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Series #1
The Sorceror's Lament
A talented Magician and reclusive Enchanter must join forces to stop a devastating magic...if they don't tear each other apart first.
Ever since the restoration of magic, Magicians and Enchanters have been in an uneasy alliance. The Magicians’ power maintains peace, while the Enchanters’ potions prevent magic’s dangerous side effects.
But the Enchanters have become increasingly evasive, and the High Magician suspects foul play. Thus eighteen-year-old Jessie Balthanders, a Magician prodigy, is recruited to investigate. If she can expose their possible treason, she'll be hailed a hero.
She finds herself apprenticed to Lahara Redford, a powerful but jaded Enchanter who deeply mistrusts Magicians. With tensions running high, the two must learn to work together as they are dragged into a dark conspiracy.
But Jessie needs to find answers soon, and if Lahara discovers her true nature, she’ll have far more than the High Magician's wrath to fear.
The cost of success, however, may be far greater than failure.
Ever since the restoration of magic, Magicians and Enchanters have been in an uneasy alliance. The Magicians’ power maintains peace, while the Enchanters’ potions prevent magic’s dangerous side effects.
But the Enchanters have become increasingly evasive, and the High Magician suspects foul play. Thus eighteen-year-old Jessie Balthanders, a Magician prodigy, is recruited to investigate. If she can expose their possible treason, she'll be hailed a hero.
She finds herself apprenticed to Lahara Redford, a powerful but jaded Enchanter who deeply mistrusts Magicians. With tensions running high, the two must learn to work together as they are dragged into a dark conspiracy.
But Jessie needs to find answers soon, and if Lahara discovers her true nature, she’ll have far more than the High Magician's wrath to fear.
The cost of success, however, may be far greater than failure.
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2023
About the author
Sam Dogra
11 books30 followersSam Dogra is General Practitioner (family doctor) working in the UK. Between reviewing prescriptions and X-rays, taking blood pressures and referring to consultants, she also writes fantasy fiction and is a fantasy artist.
She has been writing since age 14, starting with a short story involving the invention of the vaccination, then dabbling a little in fan fiction for several years, before setting off on a journey to play with her own original characters!
Her artwork includes various fan art, original works and beautiful birds.
Sam also enjoys reading, baking cakes, extensive retail therapy, astrology, video games, and photography. It's a wonder she has time to see patients really!
She has been writing since age 14, starting with a short story involving the invention of the vaccination, then dabbling a little in fan fiction for several years, before setting off on a journey to play with her own original characters!
Her artwork includes various fan art, original works and beautiful birds.
Sam also enjoys reading, baking cakes, extensive retail therapy, astrology, video games, and photography. It's a wonder she has time to see patients really!
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 6, 2025
Hold on while I pick my jaw up from the floor, because this book blew my expectations out of the water. There were so many twists and turns, and throughout the whole thing I kept trying to guess what was going to happen next, but couldn’t.
I can’t even put my thoughts into words, but this was incredible. Sorcerers, Magicians, Warlocks, and Enchanters, there wasn’t a limit to the different magical beings there were.
There was action around every corner than didn’t make the book lag or feel slow, and the slow burn between was the MCs was incredible.
I have to know what happens next as this book was left on the biggest cliff hanger. There were a few spelling errors, but overall the story was written wonderfully.
I can’t even put my thoughts into words, but this was incredible. Sorcerers, Magicians, Warlocks, and Enchanters, there wasn’t a limit to the different magical beings there were.
There was action around every corner than didn’t make the book lag or feel slow, and the slow burn between was the MCs was incredible.
I have to know what happens next as this book was left on the biggest cliff hanger. There were a few spelling errors, but overall the story was written wonderfully.
May 15, 2025
4.5 Stars
I had zero expectations because I just randomly purchased this book. And wow was I in for a treat!!! What made The Sorcerer’s Lament by Sam Dogra an excellent read you ask? Let’s dissect.
Setting - their country? is called Azaria. From Begara (where Jessie is from) to Panaran (where the Enchanter Lahara practices) to Wolfdale, the author set-up places that were distinctive from each other and easily identifiable (it also helped that the map is legible, coloured and with less frills so it’s easy to identify places). The main places in this book were Begara and Panaran and I love how the author differentiated the two cities. It was simple but made an impression on me and earned the author admiration points.
