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The Keys of Fate #1
Tower of Change
Secrets and mysteries are locked within an ancient tower that the wizard's apprentice must guard with his life. One simple slip-up puts the fate of the world in the power of a desperate King's Mage, threatening to destroy peace and harmony throughout the world. Time is running out, and Galax Hanz is the only one with the magical arts to lead a collection of unlikely allies to retrieve the precious Keys of Fate. But when Galax is pursued by the evil Mage's Bloodwyns―the half-man, half-bird shadowy creatures of darkness―he soon realizes he has been drawn into a monumental struggle that challenges the foundations of his tradition. Galax will be forced to test his faith and training, which will guide him into the unknown regions on the road to the discovery of the alchemistic formula of life, death, and destiny.
- GenresFantasy
236 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2010
190 people want to read
About the author
Tina M. Randolph
7 books20 followersTina M. Randolph is the author of the mystical book series Mystic Deja and other science-fiction and fantasy novels for teens, children, and lovers of the supernatural.
Randolph is originally from Grambling, Louisiana, where she loved the country atmosphere, and learned how to be creative. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and attended the Art Institute to become an artist. Her interests as a writer began when she was a teenager, and although she started her career as a graphic designer, she has always been interested in writing and making movies with high-end special effects.
Her first novel reflects her imaginative and creative abilities to inspire spiritual lessons through science fiction and fantasy. As a truly gifted seer of the beyond, she writes stories from a deeper perspective than the norm. Randolph has plans to write many awe-inspiring novels that personify the nature of the human experience through subconscious exploration and higher conscious observance.
Randolph is originally from Grambling, Louisiana, where she loved the country atmosphere, and learned how to be creative. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and attended the Art Institute to become an artist. Her interests as a writer began when she was a teenager, and although she started her career as a graphic designer, she has always been interested in writing and making movies with high-end special effects.
Her first novel reflects her imaginative and creative abilities to inspire spiritual lessons through science fiction and fantasy. As a truly gifted seer of the beyond, she writes stories from a deeper perspective than the norm. Randolph has plans to write many awe-inspiring novels that personify the nature of the human experience through subconscious exploration and higher conscious observance.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 2, 2011
The concept of Tower of Change was a welcome new concept. I had never read another novel like it. With that being said, I was not able to finish the book. There were a lot of grammatical errors that just made the flow of the book too choppy for me. It was distracting. I felt like there were a lot of different names/places introduced with none of them explained. And with our character Elazar, he was called by his first and last name, then his first name, then his last name... all within the space of one paragraph. One name should have been picked and then stuck with. We weren't told much about our main character Galax Hanz aside from the fact that he was average height, somewhat athletic, and had penetrating eyes. He doesn't seem like a very trustworthy fellow.
I was confused as to the era of this story. The dialogue went back and forth between old time-y and modern. The picture at the front of the book depicting the city that was the site of the millenial celebration looked futuristic and yet it seemed all travel was on horseback. Yet again, however, one of our secondary characters pulls a notepad and a pen out of their pocket.
I found myself having to reread passages to try and figure out what was going on. I was ready to give up on the whole thng after about 50 pages but tried to read another 50 to see if there was any change. I didn't find any.
This was not a book for me, and sadly, I would not recommend this as a read unless you don't mind the grammatical errors and all over the place writing style. Which is disappointing as I had won this book in a giveaway.
I was confused as to the era of this story. The dialogue went back and forth between old time-y and modern. The picture at the front of the book depicting the city that was the site of the millenial celebration looked futuristic and yet it seemed all travel was on horseback. Yet again, however, one of our secondary characters pulls a notepad and a pen out of their pocket.
I found myself having to reread passages to try and figure out what was going on. I was ready to give up on the whole thng after about 50 pages but tried to read another 50 to see if there was any change. I didn't find any.
