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The Norothian Cycle #1
The Sable City
The Trade Houses of the Miilark Islands control the shipping lanes linking four diverse continents across the blue vastness of the Interminable Ocean. The Houses are represented abroad by the Guilders; men and women skilled in business and burglary, salesmanship and swordplay, merchandising and musketry. Tilda Lanai has trained for years to take her place among them, but now the House she is to serve is imperiled by the sudden death of the House Lord. Scenting blood in the water, rival Houses are beginning to circle. The desperate search for an exiled heir takes Tilda across a war-torn continent and to the gates of the Sable City, where centuries ago dark magic almost destroyed the world. Along with a sinister sorceress, a broken-hearted samurai, and a miscreant mercenary long on charm but lousy with a crossbow, Tilda must brave the demon-infested ruins to find the heir who may yet save her House.
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First published February 25, 2011
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About the author
M. Edward McNally
17 books92 followersYikes, this page gave me an option to enter my "date of death." That's disheartening. Anyway, North Carolina born Irish/Mexican, grew up Midwestern along I 35 Northbound (KS, IA, MN), now in AZ among the scorpions and javelinas. Studied English Lit and Russian/East European History in school, and at the place where the two bumped together, I wrote some Musket & Magic Fantasy books. Deus Impeditio Esuritori Nullus.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
July 23, 2014
I loved it, but then again I better have...
March 8, 2012
One of the many things I like about my Kindle is how its introduced me to indie writers. Some of them aren't very good (true for traditionally published authors too!), and some are quite good (I'm especially thinking of Lindsay Buroker here). Anyway, recently I was under the weather and wanting to read some heroic/epic fantasy (especially after a disappointment with Patrick Rothfuss's The Name of the Wind), and I came across M. Edward McNally's The Sable City. Wow - I highly recommend it. This is the first in a series that so far has three volumes. Click on the title link to read a plot blurb; I'm just going to say that as soon as I finished it I bought the rest of the series so far and read them avidly the very next day.
September 6, 2016
Although I normally make small individual reviews, this series has me doing the rare combined review. I LOVED this series. I do mean L.O.V.E. This series NEEDS to skip everyone's to be read lists and go straight to BUY. This series, entirely, had me entranced. I did not stop, not even for air. This series is great for men and women alike. There is no doubt in my mind that this series can easily make for an amazing muti-million (Hundreds) dollar movie series.
With all that being said, on with the review. The writing style was masterfully done. Everything was perfectly balanced. The characters were done flawlessly. Their realistic personalities, combined with the richness in the detailed world, blurred the lines between real and fantasy. The author has an uncanny way of drawing you so far into the story-line that you can easily lose yourself. The pace was unrelenting. It never let me peel my eyes away from the pages of the story. It kept my eyes at bay with the twist and turns, edge of your seat, burst of humor, and the lively playfulness. The plot's climax could bring you to your knees. The only disappointment I had, was like all things, the book came to an end.
All three of these books easily made a 5 star rating, with mind blowing grace.
~~ http://werevampsromance.blogspot.com/
With all that being said, on with the review. The writing style was masterfully done. Everything was perfectly balanced. The characters were done flawlessly. Their realistic personalities, combined with the richness in the detailed world, blurred the lines between real and fantasy. The author has an uncanny way of drawing you so far into the story-line that you can easily lose yourself. The pace was unrelenting. It never let me peel my eyes away from the pages of the story. It kept my eyes at bay with the twist and turns, edge of your seat, burst of humor, and the lively playfulness. The plot's climax could bring you to your knees. The only disappointment I had, was like all things, the book came to an end.
All three of these books easily made a 5 star rating, with mind blowing grace.
~~ http://werevampsromance.blogspot.com/
July 25, 2011
Reading Sable City is like eating roasted sunflower seed ; you get impatient at first and want to gobble them all at once, but you know you can not so you try patiently to crack each and every bit of it.
When you get to bag no five you are already fluent in opening the shell and licking the seed; you start to speed up: bag six, seven...until you realize there are no more bags. You go to the store and find out that there are no more bags left. You go to the farmer and he say that you have to wait another year until the production starts again.
I am patiently breathing on Ed's neck so he can finish the sequel.
BTW, It's awesome! LOTR has to inch aside to give room for Sable City.
When you get to bag no five you are already fluent in opening the shell and licking the seed; you start to speed up: bag six, seven...until you realize there are no more bags. You go to the store and find out that there are no more bags left. You go to the farmer and he say that you have to wait another year until the production starts again.
I am patiently breathing on Ed's neck so he can finish the sequel.
BTW, It's awesome! LOTR has to inch aside to give room for Sable City.
October 1, 2011
Events loom large on the horizon, but the people depicted in M Edward McNally's The Sable City, have no idea of the momentous events that are set to sweep them along, as you might expect in the first book of a series. No spoilers, either within the book, or indeed this review, but suffice to say the story is as deep and as broad as you might expect of an epic fantasy.
McNally has set high standards in this, the first book of the Norothian Cycle. The story-telling is neatly paced, with a good balance bewteen action and narration and the back story needed to give the world of Noroth both depth and breadth. Equally, there's no mono-dimensional sketching to his characters, but fully-rounded human beings, whether they are bit players or the stars of the show. The clarity of writing is spot on, both precise and concise, without ever losing any sense of substance and style. The editing and formating is nearly perfect -- a high standard indeed for other indie authors to emulate.
The Sable City features a long list of characters, far too many to deal with here, but the reader never loses track of them in the lenghty narrative (it's 180, 000 words long). It helps that McNally has portrayed them so well in his writing; the quirks of personality, the interplay between them -- whether in anger or affection -- ensures that 'names and faces' don't become a blur.
The heart of the story is Matilda (Tilda) Lanai, a young guilder sent on a mission with the dwarf Captain Block to find the exiled head of House Deskata. The island of Miilark, a polynesian-derived culture, I am guessing modelled on Hawaii, is the home of both Tilda and the Deskata. Some 200 years before, shipwrecked mariners profoundly changed the island's culture and outlook; by the time of The Sable City, Miilark has become a great trading and sea-faring nation, and its trading houses (such as House Deskata) have gained a fearsome reputation in commerce and trade, controlling as they do, the main trade routes to all four continents on McNally's world.
Lanai's and Block's search for Deskata will take them deep into the troubled continent of Noroth, blighted by war between Ayzantium and Daul, but their journey will ultimately take them into the cursed city of Vod'Adia -- the Sable City of the title. Cut off from the world by an ancient curse, the city only opens for a month every century, and then it draws adventurers and wealth seekers to try their luck within its haunted streets, but as Lanai and her party will discover, the Sable City hosts darker secrets and deadlier dangers than anyone might have guessed.
This is a world on the verge of great change, and not just in the portents of the epic story to come, but in terms of its own history. For many, the words 'epic fantasy' no doubt conjure up medieval visions of knights and castles, of chain-mail clad soldiers with swords and bows, spiced up with goblins and dragons, sorcery and the supernatural, and these certainly exist in McNally's story. What is refreshing, however, is the presence of gunpowder and the fiery difference it has made to this world. Aside from the tall ships and global trade that Lanai's people have made almost their own, the primitive firearms, the cannons, and the changes they bring to fortification and tactics, dramatically indicate a world that is poised between the medieval and the modern.
McNally's The Sable City is an engaging read, filled with breathtaking spectacle, breathless battles, and endearing people, it all combines to create a novel that is up there with the masters of the print-era genre. It'll make you chuckle, it'll make you rage, it will make you duck behind the cushions, and it will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat as you follow the adventures of Lanai and her friends.
All in all, McNally has set authors a tough act to follow. And since there is more to come, that includes himself, so we'll see if he can raise his game and keep the thrills and spills coming in the second part of the series.
McNally has set high standards in this, the first book of the Norothian Cycle. The story-telling is neatly paced, with a good balance bewteen action and narration and the back story needed to give the world of Noroth both depth and breadth. Equally, there's no mono-dimensional sketching to his characters, but fully-rounded human beings, whether they are bit players or the stars of the show. The clarity of writing is spot on, both precise and concise, without ever losing any sense of substance and style. The editing and formating is nearly perfect -- a high standard indeed for other indie authors to emulate.
The Sable City features a long list of characters, far too many to deal with here, but the reader never loses track of them in the lenghty narrative (it's 180, 000 words long). It helps that McNally has portrayed them so well in his writing; the quirks of personality, the interplay between them -- whether in anger or affection -- ensures that 'names and faces' don't become a blur.
The heart of the story is Matilda (Tilda) Lanai, a young guilder sent on a mission with the dwarf Captain Block to find the exiled head of House Deskata. The island of Miilark, a polynesian-derived culture, I am guessing modelled on Hawaii, is the home of both Tilda and the Deskata. Some 200 years before, shipwrecked mariners profoundly changed the island's culture and outlook; by the time of The Sable City, Miilark has become a great trading and sea-faring nation, and its trading houses (such as House Deskata) have gained a fearsome reputation in commerce and trade, controlling as they do, the main trade routes to all four continents on McNally's world.
Lanai's and Block's search for Deskata will take them deep into the troubled continent of Noroth, blighted by war between Ayzantium and Daul, but their journey will ultimately take them into the cursed city of Vod'Adia -- the Sable City of the title. Cut off from the world by an ancient curse, the city only opens for a month every century, and then it draws adventurers and wealth seekers to try their luck within its haunted streets, but as Lanai and her party will discover, the Sable City hosts darker secrets and deadlier dangers than anyone might have guessed.
This is a world on the verge of great change, and not just in the portents of the epic story to come, but in terms of its own history. For many, the words 'epic fantasy' no doubt conjure up medieval visions of knights and castles, of chain-mail clad soldiers with swords and bows, spiced up with goblins and dragons, sorcery and the supernatural, and these certainly exist in McNally's story. What is refreshing, however, is the presence of gunpowder and the fiery difference it has made to this world. Aside from the tall ships and global trade that Lanai's people have made almost their own, the primitive firearms, the cannons, and the changes they bring to fortification and tactics, dramatically indicate a world that is poised between the medieval and the modern.
McNally's The Sable City is an engaging read, filled with breathtaking spectacle, breathless battles, and endearing people, it all combines to create a novel that is up there with the masters of the print-era genre. It'll make you chuckle, it'll make you rage, it will make you duck behind the cushions, and it will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat as you follow the adventures of Lanai and her friends.
All in all, McNally has set authors a tough act to follow. And since there is more to come, that includes himself, so we'll see if he can raise his game and keep the thrills and spills coming in the second part of the series.
May 27, 2013
Please note: I read and reviewed this book in September 2011 from a copy received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Overview: Eddie has created a wonderful world of action and adventure, wizards and warriors, and even a few dungeons and dragons in “The Sable City.” A little bit Lord of the Rings (with the lighter-hearted feel of “The Hobbit”), a little bit Belgariad, a little bit Chronicles of Prydain, and wholly entertaining, even those who find themselves less than excited by a sword and sorcery story should find this one worthwhile.
>b>My Synopsis: It all starts when Captain Block – a dwarf of over 400 years of age who has lived in the Miilarkian Islands since before the savage tribes civilized themselves – is sent out to find the scion of House Deskata and bring him back from exile. Then we are slowly introduced to other small groups of adventurers, all with their own goals and plans, and all of which, eventually, end up in the fabled Sable City.
A few details: It is nearly impossible to try to outline any of the plot without providing spoilers, so let me give you a bit of a snippet of what Eddie says when he describes it: muskets, magic and Matilda. OK, so there aren’t a lot of muskets, and magic doesn’t wander around as much as in many stories, but it is there. A half-Lamia character is quite interesting, although my favorite characters were the succubus Uella and the devil lord Balan – as is my wont, I enjoy evil characters that have glee and joie de vivre in their evilness.
My Thoughts: There is plenty of action and adventure, but also great world building and character development – this book has it all! I spent a good bit of time in the edge of my seat in anticipation and laughed out loud many times. I highly recommend this engaging adventure fantasy for anyone! Look for the sequel: “Death of a Kingdom,” which is available wherever find e-books are sold!
Overview: Eddie has created a wonderful world of action and adventure, wizards and warriors, and even a few dungeons and dragons in “The Sable City.” A little bit Lord of the Rings (with the lighter-hearted feel of “The Hobbit”), a little bit Belgariad, a little bit Chronicles of Prydain, and wholly entertaining, even those who find themselves less than excited by a sword and sorcery story should find this one worthwhile.
>b>My Synopsis: It all starts when Captain Block – a dwarf of over 400 years of age who has lived in the Miilarkian Islands since before the savage tribes civilized themselves – is sent out to find the scion of House Deskata and bring him back from exile. Then we are slowly introduced to other small groups of adventurers, all with their own goals and plans, and all of which, eventually, end up in the fabled Sable City.
A few details: It is nearly impossible to try to outline any of the plot without providing spoilers, so let me give you a bit of a snippet of what Eddie says when he describes it: muskets, magic and Matilda. OK, so there aren’t a lot of muskets, and magic doesn’t wander around as much as in many stories, but it is there. A half-Lamia character is quite interesting, although my favorite characters were the succubus Uella and the devil lord Balan – as is my wont, I enjoy evil characters that have glee and joie de vivre in their evilness.
My Thoughts: There is plenty of action and adventure, but also great world building and character development – this book has it all! I spent a good bit of time in the edge of my seat in anticipation and laughed out loud many times. I highly recommend this engaging adventure fantasy for anyone! Look for the sequel: “Death of a Kingdom,” which is available wherever find e-books are sold!
March 4, 2012
I usually approach any series of novels with enthusiasm and anxiety. I know that if the opening instalment is good then the chances are I will be a dutiful servant to every sequel that follows. I wasn’t sure what to expect with McNally’s The Sable City, the first in The Norothian Cycle series. Showered with glowing reviews I was naturally intrigued but as with every book I read I like to form my own opinion.
