great comedy, and for me, that was a huge plus. The humour isn’t overpowering by any means, and the author skilfully transitions between humorous dialogue, sad scenes, action scenes, and worldbuilding. If you enjoy witty party banter and find yourself sick of the overly serious atmosphere some action-adventure fantasy can veer towards, you’ll like this book.

As I mentioned above, this is an ensemble piece, focused on Krell’s adventures with a party of companions. In order to manage a larger character roster, Cole makes the sensible choice of relying on some fantasy clichés to quickly characterise the different party members. That’s no problem in and of itself, and it does allow the characters to quickly establish a fun and engaging dynamic. I found the band of adventurers immediately charming and compelling, and never found myself bored by the use of existing tropes, especially given the fast pace of the story.

It is worth stressing, though, that this is a book much more focused on plot rather than a story about the hidden depths of its characters. What I should also mention here – and this might be a make-or-break point for some readers – is that ‘Beginning of Arrogance’ is a through-and-through ‘classic’ fantasy in that it is a story about men, written from the perspective of a man. If you are a fan of classic fantasy authors like Eddings, Moorcock, etc. you won’t mind this, but if you’re more used to ‘newer’ fantasy with a more equal gender split and more varied representation, keep this in mind.

So, why four stars and not five? If I could, I probably would have scored ‘Beginning of Arrogance’ somewhere in the middle. There are just a few minor things that I thought could have been implemented better.

Firstly, I thought the start was a little slow. The story beginning with a quasi-training sequence was a little cliché and in my opinion, it didn’t set up the tone or the themes of the book as well as it could have. If that’s your experience also, push through it – the book is worth it.
Secondly, I thought that, at times, Cole could have done more to show and not tell. Sometimes, for instance, other characters will claim things about Krell before the reader has had to chance to make up their own mind. Two examples of this are Krell’s arrogance – which I felt I was told about before I saw it ‘in action’ – and his supposed insanity.

Early on in the book, I also would have liked to find out more about how Krell feels about being called as a paladin of ReckNor. We know what he says about it but as we later find out, there is a disconnect between what he says and how he feels. This is a fascinating conflict that could have been set up earlier on. However, I would once again emphasise – if you’ve just started the book and would like to see Krell’s character explored in more depth, stick with it; it’s coming.

*TL;DR*: Overall, I would recommend this for fans of DnD, LitRPGs, and classic fantasy after Moorcock and Eddings. In the realm of newer fantasy, I could see fans of ‘Godkiller’ having a good time with this if you enjoyed the quest- and travel format of Kaner’s work and are fine with a largely male-centred perspective.

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beginning of Arrogance" by Bryan Cole is a remarkable and exhilarating entry into the realm of fantasy literature. With its intricate world-building and compelling characters, this book stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, offering readers an immersive journey into a captivating universe of gods, paladins, and perilous threats.

In this richly imagined world, Cole deftly challenges the conventional perception of paladins as noble and virtuous heroes. Instead, he casts them as potential disruptors of the established order, a perspective that adds depth and complexity to the narrative. The premise of paladins upsetting the balance of power and the ensuing concern among the wealthy and powerful immediately draws readers into a world teetering on the edge of change.

The character of Krell, our protagonist, is a triumph of storytelling. As an uneducated nobody with an indomitable spirit, Krell defies traditional hero archetypes. He is relatable and endearing, making his journey all the more engaging. Readers will undoubtedly find themselves rooting for him as he navigates a treacherous path, chosen by the capricious god ReckNor, whose unpredictable nature adds an element of intrigue and tension to the story.

The looming threat from the waves, as hinted in the summary, promises pulse-pounding action and high-stakes drama. Cole masterfully builds suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they anticipate the clash between Krell and this formidable adversary.

One of the book's standout qualities is its world-building. Cole's ability to create a rich and immersive fantasy realm, complete with gods, magic, and diverse cultures, is nothing short of remarkable. The intricacies of the divine realms and the dynamics between gods and mortals add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making the world of "Beginning of Arrogance" feel both expansive and believable.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that "Beginning of Arrogance" is not just a tale of heroism but also a reflection on power, privilege, and the consequences of challenging the status quo. It raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of gods and the roles they play in mortal lives, offering readers much to ponder beyond the thrilling adventure.