This was not a book for me, and sadly, I would not recommend this as a read unless you don't mind the grammatical errors and all over the place writing style. Which is disappointing as I had won this book in a giveaway.
July 14, 2011
COVER ART: A (loved it)
ORIGINALITY: B (liked the setting/location/era etc.)
EXCITEMENT: D (liked how main focus was saving the planet, but un-relatable characters and confusion)
WRITING/DELIVERY: F (needs MAJOR editing in sentence structure, grammar etc.)
OVERALL SCORE: D
RECOMMEND: No. Not without major editing first. Then I'd have to make myself re-read.
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway from Ms. Tina Randolph. First off, I LOVE the cover art and its one of the things that attracted me to the book in the beginning. Secondly, it is a fantasy read with wizards, faeries, and all kinds of fun and interesting characters.
Ms Randoplh has created a whole new world for me to delve into. Gripes I have though is the story is a little hard to follow. I'd get to a point and think, "Wait. What happened again?" or "Why did this person do this?" There are also many, many grammatical errors that can be distracting. I'm also having a hard time getting to know the characters. There are names thrown out everywhere and I'm having trouble sorting the storyline out.
There was also major overuse of commas and italics. Every page has something italicized and it affects the way I read the sentences.
I enjoyed the story at times, but I kept waiting on it to get better. To push me into this world deep enough to begin caring about the characters: it didn't get better. The storyline is there. With some heavy editing and better execution it could be a good story. Until then, I won't be reading the sequel.
I am thankful to Ms. Randolph for the Goodreads win and for sending the book. I can only imagine such hard work it took to get the book ready and printed. My only advice would be to invest in a professional editor. I wish her luck in any future endeavors. :)
ORIGINALITY: B (liked the setting/location/era etc.)
EXCITEMENT: D (liked how main focus was saving the planet, but un-relatable characters and confusion)
WRITING/DELIVERY: F (needs MAJOR editing in sentence structure, grammar etc.)
OVERALL SCORE: D
RECOMMEND: No. Not without major editing first. Then I'd have to make myself re-read.
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway from Ms. Tina Randolph. First off, I LOVE the cover art and its one of the things that attracted me to the book in the beginning. Secondly, it is a fantasy read with wizards, faeries, and all kinds of fun and interesting characters.
Ms Randoplh has created a whole new world for me to delve into. Gripes I have though is the story is a little hard to follow. I'd get to a point and think, "Wait. What happened again?" or "Why did this person do this?" There are also many, many grammatical errors that can be distracting. I'm also having a hard time getting to know the characters. There are names thrown out everywhere and I'm having trouble sorting the storyline out.
There was also major overuse of commas and italics. Every page has something italicized and it affects the way I read the sentences.
I enjoyed the story at times, but I kept waiting on it to get better. To push me into this world deep enough to begin caring about the characters: it didn't get better. The storyline is there. With some heavy editing and better execution it could be a good story. Until then, I won't be reading the sequel.
I am thankful to Ms. Randolph for the Goodreads win and for sending the book. I can only imagine such hard work it took to get the book ready and printed. My only advice would be to invest in a professional editor. I wish her luck in any future endeavors. :)
September 21, 2011
I received this book as a giveaway and found it to be an enjoyable read. It is the story of Galax, the young apprentice to the wizard Elazar, who finds himself in the position of saving the world of Amunet. Along with the many friends he meets along his journey he must seek the keys to restore balance to his world. It is the story of good vs. evil, along with a message of caring for our planet. Somewhat of a fantasy version of King Arthur.
April 9, 2011
I was very hopeful. But as soon as I started reading it, I found the writing to be choppy, blunt and lacking finesse. Everything in this world seems to just POP into being which leaves the reader to think either, "oh, of course," or "wtf?"
I think the most important feature lacking from this story is finesse. The idea is there but it just wasn't well executed.
I think the most important feature lacking from this story is finesse. The idea is there but it just wasn't well executed.
