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Awakening the Lightforged #1
Throne of Darkness
Othaashle lives to serve her God-King. So while strange images that seem like forbidden memories plague her mind, the undead warrior fears revealing her condition could endanger more than just her title as his champion. And when insurgents attack the ark ship destined to fly her people from their doomed moon, the passionate defender vows to pursue them to the end of the galaxy. Alarmed after suffering another debilitating vision during a fight, Othaashle discovers an eerie connection with her treacherous quarry. But after she makes an enemy of a fierce fallen goddess, claiming the power of a mythic throne may be the only way to prevent apocalyptic destruction. Can a woman reborn from conflict become the savior an entire world needs? Throne of Darkness is the high-octane first book in the Awakening the Lightforged space opera trilogy. If you like kickass heroines, finely crafted magic systems, and intense action, then you’ll love Spencer Russell Smith’s faster-than-light fantasy.
- GenresFantasyScience Fiction
298 pages, Hardcover
First published July 24, 2022
6 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 5, 2023
First I need to express just how much of a lifesaver the glossary of this book is. As with most first books in a sci-fi/fantasy series, there is a lot of time spent with world building and establishing the magic system. The glossary really helped me keep track of what was what during those chapters and I really love that.
Now that that’s out of the way, I just really enjoyed this book. Especially the characters. We have Skaadathe, a disgraced former goddess with a hunger for revenge (which honestly, I’m 100% on her side with this one). Othaashle, a redeemed warrior given a new lease on life, who is plagued with these visions that feel familiar but she can’t understand why (Skaadathe hates her for good reason). There are a number of other characters and really I just adored all of them, I especially loved watching them interact with each other. There is almost always tension and it really just pulls you in.
There is a ton of action around every corner that just keeps you hooked in. Any time there was a lull in the action I just knew that something big was about to happen. Spoiler alert, I was almost always right. There are some twists however that I just didn’t see coming and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy of this book. Here is my honest review.
Now that that’s out of the way, I just really enjoyed this book. Especially the characters. We have Skaadathe, a disgraced former goddess with a hunger for revenge (which honestly, I’m 100% on her side with this one). Othaashle, a redeemed warrior given a new lease on life, who is plagued with these visions that feel familiar but she can’t understand why (Skaadathe hates her for good reason). There are a number of other characters and really I just adored all of them, I especially loved watching them interact with each other. There is almost always tension and it really just pulls you in.
There is a ton of action around every corner that just keeps you hooked in. Any time there was a lull in the action I just knew that something big was about to happen. Spoiler alert, I was almost always right. There are some twists however that I just didn’t see coming and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy of this book. Here is my honest review.
June 10, 2023
I cant even begin to tell people how amazing this book is. I just finished up today and need to gather my thoughts. Full review update next weekend~
Review update/edit: no spoiler review
I am not a critical reviewer. In general I review on vibes because that is what makes me happy. That being said, this book deserves so much more than my fluffy review. It is well written and has the well defined mark of a writer who put so much time effort and care Into building this insanely cool world with multifaceted characters. I have only finished Throne of Darkness which is book 1 in this amazing series but I already know that Spencer Russel Smith will be my first male author on my list of immediate purchases for my tbr. The way he writes his characters is not just commendable, it makes we want more characters like his in every book I read. The pacing is perfection. The story was so good. In general I prefer fantasy over sci-fi...and this is where I thought this series might lose me...It didn't. I don't know how to express the chaos in my head regarding this book. It was both or either. I'm telling you right now I've never read a book that let me decide. And maybe this won't make sense to some people but if any of this peaks your interest, please for the love of books, go read this book!!!!
Review update/edit: no spoiler review
I am not a critical reviewer. In general I review on vibes because that is what makes me happy. That being said, this book deserves so much more than my fluffy review. It is well written and has the well defined mark of a writer who put so much time effort and care Into building this insanely cool world with multifaceted characters. I have only finished Throne of Darkness which is book 1 in this amazing series but I already know that Spencer Russel Smith will be my first male author on my list of immediate purchases for my tbr. The way he writes his characters is not just commendable, it makes we want more characters like his in every book I read. The pacing is perfection. The story was so good. In general I prefer fantasy over sci-fi...and this is where I thought this series might lose me...It didn't. I don't know how to express the chaos in my head regarding this book. It was both or either. I'm telling you right now I've never read a book that let me decide. And maybe this won't make sense to some people but if any of this peaks your interest, please for the love of books, go read this book!!!!
