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Wishmaster #1.5
Finding the Way
Viola Alerion has been on the run from the intergalactic Haldrian Empire for most of her adult life. After parting ways with her one and only apprentice who’s faith inspired her own transformation, the storyteller finds herself plagued with more profound, life-altering questions than she's ever been willing to consider. And most importantly, she is in a position to choose her path, seemingly for the first time in her life.
Determined to face her past and unlock the secrets her apprentice hinted at, Viola sets off into the jungle of Téarman unaware of dangers there, which will test her faith, her self-belief and threaten to cast her back into the pit of her worst despair. But more frightening even than a raging swarm of poisonous fireflies is the knowledge she must face the most terrifying and powerful being in the whole intergalactic empire—her mother.
This is the second book in the Wishmaster series. For best enjoyment, read The Apprentice Storyteller first.
Determined to face her past and unlock the secrets her apprentice hinted at, Viola sets off into the jungle of Téarman unaware of dangers there, which will test her faith, her self-belief and threaten to cast her back into the pit of her worst despair. But more frightening even than a raging swarm of poisonous fireflies is the knowledge she must face the most terrifying and powerful being in the whole intergalactic empire—her mother.
This is the second book in the Wishmaster series. For best enjoyment, read The Apprentice Storyteller first.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2022
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 1, 2023
For this book, I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy for review purposes, and although the holidays ended up demanding more of my time than I thought they would, I somehow managed to find a little bit of time to read it.
In this book, we meet the characters from the last one again, Viola has decided to confront her past to try to find a better future, leaving behind her apprentice with a teacher that can bring out more of his talents, and thus travelling back to the heart of the empire to see her mother. The things she learned while travelling with her apprentice is starting to take root in her, fostering the beginnings of a belief that things might just work out in the end as long as Viola believes it to be possible.
At some point in the book we also get to meet the apprentice again, and get to know some of what transpired during their time away from each other. It seems those two might be fated to meet when change is about to come around and they once again get to spend some time together.
Violas journey to confront her past is something that I think a lot of people might be able to identify with. Although the circumstances might not be the same, going back and facing your past struggles openly can be quite the challenge. This challenge of Violas has been described wonderfully, and although you'll have to read the book for yourself to figure out the events that transpire, I believe it is well worth the read.
Am I looking forward to the next book telling more about the people from this universe? Definitely. You'll most likely find me wolfing it down as soon as I have the option to do so.
Elle.
In this book, we meet the characters from the last one again, Viola has decided to confront her past to try to find a better future, leaving behind her apprentice with a teacher that can bring out more of his talents, and thus travelling back to the heart of the empire to see her mother. The things she learned while travelling with her apprentice is starting to take root in her, fostering the beginnings of a belief that things might just work out in the end as long as Viola believes it to be possible.
At some point in the book we also get to meet the apprentice again, and get to know some of what transpired during their time away from each other. It seems those two might be fated to meet when change is about to come around and they once again get to spend some time together.
Violas journey to confront her past is something that I think a lot of people might be able to identify with. Although the circumstances might not be the same, going back and facing your past struggles openly can be quite the challenge. This challenge of Violas has been described wonderfully, and although you'll have to read the book for yourself to figure out the events that transpire, I believe it is well worth the read.
Am I looking forward to the next book telling more about the people from this universe? Definitely. You'll most likely find me wolfing it down as soon as I have the option to do so.
Elle.
December 19, 2022
Finding the Way is a fantastic second installment to the Wishmaster Series!
Picking up from where The Apprentice Storyteller left off, the adventure continues as Viola Alerion seeks to forge a new path for her life, which includes re-discovering her dreams, facing her fears, and daring to believe in the impossible.
I really enjoyed learning more about Viola’s backstory and experiencing the continued growth of her character. Former apprentice, Jo, is also delightful and it was wonderful to see him reunited with his former teacher.
The conclusion to Finding the Way is explosive and thought-provoking—-I can only hope the adventures will continue!
Thank-you very much to the author for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Picking up from where The Apprentice Storyteller left off, the adventure continues as Viola Alerion seeks to forge a new path for her life, which includes re-discovering her dreams, facing her fears, and daring to believe in the impossible.
I really enjoyed learning more about Viola’s backstory and experiencing the continued growth of her character. Former apprentice, Jo, is also delightful and it was wonderful to see him reunited with his former teacher.
