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They say dreams are for those who feel the need to be a part of something bigger. They say fantasies exist in the minds of those who are free spirited. They say illusion is what every man carries through his life until death opens his eyes. Everyone feels the need to get away from their own lives where predictability and monotony threaten to crush their spirits. They long to escape to a place where life keeps them on their toes and the risk of losing everything is always just around the corner. This story, which has been buried and forgotten in the waters and sands of time, has no boundaries, no safe havens. Fawcetta is a world of mystery, drama, deceit, romance, and is filled with action and adventure. The emperor of Fawcetta struggles to hold not only his empire together, but also his family. No one suspects they are being purposefully manipulated and deceived by one power-hungry man. Anger divides children from parents, loss and betrayal spurring vengeance and hatred. The fate of the once peaceful paradise is placed in the hands of a young Guardian named Kaina. She must find a way to find her soul-mate in order to open the one gate that will save their beloved planet from falling into total darkness. Othewise, Fawcetta's days are numbered.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 5, 2009
3 people are currently reading
628 people want to read
About the author
Dalian Artanian
3 books21 followersDalian Artanian was raised by his grandmother, Julia, and lived in many small country towns on the plains of Texas. Dalian read many fantasy books in his free time and enjoyed science fiction movies that took him to worlds he’d never imagined existed. At an early age, Dalian decided to become a fantasy writer, wanting to take people out of their everyday lives and into new and exciting places. Dalian began writing short stories and took many creative writing classes in order to enhance his writing skills. In the summer of 1999, Dalian fulfilled one of many dreams by meeting his mentor, the director Oliver Stone.Dalian auditioned with him and received a small part as an obnoxious fan in the movie, ‘Any Given Sunday.’ This pushed the author even more toward wanting to achieve his greatest dream: Giving readers new and fresh stories, and taking them on fantastic journeys and adventures. Dalian hopes to one day be able to direct a full length film. Dalian Artanian currently lives in California.
More information:go to www.artyrianentertainment.com
More information:go to www.artyrianentertainment.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 30, 2011
I usually am a reader of nonfiction books, but when I wanted a "break", I read fantasy book Fawcetta as a result of word of mouth and good reviews. Amazingly, I found it a great fantasy book. The story line is so intriguing with its colorful characters, relationships between the characters, down to the a type of weapon (Boezein - weapon that changes when needed) that is used. The world of Fawcetta is one that took much imagination...as I was reading this book, I felt that I delved so much into it...that I was actually in the happenings of it all. The story itself is captivating, one that will carry you to the end of the book and want to read more. What I liked a lot was the idea of the Coliseum because in it, a person goes through many trials and tests to be completed. It is amazing because the Coliseum itself determines the danger- whether it be shattering/ mutatable buildings or sematars. Easy read and non-stop action. Great drama, adventure, and romance also included. I can't wait for the next books to come out to see where the story will lead. Even if fantasy books are not your style, read this book. I strongly recommend this novel! :)
July 5, 2010
The moment you start reading this book, you don't want to stop because every chapter of the story exudes suspense and excitement. The characters were represented with mystery and intrigue that you want to know each of them. And as the author builds up the plot of the story, you start seeing some people in your life and even yourself in them. Then it takes you to their world and you feel with them too. It makes you love Kaina, and hate the other characters. Then you want to find out what would be her fate and you emphatize with her.
I think the story is well written if it is able to transport the reader to the world of these characters in Fawcetta. Very creative of the author. I truly recommend this book because it' s not only full of adventure and interesting twists and plots but the romance added spice to the story. I truly enjoy reading it and cannot wait to know how the story builds and ends.
I think the story is well written if it is able to transport the reader to the world of these characters in Fawcetta. Very creative of the author. I truly recommend this book because it' s not only full of adventure and interesting twists and plots but the romance added spice to the story. I truly enjoy reading it and cannot wait to know how the story builds and ends.
October 22, 2009
Standing alone like a warrior about to face an entire army on its own. And who is this army?
Publisher's famous book authors and most of all those wonderful but lovely critics.
First off, I am a fan of fantasy, I love the classics and modern alike. In these days, it is so hard finding a good solid all original story plot. Some fantasies out there, they are merly copies of others. I am one who's always on the look out for something new and fresh. A diamond in the rough among many fantasy stories that continue to copy the old.
Every now and then, we get lucky. A new writer comes along like J.K. Rowling who brought us Harry Potters world. Even the film industry is starving for something new and exciting. People, it is hard finding the right fantasy story that is not a repeat of a book you just finished reading only with the exception of the characters' names which brought me to this book.
My sister told me about Fawcetta and when I asked who was the author, she said, Dalian Artanian. A name I have never heard of before. I thought to myself, cool name for an author and a book.
I bought the 308 page novel and read it.
I found new and exciting characters with wonderful names. The most important thing was that a whole new world and a story unlike I have read in so many years. I am already reading Fawcetta for a second time. Fawcetta has all the elements of an epic story and characters which many will come to love. I am already in love with Nerysta's character and very excited to know where the rest of this story will take me. I have become a huge fan of Fawcetta. I would strongly recommend it to any of you who are starving for something new. I give this book two thumbs way up. It is fresh, new, exciting edge of your toes story that just when you think it's taken you to the brink- it hasn't.
Publisher's famous book authors and most of all those wonderful but lovely critics.
First off, I am a fan of fantasy, I love the classics and modern alike. In these days, it is so hard finding a good solid all original story plot. Some fantasies out there, they are merly copies of others. I am one who's always on the look out for something new and fresh. A diamond in the rough among many fantasy stories that continue to copy the old.