June 13, 2023
Throne of Darkness is a great read! The world building is amazing and the magic system detailed. The storyline is unique and I am so invested in what happens next. Will be getting the rest of the series.
Edited to add: I can not get over the glossary!!! the time and love spent building this world is evident. The magic system is well defined and the glossary is so helpful. I used it while reading and learning the world and read through it again after finishing the book. More epic fantasies and sci-fi should include something similar.
Edited to add: I can not get over the glossary!!! the time and love spent building this world is evident. The magic system is well defined and the glossary is so helpful. I used it while reading and learning the world and read through it again after finishing the book. More epic fantasies and sci-fi should include something similar.
June 21, 2023
*I received this book free from the author*
This book was different from anything I’ve ever read. I think it’s a mix of fantasy and science fiction, which I don’t usually read science fiction. Starting off, the book was a bit dense and confusing, but that’s honestly typical for fantasy novels. As the story progressed, it was much easier to understand and I was hooked. Othaashle was definitely my favorite character which makes sense since she is the main character. I loved how the storyline, characters, and story in general were unlike anything I’ve ever read! It’s like a breath of fresh air in the genre. The magic system in this book was interesting and complex, and definitely reminded me of Brandon Sanderson. There was action all throughout the book, and honestly there weren’t any slow parts. My only issue was with understanding the story in the beginning, but the glossary and resources at the back of the book were amazing for this. All I had to do was read the information in the back before I continued with the story, and it made this so much easier to understand.
Recommend: If you enjoy science fiction and fantasy, then yes I do recommend! I recommend reading the glossary first, so that you can get a better understanding before you start the book.
This book was different from anything I’ve ever read. I think it’s a mix of fantasy and science fiction, which I don’t usually read science fiction. Starting off, the book was a bit dense and confusing, but that’s honestly typical for fantasy novels. As the story progressed, it was much easier to understand and I was hooked. Othaashle was definitely my favorite character which makes sense since she is the main character. I loved how the storyline, characters, and story in general were unlike anything I’ve ever read! It’s like a breath of fresh air in the genre. The magic system in this book was interesting and complex, and definitely reminded me of Brandon Sanderson. There was action all throughout the book, and honestly there weren’t any slow parts. My only issue was with understanding the story in the beginning, but the glossary and resources at the back of the book were amazing for this. All I had to do was read the information in the back before I continued with the story, and it made this so much easier to understand.
Recommend: If you enjoy science fiction and fantasy, then yes I do recommend! I recommend reading the glossary first, so that you can get a better understanding before you start the book.
June 10, 2023
I dont like doing spoiler reviews so Im gunna try to get through this without giving anything away.
This was such an incredible read. I read the first few chapters then decided to read the glossary & Im so glad I did. After the glossary, I went back & reread the first few chapters. The insight the glossary gives, especially in those first few chapters where so much information is given, the glossary made it easier to absorb all those bits & pieces. The level of complexity & retention was perfectly balanced. This book is not for the weak. For me, its not one of those books you can just breeze through. It requires attention & commitment but not in a scary way. The hidden agendas & tension that is woven within each chapter brings the emotion full circle when you finally hit the end.
Throughout this whole book, there is no such thing as a small detail, because everything ties together somehow, in one way or another. Just be patient, its worth it. The world building was crafted marvelously. You can 100% tell that so much thought & passion went into creating gemcrests, auroramancers, the remnant, the redeemed, Efruumani, Samjati, Natari etc - every single aspect was so well mapped & flowed together perfectly. The view points going back & forth from Skadaatha & Othaashle had me in question about their rivalry the whole time. Othaashle wants the throne of darkness to help her visions as to where Skadaatha wants the throne to reclaim what she lost. Both come with a price & only Skadaatha seems to realize that. However, their rivalry is so much deeper than the throne. A past links them both & when its finally revealed in the book, I was shook & my jaw dropped. Im excited to dive deeper into Estingai, her introduction in the prologue left me wanting her to pop back up in the story & she did! In a huge way that left me staring at the wall momentarily, just to come to terms with what just took place. Prior to her return, there was another jaw dropping moment when Othaashle battled Kweshrima. The ending did leave on a cliff hanger w/ Estingai, Othaashle & the remnants.
Im thrilled theres still 3 more books in the series. Im a fantasy girly all the way & this was my first sci fi/fantasy read & I am NOT disappointed.