September 1, 2019
First, I love the concept of this story, and thank you to the author for the give-away opportunity! When a wizard's young apprentice lets his curiosity get the best of him, he unleashes into enemy hands a powerful artifact that can alter the very threads of existence. The apprentice begins an epic journey to retrieve the hidden keys that can save his world, meeting all sorts of fantastic beings along the way.
I have to say, though, that the execution of the story falls flat. The book itself is in desperate need of a proofreader/editor. Commas run rampant where they shouldn't be, random words and phrases are italicized, and transitions from scene to scene happen far too abruptly, in paragraphs rather than separate sections.
The dialogue and reactions of characters seem artificial and unrealistic. Grand changes occur that present horrendous dangers to the characters and the people they care about, but the characters seem emotionally unfazed. New pieces of vital information only inspire the equivalent of a shrug, with no time for the characters to mentally process them.
The magical abilities of the characters almost seem too convenient. Despite the main character's youth, especially in comparison to his millenia-old master, he can perform magic at a highly advanced level, doing things that few have done before. He meets beings who have the exact abilities he lacks to overcome the obstacles on his path. Even though he does meet trials, he and his companions always overcome them.
Like I said, the idea is wonderful. I just would have liked to see the amazing world the author created more fleshed out and the unique characters more realistic and flawed.
I have to say, though, that the execution of the story falls flat. The book itself is in desperate need of a proofreader/editor. Commas run rampant where they shouldn't be, random words and phrases are italicized, and transitions from scene to scene happen far too abruptly, in paragraphs rather than separate sections.
The dialogue and reactions of characters seem artificial and unrealistic. Grand changes occur that present horrendous dangers to the characters and the people they care about, but the characters seem emotionally unfazed. New pieces of vital information only inspire the equivalent of a shrug, with no time for the characters to mentally process them.
The magical abilities of the characters almost seem too convenient. Despite the main character's youth, especially in comparison to his millenia-old master, he can perform magic at a highly advanced level, doing things that few have done before. He meets beings who have the exact abilities he lacks to overcome the obstacles on his path. Even though he does meet trials, he and his companions always overcome them.
Like I said, the idea is wonderful. I just would have liked to see the amazing world the author created more fleshed out and the unique characters more realistic and flawed.
May 28, 2011
The head wizard, Elazar, goes on a trip and leaves the castle to his apprentice. The wizard gives his apprentice Galax only one order, that "no one[,] not even Galax was allowed to enter." Inevitably, the young apprentice finds the temptation too much to bear, so he enters the tower and takes a couple souvenirs, a cube and key of fate. The evil magician, Madicon, shows up and takes these cubes as well as one key, in order to harness the other cubes powers he needs more keys. To prevent the evil wizard from having the keys, the good wizard and his apprentice disperse the keys to the wind and the apprentice must find the keys and when he does he must use them to alter the fate of the world.
This book has a few major flaws. The big problem is if the apprentice had the ability to change fate, why did he not kill the evil wizard first and then restore the world. Why didn't the wizard give the keys and cubes to his apprentice and send him on his way to save to world. In my opinion, the plot seems entirely artificial and somewhat pointless. The characters lack more background and depth and have no apparent reason for journeying together. For example, Justise randomly shows up and helps the party and she suddenly becomes a member. The evil wizard had already tricked him once. Why would he be so trusting towards the next person who walked by. The author also doesn't describe the world well. For example, at one point he sees a fish egg in an aquarium. At first I imagine something similar to a 100 gallon aquarium, then he dives into the water to retrieve the egg, so I imagine the aquarium taking up a quarter of the tower. Finally, it talks about him swimming a fair ways and I wonder how in can even fit inside a tower at all. Moreover, the book stated that there were many other things in the room besides the aquarium.
All things considered, I do not think I am going to read the next book in the series.