Every now and then, we get lucky. A new writer comes along like J.K. Rowling who brought us Harry Potters world. Even the film industry is starving for something new and exciting. People, it is hard finding the right fantasy story that is not a repeat of a book you just finished reading only with the exception of the characters' names which brought me to this book.
My sister told me about Fawcetta and when I asked who was the author, she said, Dalian Artanian. A name I have never heard of before. I thought to myself, cool name for an author and a book.
I bought the 308 page novel and read it.
I found new and exciting characters with wonderful names. The most important thing was that a whole new world and a story unlike I have read in so many years. I am already reading Fawcetta for a second time. Fawcetta has all the elements of an epic story and characters which many will come to love. I am already in love with Nerysta's character and very excited to know where the rest of this story will take me. I have become a huge fan of Fawcetta. I would strongly recommend it to any of you who are starving for something new. I give this book two thumbs way up. It is fresh, new, exciting edge of your toes story that just when you think it's taken you to the brink- it hasn't.
August 26, 2009
I really enjoyed this book. I really didn't know what to expect of it like I do to all the new fantasy books I like to read. I'm always up for something new and fresh and always on the look-out for new books. A friend told me about this book so I bought it and just found myself not being able to put it down. Unlike most fantasy books that I read that just drop you into the story and some you try to find yourself around the story...this one really carries the story very well. I loved Nerysta and Kaina these two characters really made the book worth reading. I enjoyed the fact it is a little different from most fantasies that I've read in the past....it really had a lot of action and adventure...throw in some romance and deception and in the end you will know why I really enjoyed this novel.....The characters were really well thought out as much as the story....really exciting book...if you guys want something new and exciting and adventurious with lot's of action and even romance....try this book out....
February 9, 2012
I really enjoyed the book. I heard bad things about it, was not gonna read it. Then I heard the author had the book re-edited and reprinted. I then decided to buy the book and find out for myself if it was good or bad. I loved it!! Great, Great Story!! Love the characters and the world. This book will end up being a very good story if the author keeps it up. I saw no editoral mistakes. If they were any the author took care of all of it during the reprint of the book. I have nothing bad to say about this book other than. Great Job!! To the Author Dalian Artanian. Can't wait to read the second book. I also like his awsome book trailers.
Michelle
2\8\2012
Michelle
2\8\2012
October 10, 2009
Fawcetta
On a planet that is ruled by an Emperor and Empress who are concerned with the fate of their planet, comes a story of lies, deceit and manipulation that you will keep you spellbound until you read the very last page and then long for more.
With the fate of their planet at stake the Emperor and the Empress of Fawcetta must find a way to protect his Empire and to keep his family safe. A planet protected by Guardians whose purpose is to make sure that the their world is protected, relates that there is trouble coming and it will take all of their strength to overcome the adversity they will have to face and more.
Enter into this story several important and vital characters: Empress Nikira, Emperor Kalzein, Princess Nerysta, her brother Denucian, the captain, the guardians and more. But, which of these characters can be trusted and who wants the power and rule of Fawcetta? Who will go to any lengths to destroy the peace and safety of these people?
Added to this we have Kaina, Nerysta’s her best friend and Guardian who has received a message from what the author refers to as the Voice who forewarns her that darkness and evil will befall her planet. Frightened and scared she asks how this can be stopped and the answer will astound the reader. Finding her soul mate and opening the seventh gate of the Penakod was the only salvation for the planet. Someone was trying to open the gates to the planet and now she was charged with the duty to make sure that did not happen. But, finding her soul-mate was only part of the battle and saving the world together will lead to more tragedy and test the bonds of friendship are more fragile than the outer shell of an egg.
As in Roman and Greek times and in many cultures today in order to succeed to the thrown of a country or to begin your right of passage as an adult you need to pass certain tests or go through certain rituals. In Fawcetta, the young adults have to go through many phases or trials in order to gain their right of passage. But, a person does not control the severity of the trials and the tasks they have to complete but by the building they enter in order to complete their trials: The Coliseum. But, each person’s trial and the tasks are determined by the Coliseum and no one can help or interfere. But, when Princess Nerysta enters the building to begin her Trials, the fear for her life becomes great when her family and friends realize that she is not being treated as a Princess but as a Guardian. The tasks are more difficult, more dangerous and seem to increase in difficulty as she completes each one.
As the Princess enters the Coliseum and begins her trials it is evident that things are going to get more dangerous and no one seems to now why or who is controlling what the Coliseum is dishing out to her. Will she be allowed to have some help or will she fail and die?
Nerysta faces many dangerous creatures called sematars that come at her from all directions. Using the same weapon that a Guardian would call a Boezin she soon learns its powers and how it will help her live or die. But, no one can change the course of the events or is allowed to question the Voice and what it has planned for her in the Coliseum. But, will she survive alone or will someone come to her rescue and help her complete her trials and survive. But, who is behind this and what will happen next will astound the reader.
When the trials are over and everyone is celebrating the unexpected happens. There is a huge earthquake the capital of Fawcetta is under attack by a group called the Anaki’s. Behind it their Queen who has an agenda of her own. She not only wants to destroy the Emperor and his kingdom but she intends to help his brother take his place on the throne.
Out of nowhere comes a brave young man named Dalian who helps Guardians against the attack and soon ingratiates himself with the entire royal family and Kaina. Helping Kaina during her trials he is given the rank of captain in the army but when the celebration begins to honor both Kaina and Dailan he disappears and no one knows where.