Jessie - Jessie started off as almost arrogant and condescending with all the pomp of a very self-absorbed 18 year old. I didn’t hate it though. She was just suuuper sure of herself and I love me some self assured main character. As the story unfolds, you could see her character development which basically ends in her having to make a big, life altering decision. As a reader you could feel her dilemma and sympathise with the difficulty she faces with the choices she was presented with.
Lahara - quiet, serious and mostly the levelheaded one, her character transformation was instantaneous. Basically doing a 180 and the best part is, I get it. I understand why she chose to be the opposite of what she originally played throughout the story. “This is how villains are made” is very apt for her theme song.
The plot was layered, the flow was fast paced and the scenes were thrilling. The magical abilities were interesting and original. It was, put simply, amazing storytelling.
I haven’t heard of Sam Dogra before this book and I am shocked. Someone who has the talent to write stories like this deserves more airtime and more recognition! Quality writing is rare so we should treasure it and make it known.
I had zero expectations because I just randomly purchased this book. And wow was I in for a treat!!! What made The Sorcerer’s Lament by Sam Dogra an excellent read you ask? Let’s dissect.
Setting - their country? is called Azaria. From Begara (where Jessie is from) to Panaran (where the Enchanter Lahara practices) to Wolfdale, the author set-up places that were distinctive from each other and easily identifiable (it also helped that the map is legible, coloured and with less frills so it’s easy to identify places). The main places in this book were Begara and Panaran and I love how the author differentiated the two cities. It was simple but made an impression on me and earned the author admiration points.
Jessie - Jessie started off as almost arrogant and condescending with all the pomp of a very self-absorbed 18 year old. I didn’t hate it though. She was just suuuper sure of herself and I love me some self assured main character. As the story unfolds, you could see her character development which basically ends in her having to make a big, life altering decision. As a reader you could feel her dilemma and sympathise with the difficulty she faces with the choices she was presented with.
Lahara - quiet, serious and mostly the levelheaded one, her character transformation was instantaneous. Basically doing a 180 and the best part is, I get it. I understand why she chose to be the opposite of what she originally played throughout the story. “This is how villains are made” is very apt for her theme song.
The plot was layered, the flow was fast paced and the scenes were thrilling. The magical abilities were interesting and original. It was, put simply, amazing storytelling.
I haven’t heard of Sam Dogra before this book and I am shocked. Someone who has the talent to write stories like this deserves more airtime and more recognition! Quality writing is rare so we should treasure it and make it known.
May 4, 2023
Just wow! I absolutely loved this story. I had an insanely busy work week and a new puppy to take care of and I still managed to finish in three days because every spare second went into reading this book. I couldn’t get enough!
First, I love the magic system. I think it’s a fascinating concept, especially with how the sickness plays into it. I don’t want to get to into this because a lot of plot revolves around it, but it’s great and the plot brings a lot of suspense and drama.
Our main character’s name is Jessica who is an immensely talented magician. However her talent creates a level of arrogance that is almost off putting initially but she grows immensely throughout the novel, while still maintaining some flaw which makes her a very dynamic and interesting character. An interesting component is she comes from the Magician class which has absolutely indoctrinated her into believing they are supreme to the other classes and you can see how she struggles with this. It’s not like a magical flip we’re she suddenly sees theirs ways are wrong and she becomes this hero. To be frank, I think that’s a very honest portrayal of indoctrination.
The romance is lovely. It’s not quick but any means and develops throughout the story. And there is such kindness in Lahara that I found endearing to no end. Lahara is such a powerhouse of a character. She experiences similar things to our MC but is a completely different person which is a lovely juxtaposition to our MC.
I preordered the second book already because I have to read it as soon as it comes out!!!!
