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The Caldarian Conflict
This is a fantasy novel intended for readers 14 and up.
Admiral Cain finds an elegant solution to Caldaria's piracy problem: lure pirate ships to decoy merchant vessels stuffed with explosives instead of treasure. The suicidal captains are military men with fatal illnesses. The unsuspecting crews are poor men enticed from the gutters of Caldaria with the promise of handsome wages and free meals. Cain considers it a dual service--after all, he's protecting the merchants and sweeping the streets clean of vagrants.
There are only two problems: if the peasants find out, they'll revolt. If the King finds out, he'll have Cain's head. Accordingly, anyone with too much knowledge must die.
Brother Mendell, a devout follower of Lord Justice, is caught in the crossfire when he seeks retribution for an unfairly executed prisoner. After discovering the first few layers of Admiral Cain's plan, Mendell realizes that even a monk must carefully navigate through these dangerous waters. Mendell soon finds himself pursued by Admiral Cain's merciless assistant, Krell, who suspects that the monk might ruin their ambitious plan and uncover their mysterious backer--and will gladly kill the monk to keep him silent.
Mendell must unravel the mystery before he, too, becomes a casualty of The Caldarian Conflict.
Admiral Cain finds an elegant solution to Caldaria's piracy problem: lure pirate ships to decoy merchant vessels stuffed with explosives instead of treasure. The suicidal captains are military men with fatal illnesses. The unsuspecting crews are poor men enticed from the gutters of Caldaria with the promise of handsome wages and free meals. Cain considers it a dual service--after all, he's protecting the merchants and sweeping the streets clean of vagrants.
There are only two problems: if the peasants find out, they'll revolt. If the King finds out, he'll have Cain's head. Accordingly, anyone with too much knowledge must die.
Brother Mendell, a devout follower of Lord Justice, is caught in the crossfire when he seeks retribution for an unfairly executed prisoner. After discovering the first few layers of Admiral Cain's plan, Mendell realizes that even a monk must carefully navigate through these dangerous waters. Mendell soon finds himself pursued by Admiral Cain's merciless assistant, Krell, who suspects that the monk might ruin their ambitious plan and uncover their mysterious backer--and will gladly kill the monk to keep him silent.
Mendell must unravel the mystery before he, too, becomes a casualty of The Caldarian Conflict.
274 pages, Paperback
First published August 24, 2011
2 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
About the author
Mike Kalmbach
10 books66 followersMike Kalmbach grew up in a forest near Lake Michigan. Spending his summers chasing wizards and battling evil ogres, Mike has always had a creative mind. He'll often share stories from his past, and some of them are even true.
After time dragged him from childhood, Mike moved into freelance editing, helping other authors improve dozens of stories. During the daylight hours, he writes software to help with genetics research. He leads the Rochester MN Writing group and often speaks on topics from writing and editing to engineering and robotics.
Luckily, Mike now has two sons, so he has plenty of excuses to set down the pen and play. He lives in Minnesota where he, his family, and a band of pirates can still be found battling ogres, dust bunnies, and even the occasional dragon.
Find out more about Mike at:
http://mikekalmbach.com
http://twitter.com/mikekalmbach
http://www.goodreads.com/mikekalmbach
http://www.facebook.com/mikekalmbacha...
After time dragged him from childhood, Mike moved into freelance editing, helping other authors improve dozens of stories. During the daylight hours, he writes software to help with genetics research. He leads the Rochester MN Writing group and often speaks on topics from writing and editing to engineering and robotics.
Luckily, Mike now has two sons, so he has plenty of excuses to set down the pen and play. He lives in Minnesota where he, his family, and a band of pirates can still be found battling ogres, dust bunnies, and even the occasional dragon.
Find out more about Mike at:
http://mikekalmbach.com
http://twitter.com/mikekalmbach
http://www.goodreads.com/mikekalmbach
http://www.facebook.com/mikekalmbacha...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 5, 2011
Book Summary:The Caldarian Conflict is a novel about a monk caught between a corrupt government and enraged pirates. Brother Mendell, follower of a god named Lord Justice, consoles a pirate prisoner slated for execution. As he listens to the pirate's story, Mendell begins to wonder whether the execution is just.
This question drives Mendell to uncover the mystery surrounding the military's methods of capturing pirates. However, Admiral Cain and his ruthless assistant Krell have more in mind than simply ridding the seas of piracy. With a mysterious backer funding their mission, they will stop at nothing short of total control. Will Mendell figure out the mystery in time?
What a FANTASTIC read!
Monk Mendell is asked by Father Ramsey to counsel a prisoner waiting to be hanged. The prisoner, an ex-pirate who uses information he has gained to lead active pirates to vulnerable targets, has not spoken to any of the clergy sent before Mendell. It is a common belief in this society that everyone should be given a chance to repent and/or reconcile their lives before death and as a monk whose chosen god out of several dieties is Lord Justice, he is not happy with this new directive. Afterall, justice has been done and the punishment for all pirates is death.
Although not indifferent to the prisoner, Mendell does not encourage him to repent but listens to him instead. Giving the prisoner a choice of what he wants to speak about in his last hours causes the pirate to open up.
What Mendell witnesses and hears causes him to question whether the pirate deserves death as his sentence and whether the military is using unethical practices in order to solve the crime problem.
What follows is a mixture of adventure, fantasy and mystery.
I loved the mash-up of genres in this story. Elements of a good old fashioned crime mystery mixed with an epic fantasy environment and a touch of magic. The person of Monk Mendell became one of my favorite characters of all time. An honest and strong man, compassionate and just with a likable personality that caused me to hang on his every word.
Becoming caught up in a doomed mission while trying to understand the facts, he still offers hope and healing to those around them. Giving all involved the benefit of the doubt while seeking guidance from Father Ramsey and the gods.
This is a story about a gentle hero and his quest to bring justice where justice is due as well as mercy to those who need it. While discovering himself and his mission, he realizes that all is not what it seems and the lines between good and evil are blurred.
I recommend this book to all lovers of fiction. I truly hope I will get to follow Monk Mendell on the rest of his journey.
This question drives Mendell to uncover the mystery surrounding the military's methods of capturing pirates. However, Admiral Cain and his ruthless assistant Krell have more in mind than simply ridding the seas of piracy. With a mysterious backer funding their mission, they will stop at nothing short of total control. Will Mendell figure out the mystery in time?
What a FANTASTIC read!
Monk Mendell is asked by Father Ramsey to counsel a prisoner waiting to be hanged. The prisoner, an ex-pirate who uses information he has gained to lead active pirates to vulnerable targets, has not spoken to any of the clergy sent before Mendell. It is a common belief in this society that everyone should be given a chance to repent and/or reconcile their lives before death and as a monk whose chosen god out of several dieties is Lord Justice, he is not happy with this new directive. Afterall, justice has been done and the punishment for all pirates is death.