With a Prince who believes the thoughts of a wicked Queen who has attacked his father’s kingdom and questions his ability to rule wisely, and an Uncle who wants the throne at any cost, you will not believe the end result of what finally happens. A Prince who will do anything to achieve his ambitions and goals even if it means going against what is right, and a Princess that falls prey to his desires, will forever change and demolish the peace that this planet once knew.
Someone is trying to open the Gates of Penakod. Only the voice and the Emperor know the correct sequence of how to open these gates and avoid total destruction. When the Queen of Anaki tells the Prince that the gates hold the power to make whoever opens them a god among his people and gets eternal life, the Prince begins to think that maybe this is true and questions his mother and father.
What happens next you will not believe and will have to read for yourself. Two friends, Nersyta and Kaina who are like sisters and the best of friends will soon have their friendship testeed . One a princess who now wants revenge and the other sworn to keep the Emperor and the people of Fawcetta save. What happens when the Empress decides to take matters into her own hands and find out the truth behind the gates? Who will win the battle for the throne: the prince and princess or the Emperor? You will have to wait for the sequel to come out. I know I want to find out the fate of the characters.
Fawcetta
My name is Nerysta and I am the Princess on the planet Fawcetta. I am about to enter in a fight for my life. I have trained hard in order to pass my Trials or as many would call it the tests for my right of passage as an adult. But, all of my practicing, rehearsing and training did not prepare me for what I would encounter when I entered the Coliseum to begin the four trials I would have to pass my tests and survive. You see, if I fail I will not come out and there is no one to help me after entering the building.
In this planet there are those that are called Guardians whose job is to protect the people of Fawcetta along with the military. But, one Guardian and my best friend, Kaina learns that the planet and the people are in danger and that the only way to safe the planet from total destruction is for her to find her soul mate and together they will save the planet. But, at what cost you would not believe.
My name is Kaina and I am a Guardian whose loyalty to the Emperor and Empress will be tested far beyond that of any other Guardian. With the help of many of the other Guardians and a man named Dalian who appears out of nowhere the battles are fought and won. But, the real one has yet to come.
Which one of us will come out the victor? You will have to read the sequel and find out.
To the author Dalian: I commend you for putting yourself as the unsung hero. I never give stars when reviewing a book:
I give this book five brave guardians to help save the Fawcetta and Five Boezins to help them win.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
On a planet that is ruled by an Emperor and Empress who are concerned with the fate of their planet, comes a story of lies, deceit and manipulation that you will keep you spellbound until you read the very last page and then long for more.
With the fate of their planet at stake the Emperor and the Empress of Fawcetta must find a way to protect his Empire and to keep his family safe. A planet protected by Guardians whose purpose is to make sure that the their world is protected, relates that there is trouble coming and it will take all of their strength to overcome the adversity they will have to face and more.
Enter into this story several important and vital characters: Empress Nikira, Emperor Kalzein, Princess Nerysta, her brother Denucian, the captain, the guardians and more. But, which of these characters can be trusted and who wants the power and rule of Fawcetta? Who will go to any lengths to destroy the peace and safety of these people?
Added to this we have Kaina, Nerysta’s her best friend and Guardian who has received a message from what the author refers to as the Voice who forewarns her that darkness and evil will befall her planet. Frightened and scared she asks how this can be stopped and the answer will astound the reader. Finding her soul mate and opening the seventh gate of the Penakod was the only salvation for the planet. Someone was trying to open the gates to the planet and now she was charged with the duty to make sure that did not happen. But, finding her soul-mate was only part of the battle and saving the world together will lead to more tragedy and test the bonds of friendship are more fragile than the outer shell of an egg.
As in Roman and Greek times and in many cultures today in order to succeed to the thrown of a country or to begin your right of passage as an adult you need to pass certain tests or go through certain rituals. In Fawcetta, the young adults have to go through many phases or trials in order to gain their right of passage. But, a person does not control the severity of the trials and the tasks they have to complete but by the building they enter in order to complete their trials: The Coliseum. But, each person’s trial and the tasks are determined by the Coliseum and no one can help or interfere. But, when Princess Nerysta enters the building to begin her Trials, the fear for her life becomes great when her family and friends realize that she is not being treated as a Princess but as a Guardian. The tasks are more difficult, more dangerous and seem to increase in difficulty as she completes each one.
As the Princess enters the Coliseum and begins her trials it is evident that things are going to get more dangerous and no one seems to now why or who is controlling what the Coliseum is dishing out to her. Will she be allowed to have some help or will she fail and die?
Nerysta faces many dangerous creatures called sematars that come at her from all directions. Using the same weapon that a Guardian would call a Boezin she soon learns its powers and how it will help her live or die. But, no one can change the course of the events or is allowed to question the Voice and what it has planned for her in the Coliseum. But, will she survive alone or will someone come to her rescue and help her complete her trials and survive. But, who is behind this and what will happen next will astound the reader.
When the trials are over and everyone is celebrating the unexpected happens. There is a huge earthquake the capital of Fawcetta is under attack by a group called the Anaki’s. Behind it their Queen who has an agenda of her own. She not only wants to destroy the Emperor and his kingdom but she intends to help his brother take his place on the throne.
Out of nowhere comes a brave young man named Dalian who helps Guardians against the attack and soon ingratiates himself with the entire royal family and Kaina. Helping Kaina during her trials he is given the rank of captain in the army but when the celebration begins to honor both Kaina and Dailan he disappears and no one knows where.