June 30, 2023
I had some very high hopes for this book and unfortunately the MC is it's downfall. There are three types of magics in this world: Magicians, Enchanters and Warlocks. Our MC Jessie a powerful Magician at the age of 18 and Lahara is a powerful Enchanter. The story revolves around Jessie trying to figure out what the Enchanters are hiding while posing as an Enchanter herself unbeknownst to Lahara. The story line and plot were fantastic, Lahara's character as well as several other minor characters were well developed but I could not get past Jessie's character. Jessie is an obnoxious, self obsessed and extremely arrogant. I get she's only 18 (and maybe this book just isn't for me) but I could no stand her. I've read other books where the MC is not supposed to be well liked but they eventually change and mature, unfortunately that is not the case for her. I loved the world, the ideas and where the story was leading to especially with the cliff hanger, but I will not be continuing this series solely on how much I can't stand Jessie which is very unfortunate.
September 10, 2024
I can't wait to find out what happens next! 😍
4.5
4.5
May 31, 2023
In The Sorceror's Lament, there are three factions of magic users: Magicians, Enchanters, and Warlocks. They each have a unique and well-thought out magic system that is refreshing and intriguing. However, the best part is that the majority of the book focuses on the flaws and short-comings of the magic. This is so much less common in fantasy and it immediately lends a depth to the book as the characters grapple with real consequences.
The characters in the book have layers to them. Something that was really enjoyable is that none of the characters are purely good or evil. There are no unrealistically moral saints walking around who fight for truth and light just for the sake of justice. Instead, even the ‘good’ characters in this story act like normal humans - in accordance with advancing their own wants and needs.
Jessie, the main character, is unlikeable in the beginning - she’s arrogant and disparaging of less talented people. Rather than being an unpleasant character, she is actually a very interesting one to follow! The story follows her as she evolves as a Magician and a human being in a satisfying, but tumultuous journey. Her mentor, Lahara, is full of mystery, from her magic to her motivations to her past, and answers are gradually teased out. The world, Azaria, is so detailed that there’s hardly a dull moment because every answer only leads to a deeper question.
The center of the story is the cost of magic. Using magic imposes a deadly toll on a person that must be countered with an elixir or they will succumb to the equivalent of magic poisoning. This central question - what price would you be willing to make someone else pay for your benefit - is explored throughout the book on a societal level and a personal level through Jessie’s eyes and the lens of her trauma.
The book pulls you along from chapter to chapter with its intricate, but well-laid out plot. There is plenty of action, from physical combat to magic fights to romantic maneuvering. The climatic scene of the book is a little short. There are several major events that take place in the span of only a few pages so it feels like the book ends a little abruptly. However, it’s book 1 so it’s clearly leading very strongly into the next book.
Overall, The Sorceror's Lament is a very well-written book that’s a whirlwind of a ride! If you like intricate worlds and a new approach to magic, then check it out!
I received a free copy of this book as an advanced reader. This review is 100% my own opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I influenced by the publisher/author in any way.
The characters in the book have layers to them. Something that was really enjoyable is that none of the characters are purely good or evil. There are no unrealistically moral saints walking around who fight for truth and light just for the sake of justice. Instead, even the ‘good’ characters in this story act like normal humans - in accordance with advancing their own wants and needs.
Jessie, the main character, is unlikeable in the beginning - she’s arrogant and disparaging of less talented people. Rather than being an unpleasant character, she is actually a very interesting one to follow! The story follows her as she evolves as a Magician and a human being in a satisfying, but tumultuous journey. Her mentor, Lahara, is full of mystery, from her magic to her motivations to her past, and answers are gradually teased out. The world, Azaria, is so detailed that there’s hardly a dull moment because every answer only leads to a deeper question.
The center of the story is the cost of magic. Using magic imposes a deadly toll on a person that must be countered with an elixir or they will succumb to the equivalent of magic poisoning. This central question - what price would you be willing to make someone else pay for your benefit - is explored throughout the book on a societal level and a personal level through Jessie’s eyes and the lens of her trauma.
The book pulls you along from chapter to chapter with its intricate, but well-laid out plot. There is plenty of action, from physical combat to magic fights to romantic maneuvering. The climatic scene of the book is a little short. There are several major events that take place in the span of only a few pages so it feels like the book ends a little abruptly. However, it’s book 1 so it’s clearly leading very strongly into the next book.
Overall, The Sorceror's Lament is a very well-written book that’s a whirlwind of a ride! If you like intricate worlds and a new approach to magic, then check it out!