This was such an incredible read. I read the first few chapters then decided to read the glossary & Im so glad I did. After the glossary, I went back & reread the first few chapters. The insight the glossary gives, especially in those first few chapters where so much information is given, the glossary made it easier to absorb all those bits & pieces. The level of complexity & retention was perfectly balanced. This book is not for the weak. For me, its not one of those books you can just breeze through. It requires attention & commitment but not in a scary way. The hidden agendas & tension that is woven within each chapter brings the emotion full circle when you finally hit the end.
Throughout this whole book, there is no such thing as a small detail, because everything ties together somehow, in one way or another. Just be patient, its worth it. The world building was crafted marvelously. You can 100% tell that so much thought & passion went into creating gemcrests, auroramancers, the remnant, the redeemed, Efruumani, Samjati, Natari etc - every single aspect was so well mapped & flowed together perfectly. The view points going back & forth from Skadaatha & Othaashle had me in question about their rivalry the whole time. Othaashle wants the throne of darkness to help her visions as to where Skadaatha wants the throne to reclaim what she lost. Both come with a price & only Skadaatha seems to realize that. However, their rivalry is so much deeper than the throne. A past links them both & when its finally revealed in the book, I was shook & my jaw dropped. Im excited to dive deeper into Estingai, her introduction in the prologue left me wanting her to pop back up in the story & she did! In a huge way that left me staring at the wall momentarily, just to come to terms with what just took place. Prior to her return, there was another jaw dropping moment when Othaashle battled Kweshrima. The ending did leave on a cliff hanger w/ Estingai, Othaashle & the remnants.
Im thrilled theres still 3 more books in the series. Im a fantasy girly all the way & this was my first sci fi/fantasy read & I am NOT disappointed.
June 15, 2023
An interesting premise and concept. Once you get past the pronunciation difficulties and grab hold of the plot, it's a pretty decent story!
October 26, 2022
This story is a complex sci-fi/fantasy that is set to be a trilogy. I found it a bit difficult to get into at first, it was detail oriented without completely explaining the details (I must admit, I turned to the glossary at the back and was much more engaged after that). The magic system is complex, there are multiple story threads to follow, and the species, populations and cultures are diverse. There’s a scarcity of resources, war, and oh, yeah- the world is ending and everyone wants to leave the planet. Although there’s a resolution to at least one thread, there’s also definitely a hook for the next book, which I plan on starting ASAP!
I received an advance copy in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
I received an advance copy in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
June 2, 2023
Throne of darkness I was really surprised by this I usually don’t read sci/fi books but I’m so glad I did it was really good I did have problems saying the names but right at the beginning Spencer but a blurb on how to say them it was awesome all the detail that went into this was great I don’t know how he did it but it all fit perfectly love this and I do recommend reading I read his first book
December 10, 2023
It definitely takes a minute to get into and figure out what is happening with the characters and plot, but totally worth sticking it out! It was a great read and the start of what I can only hope is a great series!
June 9, 2023
I loved it. the suspense in parts was amazing. And the LGBTQIA+ representation was spot on. Absolutely loved the characters except for one lol.
November 8, 2022
Originally reviewed here:
Throne Of Darkness by Spencer Russell Smith
.
The Throne Of Darkness by Spencer Russell Smith is a book that was very fun to read. It is a sci-fi/fantasy crossover all wrapped up within what I can only assume will turn out to be a space opera (though I could easily be wrong about this). Plus it weaves aspects of magic into the science fiction. It is the first novel in the new series “Awakening The Lightforged).
There are many aspects of this book that were new to me as a long term reader of all three genres involved. We get an introduction to a fun new type of magic. On a dying planet, people and animals are born with biogems which impart qualities and magic into the being. Or, they’re used in weapons to add strength to the weapon and whoever wields said weapon.
Read full review at link above. It was a bit hard to get into this book but I am 100% glad I continued reading it as the story was complex and full of surprises and I can't wait to read the next in the series... I got this book for free as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Throne Of Darkness by Spencer Russell Smith is a book that was very fun to read. It is a sci-fi/fantasy crossover all wrapped up within what I can only assume will turn out to be a space opera (though I could easily be wrong about this). Plus it weaves aspects of magic into the science fiction. It is the first novel in the new series “Awakening The Lightforged).
There are many aspects of this book that were new to me as a long term reader of all three genres involved. We get an introduction to a fun new type of magic. On a dying planet, people and animals are born with biogems which impart qualities and magic into the being. Or, they’re used in weapons to add strength to the weapon and whoever wields said weapon.