I received this book via Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
This book has a few major flaws. The big problem is if the apprentice had the ability to change fate, why did he not kill the evil wizard first and then restore the world. Why didn't the wizard give the keys and cubes to his apprentice and send him on his way to save to world. In my opinion, the plot seems entirely artificial and somewhat pointless. The characters lack more background and depth and have no apparent reason for journeying together. For example, Justise randomly shows up and helps the party and she suddenly becomes a member. The evil wizard had already tricked him once. Why would he be so trusting towards the next person who walked by. The author also doesn't describe the world well. For example, at one point he sees a fish egg in an aquarium. At first I imagine something similar to a 100 gallon aquarium, then he dives into the water to retrieve the egg, so I imagine the aquarium taking up a quarter of the tower. Finally, it talks about him swimming a fair ways and I wonder how in can even fit inside a tower at all. Moreover, the book stated that there were many other things in the room besides the aquarium.
All things considered, I do not think I am going to read the next book in the series.
I received this book via Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
June 19, 2011
I’m sorry to say that I am not a fan of Randolph’s book. I really had a hard time finishing it. The cover is beautiful, and the synopsis sounds intriguing, but the writing style seems hard-pressed and is not for me in the least. There is very little character development and the storyline jumps from scene to scene with sparse explanations, making it difficult for me to follow. Galax is the main character, but little information about him is presented, so I never felt drawn to him, or to any of the characters for that matter. Galax actually comes across as a chauvinistic narcissistic male; he believes he is wonderful, and conceited characters really don’t win my affection. Had more time been spent developing each character and telling their story, I feel like I would have enjoyed the novel much more.
I am still not sure what period this novel is supposed to take place within. Originally, I thought it was set in the “olden days” in an alternate universe based on the dialogue, but then the dialogue began to shift back and forth between modern slang and older proper language. This was disheartening because the change was so vast, and it continued throughout the entire novel, making it very difficult to read. The dialogue became trite as the characters spoke to one another, and I really just didn’t enjoy it...
To read my full review:
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
I am still not sure what period this novel is supposed to take place within. Originally, I thought it was set in the “olden days” in an alternate universe based on the dialogue, but then the dialogue began to shift back and forth between modern slang and older proper language. This was disheartening because the change was so vast, and it continued throughout the entire novel, making it very difficult to read. The dialogue became trite as the characters spoke to one another, and I really just didn’t enjoy it...
To read my full review:
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
February 19, 2011
The book is written so descriptively that it transports you to the world of Amunet. It is truly a visual feast for your imagination. If you enjoy adventure, wizards, elemental fae and other magical beings, then this book is a must read.
But this book is much more, the characters have wonderful human qualities, that comes through the writing with messages of friendship, love, and respect for those of different cultures.
The main character Galax, is a young adult apprentice to the older wizard, Elazar. This is a coming of age journey for Galax. The apprentice has to adapt quickly from student to a fully realized wizard in order to save his mentor. This story serves as a reminder that with age, comes wisdom, but with youth comes discovery and adventure.
Ms. Randolph has created a visually stunning, creative story that has twist and turns and has a message about friendship, and a quest to not only save love ones, but the planet in which they all reside on. This book would be reminiscent of a young adult Harry Potter meeting Lord of the Rings. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!!!!
But this book is much more, the characters have wonderful human qualities, that comes through the writing with messages of friendship, love, and respect for those of different cultures.
The main character Galax, is a young adult apprentice to the older wizard, Elazar. This is a coming of age journey for Galax. The apprentice has to adapt quickly from student to a fully realized wizard in order to save his mentor. This story serves as a reminder that with age, comes wisdom, but with youth comes discovery and adventure.
Ms. Randolph has created a visually stunning, creative story that has twist and turns and has a message about friendship, and a quest to not only save love ones, but the planet in which they all reside on. This book would be reminiscent of a young adult Harry Potter meeting Lord of the Rings. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!!!!
May 15, 2011
First, I want to thank Goodreads, Tina M. Randolph, and Rhapsody Publishing for selecting me as a giveaway winner.
If you value elements of both adventure and fantasy in your book selections, like me, you’ll enjoy reading “Tower of Change,” book one in “The Keys of Fate.” The story is centered on Galax Hanz, a wizard apprentice, who is left in change to guard their ancient tower. However, when things go awry, and sinister forces emerge, Galax and others will have to embark on a journey in order to save their world from destruction.
Reading this book was a pleasure, and I was super excited to receive it. The illustrations inside the book helped tremendously in bringing the story to life. Through Randolph’s writing, I felt as if I was on the journey with the characters. Nevertheless, because I found the story’s pacing to be slow at times, I could easily find myself putting the book down. But when I was reading, I was enthralled. My only other qualm was with the development of the magic. At times, I felt confused. The next book in the series is called “Keys of Fate: Sphere of Reality.” How will our characters continue?
If you value elements of both adventure and fantasy in your book selections, like me, you’ll enjoy reading “Tower of Change,” book one in “The Keys of Fate.” The story is centered on Galax Hanz, a wizard apprentice, who is left in change to guard their ancient tower. However, when things go awry, and sinister forces emerge, Galax and others will have to embark on a journey in order to save their world from destruction.
Reading this book was a pleasure, and I was super excited to receive it. The illustrations inside the book helped tremendously in bringing the story to life. Through Randolph’s writing, I felt as if I was on the journey with the characters. Nevertheless, because I found the story’s pacing to be slow at times, I could easily find myself putting the book down. But when I was reading, I was enthralled. My only other qualm was with the development of the magic. At times, I felt confused. The next book in the series is called “Keys of Fate: Sphere of Reality.” How will our characters continue?
April 23, 2011
I read this book because I won it on a giveaway, so thank you Tina and Goodreads!
This is a story about the apprentice mage Galax and his quest to save the world from the Ember Troll race. It is the first book in The Keys of Fate series.
I didn't like this book for the following reasons:
There was too much magic in the book and there was no apparent limitation to what magic could do.
Even though the book is only 200 pages long and easy to read I struggled most of the time because either the story didn't make sense or I was frustrated with how conveniently the problems were solved.
As if it wasn't enough with the magic, there is also some highly advanced technology present; I'm talking about lasers, doomsday machines...
Sorry, I felt from the beginning that this was not a book for me. For most of the time I thought about giving it 2 stars, but after the final chapters I felt there were just too many annoyances. I'm sure a young reader would appreciate it more. Adults fantasy readers will probably feel there is little in this story to keep them interested. I will not continue with the second book.
This is a story about the apprentice mage Galax and his quest to save the world from the Ember Troll race. It is the first book in The Keys of Fate series.
I didn't like this book for the following reasons:
There was too much magic in the book and there was no apparent limitation to what magic could do.
Even though the book is only 200 pages long and easy to read I struggled most of the time because either the story didn't make sense or I was frustrated with how conveniently the problems were solved.
As if it wasn't enough with the magic, there is also some highly advanced technology present; I'm talking about lasers, doomsday machines...
Sorry, I felt from the beginning that this was not a book for me. For most of the time I thought about giving it 2 stars, but after the final chapters I felt there were just too many annoyances. I'm sure a young reader would appreciate it more. Adults fantasy readers will probably feel there is little in this story to keep them interested. I will not continue with the second book.
March 15, 2011
Ms. Randolph has given me a whole new way of thinking about fantasy novels. Coming from a person who, typically finds fantasy too whimsical, I found "The Keys of Fate" a refreshing change from the usual phantasmagorical content that is found in most titles of this genre. "The Keys of Fate" takes the reader along on this whirlwind journey of making the world a better place. In reading it, you are forced to stretch your imagination and place yourself in the midst of the action. However, what I found most intriguing was how the book causes you to examine your own true purpose in life. You are challenged to extract real-life principles of humanity from non-human creatures of fantasy and from wizards that apply a philosophical approach to their wizardry. I found myself anxious to get to each new challenge, of which two of the main characters continually found themselves facing. "The Keys of Fate" is not just a bunch of "hocus-pocus" without purpose. It is a testament that, even through fantasy, there can be valuable lessons learned.
April 21, 2011
Thank you for the goodreads win! I received my copy March 24, and I will start reading it very soon. It seems like an intruiging read, and the cover is beautiful! More to come!
Update:
The book was good. I liked the story, and the characters were likeable, though a bit transparent. At times it was hard to follow who was where and who did what.
The world in which Tina crated was definitely magical and quite unique from what we are used to seeing in this genre, not far removed from, say, Piers Anthony's Xanth realm, and I like that. However, things seemed to happen out of nowhere at times and it became a little confusing.
There was alot happening in throughout the story, and at a mere 216 pages, the story seemed rushed, as it just didn't seem to take its time to explain the situation in any length. Again, the characters likeable, but they could have been bumped up to believable if they were just a little more "fleshed out".
All in all, I think I would give the second volume a chance, as I am curious to see where the story will lead.
Update:
The book was good. I liked the story, and the characters were likeable, though a bit transparent. At times it was hard to follow who was where and who did what.
The world in which Tina crated was definitely magical and quite unique from what we are used to seeing in this genre, not far removed from, say, Piers Anthony's Xanth realm, and I like that. However, things seemed to happen out of nowhere at times and it became a little confusing.
There was alot happening in throughout the story, and at a mere 216 pages, the story seemed rushed, as it just didn't seem to take its time to explain the situation in any length. Again, the characters likeable, but they could have been bumped up to believable if they were just a little more "fleshed out".
All in all, I think I would give the second volume a chance, as I am curious to see where the story will lead.
April 3, 2011
This reads, refreshingly, like a sweet fairy tale.
The age-old battle between right and wrong presents itself in the first chapter of the book. I kept watching for the harsh consequences that follow poor decisions on the part of the main character. He often blundered into explosive situations because he made thoughtless and speedy choices. He seemed cocky and proud and, like many young people with little life experience, believes he will never make mistakes. I would have liked to get to know the characters better. I enjoy delving into the personalities of all the characters, instead of just reading the story.
The author's imagination seems remarkable, although her poor phrasing often left me wondering what she wanted to convey. Sadly, I was little impressed with the author's style of writing.
The magical flowers, elixars, and fantastic creatures were fun and entertaining. Thank you.
The age-old battle between right and wrong presents itself in the first chapter of the book. I kept watching for the harsh consequences that follow poor decisions on the part of the main character. He often blundered into explosive situations because he made thoughtless and speedy choices. He seemed cocky and proud and, like many young people with little life experience, believes he will never make mistakes. I would have liked to get to know the characters better. I enjoy delving into the personalities of all the characters, instead of just reading the story.
The author's imagination seems remarkable, although her poor phrasing often left me wondering what she wanted to convey. Sadly, I was little impressed with the author's style of writing.
The magical flowers, elixars, and fantastic creatures were fun and entertaining. Thank you.
April 22, 2011
I was really excited to read this book. The cover art is amazing and the synopsis sounds great, but the execution wasn't the best.
For me, this book was quite choppy. We jump around from character to character quite a bit which makes it hard to follow. I just catch on to the fact that I'm reading about one character and then suddenly, I'm reading about something else and then I have to figure out who it is and where they are at.
I also found a few grammatical errors which are slightly off putting.
I really wanted to like this book but it was so hard. I feel like this really had the potential to be a great story, but other things that bothered me were the magical aspects. Everything had long, strange names, some spells sounded like they were trying to copy Harry Potter, and then suddenly, hardly any magic is used, and I thought this was a book about wizards and other magical creatures.
I doubt I will continue the series.