Although not indifferent to the prisoner, Mendell does not encourage him to repent but listens to him instead. Giving the prisoner a choice of what he wants to speak about in his last hours causes the pirate to open up.
What Mendell witnesses and hears causes him to question whether the pirate deserves death as his sentence and whether the military is using unethical practices in order to solve the crime problem.
What follows is a mixture of adventure, fantasy and mystery.
I loved the mash-up of genres in this story. Elements of a good old fashioned crime mystery mixed with an epic fantasy environment and a touch of magic. The person of Monk Mendell became one of my favorite characters of all time. An honest and strong man, compassionate and just with a likable personality that caused me to hang on his every word.
Becoming caught up in a doomed mission while trying to understand the facts, he still offers hope and healing to those around them. Giving all involved the benefit of the doubt while seeking guidance from Father Ramsey and the gods.
This is a story about a gentle hero and his quest to bring justice where justice is due as well as mercy to those who need it. While discovering himself and his mission, he realizes that all is not what it seems and the lines between good and evil are blurred.
I recommend this book to all lovers of fiction. I truly hope I will get to follow Monk Mendell on the rest of his journey.
August 22, 2013
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from The Caldarian Conflict, with the combination of monks and pirates—not something you would ordinarily run across—but this was a very enjoyable fantasy novel.
I mean, come on—monks are usually quiet, introspective and rarely stray far from their abbey—well, apart from maybe in The Name of the Rose where there's murder aplenty over the religious medieval equivalent of a racy novel, or in anything involving Cadfael. But Mendell, a gentle monk (not priest, definitely monk) who spends his days in contemplation and healing, is drawn into political mayhem when he takes the confession of a condemned pirate. Before he can straighten his robes and tighten his sandals, he's sailing (sometimes literally) into intrigue and danger far beyond his normal experience, as he and shiploads of pirates are caught up in a dastardly plot by Admiral Cain and his even more evil sidekick Krell to rid society of sea- and land-based lowlifes once and for all.
Mendell was a sweet, sometimes naive character, and Cain and Krell were both suitably nasty as the bad guys. I developed quite a fondness for Jacen, one of Mendell's fellow monks, but my favourite of all has to be McGuire, he was just fabulous. Main and supporting characters were well drawn and believable, and there's a certain amount of inner monologue from several of them, so you really know what's going on in their heads. There was a hint towards a Robert Newtonesque accent from most of the pirates, but the author thankfully restrained himself from going completely dialect in their speech, so it's mostly ye's and be's and easy to follow.
I liked the way the pantheistic religion was set up, and the small amount of magic in the story worked very well. It was a refreshing change to read a tale set in a world where there is magic, but it's not over-relied upon or used to define a particular character. Likewise, although some of the gods were involved in the story, their involvement was limited and kept pretty well to a minimum despite Mendell's chosen calling.
The plot rattled along quite nicely, and although primarily aimed at younger readers, there was sufficient depth for adults too, as Mendell finds that not everything is simply right or wrong as he perhaps thought, but instead that there are layers and differences in every person and situation. Although there are ethics and morals underlying the story in places, they're not preachy or over the top, nor are they intrusive. The story is wrapped up quite nicely, but with a small hook at the end to allow a continuation, and it was nice not to be left dangling on a cliffedge at the end.
The book has quite obviously gone through a lot of careful proofreading and editing, so it was an absolute delight to read from that point of view. I didn't spot a single typo anywhere, nor any inconsistencies, so I think the quality is certainly on a par with, if not better than, big name publications.
Altogether, an excellent book and one I very much enjoyed reading. I would perhaps have liked to have had a bit more description of the characters and surroundings, as quite a lot is left to the imagination, but that's a personal preference and not a fault of the book.
This was a fast-paced and entertaining fantasy novel which I think is perfectly suited to younger teens but has enough going on to keep adults happy too. There is some violence, but I don't think it's graphic or gory enough to warrant concern. If you are a concerned parent, you might want to read the book yourself first to be sure.
I should also mention that I received a free copy of the e-book from the author—thanks Mike! The author has had no input to, or preview of, this review.
I mean, come on—monks are usually quiet, introspective and rarely stray far from their abbey—well, apart from maybe in The Name of the Rose where there's murder aplenty over the religious medieval equivalent of a racy novel, or in anything involving Cadfael. But Mendell, a gentle monk (not priest, definitely monk) who spends his days in contemplation and healing, is drawn into political mayhem when he takes the confession of a condemned pirate. Before he can straighten his robes and tighten his sandals, he's sailing (sometimes literally) into intrigue and danger far beyond his normal experience, as he and shiploads of pirates are caught up in a dastardly plot by Admiral Cain and his even more evil sidekick Krell to rid society of sea- and land-based lowlifes once and for all.
Mendell was a sweet, sometimes naive character, and Cain and Krell were both suitably nasty as the bad guys. I developed quite a fondness for Jacen, one of Mendell's fellow monks, but my favourite of all has to be McGuire, he was just fabulous. Main and supporting characters were well drawn and believable, and there's a certain amount of inner monologue from several of them, so you really know what's going on in their heads. There was a hint towards a Robert Newtonesque accent from most of the pirates, but the author thankfully restrained himself from going completely dialect in their speech, so it's mostly ye's and be's and easy to follow.
I liked the way the pantheistic religion was set up, and the small amount of magic in the story worked very well. It was a refreshing change to read a tale set in a world where there is magic, but it's not over-relied upon or used to define a particular character. Likewise, although some of the gods were involved in the story, their involvement was limited and kept pretty well to a minimum despite Mendell's chosen calling.
The plot rattled along quite nicely, and although primarily aimed at younger readers, there was sufficient depth for adults too, as Mendell finds that not everything is simply right or wrong as he perhaps thought, but instead that there are layers and differences in every person and situation. Although there are ethics and morals underlying the story in places, they're not preachy or over the top, nor are they intrusive. The story is wrapped up quite nicely, but with a small hook at the end to allow a continuation, and it was nice not to be left dangling on a cliffedge at the end.
The book has quite obviously gone through a lot of careful proofreading and editing, so it was an absolute delight to read from that point of view. I didn't spot a single typo anywhere, nor any inconsistencies, so I think the quality is certainly on a par with, if not better than, big name publications.
Altogether, an excellent book and one I very much enjoyed reading. I would perhaps have liked to have had a bit more description of the characters and surroundings, as quite a lot is left to the imagination, but that's a personal preference and not a fault of the book.
This was a fast-paced and entertaining fantasy novel which I think is perfectly suited to younger teens but has enough going on to keep adults happy too. There is some violence, but I don't think it's graphic or gory enough to warrant concern. If you are a concerned parent, you might want to read the book yourself first to be sure.
I should also mention that I received a free copy of the e-book from the author—thanks Mike! The author has had no input to, or preview of, this review.