I received a free copy of this book as an advanced reader. This review is 100% my own opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I influenced by the publisher/author in any way.
September 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, more than I was expecting to. It wasn't perfect but, for a debut, it was impressive. I quite liked Jessie actually, despite her arrogance and condescending nature, because I could tell there was more to her than her haughty exterior. I got really invested in her and Lahara's relationship, The way their lives somewhat mirrored one another's and how that allowed them to understand and care for each other was delightful to read. The magic system and the world were interesting, I especially liked the Magicians' powers, they were pretty creative. And, since playing "Gravity Rush", I've always loved gravity powers, which are so rarely used. There were some fight scenes that were quite cinematic. And the cliffhanger ending left me desperately wanting the sequel.
Overall, a gripping series opener.
Overall, a gripping series opener.
July 28, 2024
The MC is so self centered it's unbearable. She starts off cocky and arrogant, but that is to be expected as she just finished magic academy top of her class.
Things happen and she starts to care for the love interest but then her internal monologue is "It would only be a matter of time before she discovered my Magician powers, and the moment that happened, she’d turn her back on me. Nothing could overthrow such a deep-seated hatred. Not even her feelings for me."
Turns out she knew the hole time the truth, still trusted her. The MC then goes on to betray her for a senate that is obviously corrupt. MC lacks critical thinking skills
Things happen and she starts to care for the love interest but then her internal monologue is "It would only be a matter of time before she discovered my Magician powers, and the moment that happened, she’d turn her back on me. Nothing could overthrow such a deep-seated hatred. Not even her feelings for me."
Turns out she knew the hole time the truth, still trusted her. The MC then goes on to betray her for a senate that is obviously corrupt. MC lacks critical thinking skills
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2023
Finally something different
Well what can I say, this book gives so much! Set in a new world you follow the story of a newly graduated Mage. Completely arrogant and full of herself she is sent off into the world on a mission for the powers that be. I'd call it a coming of age story as she is faced with adventure and events that make her question everything she's been brought up to believe. If you haven't guessed already I loved it and if you enjoy a lot of fantasy and a little sapphic love then definitely read this book.
Well what can I say, this book gives so much! Set in a new world you follow the story of a newly graduated Mage. Completely arrogant and full of herself she is sent off into the world on a mission for the powers that be. I'd call it a coming of age story as she is faced with adventure and events that make her question everything she's been brought up to believe. If you haven't guessed already I loved it and if you enjoy a lot of fantasy and a little sapphic love then definitely read this book.
May 18, 2023
Really enjoyed the concept of this book and the characters. Loved the slow burn, and of course the sapphic romance. I found that the writing slowed a little bit, and I had trouble getting through the middle of the book, but it did pick back up again. Glad I finished it and I can't wait to read book two and find out what happens!!
May 31, 2023
Sam Dogra does a great job in creating a unique fantasy genre, it had everything that I was hoping for based on the description. It worked as a opening chapter to the Socreror Saga series and it left me wanting to read more in this universe. I enjoyed how good the characters were and how they worked in this universe.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2024
Honestly i absolutely LOVED THIS BOOK,I was captivated from the start , the style of writing and the explanations on each magic factor was incredible , it really made my brain work to put a whole image out there as i was reading , tiktok really did me well with the recommendations,Also for Sam , please i need more i love your work it is absolutely incredible
July 26, 2023
Caring for the needy.
Caring for family, friends and the world. The twists and turns of training, learning to manifest you knowledge to help family, friends, loved ones and the world.
Caring for family, friends and the world. The twists and turns of training, learning to manifest you knowledge to help family, friends, loved ones and the world.
March 8, 2025
Good reading
Quite enjoyed this read and will be moving directly to the next TBR be damned. I like these characters though it took awhile with Jessie and she needs a good Gibbs smack (makes for good reading). The story is interesting and the world works well.
Quite enjoyed this read and will be moving directly to the next TBR be damned. I like these characters though it took awhile with Jessie and she needs a good Gibbs smack (makes for good reading). The story is interesting and the world works well.