With a Prince who believes the thoughts of a wicked Queen who has attacked his father’s kingdom and questions his ability to rule wisely, and an Uncle who wants the throne at any cost, you will not believe the end result of what finally happens. A Prince who will do anything to achieve his ambitions and goals even if it means going against what is right, and a Princess that falls prey to his desires, will forever change and demolish the peace that this planet once knew.
Someone is trying to open the Gates of Penakod. Only the voice and the Emperor know the correct sequence of how to open these gates and avoid total destruction. When the Queen of Anaki tells the Prince that the gates hold the power to make whoever opens them a god among his people and gets eternal life, the Prince begins to think that maybe this is true and questions his mother and father.
What happens next you will not believe and will have to read for yourself. Two friends, Nersyta and Kaina who are like sisters and the best of friends will soon have their friendship testeed . One a princess who now wants revenge and the other sworn to keep the Emperor and the people of Fawcetta save. What happens when the Empress decides to take matters into her own hands and find out the truth behind the gates? Who will win the battle for the throne: the prince and princess or the Emperor? You will have to wait for the sequel to come out. I know I want to find out the fate of the characters.
Fawcetta
My name is Nerysta and I am the Princess on the planet Fawcetta. I am about to enter in a fight for my life. I have trained hard in order to pass my Trials or as many would call it the tests for my right of passage as an adult. But, all of my practicing, rehearsing and training did not prepare me for what I would encounter when I entered the Coliseum to begin the four trials I would have to pass my tests and survive. You see, if I fail I will not come out and there is no one to help me after entering the building.
In this planet there are those that are called Guardians whose job is to protect the people of Fawcetta along with the military. But, one Guardian and my best friend, Kaina learns that the planet and the people are in danger and that the only way to safe the planet from total destruction is for her to find her soul mate and together they will save the planet. But, at what cost you would not believe.
My name is Kaina and I am a Guardian whose loyalty to the Emperor and Empress will be tested far beyond that of any other Guardian. With the help of many of the other Guardians and a man named Dalian who appears out of nowhere the battles are fought and won. But, the real one has yet to come.
Which one of us will come out the victor? You will have to read the sequel and find out.
To the author Dalian: I commend you for putting yourself as the unsung hero. I never give stars when reviewing a book:
I give this book five brave guardians to help save the Fawcetta and Five Boezins to help them win.
Fran Lewis: reviewer
September 9, 2009
Fawcetta….. Damn it was a great book. Its really hard finding a good fantasy only because they all seem to be a mere copy of each other, Fawcetta however is nothing like that, in fact its great. I picked a copy of Fawcetta: Voices and Echoes of the coliseum Volume I, and let me tell you, I read the whole book not once but twice. The story is different from your typical fantasy books. It’s new and inspiring. A book for the ages. It is the story of a princess named Nerysta and her friend Kaina, along with many other great and imaginative characters. The story is packed with action. There is a scene in which Princess Nerysta walks into a coliseum in which all this takes place, she is told that if she dies in there she would die in real life. Her challenge first begins when in she is instructed that it is her turn to face the coliseum just like her family has done as well as her ancestors. Under normal circumstances she would receive a sword as a weapon but instead is given a guardian’s weapon, a weapon in which only Guardians are allowed to use. Everyone is confused at this but figured to be okay considering that it would make her challenge easier. However the Coliseum has its own plans, the coliseum decides to challenge the young princess as if though she was a Guardian. Many people would think that “how much can a girl do, nonetheless a princess” But you thought wrong; Nerysta will put any guy on his ass. She is a badass. When I received this book I could not put it down. There is a lot going on in this book than meets the eye, and saying that I can’t wait for the next one to come out. I would give this great book two smokin thumbs way up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2010
It's strange on how this book is not on Goodreads. It's a wonderful fantasy novel written by a very creative story teller. Indeed I was consumed by the whole story line and the new world I was taken into. Fawcetta is the name of the planet and it deals with family, friends and betrayers. What I feel makes this story so good is that. It is a fantasy story but keeps us close with the reality of things. We can relate to these characters and what happens to them in this story. I would recommend Fawcetta to any Sci-Fi reader, it is a story that will take you into a whole new world of Tales, Myths and Legends.
August 23, 2009
I loved it.
One of my friends got a flier for this book.
She really liked it. So, I bought it...
First, I thought it could be boring...but from the middle became very fast pace.
I could not stop putting down the book.
I love fantasy/sci-fi book. But Fawcetta has everything! Romance, drama and lots of actions!!
I recommend you to read this book.
I cannot wait second volume...
One of my friends got a flier for this book.
She really liked it. So, I bought it...
First, I thought it could be boring...but from the middle became very fast pace.
I could not stop putting down the book.
I love fantasy/sci-fi book. But Fawcetta has everything! Romance, drama and lots of actions!!
I recommend you to read this book.
I cannot wait second volume...
May 31, 2011
Great story line and setting. Fawcetta is a must read!I liked this book because it was a true page turner - exciting and full of adventure. It was fun and I honestly think it appeals to all ages. You will enjoy it.
February 9, 2012
Awesome Story!!! Enough Said!! Wanna know what it's about? Read it.
August 26, 2009
So far, I looove this book.
No dragons. No sword fighting....lol
Yet, it has a lot of actions and excitement!!
A lot of dramas!!
So many things is going on. I cannot describe enough.
I wanted to stop reading it ...but, I could not. I was so into this book, I ended up staying up late.
I am very happy that I almost finish this book. I need some sleep. I cant read this every night. I know, I know...no one asked me to read it. But hey, it is interesting and unique story.
Thank you for Yurinsan..your review helped me to buy it!