December 12, 2011
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/... excerpt
I don't believe in good and evil. There be what a man can do and what he must do. - Owen, condemned to hang
(According to Murdoch Mysteries, a proper hanging should break the neck, not choke.)
Brother Mendell serves the Lord Justice god, also calling on Lady Mercy and Luck, goddesses of healing and chance, to investigate how Admiral Cain combats piracy unethically (without lecturing us). Whoever knows too much, dies, even the whole monastery is at risk. Limbs and bodies are lost. Language is crisp and clean. Fights balance mystery.
Points of view - life-value-ing pirate captain(-ess?), evil Admiral, still-learning monk, doomed informant, deceptive assassin - skip seamlessly, including ye be me hearty dialect, in a magic medieval land. Starting with quick deaths, pages flow fast. Suspense builds. Devices I normally eschew for interrupts - gods advise and aid, amulets and spirits speak to reveal murder - snowball the action. Ships explode, founder, rogue waves capsize crews. Break your signed oath? Magic severs your sword hand. Mostly men, yet strong women.
"Hesitation can kill as easily as a sword." - Sarka, nun worshipper of Lord Battle
The secret manipulator behind all is only disclosed in the final page of the epilogue; 265 pages satisfies and whets our appetites for more. Many of the stories started here beg to be expanded.
I don't believe in good and evil. There be what a man can do and what he must do. - Owen, condemned to hang
(According to Murdoch Mysteries, a proper hanging should break the neck, not choke.)
Brother Mendell serves the Lord Justice god, also calling on Lady Mercy and Luck, goddesses of healing and chance, to investigate how Admiral Cain combats piracy unethically (without lecturing us). Whoever knows too much, dies, even the whole monastery is at risk. Limbs and bodies are lost. Language is crisp and clean. Fights balance mystery.
Points of view - life-value-ing pirate captain(-ess?), evil Admiral, still-learning monk, doomed informant, deceptive assassin - skip seamlessly, including ye be me hearty dialect, in a magic medieval land. Starting with quick deaths, pages flow fast. Suspense builds. Devices I normally eschew for interrupts - gods advise and aid, amulets and spirits speak to reveal murder - snowball the action. Ships explode, founder, rogue waves capsize crews. Break your signed oath? Magic severs your sword hand. Mostly men, yet strong women.
"Hesitation can kill as easily as a sword." - Sarka, nun worshipper of Lord Battle
The secret manipulator behind all is only disclosed in the final page of the epilogue; 265 pages satisfies and whets our appetites for more. Many of the stories started here beg to be expanded.
October 25, 2011
Avast me lads and lasses. If it’s a pirate tale ye been seekin’, Mike Kalmbach’s debut novel, The Caldarian Conflict will whet yer appetite.
Caldaria is plagued by pirates. Admiral Cain of the Caldarian navy has come up with a plan not only to rid the sea of pirates, but also alleviate the streets of the dregs of society. Unfortunately, for all concerned, it boils down to murder. And more unfortunately for Admiral Cain, there’s one monk not afraid to stand up against him.
Brother Mendell is a monk devoted to Lord Justice (there are a number of different Gods and each monk must decide which one he/she will choose to follow as their life’s path). Father Ramsey asks him to help a pirate, condemned to the hangman’s noose, come to terms with death and to find peace. Mendell accepts this pirate’s last wish to find out how his captain, Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor, was defeated.
“Do you find comfort in her dying in battle?”
Owen paused. “Comfort?” he asked finally. “It’s small comfort, I suppose, but I don’t know how she would have passed. Shannon didn’t usually fight, but instead flew above, findin’ a merchant’s weaknesses. She be good with a sword, but her real talent be forcin’ other captains to surrender before they could kill any of her men.”
The pirate swallowed, his voice tightening. “Yet somehow she perished in this fight. Though it be impossible, I do wish I could know how she died.” p. 17-18
So begins Brother Mendell’s journey for the truth.
The Caldarian Conflict is a fast paced action/adventure/mystery/fantasy with a satisfying number of subplots to keep the reader guessing and plowing ahead for answers. At first I was afraid the entire novel would be spoken in piratese (the prelude takes place on a pirate ship – Kalmbach even throws in a couple of arrgs), but that language is used sparingly, and only gives personality to the pirates. Some pirates are even educated and use proper English when on land – a nice touch.
It’s been a lot of years since I read a pirate novel and what I really enjoyed about The Caldarian Conflict is how it is not a book where the plot is strictly good vs. evil. There are a lot of dimensions here. With maybe one exception, none of the characters are truly all evil, nor are they all good. Many of the pirates have redeeming qualities. Admiral Cain is not a nice man, but he knows the consequences if he’s exposed, is convinced the ends justify the means, and truly believes in what he’s doing. In a semi-warped way I had to respect that. On the other side, a number of monks, including Brother Mendell, are not without flaws.
One minor irritation (and it is a very minor irritation), is Kalmbach’s use of inner dialogue. The story is told in multiple points of view and many times the reader is placed inside a character’s head and is told what they are thinking. In this reviewer’s mind the vast majority of the time it isn’t needed, and the times where it does advance the story, it could be better shown through dialogue or narration. But maybe that’s just a pet peeve on my part.
Caldaria is a land of magic and gods and pirates and politics. A lot of work and imagination went into this world, and Kalmbach did a great job making it fresh and original and suspending disbelief. Although The Caldarian Conflict is set up for a sequel (which I’m already looking forward to), I would love to see a prequel featuring Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor. She deserves her own novel (hint hint).
Caldaria is plagued by pirates. Admiral Cain of the Caldarian navy has come up with a plan not only to rid the sea of pirates, but also alleviate the streets of the dregs of society. Unfortunately, for all concerned, it boils down to murder. And more unfortunately for Admiral Cain, there’s one monk not afraid to stand up against him.
Brother Mendell is a monk devoted to Lord Justice (there are a number of different Gods and each monk must decide which one he/she will choose to follow as their life’s path). Father Ramsey asks him to help a pirate, condemned to the hangman’s noose, come to terms with death and to find peace. Mendell accepts this pirate’s last wish to find out how his captain, Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor, was defeated.
“Do you find comfort in her dying in battle?”
Owen paused. “Comfort?” he asked finally. “It’s small comfort, I suppose, but I don’t know how she would have passed. Shannon didn’t usually fight, but instead flew above, findin’ a merchant’s weaknesses. She be good with a sword, but her real talent be forcin’ other captains to surrender before they could kill any of her men.”
The pirate swallowed, his voice tightening. “Yet somehow she perished in this fight. Though it be impossible, I do wish I could know how she died.” p. 17-18
So begins Brother Mendell’s journey for the truth.
The Caldarian Conflict is a fast paced action/adventure/mystery/fantasy with a satisfying number of subplots to keep the reader guessing and plowing ahead for answers. At first I was afraid the entire novel would be spoken in piratese (the prelude takes place on a pirate ship – Kalmbach even throws in a couple of arrgs), but that language is used sparingly, and only gives personality to the pirates. Some pirates are even educated and use proper English when on land – a nice touch.