The novel initially follows the journey of an ageing and stubborn dwarf, Captain Block, and a guilder, Matilda Lanai a.k.a. Tilda who are looking for John Deskata, heir to the House of Deskata, which they belong to back on the Miilark Islands. It is their duty to bring the heir back and save their House from ruin. However, a lot more is afoot in McNally’s world, not least the city known as Vod’ Adia, the Sable City of the title, that opens its gates once every 100 years for opportunists to loot and pillage the rich treasures within. While the hunt for John Deskata continues, a horde of characters from various lands all descend on the Sable City and let’s just say they’re not all friends with each other!
The first thing you’ll notice about McNally’s novel is the impressive level of detail in the world of Noroth and most importantly the characters. In the opening pages we soon get a fabulous image of the ageing Captain Block while the dutiful Tilda may initially seem weak compared to her Captain but she soon proves to be strong, independent and courageous, a brilliant heroine to guide us through McNally’s richly realised world. This being the first book in the series there is the need for a lot of background history at times to immerse us in the context of this period. I know from experience that it is hard to find a balance when it comes to world building in a fantasy novel but McNally has no problems here, his writing is completely assured and confident throughout but never arrogant.
Tilda’s journey to the Sable City in search of the elusive John Deskata sees her encounter some wonderful characters. The entrancing and beautiful Nesha-Tari is something of a mystery and is accompanied by Amatesu and a samurai with the cool name of Uriako Shikashe. We also have a Duchess, Claudja, a wizard, Phin, and a soldier, Zeb. Oh, did I mention the dragons in here too but not just for the sake it. Each character has a purpose in the novel, no one is wasted. The characters all begin the novel separately save Nesha-Tari and her two companions but gradually everyone comes together in the heart of the Sable City where some pretty nasty creatures are waiting to take out the unsuspecting. You didn’t really think you’d be able to walk in, help yourself to treasure and walk out again that easily, did you?
The Sable City is a long novel and may be intimidating for some readers. There are lot of characters and the book does switch perspectives often, even allowing us to drop in on the scheming of the darker forces at work in the novel. The world building is very detailed but it is essential to the overall story. While some of these elements may be off-putting to some people, I found that McNally handled it all like an experienced veteran in this genre. His characters have plenty of life to them, the story is action-packed and the dialogue refreshingly down to earth with some good humour and even flirtation thrown in as Tilda finds herself in what may be the start of a romance but I’m not giving away how it turns out.
The Sable City is an excellent opening to what I am confident will be a great series. Death of a Kingdom and The Wind from Miilark are already on my to-be-read list but in the meantime I am happy to join my fellow critics in a collective round of applause to Mr McNally. As a fantasy writer I like to read the work of others in my field and learn from the better writers. I’ve certainly learned a thing or two from The Sable City.
The novel initially follows the journey of an ageing and stubborn dwarf, Captain Block, and a guilder, Matilda Lanai a.k.a. Tilda who are looking for John Deskata, heir to the House of Deskata, which they belong to back on the Miilark Islands. It is their duty to bring the heir back and save their House from ruin. However, a lot more is afoot in McNally’s world, not least the city known as Vod’ Adia, the Sable City of the title, that opens its gates once every 100 years for opportunists to loot and pillage the rich treasures within. While the hunt for John Deskata continues, a horde of characters from various lands all descend on the Sable City and let’s just say they’re not all friends with each other!
The first thing you’ll notice about McNally’s novel is the impressive level of detail in the world of Noroth and most importantly the characters. In the opening pages we soon get a fabulous image of the ageing Captain Block while the dutiful Tilda may initially seem weak compared to her Captain but she soon proves to be strong, independent and courageous, a brilliant heroine to guide us through McNally’s richly realised world. This being the first book in the series there is the need for a lot of background history at times to immerse us in the context of this period. I know from experience that it is hard to find a balance when it comes to world building in a fantasy novel but McNally has no problems here, his writing is completely assured and confident throughout but never arrogant.
Tilda’s journey to the Sable City in search of the elusive John Deskata sees her encounter some wonderful characters. The entrancing and beautiful Nesha-Tari is something of a mystery and is accompanied by Amatesu and a samurai with the cool name of Uriako Shikashe. We also have a Duchess, Claudja, a wizard, Phin, and a soldier, Zeb. Oh, did I mention the dragons in here too but not just for the sake it. Each character has a purpose in the novel, no one is wasted. The characters all begin the novel separately save Nesha-Tari and her two companions but gradually everyone comes together in the heart of the Sable City where some pretty nasty creatures are waiting to take out the unsuspecting. You didn’t really think you’d be able to walk in, help yourself to treasure and walk out again that easily, did you?
The Sable City is a long novel and may be intimidating for some readers. There are lot of characters and the book does switch perspectives often, even allowing us to drop in on the scheming of the darker forces at work in the novel. The world building is very detailed but it is essential to the overall story. While some of these elements may be off-putting to some people, I found that McNally handled it all like an experienced veteran in this genre. His characters have plenty of life to them, the story is action-packed and the dialogue refreshingly down to earth with some good humour and even flirtation thrown in as Tilda finds herself in what may be the start of a romance but I’m not giving away how it turns out.
The Sable City is an excellent opening to what I am confident will be a great series. Death of a Kingdom and The Wind from Miilark are already on my to-be-read list but in the meantime I am happy to join my fellow critics in a collective round of applause to Mr McNally. As a fantasy writer I like to read the work of others in my field and learn from the better writers. I’ve certainly learned a thing or two from The Sable City.
July 19, 2011
I knew I was going to like this book as soon as I read the first page and the funny image I gained in my head of Block.
The author has taken great pains to create the world inside his book, which is rich in description as he paints his canvas very fully, so you can visualise the landscape and literally taste the coffee. The characters are individually drawn, have their own issues, sense and ethics, and they develop as the book unfolds. The plot is interesting and there are enough threads to keep you guessing. There is a broad range of personalities and creatures here - from humans to monsters and mages to dragons and demons.
The first quarter of the book is slower, building up the setting and background, and getting to know the various characters. It gives the novel an epic feel. Readers who like novels that plunge into the action immediately could find themselves a little impatient with the slow beginning and background building, but they should stick with it - when the action gets going it really gets going. They are in for a treat. The momentum builds up at the end of the first quarter and by the halfway point it's rocketing - it really gets going, pulling the characters and plot threads together. The fight scenes are pretty awesome, and there is also a lot of humour and some comic characters. By the end you really want to dive into the second book.
In picking a favourite character, I'm a bit stuck because I had many, which is unusual. It was good to read a book too with such strong female characters as Tilda and Nesha-Tari.
A swashbuckling delight, I would thoroughly recommend this book as a cracking read. Brilliant. If the second book is half as good as the first then this promises to be a thrilling and fascinating series. I've downloaded the second one already!