Read full review at link above. It was a bit hard to get into this book but I am 100% glad I continued reading it as the story was complex and full of surprises and I can't wait to read the next in the series... I got this book for free as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2022
Throne of Darkness is as much science fiction as it is fantasy, perhaps more so. The book is full of tension, half hidden truths and mystery. Each chapter counts us down towards the end of the world and Spencer Russel Smith ramps up the pressure along the way.
Throne of Darkness is heavy with detail. I found it a little challenging to get to grips with - there’s no gentle easing into the Imaia’s universe. If you buckle in and hold your nerve then you are ready for a complex, full octane ride.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Throne of Darkness is heavy with detail. I found it a little challenging to get to grips with - there’s no gentle easing into the Imaia’s universe. If you buckle in and hold your nerve then you are ready for a complex, full octane ride.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 21, 2023
4.75/5
This book… it’s a chefs kiss! It’s only rated a 4.75 because I found it hard to start as I was getting confused with the names but once I figured it out it was fantastic! The world building and magic system was so different from what I’ve read; it was honestly so refreshing!
Do I need to mention the character backgrounds? They are also amazing! The Amount of detail is there and it was absolutely perfect. I found myself getting attached to each character and not knowing who to root for. They all have different motivations which makes you attached to each character. It made me feel compassion for both sides!
There were little hooks throughout the book that make you want to keep reading; what is going to happen next?
At the end of the book I like how there was notes on the pronunciation, the notebook of vysla, and the Imaia anthem. There is also a glossary at the end that goes into more detail!
Overall; this book was beautifully written and had me grinning. The plot, characters and setting are amazing! I can’t wait to read the other books- definitely on my “TBR” pile! 🥰
This book… it’s a chefs kiss! It’s only rated a 4.75 because I found it hard to start as I was getting confused with the names but once I figured it out it was fantastic! The world building and magic system was so different from what I’ve read; it was honestly so refreshing!
Do I need to mention the character backgrounds? They are also amazing! The Amount of detail is there and it was absolutely perfect. I found myself getting attached to each character and not knowing who to root for. They all have different motivations which makes you attached to each character. It made me feel compassion for both sides!
There were little hooks throughout the book that make you want to keep reading; what is going to happen next?
At the end of the book I like how there was notes on the pronunciation, the notebook of vysla, and the Imaia anthem. There is also a glossary at the end that goes into more detail!
Overall; this book was beautifully written and had me grinning. The plot, characters and setting are amazing! I can’t wait to read the other books- definitely on my “TBR” pile! 🥰
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July 20, 20234 stars!
The world building in this book is very detailed and thought out. This book is something a of sci-fi fanatic should pick up. The author left not " one stone unturned" when creating this world and system that our characters live in. I HIGHLY recommend reading the glossary at the end of the book before you dive into this story so you can become more familiar with the power system and not find yourself confused. This story feels fresh to me and even though the author graciously filmed a tik tok video teaching us how to pronounce the names of the characters, i still got it wrong, I am so bad with names, lol. This first book in the series is full of high stakes, betrayal, and complex characters ( there were some I cant wait to hopefully learn more about in upcoming books). Overall this was cool and unique.
I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of the series so I could provide my honest opinion on the book.
The world building in this book is very detailed and thought out. This book is something a of sci-fi fanatic should pick up. The author left not " one stone unturned" when creating this world and system that our characters live in. I HIGHLY recommend reading the glossary at the end of the book before you dive into this story so you can become more familiar with the power system and not find yourself confused. This story feels fresh to me and even though the author graciously filmed a tik tok video teaching us how to pronounce the names of the characters, i still got it wrong, I am so bad with names, lol. This first book in the series is full of high stakes, betrayal, and complex characters ( there were some I cant wait to hopefully learn more about in upcoming books). Overall this was cool and unique.
I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of the series so I could provide my honest opinion on the book.
September 1, 2022
This was such a great first book, in the works of a trilogy. It sets the foundation of introducing and building up a connection with the characters, the world building and breaking down the powers held by groups and individuals. This was a great read that did end rather abruptly but that just leaves you wanting to the next book even more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 4, 2022
As the first in a planned trilogy this novel has a lot to do in terms of introducing characters, the world it is set in and the powers held by groups and individuals. It does this really well exploring back stories, motivations and a battle for resources on a planet from which there is a planned exodus by one group. There are echoes with struggles across the world currently.
I found it difficult to determine where my sympathies lay as all of the main protagonists had complex motivations and different groups had different belief systems and interpretations of events and history.
The ending is very abrupt but I wasn't put off by it. The book was interesting, a great story and I will definitely be following up with book 2 and other work by this author.
I found it difficult to determine where my sympathies lay as all of the main protagonists had complex motivations and different groups had different belief systems and interpretations of events and history.
The ending is very abrupt but I wasn't put off by it. The book was interesting, a great story and I will definitely be following up with book 2 and other work by this author.
September 8, 2022
In the Throne of Darkness, we are counting down to the end of the world, as the story moves along it grows in pressure. It is a story that is heavy with details, which makes it an immersive experience. I found it a little challenging to wrap my head around the story and fully become one with it in the beginning as the names are quite unique causing me to stumble over each word initially. I do have to say that I really loved the plot -- I have never read a story quite like this one. You may hit a wall initially but if you hold tight you will find yourself in a world that will give you a great ride along the way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 2, 2022
Throne of Darkness is a cerebral fiction that blends fantasy and sci-fi in a dark, complex world. It is clear that the author has put a lot of effort into crafting this universe, full of battling sects, tenuous relationships within military units, and even demigods, all against the backdrop of a dying world that is pitting almost everyone against one another. The setting and journey of the main characters reminded me of the Dune series more than once, and like that series, the Awakening the Lightforged saga promises to constantly up the stakes in coming installments. This first book does a great job of introducing this world, and showing just what our characters are up against.
May 23, 2023
Amazing !! 10/10 ! Once you get into the story you will not want to put it down! A world divided due to the actions of their God's in the past, a world that is soon to perish, and two main female characters just fighting to keep their people safe! Secrets come out and pasts are remembered that will change every thing. With lots of fighting and shocking moments. You are in for a long sitting! :)
May 16, 2023
This is a good science fiction fantasy read, this is the first book in a series introducing into the world and a building up the characters storylines for you. There are groups that hold special unique powers and each group is different in their own ways.
There is:
-Magic
-Tension
-Timelines (Countdown to World Ending)
-Mysteries
There is a “glossary type” in the beginning that is helpful for you to be able to go back and fourth and checkout if you forgot what an abilities is.
The book does end rather quickly but it will make you only want to read the next book 🤌🏼
If you like science fiction with fantasy thrown in them give this series a try!
I received this as an ARC and left this review willing ☺️
There is:
-Magic
-Tension
-Timelines (Countdown to World Ending)
-Mysteries
There is a “glossary type” in the beginning that is helpful for you to be able to go back and fourth and checkout if you forgot what an abilities is.
The book does end rather quickly but it will make you only want to read the next book 🤌🏼
If you like science fiction with fantasy thrown in them give this series a try!
I received this as an ARC and left this review willing ☺️
July 14, 2023
I received a free copy of this book. I am providing an honest review.
Reading order:
I wanted to first provide my personal recommendation for the best order to read this series. I would recommend reading the prologue of Throne of Darkness, then reading the entirety of The Last Knight. After finishing The Last Knight, I would revisit Throne of Darkness and complete the book. Then, I would recommend reading Shattering before finishing the series with Sanctuary.
The basics:
Efruumani, a world plagued by rapidly depleting resources, is torn apart by an ongoing civil war. The Imaia, the governing body of Efruumani, seeks to deplete the world of its remaining resources and find a new home among the stars. The Remnant is a rebel group that believes all people deserve the opportunity to escape Efruumani. Othaashle, the Champion of the God King of Imaia, is a member of the Redeemed Lightforged army. Granted spectacular powers, the Lightforged are former Remnant warriors that are forced to serve the God Kind after death. Othaashle has been plagued by visions that leave her completely incapacitated. She seeks the Throne of Darkness, guarded by the Remnant, to quell her visions. After being capture by the Remnant during an unsuspected vision, Othaashle harnesses the power of the throne and inadvertently discovers her troubling former identity.
My thoughts:
There is a glossary and map in the beginning of this novel and I would highly recommend referencing it throughout the book. It was very useful and alleviated a lot of potential confusion for me. The author created an immensely immersive and fantastical world that I truly appreciated. While there are a lot of characters to keep track of, Estagni, Othaashle, Kouurski, and Skadaatha are all very layered and complex characters. Each of them really pulled me in, but I particularly loved Estagni.
Though I overall enjoyed this book (and I did love this series as a whole), I felt the prologue took away from the novel. It felt very disjointed to me— the events of the prologue occur over seven years before the rest of the book and the characters from the prologue do not show up again until over halfway through the book. The world of Efruumani is very detailed and complex, so at the point of the prologue, I did not have enough information to truly understand what had happened or what Othaashle’s existence meant to Estagni or the Remnant. I spent a lot of the first half of the book trying to piece together how the prologue impacted the events of Throne of Darkness, which I felt I wasn’t fully able to do until after reading The Last Knight. That’s why I recommend the alternative reading order I mentioned above— I feel The Last Knight is necessary to fully understand the story and I feel reading the series chronologically alleviates most of the confusion I experienced.
Overall, my experience with this novel was very positive and I would recommend it to other fantasy / sci-fi lovers.
Reading order:
I wanted to first provide my personal recommendation for the best order to read this series. I would recommend reading the prologue of Throne of Darkness, then reading the entirety of The Last Knight. After finishing The Last Knight, I would revisit Throne of Darkness and complete the book. Then, I would recommend reading Shattering before finishing the series with Sanctuary.
The basics:
Efruumani, a world plagued by rapidly depleting resources, is torn apart by an ongoing civil war. The Imaia, the governing body of Efruumani, seeks to deplete the world of its remaining resources and find a new home among the stars. The Remnant is a rebel group that believes all people deserve the opportunity to escape Efruumani. Othaashle, the Champion of the God King of Imaia, is a member of the Redeemed Lightforged army. Granted spectacular powers, the Lightforged are former Remnant warriors that are forced to serve the God Kind after death. Othaashle has been plagued by visions that leave her completely incapacitated. She seeks the Throne of Darkness, guarded by the Remnant, to quell her visions. After being capture by the Remnant during an unsuspected vision, Othaashle harnesses the power of the throne and inadvertently discovers her troubling former identity.
My thoughts:
There is a glossary and map in the beginning of this novel and I would highly recommend referencing it throughout the book. It was very useful and alleviated a lot of potential confusion for me. The author created an immensely immersive and fantastical world that I truly appreciated. While there are a lot of characters to keep track of, Estagni, Othaashle, Kouurski, and Skadaatha are all very layered and complex characters. Each of them really pulled me in, but I particularly loved Estagni.
Though I overall enjoyed this book (and I did love this series as a whole), I felt the prologue took away from the novel. It felt very disjointed to me— the events of the prologue occur over seven years before the rest of the book and the characters from the prologue do not show up again until over halfway through the book. The world of Efruumani is very detailed and complex, so at the point of the prologue, I did not have enough information to truly understand what had happened or what Othaashle’s existence meant to Estagni or the Remnant. I spent a lot of the first half of the book trying to piece together how the prologue impacted the events of Throne of Darkness, which I felt I wasn’t fully able to do until after reading The Last Knight. That’s why I recommend the alternative reading order I mentioned above— I feel The Last Knight is necessary to fully understand the story and I feel reading the series chronologically alleviates most of the confusion I experienced.
Overall, my experience with this novel was very positive and I would recommend it to other fantasy / sci-fi lovers.
June 23, 2023
This was such a good book! Spencer was so kind to send me these novels a few weeks ago and I just finished the first book in the trilogy. I was not sure what to expect, but I was blown awa by the story and @spencerrussel smithauthor depth of world-building.
This book is full or characters, culture, ideas, and even time jumps. It was not hard to read but the names and places do take a little bit of reading time to feel comfortable pronouncing and remembering who is who. I could instantly tell how much work Spencer put into this world and the awesome characters that make us this series.
If you like Sanderson (who I love), then you will feel right at home in this world. It also has some modern flair that had me thinking about movies like Black Panther (cool tech with some mystery and magic). I am ready to keep reading through these books because I need to know what happens!!!
This book did a great job setting up the world and filling in some there is still so much that we don't know) or the backstory for characters and the stakes of what is happening.
I finished this book and immediately decided to keep reading.
In the same vein as something like Lord of the Rings, I think each book is really meant to go together and will tell the full story.
This book did not answer my questions, but it set a foundation for the rest of the series.
honestly cannot wait to see where these book go. I have some ideas, but l'm interested to just let it happen. If you want a new world with new characters, I would highly recommend this series. I you want a mixture of sci-fi with fantasy, then you will feel right at home while reading Throne of Darkness.