Only regret I have is that the author, Dalian Artanian listed his book on give away program. Why couldnt you list in the beginning, so that I didnt have to buy??
I wish I knew it before I bought it!
Oh well, overall, I am very content with the book.
No dragons. No sword fighting....lol
Yet, it has a lot of actions and excitement!!
A lot of dramas!!
So many things is going on. I cannot describe enough.
I wanted to stop reading it ...but, I could not. I was so into this book, I ended up staying up late.
I am very happy that I almost finish this book. I need some sleep. I cant read this every night. I know, I know...no one asked me to read it. But hey, it is interesting and unique story.
Thank you for Yurinsan..your review helped me to buy it!
Only regret I have is that the author, Dalian Artanian listed his book on give away program. Why couldnt you list in the beginning, so that I didnt have to buy??
I wish I knew it before I bought it!
Oh well, overall, I am very content with the book.
November 18, 2009
I picked up Fawcetta after it surfaced in Goodreads and Amazon as one of the highest rated fantasy books of the year. Unfortunately I failed to notice that it was apparently a self-published affair, which shows in a bad way through-out the book.
First of all it's worth noting that this is clearly a Young Adults book. That in itself is not a negative thing, as I really enjoy reading many YA titles, but as many of the problems of the book are related to this, it's worth noting for those who don't generally like the category.
Now, that out of the way, let's move on to the actual review.
I can understand some of the charm of the book - it has a refreshingly original (although quite shallow) fantasy world, lots of action and adventure, a heavy dose of (extremely naive and innocent) romance, and fluid and easy writing style. The basic plotline has potential and it would be great to see it turn out to be an entertaining series of epic adventure fantasy. These factors combined help to make Fawcetta an easily digested light distraction (although it's easy to name a lot of books that hit similar notes, but offer much meatier and satisfying experience - for example, Philip Reeve's Hungry Cities books spring into mind).
Unfortunately the book has a large number of issues that bog it down so badly that its positive qualities get lost in the mix.
The first third is the most painful. Lacking pace and action - the most redeeming qualities of the whole book - it tries to get by with its cast of characters, a collection of extremely beautiful and generally the most awesome persons ever. The interactions of this gallery of cardboard heroes are like reading a bad romance novel populated by a collective of Mary Sues. And sadly you'll have to take that last sentence very literally.
None of the characters have any real personality (except for some individual sparks on the last 30 pages of the book) or motivation, and the author merely tells us of their feelings rather than showing, describing or making us feel them. To balance things out we are served with a number of very corny lines like "You are a wise man, my love. That is why I fell in love with you."
Once the story got going, some of these gripes went away and I was actually caught enjoying the ride every now and then. However, the book kept shooting itself into foot by throwing one gringe-worthy thing after another into the mix. The internal inconsistencies were bad enough, but the real killer was the language.
Artanian's writing flows very nicely and he rarely gets stuck in unnecessary details (except occasionally when describing the physical qualities of the female characters), but it also has a number of serious problems. To put in bluntly, the book is an excellent example of why all the writing guides and teachers tell you to avoid certain things.
The biggest problem is Artanian's habit of shying away from names or good old personal pronouns when talking about the characters, and using generic nouns and phrases like "brunette", "the woman", or "beautiful princess" instead. Not just occasionally, but all the time. It's not only cumbersome, but also results in problematic and strange sentences that make it less than obvious who is the writer talking about.
The second big blunder is related to the dialogues. While the lines themselves are actually pretty good, the characters hardly ever say anything, but blurt, ask, gasp, answer, shout, cry, ring out, and - believe it or not - even ejaculate. How that last word ended up describing a character saying something, I'll never know. There are also occasional very technical phrases that result in convoluted sentences. On their own they'd be easily excused, but next to the other problems they only serve to highlight the amateurish and unedited feel of the writing.
Speaking of editing, the physical production values of the book are very good - the font used is very beautiful and the paper stock is thick and feels good between your fingers - but the quality of editing is just horrible. There are lots of typos, couple cases of missing bits of sentences, some sloppy lay-outing, and lots of present tense verbs suddenly used in the middle of past tense story-telling. In fact, I've never seen a published book with such bad and obvious editing flaws.
All in all, Fawcetta reads like an eager and innocent net story that somehow got published (considering that the publisher is AuthorHouse, it was probably self-published). With firm editing it could have been a shallow, but nice and fun light read in a brave and original fantasy world, but as it is, it's merely an exercise of cumbersomeness. It's worth reading as a case study of why certain rules of writing should be rigorously followed, but for actual reading enjoyment I'd turn your attention elsewhere.
As for the author, I'd definitely recommend keeping on writing, but getting a good teacher and editor, and really listening to them. That's how one becomes better at creative work. The world, plotline, and action show promise, so it's just a matterof going deeper into the art.
First of all it's worth noting that this is clearly a Young Adults book. That in itself is not a negative thing, as I really enjoy reading many YA titles, but as many of the problems of the book are related to this, it's worth noting for those who don't generally like the category.
Now, that out of the way, let's move on to the actual review.
I can understand some of the charm of the book - it has a refreshingly original (although quite shallow) fantasy world, lots of action and adventure, a heavy dose of (extremely naive and innocent) romance, and fluid and easy writing style. The basic plotline has potential and it would be great to see it turn out to be an entertaining series of epic adventure fantasy. These factors combined help to make Fawcetta an easily digested light distraction (although it's easy to name a lot of books that hit similar notes, but offer much meatier and satisfying experience - for example, Philip Reeve's Hungry Cities books spring into mind).