The author has taken great pains to create the world inside his book, which is rich in description as he paints his canvas very fully, so you can visualise the landscape and literally taste the coffee. The characters are individually drawn, have their own issues, sense and ethics, and they develop as the book unfolds. The plot is interesting and there are enough threads to keep you guessing. There is a broad range of personalities and creatures here - from humans to monsters and mages to dragons and demons.
The first quarter of the book is slower, building up the setting and background, and getting to know the various characters. It gives the novel an epic feel. Readers who like novels that plunge into the action immediately could find themselves a little impatient with the slow beginning and background building, but they should stick with it - when the action gets going it really gets going. They are in for a treat. The momentum builds up at the end of the first quarter and by the halfway point it's rocketing - it really gets going, pulling the characters and plot threads together. The fight scenes are pretty awesome, and there is also a lot of humour and some comic characters. By the end you really want to dive into the second book.
In picking a favourite character, I'm a bit stuck because I had many, which is unusual. It was good to read a book too with such strong female characters as Tilda and Nesha-Tari.
A swashbuckling delight, I would thoroughly recommend this book as a cracking read. Brilliant. If the second book is half as good as the first then this promises to be a thrilling and fascinating series. I've downloaded the second one already!
June 15, 2011
I love a book with a strong female lead and none come any bolder than McNally’s characterization of Tilda. In a world of magic, Tilda must make her way to the Sable City to find the exiled heir to the House she serves.
McNally’s writing is laden with captivating descriptions of a unique world and filled with mind-boggling details. The world that McNally is able to bring from his creative mind and put to paper is beautiful, yet dangerous, dark and mystic.
This is a must read for any sci-fi lover and other readers as well. The is a book to take time with and let yourself become part of the excitement that McNally has created for our enjoyment.
Ebook by M. Edward MaNally: In a desperate search for an exiled heir, Tilda crosses a war-torn continent to the gates of the Sable City, where centuries ago dark magic almost destroyed the world. Along with a sinister sorceress, a broken-hearted samurai, and a miscreant mercenary long on charm but lousy with a crossbow, Tilda must brave the demon-infested ruins to find the heir who may yet save her House.
McNally’s writing is laden with captivating descriptions of a unique world and filled with mind-boggling details. The world that McNally is able to bring from his creative mind and put to paper is beautiful, yet dangerous, dark and mystic.
This is a must read for any sci-fi lover and other readers as well. The is a book to take time with and let yourself become part of the excitement that McNally has created for our enjoyment.
Ebook by M. Edward MaNally: In a desperate search for an exiled heir, Tilda crosses a war-torn continent to the gates of the Sable City, where centuries ago dark magic almost destroyed the world. Along with a sinister sorceress, a broken-hearted samurai, and a miscreant mercenary long on charm but lousy with a crossbow, Tilda must brave the demon-infested ruins to find the heir who may yet save her House.
April 16, 2013
I got this book for free & I have it admit that for about the first half I found it to be very dry. Thinking to myself that I was glad I hadn't paid for it. Then all of a sudden that drastically changed. All of a sudden the story took off & I became obcessed with it.
I could not put it down, I had to see where the story would go and what would be the fates of the characters,
I loved it, and have continued the feeling through all the books so far.
I could not put it down, I had to see where the story would go and what would be the fates of the characters,
I loved it, and have continued the feeling through all the books so far.
June 12, 2011
The Sable City is a fun and refreshing D&D epic fantasy romp set in the 14th century. There’s muskets and magic, and dwarves and samurai. Blood gets spilt along the way due to encounters with nefarious demon hordes and such, but a wry sense of humour is maintained throughout the book.
The book grabbed my attention from the first page and I found it hard to put down, which is a bit of a problem considering its epic word count of 183,000. Hence, be warned. It first starts as a quest for two, then a diverse cast of characters are introduced; their paths get tangled and it builds up to a fun dungeon-crawl and boss fight. I’d like to talk about some of the twists and surprises, but I won’t spoil the fun for you.
While the characters don’t deviate from the common fantasy types (kleptomaniac rogue, gruff dwarf, snarky mage, antisocial melee guy, female healer, … even the novel samurai isn’t characterized beyond stoic), they’re very likeable, lively, and sympathetic. I cared about them as real individuals and desired to see their stories through. There aren’t any faux action or TSTL heroines here as Tilda and the other women are skilled and resourceful. There’s plenty of moxie and quipping to go around.
McNally develops a rich and detailed world full of history. It pays greater attention to resource wars, changing boundaries, and taxes than other stories with this fantasy setting. It’s a world where an accursed city of doom opens up… and the first thing that happens is that hobgoblins levy taxes on any treasure carried out. It’s dungeons and business.
One of The Sable City’s greatest strengths is its energetic tone and sense of humour. The characters have their troubles and despair, so while it has its poignant moments, it never gets too serious for its own good. It plays with some fantasy tropes while keeping the reader immersed in the story, and it strikes this balance masterfully.
The book’s weakness lies in the “building” of world-building. The first fifth is difficult to read because of the massive infodumping about the world. It made me feel like I was reading a game world wiki than a novel, but once you’re past the infodumping, it’s smooth sailing and turns out to be a really fun read. I think it could still benefit from more editing to fix excessive exposition and some awkward early scenes–but the way it is now, it’s still a great 4 star book.
There are a few anachronistic phrases (like “teamster”) and moments where I felt like I was playing an RPG instead of reading a novel. Its preoccupation with equipment and armour can only be described as obsessive, a mage attempts to cast Know History, and the party has a penchant for climbing up towers full of mooks just because the towers are there. But the quirks work well with the tone and story, so I just find them charming.
Due to the beginning 20% of ridiculous infodumping, I advice readers approach to that section with some blinders on if you’re overwhelmed by the details. Once you’re past that, it greatly improves and reveals itself as a rewarding and fun dungeons & dragons romp. I highly recommend The Sable City if you’re looking for an entertaining epic fantasy adventure.
Note: a free review copy was provided by the author.
The book grabbed my attention from the first page and I found it hard to put down, which is a bit of a problem considering its epic word count of 183,000. Hence, be warned. It first starts as a quest for two, then a diverse cast of characters are introduced; their paths get tangled and it builds up to a fun dungeon-crawl and boss fight. I’d like to talk about some of the twists and surprises, but I won’t spoil the fun for you.
While the characters don’t deviate from the common fantasy types (kleptomaniac rogue, gruff dwarf, snarky mage, antisocial melee guy, female healer, … even the novel samurai isn’t characterized beyond stoic), they’re very likeable, lively, and sympathetic. I cared about them as real individuals and desired to see their stories through. There aren’t any faux action or TSTL heroines here as Tilda and the other women are skilled and resourceful. There’s plenty of moxie and quipping to go around.
McNally develops a rich and detailed world full of history. It pays greater attention to resource wars, changing boundaries, and taxes than other stories with this fantasy setting. It’s a world where an accursed city of doom opens up… and the first thing that happens is that hobgoblins levy taxes on any treasure carried out. It’s dungeons and business.