It’s been a lot of years since I read a pirate novel and what I really enjoyed about The Caldarian Conflict is how it is not a book where the plot is strictly good vs. evil. There are a lot of dimensions here. With maybe one exception, none of the characters are truly all evil, nor are they all good. Many of the pirates have redeeming qualities. Admiral Cain is not a nice man, but he knows the consequences if he’s exposed, is convinced the ends justify the means, and truly believes in what he’s doing. In a semi-warped way I had to respect that. On the other side, a number of monks, including Brother Mendell, are not without flaws.
One minor irritation (and it is a very minor irritation), is Kalmbach’s use of inner dialogue. The story is told in multiple points of view and many times the reader is placed inside a character’s head and is told what they are thinking. In this reviewer’s mind the vast majority of the time it isn’t needed, and the times where it does advance the story, it could be better shown through dialogue or narration. But maybe that’s just a pet peeve on my part.
Caldaria is a land of magic and gods and pirates and politics. A lot of work and imagination went into this world, and Kalmbach did a great job making it fresh and original and suspending disbelief. Although The Caldarian Conflict is set up for a sequel (which I’m already looking forward to), I would love to see a prequel featuring Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor. She deserves her own novel (hint hint).
October 30, 2011
This fiction treats pirates, a religious sect, and royal naval administrators inhabiting the mythical land of Caldaria. In popular culture there is a sci-fi PC game involving the Caldarian navy with a feature called Raven. In Mike Kalmbach’s novel, Raven (also known as Krell) is an antagonist who drives the subversive conflicts of the plot. I don’t have enough information about the video software, so I don’t know whether this novel is an original treatment or if it is a parody of that video game.
I do have a problem with a writer who adapts cultural knowledge of monastic life to some bastardized pagan cult. The device demonstrates little originality in story-telling or in framing a fantasy world. In this writing, cloistered hooded religious (ranked as novices, brother monks, priests, and an abbot) pray to any number of pagan gods and goddesses, while the mendicants apparently are infused with certain magical powers. Unfortunately, when consulted, the gods can warn of impending trouble but are not omniscient enough to prepare the supplicants. Plus, in our reality a monastery’s abbot would never comply with a community member’s whim to pursue a specter. The weak motivation to pursue Mendell’s suspicion is suspension of belief.
The protagonist is a monk named Mendell (not to be confused with geneticist Friar Gregor Mendel), a man of action who thinks too much. He glimpses a shade, shadows a pirate, and eventually commands a rebellion that unseats a draconian royal duchy. The story’s action tacks about like a sailboat on a windless day, due mostly to so many reflective thought passages that belay the monk’s actions. The character Mendell is capable of turning a slight wheat wafer into a loaf of bread but later frets that he can’t possibly feed a group of refugees. Additionally, he is powerful enough to mend a pirate’s severed hand but cannot stanch a wounded man’s stabbed leg. Mendell’s inconsistencies are as erratic as the plot is sporadic.
Some few fantasy elements are named without definition or history: death madness; assassin’s guild; amulets that function as private two-way radios. There are other inconsistencies: unprotected dusters who are unaffected while scattering fast-acting poisonous flour into the faces of victims; uneducated characters that dialogue eruditely; and, the initial problem of the pirate Shannon’s head. Blown to smithereens in mid-ocean, how could her head survive? Who would have found it? Apparently her magical boogie board caught her skull and whisked it back to port.
The book’s ending is abrupt and scant compared with its preceding wanderings. The conclusion reads like someone pulling the plug on a video game in mid-play. I admire any writer whose efforts produce a full-length novel. Kalmbach’s work here needs more thought and tighter editing to elevate the book to a smoother read.
I do have a problem with a writer who adapts cultural knowledge of monastic life to some bastardized pagan cult. The device demonstrates little originality in story-telling or in framing a fantasy world. In this writing, cloistered hooded religious (ranked as novices, brother monks, priests, and an abbot) pray to any number of pagan gods and goddesses, while the mendicants apparently are infused with certain magical powers. Unfortunately, when consulted, the gods can warn of impending trouble but are not omniscient enough to prepare the supplicants. Plus, in our reality a monastery’s abbot would never comply with a community member’s whim to pursue a specter. The weak motivation to pursue Mendell’s suspicion is suspension of belief.
The protagonist is a monk named Mendell (not to be confused with geneticist Friar Gregor Mendel), a man of action who thinks too much. He glimpses a shade, shadows a pirate, and eventually commands a rebellion that unseats a draconian royal duchy. The story’s action tacks about like a sailboat on a windless day, due mostly to so many reflective thought passages that belay the monk’s actions. The character Mendell is capable of turning a slight wheat wafer into a loaf of bread but later frets that he can’t possibly feed a group of refugees. Additionally, he is powerful enough to mend a pirate’s severed hand but cannot stanch a wounded man’s stabbed leg. Mendell’s inconsistencies are as erratic as the plot is sporadic.
Some few fantasy elements are named without definition or history: death madness; assassin’s guild; amulets that function as private two-way radios. There are other inconsistencies: unprotected dusters who are unaffected while scattering fast-acting poisonous flour into the faces of victims; uneducated characters that dialogue eruditely; and, the initial problem of the pirate Shannon’s head. Blown to smithereens in mid-ocean, how could her head survive? Who would have found it? Apparently her magical boogie board caught her skull and whisked it back to port.
The book’s ending is abrupt and scant compared with its preceding wanderings. The conclusion reads like someone pulling the plug on a video game in mid-play. I admire any writer whose efforts produce a full-length novel. Kalmbach’s work here needs more thought and tighter editing to elevate the book to a smoother read.
August 25, 2016
Guest Review by Jack:
The sky is blue, the sea air is crisp, and the public executions bring to justice the wrong doers and keep peace amongst the people. Or so it would seem in the city of Caldaria. But that is only the surface. Underneath boils the deceit of corrupt leaders who use vicious means to reach a bitterly self-serving end. Only one thing stands in their way. A humble yet courageous monk name Mendell.
When I first started reading Mike Kalmbach’s The Caldarian Conflict, I was a little off put by the prelude and it’s description of a boat that can magically come apart and have it’s helm float above itself. However, upon the introduction of Mendell, the book’s central character, I was hooked. Through his eyes, I was able to stay entranced in the story and never again did I question its validity.
Bearing a slight resemblance to the main character in the PBS series Cadfael, Mendell allows us to see this story from a unique perspective. As an inquisitive monk, Mendell honestly guides the reader through his adventures. At times, he even poses philosophical questions that took me by surprise. I admit that I did not expect to find such deep thinking in this book. To go along with that, were Mendell’s explanations of religion and faith, which I took as profound.