In conclusion, Bryan Cole's "Beginning of Arrogance" is a triumph of fantasy literature, offering readers a spellbinding journey into a world where heroes are not what they seem, and gods wield both capriciousness and power. Cole's storytelling prowess, coupled with a cast of compelling characters and a meticulously crafted world, makes this book a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. It is a riveting and thought-provoking tale that leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in what promises to be an extraordinary series.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I might not really be a fantasy “fan,” this story is different. To begin with, it held my attention because it was what I called it…a real story. An easy-to-follow story of goods and bads, greed and evil, triumph and losses.

Krell, whom I like so much in this story, is a paladin of Recknor, rescued after surviving alone as a young boy. He is raised and taught by Olgar, a true Recknor priest who is a bit of a sot, a funny drunk with great magical powers. A paladin like Krell is a person called by a god, Recknor in this case, to aid in carrying out the god’s wishes and occasionally recruit a possible disciple. Paladins protect worshipers from warring gods and their armies and as in every fantasy, from the creatures only an author can create:) If recruiting disciples sounds religious as in the word we know today, it’s not. However, there is an occasional push and pull between what could be called religion and/or fantasy. I enjoyed the underlying ambiguity. Other readers might interpret it differently.
One thing I enjoyed most in this battle-worn fantasy was the humor. The conversation between Krell and his “inner” god, Recknor, is quite funny, but the banter with his colleagues is even more enjoyable.

You wouldn’t think a military fantasy would have in-depth definitions of characters and yet this story did. I think the intense battle action and wisecracks among comrades as well as the down-time banter helped me visualize each of the warriors. There is so much dialog, such great interplay among them. It, along with the picture of Cole’s characters is what sucks you into the story, enjoying it and yet wanting to read quickly to know how it ends.

At the end, I did ask myself a couple of questions that I thought some readers might have from the story’s description.
**How did I feel about all of the gods? Was there any place where there was sarcasm pointed toward religious practices today?
My answer: I don’t think organized religion as we know it today is involved in this story at all. The gods were more characters and/or warriors than any religious type of god. However, the occasional underlying meaning might have slipped in. I enjoyed trying to interpret what the author might have meant. Maybe he didn’t mean anything, but he added more enjoyment to the story for me.
**Will people find the facetiousness about the gods offensive?
My answer: Depends on two things. Your ability/inability to enjoy a story with the realization that it is fiction and your ability/inability to be flexible. This is, after all, a fantasy. An exceptionally good fantasy.

[L.P. Cowling · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book feels like stepping into an incredibly fun and lively Dungeons & Dragons campaign, where the dice rolls drive the action and the characters come alive with engaging backstories and distinct personalities. Bryan Cole’s Beginning of Arrogance captures the essence of a traditional fantasy adventure, with its dynamic setting, fast-paced action, and episodic structure creating a sense of constant movement and excitement. For fans of tabletop-inspired storytelling, it delivers an experience both familiar and entertaining.

The story itself jumps quickly from one plotline to the next, weaving together smaller adventures rather than building a singular, overarching narrative. While this episodic structure might not create the strongest central storyline, it ensures there’s never a dull moment. Each section is packed with action and intrigue, keeping the reader engaged as the story barrels forward.

The characters are the true highlight of the book. With each chapter, the story introduces new members to its expanding cast, each bringing a rich backstory and a clear role in the narrative. This constant infusion of fresh personalities keeps the book dynamic and exciting, as every character adds their own lore, perspective, and purpose to the adventure.

However, the book does stumble slightly when it comes to its treatment of the gods and their mechanics within the world. The explanations of how the gods operate, who they are, and what they do are revisited multiple times throughout the story. While this might help reinforce key ideas or tie them to the current plot, it does become repetitive, especially once the reader has grasped the basics of their influence.

Overall, Beginning of Arrogance is an engaging and enjoyable fantasy novel with plenty of action, a strong cast of characters, and a vibrant sense of fun that echoes the energy of a great tabletop campaign. While its episodic structure and repetitive moments may detract slightly from its polish, the book’s strengths far outweigh its flaws. For fans of high-energy fantasy with a D&D-inspired feel, this is definitely worth picking up.

[Ultimate World · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beginning of Arrogance (A Paladin's Journey)" by Bryan Cole is an enthralling fantasy that embarks readers on a thrilling adventure through a world of gods, magic, and the conflict between power and faith. Cole's storytelling prowess weaves a vivid narrative filled with intrigue, danger, and the rise of a hero amidst uncertainty.

The novel introduces us to Krell, an unlikely hero summoned by the capricious deity ReckNor, the god of seas and skies. As a paladin, Krell's arrival unsettles the established order, drawing the concern and fear of those in power. What sets Krell apart is not just his divine calling but his unconventional background—an uneducated outsider with a resilient spirit and unwavering determination.

Cole skillfully constructs a world teeming with uncertainty and impending danger. The stakes are high as a menacing threat emerges from the waves, threatening to plunge the world into chaos and bloodshed. The tension builds steadily, immersing readers in a world on the brink of cataclysmic upheaval.

The character of Krell is captivating, a symbol of defiance against the established hierarchy, and his journey resonates with themes of courage, sacrifice, and the clash between power and righteousness. The unpredictable nature of the gods adds an element of unpredictability and intrigue, keeping readers engaged as they navigate the shifting tides of divine intervention.

The author's descriptive prowess vividly brings the world and its inhabitants to life, painting a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and deities. The narrative flows seamlessly, drawing readers deeper into a tale brimming with action, suspense, and a touch of mysticism.

"Beginning of Arrogance" is a compelling start to what promises to be an epic fantasy series. Bryan Cole has crafted a captivating story that seamlessly blends elements of heroism, divine intervention, and the complexities of moral choices. Fans of high fantasy, rich world-building, and dynamic characters will find themselves eagerly awaiting the next installment in Krell's journey.

[Amanda Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟Recently finished reading the book BEGINNING OF ARROGANCE by BRYAN COLE and it was quite a good read. The theme of the book is something different in a good way and it is quite enjoyable. The storyline and the plot were just amazing and it has all the elements of entertainment. The concept is fresh and that's the attraction of the book.🌟

💫The plot-
✨ The plot revolves around KRELL who is a paladin, Paladins are just stubborn and they just create trouble around. Their stories are quite famous everywhere as they are noble warriors who rides magic steeds in the battle with their powerful enemy. They are heroes to almost everyone except those who have everything.✨

✨So when KRELL is called by RECKNOR, the capricious god of the seas and skies, there raise a matter of concern for those who has everything as RECKNOR normally do not seek help from a Paladin but this time it is something else as something big is about to happen that could cause bloodshed which can turn the blue sea to red. So what dangers lies ahead? and how KRELL and RECKNOR are going to deal with it? Read the book.✨✨

💫Writing-
✨The writing of the author is quite good as it is his debut novel and the author didn't disappoint at all and has done a fabulous job in writing such a masterclass. The suspense and thrill will keep you hooked till the end of the book and it is quite fast paced that will keep your interest all the time. The language is easy and the narration has been top notch. The character of KRELL was eye pleasing and his character has been developed well to connect to the readers. Although all the characters are having a important part to play but KRELL was something amazing to read.✨✨✨

💫 The title and cover is eye catching and the detailed discription will avoid all sorts of confusion. Overall the book is a great read and i would like to recommend all of you.✨✨✨✨

[Haisam Syyed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dive into the enthralling world of "Beginning of Arrogance." In this captivating tale, paladins are both renowned and feared, revered as noble warriors riding magical steeds into battle against formidable adversaries. However, their actions often upset the delicate balance of power, causing unrest among those who already hold privilege and authority. When Krell, an uneducated and tenacious individual, is unexpectedly summoned by the capricious god of the seas and skies, ReckNor, the wealthy and influential become apprehensive.

With ReckNor's nature ever-changing and unpredictable, coupled with Krell's lack of prestige, their concerns evolve into deep-seated fear. Yet, overshadowing these worries is a formidable threat emerging from the depths of the ocean, poised to unleash a wave of destruction and carnage.

In "Beginning of Arrogance," follow Krell as he embraces his newfound role as a paladin, defying societal expectations and facing the imminent peril that looms over the world. With power struggles, divine destinies, and a rising tide of conflict, this captivating book immerses you in a thrilling narrative that explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the consequences of arrogance. Brace yourself for an unforgettable journey through a world teetering on the precipice of chaos.

[Susan Atherly · Rating 3 out of 5]

What to say about this book? This is not a plot driven story, although there is an over arching growth progression for our main character. It is more like a mash-up of a serialized story set in a Medieval RPG world which is violent, politically unstable, and crime ridden.

Our main guy becomes a Paladin (chosen warrior) for the sea god RekNor after a close call with drowning at sea. Krell is a country bumpkin. He can read and he is fairly level headed but he is also very naive. RekNor pretty much chose him because he was too stubborn to drown and he finds him amusing.

What follows is a story that progresses episodically with quests and vignettes. A monster of the week here. A bar scene there. The tone reminded me a lot of Conan the Destroyer. Lots of hair-brain schemes that somehow work out. Fight scenes that are very violent but also a bit slapstick. Humor is laced through all of this and there is a lot of tongue in cheek observations. All through this, Krell learns more and gains more skills in fighting and healing. (He levels up.)

If that sounds like something you would enjoy, you will love this book. I enjoyed it for the first half but then it started to get tiresome.

I received a Kindle copy of this from a Goodreads Giveaway but I highly recommend the Audible book. The narrator totally digs in and clearly enjoys himself performing this book.

[Daisy Blacklock · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.1 out of 5 stars

Beginning Of Arrogance by Bryan Cole is a great, gripping and thrilling fantasy book.

There was a lot to take in quickly (world building and lots of characters) as with most fantasy books, but I soon managed to settle into the story and get to grips with who was who quicker than I usually do.

There was great character development early on, and this continued throughout. All of the characters were brimming with personality.

As I moved further on in the story, the world building got stronger and stronger, and it was an absolute pleasure to visualise.

A handful of sections didn't flow too nicely for me, and I felt it dragged on a little bit in the middle, but nothing too bad. The only other thing that wasn't great was that I felt it had a bit of a masculine energy to it, so I found it a little hard to connect to at times.

I listened to this as an audio book and the performance of the characters voices when speaking was brilliant and really made the story come alive. The background sound affects created a great atmosphere too.

Overall, this was a great, strong read.

Thank you Bryan and Travelling Pages Blog Tours for my copy.

[Books_cave · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story revolves around KRELL, a paladin renowned for his indomitable will and penchant for stirring up trouble wherever his boots tread. Paladins, revered as honorable champions, ride upon mystical steeds, fearlessly charging into battle against formidable adversaries. Their valor and heroism are celebrated by all, save for those whose insatiable desires overshadow their admiration.

But fate takes an unexpected turn when KRELL is summoned by RECKNOR, the capricious deity ruling over the vast seas and boundless skies. Such a call is a rare occurrence, for RECKNOR seldom seeks aid from paladins. Yet, this time, the circumstances are unparalleled. A deep concern has emerged, threatening to unleash a wave of carnage and desecrate the once-tranquil azure expanse, transforming it into a haunting crimson abyss.

The characters are very well depicted by the author and you will see more interesting characters in this book. The book is written in easy language that anyone can easily understand.

Overall, this is an exciting read that will keep you hooked from cover to cover. I highly recommend this book.

[Robert Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story of a new paladin, called by a god who normally doesn't have paladins, which doesn't rely on the normal trope of "my god is the right path and I will force you to see that".

I love this take on what a paladin can be: pious without being overbearing about it, faithful to their core beliefs without whitewashing the hard parts. ReckNor is the god of Sea and Sky and while he seems capricious to most, the paladin Krell is able to make sense of the teachings and turn them to an advantage.

The story itself is entertaining from the first page to the last. Written with a keen sense of balancing description with brevity, it reminded me of the style Glen Cook used on the 'Black Company' books. As a TTRPG player, I was hooked by the familiar elements that can be found during a campaign--especially the banter between PCs, the intermingling of sword and sorcery during fight scenes, and the direct questioning of 'why does the magic require THAT spell component?'

I overwhelmingly suggest you give this book a read. I think that, like me, you'll be hoping for a return to this world of Krell and ReckNor.