March 12, 2025
Fascinating schools of magic and alchemy
I found these stories of magic enchanting and the plot lines kept me thoroughly enthralled reading until the final twist at the end of the tale. An enjoyable read kept me well entertained. Get the book and read it! Well done Sam Dogra
I found these stories of magic enchanting and the plot lines kept me thoroughly enthralled reading until the final twist at the end of the tale. An enjoyable read kept me well entertained. Get the book and read it! Well done Sam Dogra
July 30, 2023
It was ok
January 19, 2025
Meh, DNF at 82% I kept trying to push through but found I just didn’t care what was happening.
February 4, 2026
Intrigued
Took me a while to get into it and I’m glad to say it’s awesome. I’m looking forward to the next one.
Took me a while to get into it and I’m glad to say it’s awesome. I’m looking forward to the next one.
Read
March 30, 2026The Sorceror’s Lament introduces us to a captivating story in a novel and well-crafted world of magic, with three classes or factions of magic users: Magicians, Warlocks and Enchanters. But magic doesn’t come for free in this world, and the steep cost of it is the woven thread that binds the story and the main characters together. The price of wielding magic sets this universe apart from others, and it’s what I felt was the most refreshing about this delightful and successful endeavour on world building and story crafting.
I found the plot utterly fascinating. The author manages to give you small breadcrumbs that, when noticed, feel incredibly rewarding as the story line evolves. I was so enthralled by it that I looked forward to reading the book every night, and upon finishing it, I had to immediately start the second book in the trilogy, The Sorceror’s Revenge. I already look forward to revisiting the whole trilogy once I am done, indulging in the foreshadowing, and I just wish more people would discover these amazing works of fiction.
The book centres on Jessie and Lahara’s journey, a talented Magician and a reclusive but powerful Enchanter. Seeing Jessie, a main female character with such a deep flaw (her arrogance), evolve and grow over the course of the story felt original and stimulating. Even if her hubris puts you off at the beginning, her trauma and the impact her upbringing had on her makes you connect with her and understand her at a human level, and you end up rooting for her. Both Jessie and Lahara are multidimensional and iconic characters. I will not reveal much about Lahara and let you discover this fantastic and mysterious character on your own, but her vulnerability felt as powerful and raw as it was hard to earn. These two main protagonists and their evolving dynamic are the soul of this book. The thrilling plot kept me coming back for more and musing about the pieces I learned in every chapter, but it was Jessie and Lahara’s journey that made me truly emotionally invested.
Secondary characters are fleshed out but not overwhelming given the first person point of view, and they let us focus on Jessie and Lahara’s journey. They felt distinctive and gave us more insight on the world and the main characters without distracting from their narrative.
I can’t recall the last time I was so excited and absorbed by a work of fiction. Sam Dogra is an author to watch!
I found the plot utterly fascinating. The author manages to give you small breadcrumbs that, when noticed, feel incredibly rewarding as the story line evolves. I was so enthralled by it that I looked forward to reading the book every night, and upon finishing it, I had to immediately start the second book in the trilogy, The Sorceror’s Revenge. I already look forward to revisiting the whole trilogy once I am done, indulging in the foreshadowing, and I just wish more people would discover these amazing works of fiction.
The book centres on Jessie and Lahara’s journey, a talented Magician and a reclusive but powerful Enchanter. Seeing Jessie, a main female character with such a deep flaw (her arrogance), evolve and grow over the course of the story felt original and stimulating. Even if her hubris puts you off at the beginning, her trauma and the impact her upbringing had on her makes you connect with her and understand her at a human level, and you end up rooting for her. Both Jessie and Lahara are multidimensional and iconic characters. I will not reveal much about Lahara and let you discover this fantastic and mysterious character on your own, but her vulnerability felt as powerful and raw as it was hard to earn. These two main protagonists and their evolving dynamic are the soul of this book. The thrilling plot kept me coming back for more and musing about the pieces I learned in every chapter, but it was Jessie and Lahara’s journey that made me truly emotionally invested.
Secondary characters are fleshed out but not overwhelming given the first person point of view, and they let us focus on Jessie and Lahara’s journey. They felt distinctive and gave us more insight on the world and the main characters without distracting from their narrative.
I can’t recall the last time I was so excited and absorbed by a work of fiction. Sam Dogra is an author to watch!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews