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The Erkenblood
We are all monsters in someone's story!
For Panthea, every day she draws breath in the Southern Kingdom is an act of repression. Her faith in the goddess keeps her pure. Her guardian Rassus keeps her safe. And a powerful drug, administered daily, keeps her deadly power in check. But no amount of prayer or medicine will ever change what she is: Panthea is an Erkenblood. No matter what she does, her power will always be one small mistake away from turning her into a mindless killer.
But for now, her drugs are enough. Her teacher is enough. Her prayers are enough.
Until they aren’t.
When the Inquisition raids her home in search of an arcane artifact, Rassus is hauled away, and Panthea finds herself thrust into the center of a bloody conflict with evil on both sides. Can she save the man who raised and protected her without becoming the monster the whole kingdom believes she is? Or will Panthea let the monster out... and sacrifice her soul in the process?
For Panthea, every day she draws breath in the Southern Kingdom is an act of repression. Her faith in the goddess keeps her pure. Her guardian Rassus keeps her safe. And a powerful drug, administered daily, keeps her deadly power in check. But no amount of prayer or medicine will ever change what she is: Panthea is an Erkenblood. No matter what she does, her power will always be one small mistake away from turning her into a mindless killer.
But for now, her drugs are enough. Her teacher is enough. Her prayers are enough.
Until they aren’t.
When the Inquisition raids her home in search of an arcane artifact, Rassus is hauled away, and Panthea finds herself thrust into the center of a bloody conflict with evil on both sides. Can she save the man who raised and protected her without becoming the monster the whole kingdom believes she is? Or will Panthea let the monster out... and sacrifice her soul in the process?
- GenresFantasy
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2023
1 person is currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
H. Ferry
2 books15 followersH. Ferry is a speculative fiction author who writes stories of broken people navigating broken worlds. A scientist and engineer by trade, he strives to use his understanding of the world and his own imagination to create the right mix of realism and magic. When he’s not writing, you can find him reading his next favorite book or building a contraption or a piece of software.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 22, 2023
This story captivated me from the first chapter. Panthea's fear of her power and her need to hide it are so palpable and realistic, it drew me right in. That combined with the immersive world-building, I felt like I was inside this story.
A powerful debut novel by author H. Ferry, The Erkenblood is an experience in fantasy writing excellence. From the magic system to the world building to the religions and politics and even the star system, this is a world crafted of pure imaginative genius. The characters are beautifully flawed and I found myself cheering and crying for them. Now I am left anxiously awaiting the next book!
I received an ARC copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. But I liked it so much I preordered a copy for my book shelf! If you enjoy well-crafted, slightly dark, realistic fantasy, this book is for you.
A powerful debut novel by author H. Ferry, The Erkenblood is an experience in fantasy writing excellence. From the magic system to the world building to the religions and politics and even the star system, this is a world crafted of pure imaginative genius. The characters are beautifully flawed and I found myself cheering and crying for them. Now I am left anxiously awaiting the next book!
I received an ARC copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. But I liked it so much I preordered a copy for my book shelf! If you enjoy well-crafted, slightly dark, realistic fantasy, this book is for you.
March 11, 2023
This - this was a masterpiece of epic fantasy. The worldbuilding alone had me hooked from chapter one. But then you add a young woman like Panthea, whose coming-of-age / self-reckoning is fraught with hard choices and heavy emotions, denying herself in fear of hurting those around her. It had me desperately rooting for her success until the very end. But she’s not the only character who stole my heart. There was the loyal best friend, Ash, and the stubbornly protective Evian. Arvin, Hilia, Mart - I loved them all so much! I won’t go into detail to avoid spoilers, but if you enjoy creative epic fantasy that lasts a good long time but is worth reading every page - this is the book for you. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
December 27, 2023
Review originally on
JamReads
The Erkenblood is the first book in the dark fantasy series Wielders of Sessara, written by H. Ferry, a beautifully told story with a strong cast of characters and an introduction to a really immersive world. A rather different coming of age story of our character, Panthea, whose development will be a key piece of the plot.
Panthea lives afraid of her own powers, her condition as an Erkenblood being a source of pain for her; all is under control thanks to the use of drugs and the help of her master. Until one day this delicate situation is broken by an Inquisition raid, taking her master to prison; at this point, Panthea will have to control herself and save the man that raised her, avoiding letting the monster inside to take the best of herself.