The conclusion to Finding the Way is explosive and thought-provoking—-I can only hope the adventures will continue!
Thank-you very much to the author for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 19, 2023
A winding journey of discovery. Lots of exposition that ties the tales of Viola and Jo in a whimsical bow. It’s been a minute since I read the first installment, but a good recap was provided throughout to help me connect with the characters and plot points.
January 9, 2023
Astrid VJ’s Finding the way is such a wild journey through a fantastical world. Following Viola Alerion, master storyteller of the empire, we learn more about the world in which she lives. “Earth” shaking revelations and discoveries abound and made this hard to put down. It’s truly a must read!
I cannot wait for the continuation of the story.
I cannot wait for the continuation of the story.
December 29, 2022
A cross between Coelho’s Manual of the Warrior of the Light and Star Wars, a book that’ll make you think
This is probably Astrid VJ’s most philosophical book to-date - may I suggest you take a few evenings or even a week to read and digest it bit-by-bit. The calm pace of this book stills your mind and makes you think about your own reactions to what the MC is encountering, thinking and feeling. It’s as if the author is writing about our possible future for when we exhaust our planet and reach out to colonise others - water taken straight from the air, oceans dried up, armies formed for reasons long forgotten. This is a book about trusting the way the universe works; learning from the young even when you’re 50 with subtle satirical references to our current political and health realities. The feel of this book was similar to Coelho’s The Manual of the Warrior of the Light. It reminded me of Star Wars crossed with Oblivion the movie, mixed with Indiana Jones’ archeological expedition vibes with a touch of Moana (Vaiana) revival awe.
Viola Alerion is on the run. What begins as a solitary trip with a dog through wilderness on a backwater planet in the backwaters of the Haldrian empire takes her to The Capital and a position of utmost (informational) power - being the Imperial Head Archivist. I liked how the author weaved her original Siblings Tale fairytale into her space opera stories - the tale takes place hundreds of tears after the Siblings’ Tale but on much the same territory, it seems.
I loved the 12 prescripts of the Way and the ecowarrior message. I also loved the subtle hints at political satire - the water lily emblem visual reminder missing in the colonies to remind them of their allegiance whereas it’s everywhere in the imperial palace; the reporting tailored to what those in power want to hear; the disassociation from real life & state of things by the empress.
I liked the transcendence of Viola’s goal from talking things out with her mother to the realization about what she needs to accept and do to change to really change things in the world. I loved the tech can cure all vs accepting the limitations of one’s body conversation bw Viola and her mother.
This is not for you if you prefer fast-paced action-adventure and mind reading about not much but wilderness and memories and dreams in the first 40 pages, which was a good recap of the 1st book.
Recommended for lovers of transformational fiction, eco-space opera, evocative new fairytales and books that make you think.
Can you let go of the how?
This is probably Astrid VJ’s most philosophical book to-date - may I suggest you take a few evenings or even a week to read and digest it bit-by-bit. The calm pace of this book stills your mind and makes you think about your own reactions to what the MC is encountering, thinking and feeling. It’s as if the author is writing about our possible future for when we exhaust our planet and reach out to colonise others - water taken straight from the air, oceans dried up, armies formed for reasons long forgotten. This is a book about trusting the way the universe works; learning from the young even when you’re 50 with subtle satirical references to our current political and health realities. The feel of this book was similar to Coelho’s The Manual of the Warrior of the Light. It reminded me of Star Wars crossed with Oblivion the movie, mixed with Indiana Jones’ archeological expedition vibes with a touch of Moana (Vaiana) revival awe.
Viola Alerion is on the run. What begins as a solitary trip with a dog through wilderness on a backwater planet in the backwaters of the Haldrian empire takes her to The Capital and a position of utmost (informational) power - being the Imperial Head Archivist. I liked how the author weaved her original Siblings Tale fairytale into her space opera stories - the tale takes place hundreds of tears after the Siblings’ Tale but on much the same territory, it seems.
I loved the 12 prescripts of the Way and the ecowarrior message. I also loved the subtle hints at political satire - the water lily emblem visual reminder missing in the colonies to remind them of their allegiance whereas it’s everywhere in the imperial palace; the reporting tailored to what those in power want to hear; the disassociation from real life & state of things by the empress.