Mike Kalmbach weaves a fascinating tale that is intelligent and well thought through. His descriptive words painted a vivid picture that I didn’t soon forget. I’ll admit that at times I was hoping Mendell was going to turn out to be some sort of secret ninja monk who carried a small armory under all his robes and could deftly dispense with any hindrance he encountered. However, if that had been the case he would have lost his charm and his humanity, and ultimately the book would have been about nothing more than another clichéd badass who can do things no other living person is able to.
The Caldarian Conflict is a wonderful book. The main character Mendell is elegantly written and the story is unique and unexpected. I found myself taking extra long breaks at work just to eek out a few more pages. I greatly look forward to reading a much anticipated and demanded sequel.
For more reviews, go to www.readinista.com
The sky is blue, the sea air is crisp, and the public executions bring to justice the wrong doers and keep peace amongst the people. Or so it would seem in the city of Caldaria. But that is only the surface. Underneath boils the deceit of corrupt leaders who use vicious means to reach a bitterly self-serving end. Only one thing stands in their way. A humble yet courageous monk name Mendell.
When I first started reading Mike Kalmbach’s The Caldarian Conflict, I was a little off put by the prelude and it’s description of a boat that can magically come apart and have it’s helm float above itself. However, upon the introduction of Mendell, the book’s central character, I was hooked. Through his eyes, I was able to stay entranced in the story and never again did I question its validity.
Bearing a slight resemblance to the main character in the PBS series Cadfael, Mendell allows us to see this story from a unique perspective. As an inquisitive monk, Mendell honestly guides the reader through his adventures. At times, he even poses philosophical questions that took me by surprise. I admit that I did not expect to find such deep thinking in this book. To go along with that, were Mendell’s explanations of religion and faith, which I took as profound.
Mike Kalmbach weaves a fascinating tale that is intelligent and well thought through. His descriptive words painted a vivid picture that I didn’t soon forget. I’ll admit that at times I was hoping Mendell was going to turn out to be some sort of secret ninja monk who carried a small armory under all his robes and could deftly dispense with any hindrance he encountered. However, if that had been the case he would have lost his charm and his humanity, and ultimately the book would have been about nothing more than another clichéd badass who can do things no other living person is able to.
The Caldarian Conflict is a wonderful book. The main character Mendell is elegantly written and the story is unique and unexpected. I found myself taking extra long breaks at work just to eek out a few more pages. I greatly look forward to reading a much anticipated and demanded sequel.
For more reviews, go to www.readinista.com
November 13, 2011
You've got questions? I've got answers.
Q: Pirates and Monks... Huh?!?
A: I didn't know what to think when I read about this book. I hadn't seen anything like it before. Well fear not - this isn't a 'pirate' story, and it isn't a 'monk' story. It is a fantasy story with pirates and monks. (Disclaimer: No clue what a 'pirate' or 'monk' story would be, but this is definitely better)
Q: I don't know, The last pirate book I saw must have been written while out at sea... it was sloppy.
A: Do not worry - The book was well edited. Care was taken when making sure that this was ready for readers - I don't think I saw one error.
Q: Ok... But still... Pirates and Monks? Is that just eye patches and shaved heads? booooring....
A: I don't think you get it. Swarthy Pirates, flaming explosions, deception on the high seas(and back at port)! How is that boring?
Q: Gotcha - exciting fantasy... so that is like wizards and stuff right?
A: No... C'mon. Pirates and Monks. Pay attention.
Q: So, no magic?
A: No... I didn't say that. The magic in Caldaria is subtle and really well done. It feels like it is really part of the world, not slapped on top. The monk's who have favor from their chosen god seem to be able to do some real cool things. I'm excited to see this expanded upon once Caldaria is revisited.
Q: You are starting to convince me... Hey, let me ask you this - What was your favorite part?
A: There was a lot of cool stuff that stands out. The one that tickles my fancy the most though involves the representations of some of the 12 gods come to life before our eyes and even argue amongst themselves.
Q: Alright, so you would recommend I read it?
A: I thought I asked you to pay attention? Yes I would recommend it. This is something that is new but familiar. Exciting and accessible. Priced as it is, the book is a steal.
Q: Pirates and Monks... Huh?!?
A: I didn't know what to think when I read about this book. I hadn't seen anything like it before. Well fear not - this isn't a 'pirate' story, and it isn't a 'monk' story. It is a fantasy story with pirates and monks. (Disclaimer: No clue what a 'pirate' or 'monk' story would be, but this is definitely better)
Q: I don't know, The last pirate book I saw must have been written while out at sea... it was sloppy.
A: Do not worry - The book was well edited. Care was taken when making sure that this was ready for readers - I don't think I saw one error.
Q: Ok... But still... Pirates and Monks? Is that just eye patches and shaved heads? booooring....
A: I don't think you get it. Swarthy Pirates, flaming explosions, deception on the high seas(and back at port)! How is that boring?
Q: Gotcha - exciting fantasy... so that is like wizards and stuff right?
A: No... C'mon. Pirates and Monks. Pay attention.
Q: So, no magic?
A: No... I didn't say that. The magic in Caldaria is subtle and really well done. It feels like it is really part of the world, not slapped on top. The monk's who have favor from their chosen god seem to be able to do some real cool things. I'm excited to see this expanded upon once Caldaria is revisited.
Q: You are starting to convince me... Hey, let me ask you this - What was your favorite part?
A: There was a lot of cool stuff that stands out. The one that tickles my fancy the most though involves the representations of some of the 12 gods come to life before our eyes and even argue amongst themselves.
Q: Alright, so you would recommend I read it?
A: I thought I asked you to pay attention? Yes I would recommend it. This is something that is new but familiar. Exciting and accessible. Priced as it is, the book is a steal.
September 18, 2013
I went into this book thinking it would certainly be interesting since there's a curious but clever monk (think Father Brown), pirates (heck yeah!), a corrupt Admiral, and magic. After finishing the book, I can safely say The Caldarian Conflict certainly lived up to my expectations.
The book begins with Brother Mendell having doubts about a prisoner sentenced to be executed and the story he told Brother Mendelll as his confession. These doubts cause Mendell to look into the prisoner's story and get caught in a wonderfully tangled web of deception, lies, and intrigue.
I think Mike Kalmbach did an excellent job of switching POVs at just the right moment so the reader knew what was going on but was still in the dark about some aspects of the mystery. I also feel as though the character development was great, especially in regards to Mendell, who really grows as a character throughout the book. Although I loved Mendell, it would be great to get more backstory on Krell since he was soooo mysterious and interesting, maybe even a little novella that shows us how Krell got to be so awesome. Seriously though, he was like the evil version of Michael Westen from Burn Notice.
While the overall mystery was easy to solve (even before the different POVs confirmed it), I was happy to go along on the journey and learn more about the characters and see how they would handle certain situations. I'm hoping there will be another book since there are still some loose ends that Mendell needs to find and tie up (although maybe not since Mendell's so bad at tying knots).
Note: I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads book.
The book begins with Brother Mendell having doubts about a prisoner sentenced to be executed and the story he told Brother Mendelll as his confession. These doubts cause Mendell to look into the prisoner's story and get caught in a wonderfully tangled web of deception, lies, and intrigue.
I think Mike Kalmbach did an excellent job of switching POVs at just the right moment so the reader knew what was going on but was still in the dark about some aspects of the mystery. I also feel as though the character development was great, especially in regards to Mendell, who really grows as a character throughout the book. Although I loved Mendell, it would be great to get more backstory on Krell since he was soooo mysterious and interesting, maybe even a little novella that shows us how Krell got to be so awesome. Seriously though, he was like the evil version of Michael Westen from Burn Notice.
While the overall mystery was easy to solve (even before the different POVs confirmed it), I was happy to go along on the journey and learn more about the characters and see how they would handle certain situations. I'm hoping there will be another book since there are still some loose ends that Mendell needs to find and tie up (although maybe not since Mendell's so bad at tying knots).
Note: I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads book.
October 15, 2011
The Caldarian Conflict is not as predictable or as straight forward as one would think. Just when you think the story gets predictable, it gives you another twist. In the war against priracy, the Calarian Navy Admiral Cain would use any means necessary to wipe out all the pirates as long the means justified the ends even if he and his assistant Krell used the homeless people of Calaria. Until Brother Mendell stumbled into the Admiral's and his assistant's plan and tried to balance the scale of good vs. evil.
I find Mendell to be too careless. He gave too many secrets away for a monk. This is what set the monastery into danger. Admiral Cain and Krell wanted no witnesses into their plan. He was to keep the last confession of the executed prisoner but instead he leaked the information to another prisoner who was waiting for execution. Cain and Krell played Mendell.
Another thing, I find Mendell is that he kept protesting about killing. Although Mendell didn't kill anyone directly, he is responsible for the people who were killed. One of the pirate captains has even accused Mendell that as long as someone is carrying out justice, Mendell wouldn't feel guilty about taking a life. Mendell is caught in a catch-22 in regards to being on the defense instead of being on the offense especially when the nation's life is in the balance.
For anyone who loves the twists and turns in the story, this would be a good book to read. I don't think Mendell was strong enough to go up against Cain and Krell.
I find Mendell to be too careless. He gave too many secrets away for a monk. This is what set the monastery into danger. Admiral Cain and Krell wanted no witnesses into their plan. He was to keep the last confession of the executed prisoner but instead he leaked the information to another prisoner who was waiting for execution. Cain and Krell played Mendell.
Another thing, I find Mendell is that he kept protesting about killing. Although Mendell didn't kill anyone directly, he is responsible for the people who were killed. One of the pirate captains has even accused Mendell that as long as someone is carrying out justice, Mendell wouldn't feel guilty about taking a life. Mendell is caught in a catch-22 in regards to being on the defense instead of being on the offense especially when the nation's life is in the balance.
For anyone who loves the twists and turns in the story, this would be a good book to read. I don't think Mendell was strong enough to go up against Cain and Krell.
August 26, 2011
Kalmbach’s debut novel ,“The Caldarian Conflict,” is a fun, fast-paced pirate novel. The story opens with one of the most fierce and notorious pirates in the fictional world of Caldaria, the red headed Captain Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor. Shannon decides to seize an opportunity to take a merchant ship hostage and plunder some treasure – but quickly realizes that things are not what they seem anymore in Caldaria, and the thrill ride begins at full force for the reader.
“The Caldarian Conflict” has a lot of the features that make a great pirate novel; it’s plot drive, action packed, and has a vicious and memorable villain.
But this isn’t your typical pirate novel. For one, the protagonist isn’t a pirate but a monk named Mendell who has dedicated his life to helping the sick and to serving a god called ‘Lord Justice.’ His dedication to helping others results in him getting embroiled in the middle of the ongoing tension between the pirates and government. Telling the story from the perspective of a monk gives the reader a unique viewpoint of the moral dilemmas that Mendell faces and a fresh angle on pirate novels in general.
Another thing that sets this book apart from a typical pirate novel is that it has a strong element of mystery. Character’s motivations and plot twists are slowly revealed throughout the novel, always keeping the reader engaged.
The novel ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel!
“The Caldarian Conflict” has a lot of the features that make a great pirate novel; it’s plot drive, action packed, and has a vicious and memorable villain.
But this isn’t your typical pirate novel. For one, the protagonist isn’t a pirate but a monk named Mendell who has dedicated his life to helping the sick and to serving a god called ‘Lord Justice.’ His dedication to helping others results in him getting embroiled in the middle of the ongoing tension between the pirates and government. Telling the story from the perspective of a monk gives the reader a unique viewpoint of the moral dilemmas that Mendell faces and a fresh angle on pirate novels in general.
Another thing that sets this book apart from a typical pirate novel is that it has a strong element of mystery. Character’s motivations and plot twists are slowly revealed throughout the novel, always keeping the reader engaged.
The novel ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel!
August 30, 2011
In his debut novel, THE CALDARIAN CONFLICT, author Mike Kalmbach convincingly crafts a world of enchantment, iconic gods, and raging pirates. Brother Mendell, a humble devotee of Lord Justice, has the unenviable task of providing spiritual counsel to prisoners slated for execution. Through this involvement, Mendell begins to unravel a cat and mouse game devised by corrupt officers of the Caldarian navy to rid the Shalladian Sea of piracy. The tenacious monk’s quest for justice lands him smack-dab in the middle of their next suicide mission.
A well-penned tale of good versus evil, THE CALDARIAN CONFLICT spins a roguish yarn that is fast-paced, suspenseful, and thought provoking. Additionally, Mr. Kalmbach delivers Krell, the ambitious assistant to Admiral Cain. Krell is a villain of Machiavellian proportions; part Darth Vader, Terminator, and Nellie Oleson, you just LOVE to HATE this guy. And, of course, Krell has it in for Mendell.
Will altruistic Mendell outsmart the diabolical Krell?
Can Mendell rally the murderous pirates to a common cause to defeat their enemy?
Will the King of Caldaria believe Mendell’s outlandish accusations against his own navy?
I’m not telling! I’ll just say many will die before the sticky web of deceit is unveiled.
I award THE CALDARIAN CONFLICT 4.5/5.0 stars for its plot-twists, ribaldry and cast of colorful characters. Mr. Kalmbach, when can we expect the sequel?
A well-penned tale of good versus evil, THE CALDARIAN CONFLICT spins a roguish yarn that is fast-paced, suspenseful, and thought provoking. Additionally, Mr. Kalmbach delivers Krell, the ambitious assistant to Admiral Cain. Krell is a villain of Machiavellian proportions; part Darth Vader, Terminator, and Nellie Oleson, you just LOVE to HATE this guy. And, of course, Krell has it in for Mendell.
Will altruistic Mendell outsmart the diabolical Krell?
Can Mendell rally the murderous pirates to a common cause to defeat their enemy?
Will the King of Caldaria believe Mendell’s outlandish accusations against his own navy?
I’m not telling! I’ll just say many will die before the sticky web of deceit is unveiled.
I award THE CALDARIAN CONFLICT 4.5/5.0 stars for its plot-twists, ribaldry and cast of colorful characters. Mr. Kalmbach, when can we expect the sequel?
September 22, 2011
Cheers to The Caldarian Conflict!
Part thriller, mystery, adventure, and dark fantasy. Mike Kalmbach's debut novel begins with a big bang and fireworks when pirate Captain Shannon the Cannon O'Connor is blown out of the water. She's the first of many to fall prey in the devious plot designed by Admiral Cain of the Caldarian navy and his conniving assistant Krell.
Brother Mendell, a humble monk who serves the god of Justice, becomes entangled in Cain and Krell's evil conspiracy to rid the seas and the city of Cadmus of pirates and undesirables. The monk finds more honor among the pirates than between Cain and Krell, who are ready and willing to sacrifice countless innocents, including Brother Mendell, to accomplish their goals.
It's nonstop tension and action as Mendell works to unravel the mysteries behind all the senseless killings and destruction. This book is entertaining and well written. The ending left me satisfied and pleased to discover there's likely to be a sequel. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Part thriller, mystery, adventure, and dark fantasy. Mike Kalmbach's debut novel begins with a big bang and fireworks when pirate Captain Shannon the Cannon O'Connor is blown out of the water. She's the first of many to fall prey in the devious plot designed by Admiral Cain of the Caldarian navy and his conniving assistant Krell.
Brother Mendell, a humble monk who serves the god of Justice, becomes entangled in Cain and Krell's evil conspiracy to rid the seas and the city of Cadmus of pirates and undesirables. The monk finds more honor among the pirates than between Cain and Krell, who are ready and willing to sacrifice countless innocents, including Brother Mendell, to accomplish their goals.
It's nonstop tension and action as Mendell works to unravel the mysteries behind all the senseless killings and destruction. This book is entertaining and well written. The ending left me satisfied and pleased to discover there's likely to be a sequel. I'm looking forward to reading it.
September 20, 2011
Normlly when I see a book about pirates or fantasy I immdeiately brush it off as just another amped up Pirates of the Carribien. But when Mike Klambach allowed me to read and review his wonderful novel, The Caldarian Conflict, a fast paced cat and mouse game of good vs. evil. The world of Caldaria, from Mr. Klambaches own mind, is stunning.
We find ourselves rooting or Mendell and cringing in fear of Krell with every page turned. The words come out so vividly that this reads lke a masterful mini series. I would not be surprised to find out that one day I could be watching this on television.
Will Krell get his disturbing and dasterdly plan to work?
Can Mendell stop him?
Will anything be the same after its all said and down.
4.5 stars for you sir. This is worth the read and I believe I see a sequel in the near future. *Fingers crossed*
(free copy received for promotional purposes)
We find ourselves rooting or Mendell and cringing in fear of Krell with every page turned. The words come out so vividly that this reads lke a masterful mini series. I would not be surprised to find out that one day I could be watching this on television.
Will Krell get his disturbing and dasterdly plan to work?
Can Mendell stop him?
Will anything be the same after its all said and down.
4.5 stars for you sir. This is worth the read and I believe I see a sequel in the near future. *Fingers crossed*
(free copy received for promotional purposes)
January 3, 2013
The Caldarian Conflict
By Mike Kalmbach
2011
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewing a book centered on pirates, monks, and a corrupt government in a fictional world was a new experience for this reviewer. The story line interested me to accept doing this review, but I wasn’t anticipating all that I uncovered.
Kalmbach has presented an exciting, believable story that keeps readers turning pages quickly with Captain Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor, Admiral Cain, Father Ramsey, Owen, Krell, and all the other Caldarians under the rule of King Lothar.
However, it is Brother Mendell, the monk caught in the middle, who leads readers into and throughout The Caldarian Conflict.
Kalmbach presents an intelligent adventure, enjoyable to readers on many levels, with excellent characterization, dialogue, and story line. This kind of writing truly merits a five star recommendation!
By Mike Kalmbach
2011
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewing a book centered on pirates, monks, and a corrupt government in a fictional world was a new experience for this reviewer. The story line interested me to accept doing this review, but I wasn’t anticipating all that I uncovered.
Kalmbach has presented an exciting, believable story that keeps readers turning pages quickly with Captain Shannon “The Cannon” O’Connor, Admiral Cain, Father Ramsey, Owen, Krell, and all the other Caldarians under the rule of King Lothar.
However, it is Brother Mendell, the monk caught in the middle, who leads readers into and throughout The Caldarian Conflict.
Kalmbach presents an intelligent adventure, enjoyable to readers on many levels, with excellent characterization, dialogue, and story line. This kind of writing truly merits a five star recommendation!
January 23, 2014
This story is set in a fantasy world that has some limited magic, and limited technology. There are a dozen different gods with different attributes like Justice, Luck, Wisdom, and more.
The story centers around a Monk who follows the god of Justice because he wants to do right in the world. But he gets caught up in a plot by evil men who kill innocent people.
How can Mendell, the monk, fight against evil people without becoming evil himself? Will he actually have to kill someone for justice to be served?
So, if you like fantasy stories, and pirates, then you'll like this because it has them and more.
I'm not a reader of fantasy usually, but I found it engaging.
And it had some unexpected twists at the end.
The story centers around a Monk who follows the god of Justice because he wants to do right in the world. But he gets caught up in a plot by evil men who kill innocent people.
How can Mendell, the monk, fight against evil people without becoming evil himself? Will he actually have to kill someone for justice to be served?
So, if you like fantasy stories, and pirates, then you'll like this because it has them and more.
I'm not a reader of fantasy usually, but I found it engaging.
And it had some unexpected twists at the end.
August 9, 2015
Mike Kalmbach creates a vast world, and his plotline run through the multiple layers of society. From pirates to monks to army elite, there are a variety of characters that readers encounter. Kalmbach questions the traditional definitions of heroes vs. villains.
My favorite scenes were those of the monks. I loved their thoughtful musings. I also very much enjoyed the history of the religious orders. I hope Kalmbach elaborates on the religious history in his next book.
"The Caldarian Conflict" is a well paced story with a great cast of characters. At its heart is a monk who seeks only to help others. It is a quest for truth and justice wrapped within an exciting adventure.
My favorite scenes were those of the monks. I loved their thoughtful musings. I also very much enjoyed the history of the religious orders. I hope Kalmbach elaborates on the religious history in his next book.
"The Caldarian Conflict" is a well paced story with a great cast of characters. At its heart is a monk who seeks only to help others. It is a quest for truth and justice wrapped within an exciting adventure.
December 9, 2012
I loved The Calderian Conflict. Mike Kalmbach hooked me with his first well-crafted words, and he kept me wanting to read more with his great pacing. The rich details of the pirate world and a monk’s life added historical texture as the intrigue unfolded. I particularly enjoyed the range of life that Mike revealed in his characters, from the base treachery of the scheming power-hungry to the refined hearts and intentions of the spiritually mature. Good work! A fun mystery thriller powered by a timeless battle!
--Susan Klauber, author of Sound of the Sacred Beads: A Poet’s Journey into India
--Susan Klauber, author of Sound of the Sacred Beads: A Poet’s Journey into India
December 30, 2020
A very smooth, interesting, adventurist kind of read. I loved the pirate talk. And the pirate characters. Yes, even the bad ones. The Monk was a kind hearted, sincere, and was a gullible man at the same time. But that was in his nature and people who knew this took advantage of that. Just like the real world yes?
I thought the ending was honorable. And I enjoyed meeting up with some of the character at their grave sights But.. the Epilogue surprised me.
Is there going to be 2nd book Mr.Kalmback?
I thought the ending was honorable. And I enjoyed meeting up with some of the character at their grave sights But.. the Epilogue surprised me.
Is there going to be 2nd book Mr.Kalmback?
October 2, 2013
The Caldarian Conflict begins as a typical swashbuckling pirate tale, but quickly takes on a more cerebral tone. A kind-hearted monk ventures well beyond his comfort zone in an attempt to right wrongs and expose government corruption. Kalmbach’s dialogue is spot-on, especially the pirate-speak. The story flows at an appropriate pace with just the right amount of plot twists. The main characters are well-developed and consistent. Kalmbach sprinkles elements of fantasy along the way to keep the story fresh and establish a great opportunity for a follow-up book.
August 12, 2012
A really fun read. I enjoyed the pirates the most, albeit they seemed a little "good" compared with the bad politicians. It was a good, thoughtful tale on the morality of rooting out criminals, at it's heart, with good amount of ribaldry and swashbuckling.
Ultimately, I only give 5 stars to books that move me emotionally, and while I liked the characters I never felt that connection.
Great job! I want more!
January 18, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed The Caldarian Conflict. It's a complex fantasy with well-drawn, multifaceted characters and a plot so full of surprise twists that it's a wonder Kalmbach could unknot. But he does--brilliantly. Besides being a ripping good story, the book explores themes of justice, right, and wrong, showing that tolerance and understanding are wise, even in a world full of pirates. I hope to read more about Father Mendell in the future.
January 7, 2012
I thought this book was creative, with a fast-moving plot so I wanted to keep reading. I enjoyed the characters of the pirates and the monks, and also the moral issues they face through the book. While the book has adventure and mystery, it also deals with important themes of justice, honesty and other areas. I'd recommend reading this book if you can!
February 17, 2012
Truthfully, it was pretty darn good. I didn't have too high of expectations when reading the descriptions - pirates, monks, corrupt government. It was all there, and was a refreshing compliment to my days at the pool in the Caribbean this month.
It didn't have extreme depth, but was a great read. I welcome any future works of fiction from this guy!
It didn't have extreme depth, but was a great read. I welcome any future works of fiction from this guy!
January 27, 2013
Rip Roaring Adventure Story. Follow the adventures of Brother Mendell as he bands together pirates and monks to save the city of Caldera from the cruel rule of Admiral Cain and his evil henchmen. Hard to put down adventure story, can NOT wait for the next installment. A Great way to spend the afternoon in the sun
November 6, 2013
Excellent writing, wide range of interesting characters, detailed setting, dastardly villains,a thrilling plot and a touch of philosophy. Mike Kalmbach hits all the buttons in this tale of pirates, monks, assassins, and admirals. I very much enjoyed reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it
January 13, 2013
This book is turning out to be very engrossing to say the least. It's quite the story line with pirates, monks with magical powers and very crooked leaders. Thing is that the story keeps getting better the farther you get into it.
Won a copy of this book as part of a grand prize package.
Won a copy of this book as part of a grand prize package.
September 13, 2013
This book is well paced, and has good characters. Several moments have the characters pondering themselves and their decisions, which can easily be related to life today. This was a nice and easy summer read.
We received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
We received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
March 4, 2014
This book was truly excellent! Who would think to mix pirates and monks? It makes an amazing combination and a book packed with action and adventure! This book will keep the reader glued to the pages wanting to know what happens next! I hope there are more books to follow this!
January 23, 2013
Short but smartly written. Loved the lead.
February 10, 2012
When his duties lead him to console a condemned pirate, Brother Mendell begins investigating a series of odd occurences within the Caldarian navy. He learns that the navy is recruiting dying and homeless men for suicide missions, and not all the sailors are aware they're leaving on their final voyage. Mendell is faced with a dangerous conundrum: help save the lawless pirates or aid the navy in murder.
The Caldarian Conflict is a solid effort. It has well-drawn characters and settings, and believable dialogue with some pirate-y flair. I also like that the author, Mike Kalmbach, has taken the time to create a mythology for his world, complete with a pantheon of gods and goddesses.
The major flaw in this book is that it's slow-moving, with very little suspense. This is a result of the omniscient narrator: readers are kept abreast of the doings of each character at all times, so there is no action that an antagonist takes that the reader isn't expecting. I found I had no problem setting this book down to do other things. Also, the protagonist, Brother Mendell, is just a little too good. The sadist in me wanted to see him struggle with something salacious from his past, just because he's a monk. No go. He'd struggle with momentary judgments, before reassuring himself and getting on with the business at hand. I really wanted to see him screw something up badly, but he's just too levelheaded.
So, I recommend The Caldarian Conflict to readers of high fantasy who enjoy a well-constructed world.
To read more of my reviews, visit my blog, StarLit.
The Caldarian Conflict is a solid effort. It has well-drawn characters and settings, and believable dialogue with some pirate-y flair. I also like that the author, Mike Kalmbach, has taken the time to create a mythology for his world, complete with a pantheon of gods and goddesses.
The major flaw in this book is that it's slow-moving, with very little suspense. This is a result of the omniscient narrator: readers are kept abreast of the doings of each character at all times, so there is no action that an antagonist takes that the reader isn't expecting. I found I had no problem setting this book down to do other things. Also, the protagonist, Brother Mendell, is just a little too good. The sadist in me wanted to see him struggle with something salacious from his past, just because he's a monk. No go. He'd struggle with momentary judgments, before reassuring himself and getting on with the business at hand. I really wanted to see him screw something up badly, but he's just too levelheaded.
So, I recommend The Caldarian Conflict to readers of high fantasy who enjoy a well-constructed world.
To read more of my reviews, visit my blog, StarLit.
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