Unfortunately the book has a large number of issues that bog it down so badly that its positive qualities get lost in the mix.
The first third is the most painful. Lacking pace and action - the most redeeming qualities of the whole book - it tries to get by with its cast of characters, a collection of extremely beautiful and generally the most awesome persons ever. The interactions of this gallery of cardboard heroes are like reading a bad romance novel populated by a collective of Mary Sues. And sadly you'll have to take that last sentence very literally.
None of the characters have any real personality (except for some individual sparks on the last 30 pages of the book) or motivation, and the author merely tells us of their feelings rather than showing, describing or making us feel them. To balance things out we are served with a number of very corny lines like "You are a wise man, my love. That is why I fell in love with you."
Once the story got going, some of these gripes went away and I was actually caught enjoying the ride every now and then. However, the book kept shooting itself into foot by throwing one gringe-worthy thing after another into the mix. The internal inconsistencies were bad enough, but the real killer was the language.
Artanian's writing flows very nicely and he rarely gets stuck in unnecessary details (except occasionally when describing the physical qualities of the female characters), but it also has a number of serious problems. To put in bluntly, the book is an excellent example of why all the writing guides and teachers tell you to avoid certain things.
The biggest problem is Artanian's habit of shying away from names or good old personal pronouns when talking about the characters, and using generic nouns and phrases like "brunette", "the woman", or "beautiful princess" instead. Not just occasionally, but all the time. It's not only cumbersome, but also results in problematic and strange sentences that make it less than obvious who is the writer talking about.
The second big blunder is related to the dialogues. While the lines themselves are actually pretty good, the characters hardly ever say anything, but blurt, ask, gasp, answer, shout, cry, ring out, and - believe it or not - even ejaculate. How that last word ended up describing a character saying something, I'll never know. There are also occasional very technical phrases that result in convoluted sentences. On their own they'd be easily excused, but next to the other problems they only serve to highlight the amateurish and unedited feel of the writing.
Speaking of editing, the physical production values of the book are very good - the font used is very beautiful and the paper stock is thick and feels good between your fingers - but the quality of editing is just horrible. There are lots of typos, couple cases of missing bits of sentences, some sloppy lay-outing, and lots of present tense verbs suddenly used in the middle of past tense story-telling. In fact, I've never seen a published book with such bad and obvious editing flaws.
All in all, Fawcetta reads like an eager and innocent net story that somehow got published (considering that the publisher is AuthorHouse, it was probably self-published). With firm editing it could have been a shallow, but nice and fun light read in a brave and original fantasy world, but as it is, it's merely an exercise of cumbersomeness. It's worth reading as a case study of why certain rules of writing should be rigorously followed, but for actual reading enjoyment I'd turn your attention elsewhere.
As for the author, I'd definitely recommend keeping on writing, but getting a good teacher and editor, and really listening to them. That's how one becomes better at creative work. The world, plotline, and action show promise, so it's just a matterof going deeper into the art.
November 26, 2009
I bought this book at Amazon. It is a self published book but I'm one who doesn't care who the publisher is. I'm the kind of person who likes to read anything that is new. I love to read fantasy stories that take you out of this boring life and into new exciting adventures. I hate people who judge on fantasy books so wrongly when they themselves have never written one. I feel it takes a lot of hard work and motivation to write such original stories for all of us to be entertained. Now about my new book I read, Fawcetta. I find out that it is a very interesting good story, well thought out plot and even more a very new and exciting world with all new characters. I feel this story will one day be among the many great fantasy stories in the future. It has love and adventure and my most favorite, lots and lots of action. I'm a guy so for us guys action is important in any fantasy novel. This book as a bit of everything, has the old fashion fantasy style mixed with space crafts and using our language of today. I think it's cool. I never bash on good stories but try to be positive in any of them I read. I like stories that have a good story to follow. Fawcetta is one of those stories that you can follow from the very begininng. If you like adventures and be taking to new and exciting worlds, I strongly recommend Fawcetta.
February 10, 2012
bought this book two days ago. I couldn't put it down. I first read reviews on it. Some good others bad. But everyone has their own opinion of books. After all, not everyone will be happy with a book doesn't matter how good it's written or how poor. I've read many who people have said the book is good. At the end, I thought it was very poor. I simply pick this one up and decided to read it because in some of the reviews people said it's a bit like Star Wars. I'm a big Star Wars fan. I orderd the book on ebook on my nook and read it. Have to say, I never saw any editing mistakes or grammar. The author must have corrected them. Once I started on reading the book I couldn't put it down. Read the whole thing in two days. Love the story, and yes. It's a lot like Star Wars. The Artyrians are like the Jedi. Like the Jedi the Artyrians carry a weapon called the, Boezein. Only the Jedi carry the Light Saber. My opinion. It's an excellent book with nice illustrations. Looking forward to the next one. I give it five stars and two thumbs way up.
February 12, 2012
A Timeless adventure. This book does take you into an extraordinary world. It launches you right into the world of Fawcetta. I really like the character names, Kaina, Nerysta, Alakhi, Nizon, Arkanon, Damius, Denucian, Dalian and Kalzein. Love the way this author came up with such wonderful names. I really wished the author could have developed the characters way more. But this is the first novel of three. I do know in which most books like these, characters tend to develope more along the way. I have nothing but good things to say about this story. It pushes the characters to the brink of their will and strength. It reminds us all how life can treat us just when we feel everything is alright. And we feel nothing can go wrong, then life throws at us something unexpected. It's then when we learn what we are really made of. Fawcetta is this kind of story, one I would recommend to at least read once. Don't listen to what others say about books. Everyone has their own opinions. I myself do as well, and even though I've heard bad things on other books. I still took the time to find out for myself. And some were really not bad at all. I've read a few bad reviews here on goodreads about the book. But I still wanted to see for myself. I'm gland I took the time to read it. Great Story!! Hat's off to the author Dalian Artanian for bringing in something new for us to read. I will wait for the second novel. Great book trailers by the way.