For me, this book was quite choppy. We jump around from character to character quite a bit which makes it hard to follow. I just catch on to the fact that I'm reading about one character and then suddenly, I'm reading about something else and then I have to figure out who it is and where they are at.
I also found a few grammatical errors which are slightly off putting.
I really wanted to like this book but it was so hard. I feel like this really had the potential to be a great story, but other things that bothered me were the magical aspects. Everything had long, strange names, some spells sounded like they were trying to copy Harry Potter, and then suddenly, hardly any magic is used, and I thought this was a book about wizards and other magical creatures.
I doubt I will continue the series.
April 1, 2011
came to my wife for me from Goodreads First reads I was very impressed with this book I found it a very easy page turner. The story is about a young wizard apprentice named Galax who finds himself in an adventure of his life. He made the same mistake a lot of people do when they are told they can not go there it is a secret. well now he has to go all over the know world looking for the "keys of fate" and while he and a small group of friends are searching for them they have to fix the destruction being done to life it self.
Well with two of the Keys found Galax finds that it is only going to get harder to find the other keys. With map in hand and his friends they set out while Galax is confused as to why he can not contact his master Wizard which he knows he helped.
Tower of Change is a great book go and get it and go on the adventure of a life time
Well with two of the Keys found Galax finds that it is only going to get harder to find the other keys. With map in hand and his friends they set out while Galax is confused as to why he can not contact his master Wizard which he knows he helped.
Tower of Change is a great book go and get it and go on the adventure of a life time
July 9, 2011
Just finished The Keys of Fate. The flow of the story is very relaxing and easy to keep up with. Its just the kind of book you want to read when you've had a long day and want to emerge yourself into a another reality.The book has all the wonderful things I like fantasy.Magicians,Faes wolves,Trolls, there were even several types of trolls.Through out the adventure there were many many creatures of the fantasy world And I loved the Ideal of beings from another planet being introduced. IT had feel of The hobbit, Harry potter,and Merlin all rolled up in one story with a twist with aliens from another planet(with the gift of magic)having a valuable impact with the story.I enjoyed The Keys of Fate very much and am looking forward to seeing how the story ends.
April 18, 2011
Haven't received yet, just got notice I had won. 3/14/11
Just received, will start after my current read is done. 3/26/11
Starting this today. 3/28/11
This book was stolen by my mom, so I will get it back when she is done I suppose. 4/2/11
Stole it back. Galax is an apprentice wizard. His master is going to a meeting of all wizards and entrusts Galax with the care of the tower. Of course, Galax is curious as to what the tower contains/protects and puts everything at risk.
The story was a bit predictable in places and a bit choppy in others. All in all the story line was good, but the writing not so much. Not sure if it was because it was an uncorrected proof. All in all, an enjoyable read.
Just received, will start after my current read is done. 3/26/11
Starting this today. 3/28/11
This book was stolen by my mom, so I will get it back when she is done I suppose. 4/2/11
Stole it back. Galax is an apprentice wizard. His master is going to a meeting of all wizards and entrusts Galax with the care of the tower. Of course, Galax is curious as to what the tower contains/protects and puts everything at risk.
The story was a bit predictable in places and a bit choppy in others. All in all the story line was good, but the writing not so much. Not sure if it was because it was an uncorrected proof. All in all, an enjoyable read.
July 31, 2011
I took into consideration that it must of taken alot of work to put this book together and that Tina Randolph was kind enough to send me the book.
To me it seemed that the book is meant for those who are transitioning from picture books to novels without any pictures in it. The descriptions are vague, but they get backed up from the few images that Tina provides the reader with.
I personally didn't connect with the story because it seemed as if it was only touching the surface and I couldn't get in touch with the setting or characters.
I would recommend this book to a younger audience- say 15 and under
To me it seemed that the book is meant for those who are transitioning from picture books to novels without any pictures in it. The descriptions are vague, but they get backed up from the few images that Tina provides the reader with.