One of The Sable City’s greatest strengths is its energetic tone and sense of humour. The characters have their troubles and despair, so while it has its poignant moments, it never gets too serious for its own good. It plays with some fantasy tropes while keeping the reader immersed in the story, and it strikes this balance masterfully.
The book’s weakness lies in the “building” of world-building. The first fifth is difficult to read because of the massive infodumping about the world. It made me feel like I was reading a game world wiki than a novel, but once you’re past the infodumping, it’s smooth sailing and turns out to be a really fun read. I think it could still benefit from more editing to fix excessive exposition and some awkward early scenes–but the way it is now, it’s still a great 4 star book.
There are a few anachronistic phrases (like “teamster”) and moments where I felt like I was playing an RPG instead of reading a novel. Its preoccupation with equipment and armour can only be described as obsessive, a mage attempts to cast Know History, and the party has a penchant for climbing up towers full of mooks just because the towers are there. But the quirks work well with the tone and story, so I just find them charming.
Due to the beginning 20% of ridiculous infodumping, I advice readers approach to that section with some blinders on if you’re overwhelmed by the details. Once you’re past that, it greatly improves and reveals itself as a rewarding and fun dungeons & dragons romp. I highly recommend The Sable City if you’re looking for an entertaining epic fantasy adventure.
Note: a free review copy was provided by the author.
March 24, 2012
To see this review and more like it check out my site www.ufreviews.com
I'm surprised to say I haven't read many epic fantasy books as of late, somehow I seem to have been thrown a lot of YA books my way (both in work and in reviewing), which is odd for me since YA does not tend to be a genre I normally enjoy. So it was kind of nice to find an epic fantasy book come up on the review list, I very much so have missed reading them. Well that and my husband will listen to me talk about epic fantasy books I like a lot more than YA books I like ;)
Anyways, before I started reading a lot of epic fantasy for reviews, I had this preconceived notion that a lot of the stories take place with male leads. And while there are a lot more male leads in epic versus say urban fantasy, there are still plenty of epic with a strong female lead. And this book was one of those such books. The lead in this case is Tilda, she really is kind of an awesome character. She is strong and can certainly hold her own against pretty much anyone. In fact I have to mention of all of the women characters I have read I don't know that all of them have had the command that she does over so many weapons.
I think that in general the writer did a really good job of putting together a world and a situation that captivates the reader. The plot is quick moving and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I thought the the author did a really good job at world building. I think that is one of the harder parts for epic fantasy because they literally get to create a world completely from scratch, however they want to make it to fit their imagination. I think the author did a pretty good job with world building. I think the thing I enjoy most about the book though the author's ability to mesh together elements of different genres and put together a cohesive and enjoyable read.
There is certainly a lot to be said about the book itself, but it's kind of hard to do it without revealing a lot of spoilers. That being said the book is really a good read. I do have to mention the book is a bit on the longer side of books, so this is probably going to be a book that you get invested in as well as maybe take a couple of days to read the book. But in general I think the book is a pretty good one and anyone who likes epic fantasy but is looking for an epic fantasy with a bit of a twist, you should check out this book.
I'm surprised to say I haven't read many epic fantasy books as of late, somehow I seem to have been thrown a lot of YA books my way (both in work and in reviewing), which is odd for me since YA does not tend to be a genre I normally enjoy. So it was kind of nice to find an epic fantasy book come up on the review list, I very much so have missed reading them. Well that and my husband will listen to me talk about epic fantasy books I like a lot more than YA books I like ;)
Anyways, before I started reading a lot of epic fantasy for reviews, I had this preconceived notion that a lot of the stories take place with male leads. And while there are a lot more male leads in epic versus say urban fantasy, there are still plenty of epic with a strong female lead. And this book was one of those such books. The lead in this case is Tilda, she really is kind of an awesome character. She is strong and can certainly hold her own against pretty much anyone. In fact I have to mention of all of the women characters I have read I don't know that all of them have had the command that she does over so many weapons.
I think that in general the writer did a really good job of putting together a world and a situation that captivates the reader. The plot is quick moving and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I thought the the author did a really good job at world building. I think that is one of the harder parts for epic fantasy because they literally get to create a world completely from scratch, however they want to make it to fit their imagination. I think the author did a pretty good job with world building. I think the thing I enjoy most about the book though the author's ability to mesh together elements of different genres and put together a cohesive and enjoyable read.
There is certainly a lot to be said about the book itself, but it's kind of hard to do it without revealing a lot of spoilers. That being said the book is really a good read. I do have to mention the book is a bit on the longer side of books, so this is probably going to be a book that you get invested in as well as maybe take a couple of days to read the book. But in general I think the book is a pretty good one and anyone who likes epic fantasy but is looking for an epic fantasy with a bit of a twist, you should check out this book.
September 27, 2017
Mid-way through, I really thought The Sable City would be the first Kindle freE-book to impress me enough to buy the sequel. There are so many things to like about it - an assassin's guild, imaginative races (amphibious frog-humanoids, enigmatic dragon-overlords), insinuated parallel worlds, and best of all, intense and believable action. Love me some blown-out knee caps!
The physical world was also incredibly expansive and a lot of thought was put into thousands of years of history. One critique I have is that the geography of the world got pretty confusing, and I think McNally needs to work on describing the layout of places in other ways than cardinal directions. For example, there is this info-dump that opens Chapter Six:
Clearly the level of writing is high, but to me his descriptions oft times read like a list of pretty pronouns. When I actually took the time to sit down and read this book, I found myself settling in quite comfortably, but for some reason it was always a drag to pick it back up after a lull. Maybe it was because I didn't understand the end-goal to the main quest or what I was supposed to be anticipating.
4 Stars - All the right pieces are there, but I have enough other books I need to read to not justify buying the sequel. I would still recommend this to Kindle-owning fantasy lovers if it is still available for free!
The physical world was also incredibly expansive and a lot of thought was put into thousands of years of history. One critique I have is that the geography of the world got pretty confusing, and I think McNally needs to work on describing the layout of places in other ways than cardinal directions. For example, there is this info-dump that opens Chapter Six:
South of the Trellane barony in Imperial Orstaf, and beyond the southern peaks of the Great Girding Mountains lie the realms of Old Daul, the Kingdom of the River Nan. From north to south along the western border of Daul with the grim and tangled wilderness known as the Vod Wilds, lie in the highland province of Heftiga, the fertile forest valleys of ancient Chengdea, and finally the sultry delta of Nanshea. It is there that the great river empties into the Noroth Channel separating the continent from the hard-scrabble coast of Kandala to the south. There on the Nan's open mouth is the city the Daulmen have long called Larbonne.
Clearly the level of writing is high, but to me his descriptions oft times read like a list of pretty pronouns. When I actually took the time to sit down and read this book, I found myself settling in quite comfortably, but for some reason it was always a drag to pick it back up after a lull. Maybe it was because I didn't understand the end-goal to the main quest or what I was supposed to be anticipating.
4 Stars - All the right pieces are there, but I have enough other books I need to read to not justify buying the sequel. I would still recommend this to Kindle-owning fantasy lovers if it is still available for free!
December 6, 2012
I mean, I don't even know how to review this book without saying the same things that a million other reviewers have already said.
I don't read epic fantasy. It took me like three months to get through The Lord of the Rings. I've had this book for a while but hadn't picked it up because it was so lengthy.
Lengthy, it was not. Maybe in word count, sure, but I zipped through this book. It hooked me from beginning to end so that I was frantically turning pages to find out what happened next. The action starts immediately - like BAM, here you are, here's these characters and they're doing something you have NO CLUE about. And from there, it's an epic adventure all the way til the end. (Heh. Epic. Pun.)
I was absolutely in love with Tilda, who rather than being a hard-ass, is still often just a girl who isn't quite sure of everything. I love this rag-tag band of people that ends up getting dragged together, and the end was perfect. I can't wait to read the next!!
Like everything Ed McNally writes, The Sable City was beautiful. This man has a grasp of words and putting them together into poetry and storytelling that most writers will never have. This book played out like a movie in my mind--the scenery descriptions stunning, the world SO REAL and so artfully crafted that it was easy to forget it didn't exist. This series has the potential to be as famous as LoTR or that George RR dude, but MUCH BETTER.
I don't read epic fantasy. It took me like three months to get through The Lord of the Rings. I've had this book for a while but hadn't picked it up because it was so lengthy.
Lengthy, it was not. Maybe in word count, sure, but I zipped through this book. It hooked me from beginning to end so that I was frantically turning pages to find out what happened next. The action starts immediately - like BAM, here you are, here's these characters and they're doing something you have NO CLUE about. And from there, it's an epic adventure all the way til the end. (Heh. Epic. Pun.)
I was absolutely in love with Tilda, who rather than being a hard-ass, is still often just a girl who isn't quite sure of everything. I love this rag-tag band of people that ends up getting dragged together, and the end was perfect. I can't wait to read the next!!
Like everything Ed McNally writes, The Sable City was beautiful. This man has a grasp of words and putting them together into poetry and storytelling that most writers will never have. This book played out like a movie in my mind--the scenery descriptions stunning, the world SO REAL and so artfully crafted that it was easy to forget it didn't exist. This series has the potential to be as famous as LoTR or that George RR dude, but MUCH BETTER.
June 29, 2012
The Sable City was a great epic fantasy quest, full of lots of action and adventure and plenty of humor - definitely my kind of book.
Fully-developed characters, and excellently-described physical (land) and political climates made the story rich and engaging. Several seemingly unrelated groups and events might feel a little confusing at first, but stick it out just a little longer and you'll see them all being inextricably drawn towards the same location - The Sable City. You also learn more and more about each character (not all are humans) as the story unfolds - giving even deeper insights into characters that the author could have left with the minimum development, but was wise enough to understand the need for continued development.
I was not far into the story at all before I was hooked and could not easily put it down (for such pesky things as sleep or work or food, etc). Word of warning: don't try to read this all in one sitting - it is rather long, and I mistakenly thought that an entire epic was kept into a single volume, until I got to the end of it. This was only Book 1 of the epic story. ~lol~ I have already bought Book 2 and will be starting it soon.
Fully-developed characters, and excellently-described physical (land) and political climates made the story rich and engaging. Several seemingly unrelated groups and events might feel a little confusing at first, but stick it out just a little longer and you'll see them all being inextricably drawn towards the same location - The Sable City. You also learn more and more about each character (not all are humans) as the story unfolds - giving even deeper insights into characters that the author could have left with the minimum development, but was wise enough to understand the need for continued development.
I was not far into the story at all before I was hooked and could not easily put it down (for such pesky things as sleep or work or food, etc). Word of warning: don't try to read this all in one sitting - it is rather long, and I mistakenly thought that an entire epic was kept into a single volume, until I got to the end of it. This was only Book 1 of the epic story. ~lol~ I have already bought Book 2 and will be starting it soon.
October 24, 2011
I read THE SABLE CITY because I've read other stories from this author and really enjoyed them. These were short stories, though, so decided i wanted to try something with more meat so-to-speak. Well, THE SABLE CITY is like a five course meal at a five star restaurant. The story truly belongs in the epic category yet reads very fast--mainly because you want to find out what happens next. The novel is filled with colorful characters, my favorite(perhaps because I am male) being Matilda Lanai, though she goes by Tilda. Tilda is everything a reader would like to see in a heroine--sexy, beautiful, intelligent, and yes she's damn good with all kinds of weaponry, including but not limited to swords, daggers, clubs and bows and arrows. All kinds of interesting creatures can be found in this epic fantasy--stirges, piercers, hobgoblins, bugbears, bullywugs, and dragons, and more. THE SABLE CITY is a fun literary read. Highly recommended for those lovers of epics and new worlds. And this was only book one--wow!
April 17, 2012
This book creates a detailed and fantastic world filled with rich characters. Exactly what fantasy writing should be about. The dialog sequences are extremely well written which reveals the personalities of the characters while not becoming tedious. Likewise, the action sections are richly descriptive without becoming an exercise in the use of adverbs and gore. The writing is extremely professional with an unusual narrative voice that keeps the reader turning pages to reveal more and more of the adventure.
It is, at it's heart, an adventure story. The cast of characters is rich with some very original likable characters, nightmarish creatures and enough humorous situations to add credibility to the personalities. Excellently paced, the plot moves forward with enough side bars and back stories to engage the readers in the world and people the author created. There is great attention to small details, but it done when of importance to the story and the readers engagement to the world comes from. A wonderful fantasy adventure epic.
It is, at it's heart, an adventure story. The cast of characters is rich with some very original likable characters, nightmarish creatures and enough humorous situations to add credibility to the personalities. Excellently paced, the plot moves forward with enough side bars and back stories to engage the readers in the world and people the author created. There is great attention to small details, but it done when of importance to the story and the readers engagement to the world comes from. A wonderful fantasy adventure epic.
February 12, 2013
Another free book that I read because it was free - the description sounded ok, but hey, it was free.
I loved this book. It starts with an old dwarf who is asked to head out and find the last heir to a family. The dwarf, captain Block recruits a young woman who is not done with her guilder training to accompany him. You know, sounds like a basic fantasy adventure. They set out to another country where a mysterious city is about to "open" as it does once every 99 years. The story culminates in this city, after a few more groups are introduced, plot twists occur, and people die.
What I most enjoyed was the writing - the story is very well written, and the author's humor reminds me of Terry Pratchett's Discworld series - this is a great compliment. I've already started book 2.
I loved this book. It starts with an old dwarf who is asked to head out and find the last heir to a family. The dwarf, captain Block recruits a young woman who is not done with her guilder training to accompany him. You know, sounds like a basic fantasy adventure. They set out to another country where a mysterious city is about to "open" as it does once every 99 years. The story culminates in this city, after a few more groups are introduced, plot twists occur, and people die.