May 15, 2023
Fawcetta sucked. I'm sorry. I try never to be so very, very brutal, but I can't help it this time. There is no other way to be. Here's the laundry list:
-Kaina starts the book as a brunette, but finishes it as a blonde.
-"Dalian Artanian" is the name of Kaina's soul mate, who will apparently help save the world in later books. It's one thing to Mary Sue a little and put elements of yourself into a book or story, but to name the eventual hero after yourself is just juvenile.
-Bavaius helped with HUNDREDS of semataurs in a days-long challenge and actually thought of helpful things, but Dalian is SO MUCH better for helping with a 20-minute challenge in which he does almost nothing. Oh, he uses Kaina's weapon-thing. Big whoop.
-The princess got an entire palace for her birthday. A PALACE. Nuff said.
-Half of all the names start with "A." I got to the end of the book and when the character in charge of the military (I can't remember his name now, because I can only remember all the other A names.) was mentioned, I literally had no idea who he was. Characters should not be forgotten.
-I was so engulfed in the hideous grammar that I almost didn't notice the telling of the story; when reading a novel, I want things to be shown to me, not told. It's a major tenant of the fiction writer's philosophy: "Show, don't tell." The author tells. A lot.
-The characters are very shallow. Not "Ugly people aren't people" shallow, but very, very lacking in depth. The princess decides that her dad should be overthrown because she blames him for the Empress's death. Um, what happened to the whole loving-family thing? Blaming Dad and wanting Dad dead (which inevitably occurs with overthrows) are two very different things. Allying with the bad guys? What happened to the part where they're the bad guys? I need more thought processes, more motivations. Everything these characters did once the drama started to pick up felt very contrived and ridiculous. Why does the princess think allying with the bad guys is better than talking to her dad?
-Related: The princess and her best friend have a fight about important philosophical belief-type stuff, and then they say, "Let's not fight. Let's go shopping instead!" And they do. Are you kidding me? I'm not going to have a fight with someone and go shopping because she says she doesn't want to fight with me. I might leave, but I won't go shopping. And, as a female, I think I'm a pretty authoritative source when I say that this was ridiculous.
-The real Dalian Artanian (which I have to assume is a pen name) doesn't know how to use quotations in a conversation. Get an editor.
-The author doesn't know how to spell the made-up names of his made-up weapons. Get an editor. Or take an English class.
-The author doesn't know when to end a sentence, thus resulting in frequent comma splices, fused sentences, and run-ons. Get an editor!
-As mentioned above, the "real" Dalian Artanian has hideous grammar. Get an editor!
-Dalian Artanian doesn't know his homophones. After the Empress dies, everyone goes into "morning." They take some time to "morn." "Mourning" and "morning" are two very different words. GET. AN. EDITOR.
-The tense changes. All the time. Sometimes it's just one little verb is suddenly occuring now instead of in the past, but other times, the verbs will switch to present tense for a good page or two. Example: "Yesterday, Jon tried to kiss Julie and she slaps him as hard as she can." Bad. Get a freakin' editor!
Needless to say, when I find a fine-point red pen, I'm going to edit the H-E-double hockey sticks out of this book. I usually avoid red for this kind of thing, but this book deserves it. If I had the author's address, I'd be tempted to mail the edited copy.
Now, I know that this was kind of ranty. If you'd like a less ranty review that is still reasonably intelligent (and maybe even more intelligent than mine, due to it's lack of rantyness), this Mikko person wrote just such a review here. Enjoy. And don't spend money on this book. It isn't worth it.
I received a free copy through FirstReads in exchange for an honest review.
[EDIT 5/15/23] Just in case you were curious, I never did go over this one with a red pen. I couldn't bring myself to go through it again. Also, you'll see in the comments below that the author did hire an editor. Perhaps it's been saved.
-Kaina starts the book as a brunette, but finishes it as a blonde.
-"Dalian Artanian" is the name of Kaina's soul mate, who will apparently help save the world in later books. It's one thing to Mary Sue a little and put elements of yourself into a book or story, but to name the eventual hero after yourself is just juvenile.
-Bavaius helped with HUNDREDS of semataurs in a days-long challenge and actually thought of helpful things, but Dalian is SO MUCH better for helping with a 20-minute challenge in which he does almost nothing. Oh, he uses Kaina's weapon-thing. Big whoop.
-The princess got an entire palace for her birthday. A PALACE. Nuff said.
-Half of all the names start with "A." I got to the end of the book and when the character in charge of the military (I can't remember his name now, because I can only remember all the other A names.) was mentioned, I literally had no idea who he was. Characters should not be forgotten.
-I was so engulfed in the hideous grammar that I almost didn't notice the telling of the story; when reading a novel, I want things to be shown to me, not told. It's a major tenant of the fiction writer's philosophy: "Show, don't tell." The author tells. A lot.
-The characters are very shallow. Not "Ugly people aren't people" shallow, but very, very lacking in depth. The princess decides that her dad should be overthrown because she blames him for the Empress's death. Um, what happened to the whole loving-family thing? Blaming Dad and wanting Dad dead (which inevitably occurs with overthrows) are two very different things. Allying with the bad guys? What happened to the part where they're the bad guys? I need more thought processes, more motivations. Everything these characters did once the drama started to pick up felt very contrived and ridiculous. Why does the princess think allying with the bad guys is better than talking to her dad?