I liked the transcendence of Viola’s goal from talking things out with her mother to the realization about what she needs to accept and do to change to really change things in the world. I loved the tech can cure all vs accepting the limitations of one’s body conversation bw Viola and her mother.
This is not for you if you prefer fast-paced action-adventure and mind reading about not much but wilderness and memories and dreams in the first 40 pages, which was a good recap of the 1st book.
Recommended for lovers of transformational fiction, eco-space opera, evocative new fairytales and books that make you think.
Can you let go of the how?
January 2, 2023
Five Stars of Hope ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for Finding the Way (Wishmaster, book 1.5) by Astrid V.J.
When you get older, priorities change. What once was desirable, fades in the background as experiences make you grow, altering the view on the world.
Viola Alerion has reached that point in her life after running from her foes, her home, and her heritage for decades. Accepting an apprentice in “The Apprentice Storyteller” has drastically changed her views. Hoping for a more peaceful existence, she decides to finally face her mother.
Her return to the planet of her birth results in chaos. Things have changed drastically for the worse, yet the evidence of decay that has befallen not only her planet but the whole empire is ignored.
Struggling to mend the relationship with her mother while building a new life for herself and her dog, Viola also tasks herself with bringing about the change needed to save a dying world.
The return of an old friend, and a visit of her former apprentice Jo, set things in motion. Together, they embark on a seemingly futile quest to revive a planet with the power of faith and the magic inherent in all beings.
Is Finding the Way to set things right possible?
I end this review with Jo’s words to Viola:
*It’s a poor world you see, Master. You see only death and hatefulness. What about the light? What about beauty? What of all the interconnections that make things happen? What of circumstance? We live in a bountiful, abundant universe. The greater powers always want to help us so something good can come out of the darkness. Wherever I look, I see opportunities. I know we humans are more powerful than you give us credit for, and I know we can all be agents for the good.*
When you get older, priorities change. What once was desirable, fades in the background as experiences make you grow, altering the view on the world.
Viola Alerion has reached that point in her life after running from her foes, her home, and her heritage for decades. Accepting an apprentice in “The Apprentice Storyteller” has drastically changed her views. Hoping for a more peaceful existence, she decides to finally face her mother.
Her return to the planet of her birth results in chaos. Things have changed drastically for the worse, yet the evidence of decay that has befallen not only her planet but the whole empire is ignored.
Struggling to mend the relationship with her mother while building a new life for herself and her dog, Viola also tasks herself with bringing about the change needed to save a dying world.
The return of an old friend, and a visit of her former apprentice Jo, set things in motion. Together, they embark on a seemingly futile quest to revive a planet with the power of faith and the magic inherent in all beings.
Is Finding the Way to set things right possible?
I end this review with Jo’s words to Viola:
*It’s a poor world you see, Master. You see only death and hatefulness. What about the light? What about beauty? What of all the interconnections that make things happen? What of circumstance? We live in a bountiful, abundant universe. The greater powers always want to help us so something good can come out of the darkness. Wherever I look, I see opportunities. I know we humans are more powerful than you give us credit for, and I know we can all be agents for the good.*
December 30, 2022
Each book with Viola and Jo is a continuation but also a tale of its own. I enjoyed the adventure but had to re-read a few paragraphs to understand where I was in the story due to time jumps and tense changes. Viola and Jo are heartwarming foils to one another, and their strength and kindness and resoluteness make them characters to take with you in your heart.
I received this book as an arc, in return for an honest review.
I received this book as an arc, in return for an honest review.
December 21, 2022
Astrid's books are always like a breath of fresh air, so I will read anything she writes. Finding the Way is no different and I couldn't stop reading it. For me, it wasn't a fast read though. I took my time and would often re-read some passages. And this is what made this book so amazing: there's adventure in it, but also you stop and think. Both Jo and Viola are impossible not to love and I enjoyed meeting them again. The ending was awesome and I'm hoping for more adventures for Jo and Viola.
January 1, 2023
I've come to love this series from Astrid V.J. even if a long time passes between reading books; it's so easy to fall back into the series and the world. This book was no exception. I tore through it in about two days. I loved that there were connections to some of the stories from the wordmage tales series that helped the world feel so cohesive. It was done in such a way, however, that if you haven't read those books, you could still make sense of this one. Viola was a brilliant main character. I felt she was relatable, likable, and easy to identify with. I enjoyed the course the story took, and there were definitley some surprises along the way I didn't see coming. I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of fantasy with some sci-fi elements. This book would be a great gateway into some of Astrid V.J.'s other books and series.