I personally didn't connect with the story because it seemed as if it was only touching the surface and I couldn't get in touch with the setting or characters.
I would recommend this book to a younger audience- say 15 and under
May 19, 2011
First Reads Review:
Thanks to the author and Good Reads for the opportunity to review this book,but it was very difficult to read. The concept of a good fantasy story is there, but the book reads like a synopsis. The characters were not developed and i was not invested in there story. The dialogue was choppy and unemotional. The main character did many great things, but just came to the knowledge of the solutions out of thin air. There were oddly italicized words and phrases over and over again. This was very distracting to me, as the was no need for the extra emphasis.
There was not enough detail and the flow was very choppy. I unfortunately would not recommend this book.
Thanks to the author and Good Reads for the opportunity to review this book,but it was very difficult to read. The concept of a good fantasy story is there, but the book reads like a synopsis. The characters were not developed and i was not invested in there story. The dialogue was choppy and unemotional. The main character did many great things, but just came to the knowledge of the solutions out of thin air. There were oddly italicized words and phrases over and over again. This was very distracting to me, as the was no need for the extra emphasis.
There was not enough detail and the flow was very choppy. I unfortunately would not recommend this book.
July 1, 2011
Let me begin by thanking Goodreads for giving me the opportunity to win a book. Now for the review...
I've tried to start this book twice now... not sure what's not "hooking" me... I've finished 4 other books rather then this book; I'm not too optimistic that I'm ever going to read/finish this book. Sorry.
I'd have to re-read it to tell you exactly what my issues are. I'm not going to do that. It's just doesn't "flow" smoothly. And once I felt I might have an idea of who is who in the scene the author starts referring to them by a different name (first by first name, later by last) and since it's not that interesting to begin with, I lost track.
I've tried to start this book twice now... not sure what's not "hooking" me... I've finished 4 other books rather then this book; I'm not too optimistic that I'm ever going to read/finish this book. Sorry.
I'd have to re-read it to tell you exactly what my issues are. I'm not going to do that. It's just doesn't "flow" smoothly. And once I felt I might have an idea of who is who in the scene the author starts referring to them by a different name (first by first name, later by last) and since it's not that interesting to begin with, I lost track.
Want to read
April 7, 2011Personally I liked the book. I've read books that held no interest to me what so ever, but this book caught my attention. The grammar errors are something that could distract the read from the story, but if you look pass that and follow along with the story you'll understand and get into it. Galax Hanz wasn't mentioned much and it felt like he wasn't a person to be trusted. And when i read this i was getting confused on where they were, who they were, i really had trouble following. overall i think it needs work, but its a well plotted story.
January 26, 2012
Although the book was more geared toward a younger reader, I found it lacked direction as far as the plot was concerned. Ms Randolph has good ideas, and I thought the whole concept of the story was interesting, but her character development lacks depth and following the characters around was like being on a scavenger hunt without a list. I've read "younger reader" books before and did not have this problem. I felt as if I were being rushed along from one main event to another, and none of them tied into each other enough for them to make sense.
September 12, 2014
Interesting premise. Painful to finish because this book badly needs a proof-reader and editor. If you're one of those types, like me, whose brain comes to a screeching halt whenever you find spelling errors, homophones, and punctuation problems, don't bother reading until it is noted that the book has been revised.
Want to read
March 15, 2011Thank you so much for the win, good reads! This one looks like it will be an interesting read, at least. The series' name sounds rather promising, too, doesn't it? The Keys of Fate. It has that epic feel to it. I'm liking it. I haven't read anything from Tina M. Randolph yet, but this seems like as good a place to start as any other.
February 6, 2026
Won through Goodreads First Reads. The beginning is a bit slow but does provide a great amount of setting and a point of origin for the reader in the book's world. The story is one that draws the reader into a journey that will decide the fate of the world. I cannot wait to read the next book.
Want to read
May 26, 2011book is horrible!!!
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