-Related: The princess and her best friend have a fight about important philosophical belief-type stuff, and then they say, "Let's not fight. Let's go shopping instead!" And they do. Are you kidding me? I'm not going to have a fight with someone and go shopping because she says she doesn't want to fight with me. I might leave, but I won't go shopping. And, as a female, I think I'm a pretty authoritative source when I say that this was ridiculous.
-The real Dalian Artanian (which I have to assume is a pen name) doesn't know how to use quotations in a conversation. Get an editor.
-The author doesn't know how to spell the made-up names of his made-up weapons. Get an editor. Or take an English class.
-The author doesn't know when to end a sentence, thus resulting in frequent comma splices, fused sentences, and run-ons. Get an editor!
-As mentioned above, the "real" Dalian Artanian has hideous grammar. Get an editor!
-Dalian Artanian doesn't know his homophones. After the Empress dies, everyone goes into "morning." They take some time to "morn." "Mourning" and "morning" are two very different words. GET. AN. EDITOR.
-The tense changes. All the time. Sometimes it's just one little verb is suddenly occuring now instead of in the past, but other times, the verbs will switch to present tense for a good page or two. Example: "Yesterday, Jon tried to kiss Julie and she slaps him as hard as she can." Bad. Get a freakin' editor!
Needless to say, when I find a fine-point red pen, I'm going to edit the H-E-double hockey sticks out of this book. I usually avoid red for this kind of thing, but this book deserves it. If I had the author's address, I'd be tempted to mail the edited copy.
Now, I know that this was kind of ranty. If you'd like a less ranty review that is still reasonably intelligent (and maybe even more intelligent than mine, due to it's lack of rantyness), this Mikko person wrote just such a review here. Enjoy. And don't spend money on this book. It isn't worth it.
I received a free copy through FirstReads in exchange for an honest review.
[EDIT 5/15/23] Just in case you were curious, I never did go over this one with a red pen. I couldn't bring myself to go through it again. Also, you'll see in the comments below that the author did hire an editor. Perhaps it's been saved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2012
I really like fiction/fantasy books like Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. It takes me a while to warm up to a new book, so once I find one that is good, I stick with it. I downloaded this book to my ebook, and I'm happy I did. Fawcetta is a very well-written original story that kept me guessing throughout the entire book. The story is new and fresh and exciting.
This author is new and I am very excited about his writing. It is wonderful to have a new author to read and follow. Keep up the GREAT work!!!!! I love your imagination.
This author is new and I am very excited about his writing. It is wonderful to have a new author to read and follow. Keep up the GREAT work!!!!! I love your imagination.
February 10, 2012
I purchased this book hoping for something to read that was interesting and not too cliché to pass the time. I was pleasantly surprised, then, to find instead a well-developed and involving story.
The plot is great and well-written. I am uncertain of the direction the author will take for there is considerable potential for the rest of the story. I will look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
The plot is great and well-written. I am uncertain of the direction the author will take for there is considerable potential for the rest of the story. I will look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
March 4, 2011
The premise was exciting but I noticed a lot of spelling and grammatical errors. The characters were somewhat archaic and underdeveloped. Their physical features were more revealing rather than their personalities. I won't recommend picking this book up unless one is ready to overlook all that and dwell on a well thought out story.
February 10, 2012
This book is no exception to the several new reads I’ve found as an ebook. I feel like the character development through this first novel is excellent along with the plot. I plan to read the remainder of the series as soon as they become available, and am looking forward to finding answers to some of the hanging plot lines. Definitely recommend giving this book a read!
February 10, 2012
A fantasy reader’s delight. I accidently discovered it when looking through books on my Kindle. I downloaded Fawcetta because I am trying to expand my horizons and read new authors. I was not disappointed. Fawcetta is packed with rich characters, a great story line, and lots of action. I am ready to devour the remaining books of the trilogy.
February 14, 2012
One of the best books I have read. The writing is captivating and every chapter left me clinging for more. The story itself is different from a lot of books I've read. The characters are great — you get just the right amount of information at just the right times. I would highly recommend this book, and I cannot wait for the second book!
February 14, 2012
As many have already stated here, I simply could not put this book down. As a 31 year old, I was a bit hesitant when this book was recommended to me by a friend, but these books are not just for young adults. The complexity of the many lesson undertones mixed into the tale make it a great read for people of any age.
February 14, 2012
I loved reading this wonderful book! It is a story that keeps you entertained for hours.
February 16, 2012
It was one of the top books I have ever read in my life. I devoured the whole book in ONE day and now I’m left waiting for the rest of the trilogy. I couldn't stop reading. This book is sheer genius work! You won't be wasting your time reading it.
February 16, 2012
Fawcetta is definitely a must-read. I have enjoyed reading this book from start to finish.
February 16, 2012
A captivating story. The plot just entwines itself to you, so that you can't look away from the page.
January 2, 2014
Not quite as atrociously non-edited as my last Kindle cheapie, but... I didn't finish it. I think I need to stop reading Spoilers. I liked that girl on the cover, and I wanted to go on liking her. Plus, I find myself rolling my eyes at the talk of "soulmates." So I'd better stop now. Maaaaybe I'll come back to it later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2012
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading it and never put it down — literally finished it in less than 24 hours! It’s just one of those books that once you start you cannot put it down; always “just one more chapter then I will stop”. A definite must for everyone.
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