What I most enjoyed was the writing - the story is very well written, and the author's humor reminds me of Terry Pratchett's Discworld series - this is a great compliment. I've already started book 2.
May 6, 2017
The first half of this book was only borderline interesting. The only reason I continued to read was because I wanted to see what would happen to Tilda. She was introduced as basically someone low that started the guild late, but was proving to have excellent skill. The first half of the book was just a lot of traveling and introducing other characters who would tie into the story at a later date. Once everyone reaches Camp Town, the book then gets really interesting. I would recommend this to anyone who likes adventure books with dragons, hobgoblins, demons/devils and other supernatural and/or mythical creatures. I do want to read the next book as it sounds like something big is about to happen.
May 21, 2016
It was an interesting read. Wordy at times and, honestly, who needs to know the geography of an empire down to the last path or village, or river ? Aaarghhhh
But things improved a lot along the way and I am glad I didn't throw the book away to the seven hells when I felt like it.
Naturally, I'll keep on reading this series because, even if the characters are not yet dear to me (ah, well Zeb maybe ?), they do have something...
And THAT epilogue !!
But things improved a lot along the way and I am glad I didn't throw the book away to the seven hells when I felt like it.
Naturally, I'll keep on reading this series because, even if the characters are not yet dear to me (ah, well Zeb maybe ?), they do have something...
And THAT epilogue !!
May 8, 2013
The cover boasts a tiki-looking mask, a katana, and a gun. On that basis alone, I was in on this book. And I'm glad I took the chance. Fresh, exciting take on quest fantasy that turns the usual tropes inside-out, with vivid characters and a gripping and always-entertaining story, engagingly written with a perfect balance between grit and humor.
June 5, 2011
This was a very enjoyable fantasy/adventure with colorful and well defined characters. The action was intense and described in a way that made it feel very genuine. It felt as if the author was very familiar with the weapons and tactics.
A very entertaining, immersive read.
A very entertaining, immersive read.
January 19, 2015
Very good story and as a DnD based book it's excellent. Very tempted to buy the next ones in the series.
July 15, 2012
Title: The Norothian Cycle (Books I-IV)
Author: M. Edward McNally
Format: Kindle Edition
Size (Book I): 927 kb – 475 pages
Interest: Fantasy
Rating 0-100: 98 (5 Stars)
Tilda Lanai has trained for years to take her place among the Guilders of the Miilark Islands, but now the Trade House she is to serve is imperiled by the absence of a legitimate Deskata heir. Scenting blood in the water, rival Houses begin to circle. The desperate search for an exiled heir takes Tilda across a war-torn continent and to the gates of the Sable City, where centuries ago dark magic almost destroyed the world. Along with a sinister sorceress, a broken-hearted samurai, and a miscreant mercenary long on charm but lousy with a crossbow, Tilda must brave the demon-infested ruins. Only then can she find John Deskata, who may not want to be found at all.
(Only one thing worse than reading short blurbs for long books, writing short blurbs for long books. ;-) The above is very nuts and bolts: "Tilda must go here to do this," but of course it is all a lot more complicated than that. I love the fantasy genre and respect its classic elements. That said, this series is to some extent about playing with what might be expected, and bringing some humor, mystery, and a bit of flirty banter to what can easily turn only too grim, when the stakes are so "fantastically" high. It isn't "Dark" fantasy, but nor is it slapstick. It's basically a character piece about Tilda Lanai, trying to hold down a job, help out her friends, and survive the day-to-day. With a couple dragons thrown in, of course. - Ed McNally)
___________________________________________________
This is a review of not one book, but four. These four books of the Norothian Cycle (Sable City, Death of a Kingdom, The Wind from Miilark, Devil Town), are the first in a series. I'm not sure how many more there will be, but I know that the author is working on Book V now. If I took them individually my five star rating would hold up for each one, but I believe it's only fair to treat this series as a single review, as I doubt that anyone that purchases the first book would not be inclined to buy the others as well.
I first came across Ed McNally (@medwardmcnally on Twitter) on the Indies Unlimited website where he has a regular column. His articles are informative and witty, and that led me to pick up a copy of Sable City. It's the type of book I loved to read while growing up. Tolkien, Donaldson, and a few others made the fantasy genre a favorite of mine. I grew out of these types of books, becoming bored with what seems to be the same problem with vampire stories today. There are just too many, and the structure falls apart when each author describes their vampire, or dragon/elf/dwarf/magic, in a different way.
Yes, it does make the story unique when your vampire has an alien origin, or the God of Bizmark created all dragons, but it also ruins a good genre when it's not done properly. I'm not saying that all magic systems should work the same, but with so many variations out there it damn well better be original, believable, and compelling if you stray from the norm. McNally and his Norothian Cycle brought the fantasy genre back to life for me because he kept it simple and pulled from a realm that I, and hundreds of thousands of others are familiar with; D&D.
The Good
There are many good things about this series, not the least of which is that it's easy to understand how things work, especially if you have D&D experience in your past. The magic system used is familiar, as are many of the spells. Some of the creatures in the book are similar to the ones that I've come across in many games. This is not a bad thing; it's a good thing. McNally doesn't rewrite the magic system or creatures. There's no need to. I already know what dragons look like, and I know that the color of the dragon indicates a specific challenge in terms of what to expect; fire, acid, poison, cold, etc...
Even those not familiar with the mechanics of D&D will be able to keep up easily. McNally does a good job of giving you just enough information to keep you on your toes. It's not all about magic and creatures though. At its core, it's about the characters. Each of them have their own lives, and agendas. This is what makes the story shine, and it raises the bar for future fantasy novels that I will read. Tolkien was the original master, and Gary Gygax (D&D creator) was influenced heavily by his work. McNally manages to blend the two and tell a tale of epic proportions. This is not just a good book, it is an excellent series.
Book I (Sable City) is a staggering 180,000+ word novel. There's nothing better than a large book, especially when it's a good one. The others are a bit lighter, but no less enthralling. Some of the characters are lovable, some are dastardly, but all of them are memorable. The multiple plots all cross and converge at various points, and it's enough to leave you breathless.
The Bad
There is some bad news, and I'll give it to you straight. Some of the descriptions go on longer than necessary at times, especially at the start of a new chapter. I found myself skipping multiple paragraphs of prose to get back to the action on more than a few occasions. This was most annoying in the first book, but the later ones are not that bad. It did take me out of the story a few times, and I thought to myself, "Wow, this author has a ton of detail on everything in his world." - I just didn't need that much detail.
That's it. If you can skip a few paragraphs here and there, not unlike fast forwarding through a commercial on the DVR, then you won't have any problems getting through the first story.
Conclusion
If you buy the first book then you will probably buy the rest of them. I bought books two and three about halfway through book one. It was fortunate that book four became available just as I finished book three. Now I'm waiting patiently for book five. This is one of my favorite fantasy series. The characters, the humor, and the story kept me entertained for a couple of weeks, and I feel like I've had a vacation.