December 23, 2022
I loved this! At first I was disappointed that this was Viola's journey to take alone---I missed Jo as much as she did. But learning her backstory and witnessing her growth was worth it.
I am so excited to read more about the two of them, and to finally get to The Siblings' Tale, which has been on my TBR for ages.
I am so excited to read more about the two of them, and to finally get to The Siblings' Tale, which has been on my TBR for ages.
November 21, 2022
One word. OUTSTANDING. That ending was fire. Astrid V. J. weaves a tapestry of wonder every time she puts words on a page. I feel like I just ate a five-star, three-course meal. I'm gonna sleep like a dog tonight. (All the Motoko fans out there can I get a HOO-YAH!)
August 22, 2023
The journey for Viola continues as she parts ways with her apprentice,Jo, and finds another traveling companion like him who doesn’t take no for an answer! She encounters a dog but try as she may he won’t leave her side. She finally agrees to let him accompany her which is very fortuitous for her because he seeks help for her after she is stung by poisonous fireflies! Who should he fetch but the one person she was on her way to see before almost dying, her old mentor from the palace, Maitri!
Maitri nurses her back to health and then gifts her with a traveling stone which can take her back to the palace in a matter of hours instead of months on a transport ship. She wants to see her mother in the regular way but is forced to fight for her life before her mother intervenes to stop the conflict!
Her mother grants her the dream job she desires of
being appointed High Archivist of the Imperial Library
and while in that position she finds lost manuscripts and publishes The Sibling’s Tale of Edvard and Elizabeth along with finding manuscripts for the other tales in the box set of Edvard and Elizabeth.
She is reunited with her old love who turns out to be the hunter who has pursued her for 25 of the 28 years she had been on the run from her mother, the Empress. Later on her apprentice joins her and they all journey to try and see if they can correct the imbalance on the planet. She meets the same white stag, Forest Father, that Johara met in her story and
performing the same ritual with him that she did is able to restore the balance on the planet. Unfortunately her mother takes issue with her and wants her arrested so she, Eryk and her dog Mokoto
flee from her mother and her guards once again back to where they were able to restore balance to the planet earlier.
This is a great story of believing in oneself and embracing what you want to achieve even though it
puts her back at odds with her mother. Being true to yourself and what you believe becomes paramount to Viola and by association to us as well!
I enjoyed this story and recommend both this book and the first book in this series, The Apprentice Storyteller as books I think you’ll enjoy! There is a lot of wisdom in these two books aside from an engaging tale that can help you change your life if you follow the ideas presented herein.
I have enjoyed Edvard and Elizabeth’s box set of stories by Astrid and recommend that set as well!
I will now read her series of short stories entitled The
Word Mage Tales because I really enjoy Astrid’s world and the characters she has brought to life through her stories and I encourage you to follow my
example. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
Maitri nurses her back to health and then gifts her with a traveling stone which can take her back to the palace in a matter of hours instead of months on a transport ship. She wants to see her mother in the regular way but is forced to fight for her life before her mother intervenes to stop the conflict!
Her mother grants her the dream job she desires of
being appointed High Archivist of the Imperial Library
and while in that position she finds lost manuscripts and publishes The Sibling’s Tale of Edvard and Elizabeth along with finding manuscripts for the other tales in the box set of Edvard and Elizabeth.
She is reunited with her old love who turns out to be the hunter who has pursued her for 25 of the 28 years she had been on the run from her mother, the Empress. Later on her apprentice joins her and they all journey to try and see if they can correct the imbalance on the planet. She meets the same white stag, Forest Father, that Johara met in her story and
performing the same ritual with him that she did is able to restore the balance on the planet. Unfortunately her mother takes issue with her and wants her arrested so she, Eryk and her dog Mokoto
flee from her mother and her guards once again back to where they were able to restore balance to the planet earlier.
This is a great story of believing in oneself and embracing what you want to achieve even though it
puts her back at odds with her mother. Being true to yourself and what you believe becomes paramount to Viola and by association to us as well!
I enjoyed this story and recommend both this book and the first book in this series, The Apprentice Storyteller as books I think you’ll enjoy! There is a lot of wisdom in these two books aside from an engaging tale that can help you change your life if you follow the ideas presented herein.
I have enjoyed Edvard and Elizabeth’s box set of stories by Astrid and recommend that set as well!
I will now read her series of short stories entitled The
Word Mage Tales because I really enjoy Astrid’s world and the characters she has brought to life through her stories and I encourage you to follow my
example. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
February 1, 2023
A fantastic second installment that picks up where The Apprentice Storyteller left off. Viola Alerion is on a mission not only to find peace and happiness, but also to find herself.
It was a breath of fresh air to read a coming-of-age book with an older character. Or at least to me, it's a coming-of-age book, since Viola is forced to do a lot of self-reflection and find ways to come to peace with herself and all that she's learned from her journeys. Beautifully written and once again, I felt like I was transported directly to Vendale and Haldria, and everywhere the characters were.
My only complaint is the random time jumps. I didn't like how there were times it said things like "three annums have passed" or other instances where quite a bit of time had passed. It got confusing at times and I had to reread quite a bit to make sure I didn't miss anything.
I received an advance review copy for an honest review.
It was a breath of fresh air to read a coming-of-age book with an older character. Or at least to me, it's a coming-of-age book, since Viola is forced to do a lot of self-reflection and find ways to come to peace with herself and all that she's learned from her journeys. Beautifully written and once again, I felt like I was transported directly to Vendale and Haldria, and everywhere the characters were.
My only complaint is the random time jumps. I didn't like how there were times it said things like "three annums have passed" or other instances where quite a bit of time had passed. It got confusing at times and I had to reread quite a bit to make sure I didn't miss anything.
I received an advance review copy for an honest review.
August 5, 2023
Viola is alone again, having left her apprentice Jo and trying to hide from her mother and the Imperial Guard who are hunting her. She is returning to confront her mother but wants it to be on her terms, not as a captive. But it seems she's destined to attract strays, first Jo, who wouldn't take no for an answer and now a dog she can't seem to shake off. She's changed, perhaps not so much that she did the changing and growing but rather that Jo instilled something different in her, just by his very presence, his faith and his incredible wisdom for one so young. As she continues her journey, Jo's words resonate with her and after an attack by monster insects, she ends up at her old teachers cottage. What a sweetie Maitri is!
Oh, perhaps I should mention that not all is well across the realms, there's this thing called the blight which is changing, well, everything, as it creeps deeper and deeper into the world. Docile animals become ferocious, the land becomes barren, people go mad... so when Viola finally reaches the Capital and wanting to make amends, she confronts her mother, the Empress with the truth. But the Empress is stuck in her ways, refusing to believe anything is amiss. It was so cool to see Viola so mature and not intimidated. All of which is thanks to Jo and his sowing seeds of truth and righteousness in Viola, opening up possibilities she never imagined. She makes a new life for herself, trying to get to the truth of the history of the realm. When she is reunited with Jo, I squealed in delight, I think I was as happy to see him as she was! And as they uncover the why of the empire, they uncover the truth and the lies. So dramatic! Talking of Jo, he's a truly special being, my heavens is he magical! Not only his ability but he himself, a wonderously created character, a character with so much love for everything and everyone, utterly non judgmental, he oozes goodness.
One of the things that really struck me in both this book and the previous one, is how easy it is for any of us to fall into a cycle of mistrust and of destruction, not only of our fellow humans but also of all creatures and nature itself. A sense of apathy is the easier route for what goes on around us and it took a 13 year old fictional character to jolt me. How much more could we all be, could we all achieve if we had even one iota of goodness in us, to shrug off the apathy and embrace all things positive. A revolutionary idea? Or a humanitarian one? The author has a proficiency in her storytelling, that I, like Viola, was questioning many things.
It's an incredibly profound book and series and although it's pure fiction, I couldn't help but "hear" the truths and this sentence by Jo popped into my head "we all find our peace when we are willing to follow our own truths" How the author managed to instill all these emotions in me while delivering a story so compelling, taking me not only on a journey of self discovery, a story of new beginnings, a journey of confronting ones fears and a thoroughly immersive plot which spans worlds and planets, is astounding. Astounding too are the characters she delivers, every one unique, every one with their own story, every one interesting. What an incredible expansive, incredibly well written tale!
Oh, perhaps I should mention that not all is well across the realms, there's this thing called the blight which is changing, well, everything, as it creeps deeper and deeper into the world. Docile animals become ferocious, the land becomes barren, people go mad... so when Viola finally reaches the Capital and wanting to make amends, she confronts her mother, the Empress with the truth. But the Empress is stuck in her ways, refusing to believe anything is amiss. It was so cool to see Viola so mature and not intimidated. All of which is thanks to Jo and his sowing seeds of truth and righteousness in Viola, opening up possibilities she never imagined. She makes a new life for herself, trying to get to the truth of the history of the realm. When she is reunited with Jo, I squealed in delight, I think I was as happy to see him as she was! And as they uncover the why of the empire, they uncover the truth and the lies. So dramatic! Talking of Jo, he's a truly special being, my heavens is he magical! Not only his ability but he himself, a wonderously created character, a character with so much love for everything and everyone, utterly non judgmental, he oozes goodness.
One of the things that really struck me in both this book and the previous one, is how easy it is for any of us to fall into a cycle of mistrust and of destruction, not only of our fellow humans but also of all creatures and nature itself. A sense of apathy is the easier route for what goes on around us and it took a 13 year old fictional character to jolt me. How much more could we all be, could we all achieve if we had even one iota of goodness in us, to shrug off the apathy and embrace all things positive. A revolutionary idea? Or a humanitarian one? The author has a proficiency in her storytelling, that I, like Viola, was questioning many things.
It's an incredibly profound book and series and although it's pure fiction, I couldn't help but "hear" the truths and this sentence by Jo popped into my head "we all find our peace when we are willing to follow our own truths" How the author managed to instill all these emotions in me while delivering a story so compelling, taking me not only on a journey of self discovery, a story of new beginnings, a journey of confronting ones fears and a thoroughly immersive plot which spans worlds and planets, is astounding. Astounding too are the characters she delivers, every one unique, every one with their own story, every one interesting. What an incredible expansive, incredibly well written tale!
November 22, 2023
Speak the truth as you know it. Strive to do good in every way. Be your truest selves and be kind to yourselves.
Simple principles on the surface, but full of power when lived out as Viola discovers. They are one of many truths her young apprentice, Jo, imparts to her. Now she makes the decision to finally retrace her steps and face the past she ran away from for years. Yet it’s more frightening than anything she has encountered in all of her travels. However, she has changed, embracing a path she had not seen previously.
How? For years she had spun stories as the storyteller. In every story there are always truths to be uncovered by the listener to help them along the journey of life. It’s the beauty, the power of the story. Yet for Viola, it is her young apprentice that makes the difference. For Jo doesn’t just give lip service to his beliefs but embodies the truths that are embedded in the stories.
For truth is followed even when it’s hard or when the cost could be unimaginable. Because that’s the reality of that kind of faith. When truth is spoken, it’s not always received as hoped, especially when it feels too ugly to acknowledge. It’s easier to revert back to before the veil was ripped away and to continue the lie, even when the world is literally dying around you. Then striving to do good in every way can become a tall order in a world where the hearts and motives of men are easily persuaded in the opposite direction. That’s when striving to do good becomes a battle, something that must be claimed against all odds.
Then there’s being your truest self. Viola wrestles with what that looks like again. For so long, she turned her back on her entire past life. Now she struggles to reclaim that world while vowing to not allow it to strip her again of who she really is but continuing to embrace her truest self.
And with each step, she turns to see the grin of Jo as he captures an audience with a story, reminds her to trust in the truth uncovered, and inspires her to act upon it. The apprentice and the master. Perhaps they are one in the same now.
Simple principles on the surface, but full of power when lived out as Viola discovers. They are one of many truths her young apprentice, Jo, imparts to her. Now she makes the decision to finally retrace her steps and face the past she ran away from for years. Yet it’s more frightening than anything she has encountered in all of her travels. However, she has changed, embracing a path she had not seen previously.
How? For years she had spun stories as the storyteller. In every story there are always truths to be uncovered by the listener to help them along the journey of life. It’s the beauty, the power of the story. Yet for Viola, it is her young apprentice that makes the difference. For Jo doesn’t just give lip service to his beliefs but embodies the truths that are embedded in the stories.
For truth is followed even when it’s hard or when the cost could be unimaginable. Because that’s the reality of that kind of faith. When truth is spoken, it’s not always received as hoped, especially when it feels too ugly to acknowledge. It’s easier to revert back to before the veil was ripped away and to continue the lie, even when the world is literally dying around you. Then striving to do good in every way can become a tall order in a world where the hearts and motives of men are easily persuaded in the opposite direction. That’s when striving to do good becomes a battle, something that must be claimed against all odds.
Then there’s being your truest self. Viola wrestles with what that looks like again. For so long, she turned her back on her entire past life. Now she struggles to reclaim that world while vowing to not allow it to strip her again of who she really is but continuing to embrace her truest self.
And with each step, she turns to see the grin of Jo as he captures an audience with a story, reminds her to trust in the truth uncovered, and inspires her to act upon it. The apprentice and the master. Perhaps they are one in the same now.
December 31, 2022
Talk about book hangover! What a satisfying conclusion! Totally one of those book where I wasn't sure if I didn't want to it be over, or wanted to dive right back in and read it again (very re-readable book btw - if I had it on audio, I probably would have just restarted it).
After decades of running, Viola has come home. She is no longer the person she was, but perhaps not yet quite the person she needs to be either. Combining what she has learned through her travels with what she finds in the Imperial Archives, she sets down a path that leads to unexpected changes that will forever alter her world. This is a slower paced, gentler book, but not without tenderness, adventure, and quite a bit of wry humor - not to mention some altercations. It is the type that draws you in and is to be savored.
A little bit fantasy, a little bit sci-fi - a world that is so advanced it has almost transcended to a post-technological state and can feel anachronistic and historical. While perhaps hard to classify, like all the other books in this universe (Wishmaster and Wordmage's Tales) it is full of wonder and gently imparted lessons that tease you to think deeper and look at the world in a different way. Ask the hard questions and make the difficult decisions.
Wishmaster Book 1.5, while this is a complete story and can be read as a standalone (the beginning gives you the most critical context bits so you won't be lost), Astrid's writing has such beautiful depth and nuance that to truly appreciate this chapter in Viola's story, I highly recommend reading The Apprentice Storyteller first. There are references to various of the Wordmage's Tales as well and in many ways this book is a culmination of many of the hints and lessons that wove through out those stories. I kept having aha moments when things popped together for me. Highly enjoyable read.
After decades of running, Viola has come home. She is no longer the person she was, but perhaps not yet quite the person she needs to be either. Combining what she has learned through her travels with what she finds in the Imperial Archives, she sets down a path that leads to unexpected changes that will forever alter her world. This is a slower paced, gentler book, but not without tenderness, adventure, and quite a bit of wry humor - not to mention some altercations. It is the type that draws you in and is to be savored.
A little bit fantasy, a little bit sci-fi - a world that is so advanced it has almost transcended to a post-technological state and can feel anachronistic and historical. While perhaps hard to classify, like all the other books in this universe (Wishmaster and Wordmage's Tales) it is full of wonder and gently imparted lessons that tease you to think deeper and look at the world in a different way. Ask the hard questions and make the difficult decisions.
Wishmaster Book 1.5, while this is a complete story and can be read as a standalone (the beginning gives you the most critical context bits so you won't be lost), Astrid's writing has such beautiful depth and nuance that to truly appreciate this chapter in Viola's story, I highly recommend reading The Apprentice Storyteller first. There are references to various of the Wordmage's Tales as well and in many ways this book is a culmination of many of the hints and lessons that wove through out those stories. I kept having aha moments when things popped together for me. Highly enjoyable read.
July 22, 2023
Part two of the Wishmaster series, this picks up where the last book left off. We solely follow Viola in this book and her journey of understanding and learning the truth. She realizes that listening to Jo and his beliefs have caused her to be willing to be open to the possibilities of her dreams. Unfortunately the journey to her dreams takes her back home and to her mother who she fled from almost 30 years ago. But realizing she needs to do this brings her closer to the things she wants and her ability to help others find the truth themselves. Resisting falling back into impulses, she is able to convince her mother to live her life how she wants. She gets a job with access to all the information she could ever want and the ability to have others listen. We get a few answers about the man tracking her that we got glimpses of before and that was such a bittersweet moment. The only thing I will spoil is that we do meet Jo again which I was anxiously waiting to happen. And just like before, chaos seems to follow him but he always comes back out the better for it. Once the two are reunited, they take a journey of discovery about what has been happening to the planets and magic in their lands. Something I really enjoyed about this series is that one of the leads is an older than what is normally written about woman. I have an appreciation for a story that has an older lead, that can still change minds and sway opinions, maybe not so much with action but with conviction. Now I am off to read all of the stories alluded to in the books.
December 30, 2022
Finding the way is book two in the wishmaster series, it is best to read ‘The apprentice storyteller’ first. Viola Alerion has been on the run from the empire for a really long time. Meeting Jo was the first time she felt someone’s faith in her, which inspired growth and transformation in Viola. Now that her former apprentice is gone, she’s left with lots of questions and a different outlook. She herself the only one able to choose the path she will take.
‘Everything I have known him to do has always been a step in a perfect dance. He is a vortex, yes. But he is also a river, and travelling with him—the flow will carry you to marvelous adventures.’
In finding the way I’ve learned lots about Viola and her history. I also learned about Jo’s upbringing and believes. Viola’s transformation is huge and nice to read. I love how this story progresses and the steps forward can be followed. Again, Astrid shows off her worldbuilding and character development skills, which are great and make for a good story.
‘May you always find peace. May your heart find its courage. And may you ever trust in the potency of your blood.’
Magic, righteousness, history, all important themes in this story. There are lots of messages about righteousness and personal growth in this book that make It feel warm and magical but can also make people think. Another great read full of atmosphere, would recommend.
‘Everything I have known him to do has always been a step in a perfect dance. He is a vortex, yes. But he is also a river, and travelling with him—the flow will carry you to marvelous adventures.’
In finding the way I’ve learned lots about Viola and her history. I also learned about Jo’s upbringing and believes. Viola’s transformation is huge and nice to read. I love how this story progresses and the steps forward can be followed. Again, Astrid shows off her worldbuilding and character development skills, which are great and make for a good story.
‘May you always find peace. May your heart find its courage. And may you ever trust in the potency of your blood.’
Magic, righteousness, history, all important themes in this story. There are lots of messages about righteousness and personal growth in this book that make It feel warm and magical but can also make people think. Another great read full of atmosphere, would recommend.
June 11, 2023
I was disappointed with this Book Two. I found book one slow, but by the end, I enjoyed it enough to preorder book two. Book two is just as slow for me but I still loved the fact that the main character is in her 50s. The book is well written but there is not enough of a plot to make me care about the characters as much as I want to.
I disliked having a 'galaxy-wide virus' be part of the story and the 'lockdown thrown in the middle of the book that takes over two chapters and allowed the main character time to do her research pulled me out of the book in a painful way. I am just not ready to have that be a part of the fiction I read. It was very background though so other people might not mind.
60 + present id the way into the story and almost nothing happens. There are a lot of social issues like environmental awareness as well as other things are thrown in to make some of me feel like preaching at times. Important things, but not well.woven into an active story in my personal opinion. This story had so much potential, but in the end, it was just not for me.
I disliked having a 'galaxy-wide virus' be part of the story and the 'lockdown thrown in the middle of the book that takes over two chapters and allowed the main character time to do her research pulled me out of the book in a painful way. I am just not ready to have that be a part of the fiction I read. It was very background though so other people might not mind.
60 + present id the way into the story and almost nothing happens. There are a lot of social issues like environmental awareness as well as other things are thrown in to make some of me feel like preaching at times. Important things, but not well.woven into an active story in my personal opinion. This story had so much potential, but in the end, it was just not for me.
February 28, 2023
Finding the Way is an apt title for this book. I can tell the author had a marvelous time describing the landscapes, and unique lifeforms populating her realms with the sparkle of life, and magic hidden within the rain. Viola returns home to become the library's High Archivist. She seeks the answers to healing her planet through the dusty tomes in the library basement. Viola discovers that things are much different than she or Empress Dedopali think. Her apprentice arrives, and together they discover living, ancient history. I loved the imaginative worlds, and the way the apprentice taught the master a thing or two! Both Viola and Empress Dedopali have to find their way. Will they be able to heal the planet and heal themselves? I recommend this beautiful story to readers who enjoy magical fantasy in the natural world.
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