If you want to feel a little confused but excited as you read and you miss how you felt when you read The Way of Kings for this first time, then you need to read this
This book is full or characters, culture, ideas, and even time jumps. It was not hard to read but the names and places do take a little bit of reading time to feel comfortable pronouncing and remembering who is who. I could instantly tell how much work Spencer put into this world and the awesome characters that make us this series.
If you like Sanderson (who I love), then you will feel right at home in this world. It also has some modern flair that had me thinking about movies like Black Panther (cool tech with some mystery and magic). I am ready to keep reading through these books because I need to know what happens!!!
This book did a great job setting up the world and filling in some there is still so much that we don't know) or the backstory for characters and the stakes of what is happening.
I finished this book and immediately decided to keep reading.
In the same vein as something like Lord of the Rings, I think each book is really meant to go together and will tell the full story.
This book did not answer my questions, but it set a foundation for the rest of the series.
honestly cannot wait to see where these book go. I have some ideas, but l'm interested to just let it happen. If you want a new world with new characters, I would highly recommend this series. I you want a mixture of sci-fi with fantasy, then you will feel right at home while reading Throne of Darkness.
If you want to feel a little confused but excited as you read and you miss how you felt when you read The Way of Kings for this first time, then you need to read this
August 20, 2022
I received this from Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review . I have to admit that I was thoroughly confused at first because I had read the author’s novella Clear Eye first, and expected recurring characters. Once I realized that this one takes place much later in the future , I thoroughly enjoyed it . There is a myriad of characters, that could be thought of as neither evil nor good depending on which side you decide you want to cheer for . There was a lot of world building and a whole unique sort of magical or mutation type abilities that certain characters were gifted with. I found it challenging to keep the different species straight but by the end was more manageable. The ending did make me want to read book two which will come out in October 2022, so only a few months to wait 😁
April 24, 2023
Some science fiction and fantasy (SFF) books make mountains out of molehills. Some potential heroine or hero has a little problem or two and sets out on a quest. They stumble around in the forest or desert for a while, get some help, and then vanquish the evil foe. The story can sometimes be expanded to several volumes. The ultimate outcome is rarely in question.
Spencer Russell Smith is not that kind of author. He pretty much hits you right between the eyes from the very beginning. Little problem? Nah! Let’s start out with the “fact” that everybody’s favorite goddess has turned traitor and has just doomed your entire planet to a fatal meetup with a sun? Everything is already falling apart, literally, and there are not enough resources to get everybody off planet. There are two sides that definitely can’t get along and one side has all the marbles and no sense of charity. Each side feels only they are in the right and one side has a living gawd who keeps everything in his control.
Mr. Smith has created an interesting and different world with an entirely new (to me) science or magic (a bit of both) based on the colors of light coming from the planet’s sun. His world-building is intricate and amazing. His characters are richly drawn, and he even has the reader accepting their antlers and masks as believable. The psychological depth of Smith’s writing
is very deep and he even has you almost thinking that the bad guys may be right in some ways.
I do not want to reveal any more of the plot, because there are more volumes after this one. So, all that is left for me, as reviewer, is to tell you to go read this first volume.
You wont be sorry!
Spencer Russell Smith is not that kind of author. He pretty much hits you right between the eyes from the very beginning. Little problem? Nah! Let’s start out with the “fact” that everybody’s favorite goddess has turned traitor and has just doomed your entire planet to a fatal meetup with a sun? Everything is already falling apart, literally, and there are not enough resources to get everybody off planet. There are two sides that definitely can’t get along and one side has all the marbles and no sense of charity. Each side feels only they are in the right and one side has a living gawd who keeps everything in his control.
Mr. Smith has created an interesting and different world with an entirely new (to me) science or magic (a bit of both) based on the colors of light coming from the planet’s sun. His world-building is intricate and amazing. His characters are richly drawn, and he even has the reader accepting their antlers and masks as believable. The psychological depth of Smith’s writing
is very deep and he even has you almost thinking that the bad guys may be right in some ways.
I do not want to reveal any more of the plot, because there are more volumes after this one. So, all that is left for me, as reviewer, is to tell you to go read this first volume.
You wont be sorry!