Fantasy isn't for everyone, I'll concede that point. However, if you've ever played D&D (and enjoyed it), or you're a fan of Tolkien, Donaldson and other masters of the genre, then you will love this series. It's my top fantasy pick of the year so far.
–Rush
Author: M. Edward McNally
Format: Kindle Edition
Size (Book I): 927 kb – 475 pages
Interest: Fantasy
Rating 0-100: 98 (5 Stars)
Tilda Lanai has trained for years to take her place among the Guilders of the Miilark Islands, but now the Trade House she is to serve is imperiled by the absence of a legitimate Deskata heir. Scenting blood in the water, rival Houses begin to circle. The desperate search for an exiled heir takes Tilda across a war-torn continent and to the gates of the Sable City, where centuries ago dark magic almost destroyed the world. Along with a sinister sorceress, a broken-hearted samurai, and a miscreant mercenary long on charm but lousy with a crossbow, Tilda must brave the demon-infested ruins. Only then can she find John Deskata, who may not want to be found at all.
(Only one thing worse than reading short blurbs for long books, writing short blurbs for long books. ;-) The above is very nuts and bolts: "Tilda must go here to do this," but of course it is all a lot more complicated than that. I love the fantasy genre and respect its classic elements. That said, this series is to some extent about playing with what might be expected, and bringing some humor, mystery, and a bit of flirty banter to what can easily turn only too grim, when the stakes are so "fantastically" high. It isn't "Dark" fantasy, but nor is it slapstick. It's basically a character piece about Tilda Lanai, trying to hold down a job, help out her friends, and survive the day-to-day. With a couple dragons thrown in, of course. - Ed McNally)
___________________________________________________
This is a review of not one book, but four. These four books of the Norothian Cycle (Sable City, Death of a Kingdom, The Wind from Miilark, Devil Town), are the first in a series. I'm not sure how many more there will be, but I know that the author is working on Book V now. If I took them individually my five star rating would hold up for each one, but I believe it's only fair to treat this series as a single review, as I doubt that anyone that purchases the first book would not be inclined to buy the others as well.
I first came across Ed McNally (@medwardmcnally on Twitter) on the Indies Unlimited website where he has a regular column. His articles are informative and witty, and that led me to pick up a copy of Sable City. It's the type of book I loved to read while growing up. Tolkien, Donaldson, and a few others made the fantasy genre a favorite of mine. I grew out of these types of books, becoming bored with what seems to be the same problem with vampire stories today. There are just too many, and the structure falls apart when each author describes their vampire, or dragon/elf/dwarf/magic, in a different way.
Yes, it does make the story unique when your vampire has an alien origin, or the God of Bizmark created all dragons, but it also ruins a good genre when it's not done properly. I'm not saying that all magic systems should work the same, but with so many variations out there it damn well better be original, believable, and compelling if you stray from the norm. McNally and his Norothian Cycle brought the fantasy genre back to life for me because he kept it simple and pulled from a realm that I, and hundreds of thousands of others are familiar with; D&D.
The Good
There are many good things about this series, not the least of which is that it's easy to understand how things work, especially if you have D&D experience in your past. The magic system used is familiar, as are many of the spells. Some of the creatures in the book are similar to the ones that I've come across in many games. This is not a bad thing; it's a good thing. McNally doesn't rewrite the magic system or creatures. There's no need to. I already know what dragons look like, and I know that the color of the dragon indicates a specific challenge in terms of what to expect; fire, acid, poison, cold, etc...
Even those not familiar with the mechanics of D&D will be able to keep up easily. McNally does a good job of giving you just enough information to keep you on your toes. It's not all about magic and creatures though. At its core, it's about the characters. Each of them have their own lives, and agendas. This is what makes the story shine, and it raises the bar for future fantasy novels that I will read. Tolkien was the original master, and Gary Gygax (D&D creator) was influenced heavily by his work. McNally manages to blend the two and tell a tale of epic proportions. This is not just a good book, it is an excellent series.
Book I (Sable City) is a staggering 180,000+ word novel. There's nothing better than a large book, especially when it's a good one. The others are a bit lighter, but no less enthralling. Some of the characters are lovable, some are dastardly, but all of them are memorable. The multiple plots all cross and converge at various points, and it's enough to leave you breathless.
The Bad
There is some bad news, and I'll give it to you straight. Some of the descriptions go on longer than necessary at times, especially at the start of a new chapter. I found myself skipping multiple paragraphs of prose to get back to the action on more than a few occasions. This was most annoying in the first book, but the later ones are not that bad. It did take me out of the story a few times, and I thought to myself, "Wow, this author has a ton of detail on everything in his world." - I just didn't need that much detail.
That's it. If you can skip a few paragraphs here and there, not unlike fast forwarding through a commercial on the DVR, then you won't have any problems getting through the first story.
Conclusion
If you buy the first book then you will probably buy the rest of them. I bought books two and three about halfway through book one. It was fortunate that book four became available just as I finished book three. Now I'm waiting patiently for book five. This is one of my favorite fantasy series. The characters, the humor, and the story kept me entertained for a couple of weeks, and I feel like I've had a vacation.
Fantasy isn't for everyone, I'll concede that point. However, if you've ever played D&D (and enjoyed it), or you're a fan of Tolkien, Donaldson and other masters of the genre, then you will love this series. It's my top fantasy pick of the year so far.
–Rush
February 22, 2018
Do you like to go to different places/worlds? Do you love adventuring through long lost cities only accessed by those stupid/greedy/determined enough to endure the most extreme circumstances to get there? Can you stand in the face of ultimate evil and overcome your fear with courage, resolve and a sword/bow/mace/magical ability? Are you tough enough to read this book? Don't be afraid to find out, read it.
Written by a true storyteller with the ability to enclose you in his book and take you there.
Written by a true storyteller with the ability to enclose you in his book and take you there.
November 6, 2017
This book was recommended by a friend who absolutely loved it. I really enjoyed it as well. It started off a little bit slow, but somewhere around a quarter of the way through it really picked up and I found myself thoroughly engaged. There are several story lines to follow but the author does a good job of keeping all of them moving well. If you like fantasy, then I would at least give it a try. Not everyone likes fantasy for the same reasons but this is a well rounded fantasy novel.
June 28, 2017
Didn't grab my attention and very convoluted with information that didn't stick with me so would of meant nothing had it become relevant to the story. There are too many good books to try to plow through this which is against my ocd nature of having to finish books I start.
August 14, 2021
Adventuresome Reading
Enjoyable reading with a twists and turns not seen. Great character development with unexpected deaths and unanticipated connections. Excellently written and extremely entertaining.
Enjoyable reading with a twists and turns not seen. Great character development with unexpected deaths and unanticipated connections. Excellently written and extremely entertaining.
January 24, 2022
Enjoyed this, more than I was expecting to.
Good spunky characters with excellent descriptive storyline. Fun, exciting, gory, a bit of love interest and all sorts of creatures.
What happens next?
Good spunky characters with excellent descriptive storyline. Fun, exciting, gory, a bit of love interest and all sorts of creatures.
What happens next?
December 9, 2023
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