But Panthea's is not the only narrative plot that Ferry introduces us to, as a second POV, Hillia, a girl who indirectly becomes part of the conflict that is burning through the Southern Kingdom; different circumstances, but both stories will become intertwined by chance.
In general, the rest of the cast is also well developed, and Ferry manages to give them a layer of humanity and vulnerability that makes spending time with them really enjoyable, as we end connecting with their struggles.
The world-building is quite immersive, taking advantage of the relatively slow pacing of the first chapters to introduce us well to the ideas and how the Kingdom is governed; for some reasons, it remembered me of the image of some oppressive countries in the real world, especially for how the Inquisition behaves.
The Erkenblood is a strong debut, with compelling characters, an introduction to a series that I hope to continue in the future; especially, I need more of Panthea.
The Erkenblood is the first book in the dark fantasy series Wielders of Sessara, written by H. Ferry, a beautifully told story with a strong cast of characters and an introduction to a really immersive world. A rather different coming of age story of our character, Panthea, whose development will be a key piece of the plot.
Panthea lives afraid of her own powers, her condition as an Erkenblood being a source of pain for her; all is under control thanks to the use of drugs and the help of her master. Until one day this delicate situation is broken by an Inquisition raid, taking her master to prison; at this point, Panthea will have to control herself and save the man that raised her, avoiding letting the monster inside to take the best of herself.
But Panthea's is not the only narrative plot that Ferry introduces us to, as a second POV, Hillia, a girl who indirectly becomes part of the conflict that is burning through the Southern Kingdom; different circumstances, but both stories will become intertwined by chance.
In general, the rest of the cast is also well developed, and Ferry manages to give them a layer of humanity and vulnerability that makes spending time with them really enjoyable, as we end connecting with their struggles.
The world-building is quite immersive, taking advantage of the relatively slow pacing of the first chapters to introduce us well to the ideas and how the Kingdom is governed; for some reasons, it remembered me of the image of some oppressive countries in the real world, especially for how the Inquisition behaves.
The Erkenblood is a strong debut, with compelling characters, an introduction to a series that I hope to continue in the future; especially, I need more of Panthea.
January 9, 2023
I am going to try to write this without any spoilers.
What a refreshing fantasy world! I have to say, I wasn't hooked until chapter 7 or 8 but if you keep reading and let the characters and storyline develop a bit, the pieces start coming together and it becomes an exciting ride! After getting to know the main characters, I found myself rooting for them, getting disappointed by them and thinking what I would have done in their place? It made me ask myself hard questions while learning more about their magical world, the complex history, dark politics and the many, many secrets! Also, it's worth mentioning that the author doesn't shy away from depicting gruesome scenes; but balancing them out with softer moments makes you feel like riding a roller coaster at times. I also loved how the heroine developed throughout the story, in a way that was so human and understandable. I am looking forward to reading the next book as although a lot of events had conclusions, it leaves you with more questions than answers and signs that there is another book coming :)
Also a tip: Don't skip on reading the epigraphs as they are more important that you may think! ;)
What a refreshing fantasy world! I have to say, I wasn't hooked until chapter 7 or 8 but if you keep reading and let the characters and storyline develop a bit, the pieces start coming together and it becomes an exciting ride! After getting to know the main characters, I found myself rooting for them, getting disappointed by them and thinking what I would have done in their place? It made me ask myself hard questions while learning more about their magical world, the complex history, dark politics and the many, many secrets! Also, it's worth mentioning that the author doesn't shy away from depicting gruesome scenes; but balancing them out with softer moments makes you feel like riding a roller coaster at times. I also loved how the heroine developed throughout the story, in a way that was so human and understandable. I am looking forward to reading the next book as although a lot of events had conclusions, it leaves you with more questions than answers and signs that there is another book coming :)
Also a tip: Don't skip on reading the epigraphs as they are more important that you may think! ;)
December 13, 2023
A book you can’t put down
The Erkenblood (Wielders of Sessara Book one) by H. Ferry
From the first chapter, this book hooked me. The pacing is fast and quickly pulls you into the story. Its wonderful world-building has you fully immersed in the lives of Panthea and Hillia.
The politics of the world become an issue as Panthea hunts her teacher who has been taken.
The Erkenblood’s plot is dark with many moments that will have you gripping the pages needing to know what happens next. Each character draws you in and has you wanting the best for them.
This is a book that you won’t be able to put down!