August 13, 2022
The Throne of Darkness creates a very strange, but fascinating world. It is peopled with larger-than-life characters and describes the struggles between two peoples for survival. To begin with, I wasn't fully invested in the story as I struggled with the setting, the magic system and the timeline. The author painted a picture of a very srtange land with very different people, a quite frightening belief system and strange magic. I persevered and was richly rewarded. Political intrigue, love stories and twists and turns come thick and fast. For those readers looking for action, then look no further, plenty of fighting both verbally and physically. There is also the development of a new weapon running throughout the story, and I will be interested to see how that develops. There is an 'awakening' that could lead to even more twists in the next book. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book in the series. This could be the start of an epic series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2022
Enjoyable read interesting characters first book I’ve read by this author but will be reading more
June 22, 2023
The technology and the creation of the creatures and the detailed way that everything is explained in the end part of the book. Things such as the Glossary, planet map, darkside/lightside the weekness/strengths that the creature on this planet are bidded to. What it means to be and how one is 'redeemed'. The vowel dictionary in the book. ( I'm pretty sure I still said lots of the unique names wrong while reading). Even though I still liked the unique names in the book. I really liked the count down though the book. Health love dynamics in the book, feel the love dynamics could have had more depth and even be shown differently between the different couples. Overall, it was a pretty good sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian read.
June 25, 2023
I have been wanting to get into more sci-fi books and really enjoyed this one. It has one of the best prologues I’ve read in a book that gives Starwars.
The magic system is really good and in depth. I loved the characters and twists in this book and would recommend this to people that are fans of Brandon Sanderson just based on the magic system and world building.
The magic system is really good and in depth. I loved the characters and twists in this book and would recommend this to people that are fans of Brandon Sanderson just based on the magic system and world building.
April 26, 2023
Counting down to the Exodus
Readers cannot forget that time is limited as each chapter’s epitaph is followed by a detailed countdown. It’s right up in our faces just as if we were part of the story.
I enjoyed the pre-stories of Efruumani and this trilogy follows along the same sci-fi motif with gemstones and escaping a dying home. As a novel, this was more complex with multiple POVs and various cultural conflicts (about halfway through the first chapter, there’s a pretty solid description of the Imaia political mindset). The concept of the Redeemed added yet another layer of depth.
The author touches upon how some people deal with loss and grief:
‘An artist's reply to despair and violence is to make music more intensely, more beautifully, more devotedly than ever before.’
Fave quote:
‘Can’t a man joke about the end of the world?’
The author provides a pronunciation guide and a map at the beginning of the ebook version as well as numerous resources at the end. Readers are treated to a link for one of the author’s musical compositions.
Totally want the recipe for “kaabelgaaz”! Perhaps that’ll be included in the sequels ‘Sanctuary’ & ‘The Shattering’ or ‘The Last Knight’ (prequel)…
Readers cannot forget that time is limited as each chapter’s epitaph is followed by a detailed countdown. It’s right up in our faces just as if we were part of the story.
I enjoyed the pre-stories of Efruumani and this trilogy follows along the same sci-fi motif with gemstones and escaping a dying home. As a novel, this was more complex with multiple POVs and various cultural conflicts (about halfway through the first chapter, there’s a pretty solid description of the Imaia political mindset). The concept of the Redeemed added yet another layer of depth.
The author touches upon how some people deal with loss and grief:
‘An artist's reply to despair and violence is to make music more intensely, more beautifully, more devotedly than ever before.’
Fave quote:
‘Can’t a man joke about the end of the world?’
The author provides a pronunciation guide and a map at the beginning of the ebook version as well as numerous resources at the end. Readers are treated to a link for one of the author’s musical compositions.
Totally want the recipe for “kaabelgaaz”! Perhaps that’ll be included in the sequels ‘Sanctuary’ & ‘The Shattering’ or ‘The Last Knight’ (prequel)…
July 6, 2023
First off, I loved the world building in here. It was intricately layered just like I would expect from a space opera. The mix of science fiction with the more fantasy elements were also spot on for me. The two main characters, Skadaatha and Othaashle, were compelling and thought out. I'm always hesitant about male authors writing female leads, but it worked well for the most part. Their conflict less so, but I generally have an issue with female characters having conflict, it is so easy to do wrong. Overall it was fine, and moved the narrative along.
This is not an introductory space opera. Full stop. If you are unfamiliar with the genre, this might not be the one to start with. Even then, I wouldn't discourage any one from entering with it.
Over all I would recommend.
This is not an introductory space opera. Full stop. If you are unfamiliar with the genre, this might not be the one to start with. Even then, I wouldn't discourage any one from entering with it.
Over all I would recommend.
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