Blood of Ambrose (Morlock Ambrosius, #1) in Sword & Sorcery: "An earthier sort of fantasy"

Jun 11, 2009 Sarah Avery rated it it was amazing

I've been enjoying Enge's short stories about Morlock the Maker in the pages of Black Gate since the first issue of my subscription. When I saw this book on the display table at my local bookstore, I let out an involuntary whoop of joy.

My husband and I both found this book un-put-downable, which was problematic, because we were both trying to read it at once. The book surprised us both, in some fairly impressive structural ways that I won't spoil for you. I am quite confident that, no matter who ...more

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Nov 22, 2013 Joseph rated it really liked it

The first novel about Morlock Ambrosius, although he doesn't actually appear onscreen for the first couple chapters. His sister Ambrosia is acting as advisor to the 12 year old King; politics ensues, but turns out to be merely a cover for dark magics. Morlock is a fascinating character -- old, hunchbacked, taciturn, but an accomplished swordsman and enchanter when called upon. The other characters (his sister; the little King; his dwarf apprentice; various others) are equally well-drawn, and the ...more

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Aug 08, 2014 Derek rated it really liked it

Shelves: sword-and-sorcery

Thoroughly enjoyable. It escalates from its start situation as various layers of the conflict are revealed, with each new threat being more weird and menacing. The relatively simple civil war between a young king and his self-appointed regent Protector gives way to a world-threatening villain.

The magic of Morlock Ambrose has solid metaphysics behind it, blending aspects of alchemy and mysticism in a way that the fantastic outcome always has a solid explanation: Morlock attracts a lightning strik ...more

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Sep 23, 2009 Mike rated it liked it

I believe that Blood of Ambrose is James Enge’s debut novel; though he was an established body of short fiction. As such about the first quarter of the book was a bit of a rocky start, at least for me, but I stuck with it and I’m very glad I did. Blood of Ambrose opens as King Lathmar flees his own palace to avoid his so-called Protector from there it follow his exploits as he attempts to regain his throne and then consolidate his power over the city of Ontil. It is a bit more than that since, a ...more

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Nov 03, 2009 Jon Sprunk rated it really liked it

I really liked this book and look forward to the next installment. The characters are fantastic, especially Morlock.

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Apr 16, 2012 Chompa rated it liked it

I've got mixed feelings on this one. I picked it up based on a short story that I absolutely loved. The story seems a bit drawn out, but also has a fairly unique plot. I'll probably read the next book. ...more

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