The Erkenblood (Wielders of Sessara Book one) by H. Ferry
From the first chapter, this book hooked me. The pacing is fast and quickly pulls you into the story. Its wonderful world-building has you fully immersed in the lives of Panthea and Hillia.
The politics of the world become an issue as Panthea hunts her teacher who has been taken.
The Erkenblood’s plot is dark with many moments that will have you gripping the pages needing to know what happens next. Each character draws you in and has you wanting the best for them.
This is a book that you won’t be able to put down!
January 30, 2023
Set in a fantasy realm where magic is illegal by the order of a queen who herself is born with magic, amidst an unrest between followers of two fundamentally different beliefs that each think their ways are right.
The book takes you on a journey with Panthea: an Erkenblood who is still discovering her powers and finds herself accompanied by the unlikeliest allies to complete a seemingly impossible task, and Hilia: a brave and intelligent woman who's willing to sacrifice everything for what she believes in.
The world-building is so thorough that even though this book takes place in only one or two territories, you can already paint a map of the entire realm and the background from which each character comes from.
The characters are so complex that it's impossible to pick a favourite. You truly connect with every single character as if their journey is yours.
The book is packed with action, moral dilemmas and tough decisions, and it always keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Looking forward to seeing where the journey goes from here and what stories will unravel in the next books.
The book takes you on a journey with Panthea: an Erkenblood who is still discovering her powers and finds herself accompanied by the unlikeliest allies to complete a seemingly impossible task, and Hilia: a brave and intelligent woman who's willing to sacrifice everything for what she believes in.
The world-building is so thorough that even though this book takes place in only one or two territories, you can already paint a map of the entire realm and the background from which each character comes from.
The characters are so complex that it's impossible to pick a favourite. You truly connect with every single character as if their journey is yours.
The book is packed with action, moral dilemmas and tough decisions, and it always keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Looking forward to seeing where the journey goes from here and what stories will unravel in the next books.
April 14, 2023
This book was phenomenal! I finished it last night(or rather I couldn't put it down and had to read the last 70 pages in one sitting) and am feeling a bit book-hungover in the best of ways.
This was a really strong debut overall. The pace was fast and action-packed, poor Panthea, Hilia and the others just couldn't ever cut a break!
I loved the characterisation. Ash and Mart were probably my favourite side characters, especialyl Mart's banter was perfect. Meanwhile Panthea was the perfect struggling teenager, scrambling to find her place in a world that's a lot more cruel than she ever realised. Hilia was my firm favourite overall, she was such a strong character and I loved how firm she was in her convictions, same for Arvin although he never really won me over. I loved how everyone were GREY, like you'll think they're "good" and then they do stuff that makes you realise nobody in this world is without their share of questionable ideas.
The plot was strong as well, it developed and unravelled at the perfect pace, keeping you guessing without ever feeling lost.
Seriously, go read this book right now. It made me laugh, shout and go "what the fuck" in all the best ways.
I can't wait for the next one!
This was a really strong debut overall. The pace was fast and action-packed, poor Panthea, Hilia and the others just couldn't ever cut a break!
I loved the characterisation. Ash and Mart were probably my favourite side characters, especialyl Mart's banter was perfect. Meanwhile Panthea was the perfect struggling teenager, scrambling to find her place in a world that's a lot more cruel than she ever realised. Hilia was my firm favourite overall, she was such a strong character and I loved how firm she was in her convictions, same for Arvin although he never really won me over. I loved how everyone were GREY, like you'll think they're "good" and then they do stuff that makes you realise nobody in this world is without their share of questionable ideas.
The plot was strong as well, it developed and unravelled at the perfect pace, keeping you guessing without ever feeling lost.
Seriously, go read this book right now. It made me laugh, shout and go "what the fuck" in all the best ways.
I can't wait for the next one!
December 19, 2024
H. Ferry manages to create a new compelling univserse in which his fantasy saga develops. Each page feels like it takes you deeper into the development of the world, lore and story, and by the end at least I was hungry for more. Somehow the world also has a nice touch of something different from your usual fantasy reads, so if you are looking for something in this direction, highly recommended!
October 13, 2023
What an amazing novel filled with danger, rebellion, betrayal and war.
Panthea is an Erkenblood, a fierce wielder, however the world is afraid of them and they are forbidden from using powers.
One day Panthea’s teacher is kidnapped by the inquisition and she must go on the run to avoid being captured. Panthea is so distraught though that she embarks on a quest to save him and comes across these special artefacts called the arcane.
Queen Artenus is on a rampage and is hunting for the three arcane and working with the inquisition. She’s in possession of one and wants two more. The story is also told through the queen’s “handmaiden’s” POV, Hilia. Hilia is actually a rebel and wants to kill the queen and destroy the inquisition. Rumour has it the queen is immortal but through Hilia we discover the queen has a special magic as well.
I like both Panthea and Hilia who finally meet towards the end of the book. Panthea is young but brave as she fights to control her power. Hilia is goal oriented but her recklessness causes things to get a little chaotic!
My fav character is the queen who appears to be the antagonist but I don’t think she is! I also get that she just wants to protect her people in her own way. She’s shrouded in so much mystery and there’s clearly a lot more to her than we know.
Recommend if you enjoy
Fantasy ✅
War ✅
Politics ✅
Magic ✅
Panthea is an Erkenblood, a fierce wielder, however the world is afraid of them and they are forbidden from using powers.
One day Panthea’s teacher is kidnapped by the inquisition and she must go on the run to avoid being captured. Panthea is so distraught though that she embarks on a quest to save him and comes across these special artefacts called the arcane.
Queen Artenus is on a rampage and is hunting for the three arcane and working with the inquisition. She’s in possession of one and wants two more. The story is also told through the queen’s “handmaiden’s” POV, Hilia. Hilia is actually a rebel and wants to kill the queen and destroy the inquisition. Rumour has it the queen is immortal but through Hilia we discover the queen has a special magic as well.
I like both Panthea and Hilia who finally meet towards the end of the book. Panthea is young but brave as she fights to control her power. Hilia is goal oriented but her recklessness causes things to get a little chaotic!
My fav character is the queen who appears to be the antagonist but I don’t think she is! I also get that she just wants to protect her people in her own way. She’s shrouded in so much mystery and there’s clearly a lot more to her than we know.
Recommend if you enjoy
Fantasy ✅
War ✅
Politics ✅
Magic ✅
February 8, 2023
I loved everything about The Erkenblood, but if I have to choose one aspect, it's the characters, from the witty and strong-minded Ash to the complexity of Arvin. In this story nothing is black and white.
I'm not a big fan of pages upon pages of description, and I usually skip those parts in books. But here, the author gives you enough to picture the world he has built without lengthy passages describing minute details.
If I can finish a book in one afternoon, that's for me a sign of a good story. And that was the case for The Erkenblood. I was hooked from the beginning, and I kept reading simply because I wanted to know what would happen next.
I can't wait for the next one in the series to get out.
I'm not a big fan of pages upon pages of description, and I usually skip those parts in books. But here, the author gives you enough to picture the world he has built without lengthy passages describing minute details.
If I can finish a book in one afternoon, that's for me a sign of a good story. And that was the case for The Erkenblood. I was hooked from the beginning, and I kept reading simply because I wanted to know what would happen next.
I can't wait for the next one in the series to get out.
March 29, 2023
I had the honor of being one of the early readers for The Erkenblood and I must say, this was one of the most epic fantasy novels I've had the pleasure of reading.
There's much to love about H. Ferry's debut novel. Incredible world-building, descriptive details that paint the perfect picture in your mind, a plot filled with action and suspense, and most importantly, characters you root for every step of the way. To me, the characters in The Erkenblood are where the author really shines. Each one of them is so well-developed and their emotions and struggles are described perfectly.
This debut novel is a marvelous addition to any fantasy lover's shelf and I can't wait for the sequel!
There's much to love about H. Ferry's debut novel. Incredible world-building, descriptive details that paint the perfect picture in your mind, a plot filled with action and suspense, and most importantly, characters you root for every step of the way. To me, the characters in The Erkenblood are where the author really shines. Each one of them is so well-developed and their emotions and struggles are described perfectly.
This debut novel is a marvelous addition to any fantasy lover's shelf and I can't wait for the sequel!
May 2, 2025
What a great read !
I really loved the universe, the lore and the magic system. And even if political plots are not my forte, the characters were appealing enough to me to make me go enjoy the story all the way through !
I really hope the author will be able to release the second book of the cycle in the near future !
(Even if I’m lovingly mad at him for the fate of a specific character !)
I really loved the universe, the lore and the magic system. And even if political plots are not my forte, the characters were appealing enough to me to make me go enjoy the story all the way through !
I really hope the author will be able to release the second book of the cycle in the near future !
(Even if I’m lovingly mad at him for the fate of a specific character !)
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews