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The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality
Sometimes it's funny how fast things can change, and sometimes it's not...
Welcome to Albert Keane's beautifully designed medieval kingdom nestled in a completely isolated river valley in the Canadian wilderness. Peaceful, happy, and prosperous, it takes nothing from the modern world, not so much as a single clock.
There is a castle, of course, and a monastery. There is even a pitch dark, rat-infested dungeon - because you simply have to have one if you are trying to rule a feudal kingdom!
Farmers work the land, artisans ply their trades, monks keep school and visit the sick, and nobody (well, almost nobody) misses the modern world at all.
So why has Jack Darcey - actor, wanderer, ex-competitive fencer - been tricked and seduced into paying a visit? And why hasn't anyone told him that the only way to leave is a perilous trek across hundreds of miles of trackless wilderness without a compass or a map?
Because a tide of fear and violence is rising from the twisted ambitions of one of King Albert's nobles, and Albert's fortune teller believes that Jack could turn the tide - if he lives long enough .
Welcome to Albert Keane's beautifully designed medieval kingdom nestled in a completely isolated river valley in the Canadian wilderness. Peaceful, happy, and prosperous, it takes nothing from the modern world, not so much as a single clock.
There is a castle, of course, and a monastery. There is even a pitch dark, rat-infested dungeon - because you simply have to have one if you are trying to rule a feudal kingdom!
Farmers work the land, artisans ply their trades, monks keep school and visit the sick, and nobody (well, almost nobody) misses the modern world at all.
So why has Jack Darcey - actor, wanderer, ex-competitive fencer - been tricked and seduced into paying a visit? And why hasn't anyone told him that the only way to leave is a perilous trek across hundreds of miles of trackless wilderness without a compass or a map?
Because a tide of fear and violence is rising from the twisted ambitions of one of King Albert's nobles, and Albert's fortune teller believes that Jack could turn the tide - if he lives long enough .
353 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2012
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 8, 2015
intriguing and mildly educational this book makes us really consider if our way of life is better now than that in the middle ages. This is a good mix of modern-day life and beliefs intermingled with that of a couple hundred years ago. I am no historian but I believe the historical references correct.
Although we are told people went to this new land voluntarily and are told they can leave at any time, but really how? To me they are brought in on false pretenses and due to no outside communication or transport and being surrounded by hundreds of miles of desert they are in fact trapped! When they arrive all their clothes, and other possessions are burned or otherwise destroyed and are expected to fit in and live in a much different environment.
Jack was my favourite character as through him we can live through all the insecurities, fear and questions he had, and learned along with him just what it would be like in the middle ages. He constantly questions his new way of life and government in just the same way we do today.
Overall, I think I'll stay here in the 21st century thanks very much
Although we are told people went to this new land voluntarily and are told they can leave at any time, but really how? To me they are brought in on false pretenses and due to no outside communication or transport and being surrounded by hundreds of miles of desert they are in fact trapped! When they arrive all their clothes, and other possessions are burned or otherwise destroyed and are expected to fit in and live in a much different environment.
Jack was my favourite character as through him we can live through all the insecurities, fear and questions he had, and learned along with him just what it would be like in the middle ages. He constantly questions his new way of life and government in just the same way we do today.
Overall, I think I'll stay here in the 21st century thanks very much
October 30, 2025
I randomly selected this book at the library and I am so proud of my ability to judge this book by its cover! I really enjoyed the juxtaposition of modern characters living in a medieval world. It was enjoyable and easy to follow along throughout the story. It was a great fall read for sure!!
December 1, 2020
3.5 wildly inventive slightly unbelievable
July 27, 2023
Not really the book I would sit down and enjoy. Couldn’t finish it 😑
April 16, 2012
I have conflicting feelings about this book.
On one hand, there is trite occurrences that have nothing to do with anything... and I am all about WHY, so that drove me nuts. Let me share what I mean:
"I used to own a transvestite bar" pg 6
"'Do you mind if I take mine off?' And she did, without bothering to get off the horse. First the blouse went flying... and there she was quite irresistibly buck naked in her tennis sneakers." p31
To my thinking, these two situations - his former business and a woman begging for an affair - translated to no respect for the main character, Jack. I wasn't endeared to his reaction to the failed business plus "transvestite" didn't translate into anything - not exceptional acceptance of all people and certainly not interest in men. No... he repeatedly fell for swooning women as if he had no morals or self-control at all. And this scene with a women chucking clothes makes me think of a sexual dream that I'd rather not experience from a man's point of view. (ugh!)
So from the very beginning, Jack plunged to the bottom of my lil' respect ladder and had to work his way back up sweatin' all the way!!
On the other hand, the overwhelming feeling reading this book is AWE & DISCOVERY.
When Jack finds himself in the medieval world, his point of view is so fresh and open. He is so willing to give everything a try, that I felt immediately connected with him, awed by the overwhelming stars and hugely expressive silence. The author really captures what it would FEEL LIKE for a contemporary person to step into a medieval world with every hope of enjoying it.
"'I have a good feeling about Albert's kingdom. Do you know what I mean? It's a feeling. There are no clocks here, no electricity or doctors. There's nothing here that we used to have, and yet nothing seems to be missing, nothing at all. And the big thing that was missing in the modern world, the inside thing, the thing that makes you feel connected to people and the sun and the moon and all the little stars in the sky - that's starting to come back to me. And it's a feeling, just this tremendous, amazing feeling.'" pg 120
I love the moments where this feeling overwhelms Jack. When he's surrounded by so much life, he feels insignificant and instead of being frightened, he embraces that feeling.
I enjoyed Jack's humorous responses, too. He has moments where he feels dressed up in a costume or realizes the person he's talking to is uncomfortable in their situation. He is so thoughtful to keep such realizations to himself while creatively assisting any way he can. It's funny when he has to re-adjust himself to being ok with wearing armor and galloping around the countryside. I'm sure that's exactly how I would feel in such a situation!!
"If you don't think I felt totally crazy, you have to remember that I was dressed from head to foot as a medieval warrior, and with what I had on my horse thrown in, I was carrying about two hundred pounds of armor and weapons and standing in the middle of some impossible kingdom on the farthest edge of reality. I wasn't in any state to make a rational decision about anything, but in my gut I knew that going back... wasn't an option... the life I had left behind didn't seem attractive or even real anymore." pg135
Do I like Jack by the end? Meh. He's so real I can't say that I like him or that I don't. I like many of his decisions and he drove me crazy plenty of times.
Did I like Albert, the designer behind this medieval kingdom? I enjoyed Jack's perspective on him, but I didn't get to know him myself. Did I like Queen Jenna? Nope. Leo was cool - he has intelligence AND morals. Amazing. I liked Marya, the local "doctor", as much as I learned of her. And Guy Hawke? I loved hating him. He is thoroughly evil and a multiplier of evil. Plus his name sounds like Guy Fawkes to me, so I felt like he deserved to be burned at the stake.
I absolutely loved "sweet Mora" - she was the epitome of everything beautiful in the kingdom, a type of the innocence, the perfection, the intelligence the kingdom represented. When Jack wasn't sure he wanted to settle down with her, he was debating the entire situation. When she cried over past ravishing, her pain was the pain the kingdom was feeling at the hands of that bully.
Cover Commentary: I really don't like this cover. The mottled colors are sort of like stonework and the rapier is plain to me. HOWEVER... I read this book at a car parts swap meet and the cover started it's own conversation: "What's that about? How interesting! Sounds like I'd like it!!" All day men eye-balled the cover wondering what cool book this chick was reading. I had to laugh... it's an effective cover!! And the website really is beautiful.
My Rating: 3.5 - Worth the Time. The beginning started off at a 1 or 2 (for me) with no explanations to improve, so the world-building and the awe & discovery were truly amazing.
On one hand, there is trite occurrences that have nothing to do with anything... and I am all about WHY, so that drove me nuts. Let me share what I mean:
"I used to own a transvestite bar" pg 6
"'Do you mind if I take mine off?' And she did, without bothering to get off the horse. First the blouse went flying... and there she was quite irresistibly buck naked in her tennis sneakers." p31
To my thinking, these two situations - his former business and a woman begging for an affair - translated to no respect for the main character, Jack. I wasn't endeared to his reaction to the failed business plus "transvestite" didn't translate into anything - not exceptional acceptance of all people and certainly not interest in men. No... he repeatedly fell for swooning women as if he had no morals or self-control at all. And this scene with a women chucking clothes makes me think of a sexual dream that I'd rather not experience from a man's point of view. (ugh!)
So from the very beginning, Jack plunged to the bottom of my lil' respect ladder and had to work his way back up sweatin' all the way!!
On the other hand, the overwhelming feeling reading this book is AWE & DISCOVERY.
When Jack finds himself in the medieval world, his point of view is so fresh and open. He is so willing to give everything a try, that I felt immediately connected with him, awed by the overwhelming stars and hugely expressive silence. The author really captures what it would FEEL LIKE for a contemporary person to step into a medieval world with every hope of enjoying it.
"'I have a good feeling about Albert's kingdom. Do you know what I mean? It's a feeling. There are no clocks here, no electricity or doctors. There's nothing here that we used to have, and yet nothing seems to be missing, nothing at all. And the big thing that was missing in the modern world, the inside thing, the thing that makes you feel connected to people and the sun and the moon and all the little stars in the sky - that's starting to come back to me. And it's a feeling, just this tremendous, amazing feeling.'" pg 120
I love the moments where this feeling overwhelms Jack. When he's surrounded by so much life, he feels insignificant and instead of being frightened, he embraces that feeling.
I enjoyed Jack's humorous responses, too. He has moments where he feels dressed up in a costume or realizes the person he's talking to is uncomfortable in their situation. He is so thoughtful to keep such realizations to himself while creatively assisting any way he can. It's funny when he has to re-adjust himself to being ok with wearing armor and galloping around the countryside. I'm sure that's exactly how I would feel in such a situation!!
"If you don't think I felt totally crazy, you have to remember that I was dressed from head to foot as a medieval warrior, and with what I had on my horse thrown in, I was carrying about two hundred pounds of armor and weapons and standing in the middle of some impossible kingdom on the farthest edge of reality. I wasn't in any state to make a rational decision about anything, but in my gut I knew that going back... wasn't an option... the life I had left behind didn't seem attractive or even real anymore." pg135
Do I like Jack by the end? Meh. He's so real I can't say that I like him or that I don't. I like many of his decisions and he drove me crazy plenty of times.
Did I like Albert, the designer behind this medieval kingdom? I enjoyed Jack's perspective on him, but I didn't get to know him myself. Did I like Queen Jenna? Nope. Leo was cool - he has intelligence AND morals. Amazing. I liked Marya, the local "doctor", as much as I learned of her. And Guy Hawke? I loved hating him. He is thoroughly evil and a multiplier of evil. Plus his name sounds like Guy Fawkes to me, so I felt like he deserved to be burned at the stake.
I absolutely loved "sweet Mora" - she was the epitome of everything beautiful in the kingdom, a type of the innocence, the perfection, the intelligence the kingdom represented. When Jack wasn't sure he wanted to settle down with her, he was debating the entire situation. When she cried over past ravishing, her pain was the pain the kingdom was feeling at the hands of that bully.
Cover Commentary: I really don't like this cover. The mottled colors are sort of like stonework and the rapier is plain to me. HOWEVER... I read this book at a car parts swap meet and the cover started it's own conversation: "What's that about? How interesting! Sounds like I'd like it!!" All day men eye-balled the cover wondering what cool book this chick was reading. I had to laugh... it's an effective cover!! And the website really is beautiful.
My Rating: 3.5 - Worth the Time. The beginning started off at a 1 or 2 (for me) with no explanations to improve, so the world-building and the awe & discovery were truly amazing.
April 21, 2015
I was offered a free copy by the publisher. What made me say yes to this offer was that the story was about an attempt to set up a fake mediaeval kingdom in the modern world. As a (lapsed) 17th century re-enactor it ticked my 'experimental archaeology' box and I thought it would be worth reading.
Having read it it was much more than I expected it to be and I really enjoyed it on a number of levels.
Firstly there is an interesting piece of straight literary fiction here. It isn't a work of fantasy and there is strictly no magic. Given a billionaire determined enough this story could play out for real. The premise is simply that several hundred people are recruited over a period of over a decade to live in a remote and isolated part of Canada. These people are selected carefully for their lack of attachment to the modern world and their willingness to live in a pseudo mediaeval world. Those willing to invest in the project become the nobility, with rank determined by depth of funding.
The story starts near the end of the recruitment phase of the project. Our protagonist is the last recruit. An old school friend of the King, he's chosen because his outlook is expected to help solve a problem. Jack is a flawed hero, as the best heroes often are. He's trapped by his (requited) love for the King's fiancée. He also has nothing to go back for, his attempt at a theatrical production company has just failed at he's at a personal low.
Swept up in events Jack moves from modern day to mediaeval and from there we join him in discovering the new Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. Sadly for Jack's friends this leads to a political thriller with more than a dash of warfare thrown in. The resolution is edgy and bloody. One wonders which of the possible paths it will end on, and I recommend that you read it yourself to fund out.
Secondly it appealed to the historical re enactor in me. I've dressed up in old fashioned clothes for most of a couple of decades and socialised with a lot of similar people. I've seen the range of interest from immersion to casual approximation of history. Personally I couldn't go live in a pseudo mediaeval world, I just like visiting the past. I'm more like an uncle than a parent in this regard.
However what struck me was the very well observed human behaviour in this situation. It was also combined with an American fascination with feudalism, I've noticed over the years that many Americans appear more royalist than even enthusiastic British people. It must be a novelty thing.
Spoilers aside the behaviour seemed spot on. The social fabric coalesced in the same way reenactment groups are want to. With certain people factionalising and others happy to just go with the flow. There was also a difference in character in how the 'commoners' behaved depending on which of the main nobles they lived under. In a land with no laws the people do exactly what the boss will tolerate and nothing more. Why risk punishment for being wrong if you can just ask for direction? There is a wonderful bit where the lady of the house is approached to select the chicken for dinner, and she is unable to issue an appropriate directive. Eventually she has to go in person and point at one.
On another level I enjoyed the craft that had gone into this novel. I could see the classic pieces of the hero's journey unfolding and enjoyed identifying the archetypes. This enhanced the story for me, and there were a number of twists built in, making it a rough scaffold rather than a railroad. The characters were interesting too, the main ones were multifaceted and had more to them than initially met the eye, but only enough detail for the story to unfold. The story read easily.
Reading this story, and the subsequent interview with the author, gave me the strong impression that this was a labour of love. It has resulted in an interesting and very readable work of literary fiction.
Having read it it was much more than I expected it to be and I really enjoyed it on a number of levels.
Firstly there is an interesting piece of straight literary fiction here. It isn't a work of fantasy and there is strictly no magic. Given a billionaire determined enough this story could play out for real. The premise is simply that several hundred people are recruited over a period of over a decade to live in a remote and isolated part of Canada. These people are selected carefully for their lack of attachment to the modern world and their willingness to live in a pseudo mediaeval world. Those willing to invest in the project become the nobility, with rank determined by depth of funding.
The story starts near the end of the recruitment phase of the project. Our protagonist is the last recruit. An old school friend of the King, he's chosen because his outlook is expected to help solve a problem. Jack is a flawed hero, as the best heroes often are. He's trapped by his (requited) love for the King's fiancée. He also has nothing to go back for, his attempt at a theatrical production company has just failed at he's at a personal low.
Swept up in events Jack moves from modern day to mediaeval and from there we join him in discovering the new Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. Sadly for Jack's friends this leads to a political thriller with more than a dash of warfare thrown in. The resolution is edgy and bloody. One wonders which of the possible paths it will end on, and I recommend that you read it yourself to fund out.
Secondly it appealed to the historical re enactor in me. I've dressed up in old fashioned clothes for most of a couple of decades and socialised with a lot of similar people. I've seen the range of interest from immersion to casual approximation of history. Personally I couldn't go live in a pseudo mediaeval world, I just like visiting the past. I'm more like an uncle than a parent in this regard.
However what struck me was the very well observed human behaviour in this situation. It was also combined with an American fascination with feudalism, I've noticed over the years that many Americans appear more royalist than even enthusiastic British people. It must be a novelty thing.
Spoilers aside the behaviour seemed spot on. The social fabric coalesced in the same way reenactment groups are want to. With certain people factionalising and others happy to just go with the flow. There was also a difference in character in how the 'commoners' behaved depending on which of the main nobles they lived under. In a land with no laws the people do exactly what the boss will tolerate and nothing more. Why risk punishment for being wrong if you can just ask for direction? There is a wonderful bit where the lady of the house is approached to select the chicken for dinner, and she is unable to issue an appropriate directive. Eventually she has to go in person and point at one.
On another level I enjoyed the craft that had gone into this novel. I could see the classic pieces of the hero's journey unfolding and enjoyed identifying the archetypes. This enhanced the story for me, and there were a number of twists built in, making it a rough scaffold rather than a railroad. The characters were interesting too, the main ones were multifaceted and had more to them than initially met the eye, but only enough detail for the story to unfold. The story read easily.
Reading this story, and the subsequent interview with the author, gave me the strong impression that this was a labour of love. It has resulted in an interesting and very readable work of literary fiction.
April 12, 2012
From my blog: http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....
The Good
A Way of Life That Time Forgot...
When I first heard the concept of The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality I was very intrigued. Modern people living in a medieval kingdom? Though scary, it sounded like an amazing experience. Which is why I grabbed at the chance to review this book.
I loved reading about the transition from modern cloths, speech, and overall society to a fanciful world from the past. The idea of such an adventure was like something you would pay for to experience at least once in your life. And Jack was very eager to play out this new way of life. He must be braver than I because my stomach was in knots the whole time. Losing the conveniences and laws of our current society would horrify me. So I liked that Jack was courageous enough for the both of us. He took everything in stride which is admirable in a way.
Albert, Jack's wealthy friend, really did take a small part of the world and make a kingdom identical to one you would find in medieval times. Though the people were a bit odd, I enjoyed seeing how easily people assimilated to a simpler though more labor intensive way of life.
From the Top to the Bottom...
But things eventually take a turn for the worse. I can't say too much because it really would ruin the surprise, but the tragedies just don't stop until it all seems hopeless. Jack goes from the top to the very bottom in a matter of seconds and the rest of the village is too frightened to stand up for what is right. So Jack is left with taking a rough journey of self-discovery that he never expected.
I really did get a sense of the time period being portrayed. The action was pretty good once we got to it. The suspense was so intense my stomach hurt from nerves most of the time. I was very eager to see how everything would end.
The Bad
Let me start off by saying that I think many people will enjoy The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. But it just didn't hit me the way I hoped. The beginning was very slow and I had to force myself not to skim.
No Love for the People...
I very much disliked Jack. He never asked questions or thought about his actions. He pretty much let other people dictate his life, and I felt no sympathy for him when bad things happened to him. What did he expect? You act reckless, crappy things will happen to you. Then he falls in love within a matter of hours and pretty much wants to do anything with a pair of legs and boobs throughout the whole novel. Then Jack's reluctance in everything after he finally realizes maybe he should start acting cautiously was annoying because he misses his time to shine. He was never the hero I hoped he would be. I didn't really like any of the characters. They weren't very realistic and they often made horrible decisions.
This is the End? Finally!
The build up to the ending was great, then the ending just fell flat. Truthfully, I was just happy it was over. The pacing was slow which made it hard not to skim. Then we had all these little foreboding things happen and they never came to fruition. They were barely even mentioned again.
The Snuggly
There is some sex in this book but nothing is really described in detail. It is mostly glanced over. The romance is kind of odd because Jack falls in love fast and falls in love with two women (almost three). Neither relationship is very healthy.
Overall
This book was not for me. It was hard for me to finish. I had to force myself. All the characters were unlikable, and I barely cared for them because of their stupid actions. The only reason I gave it 2 stars was because I do believe some people will like this book. Who? I am not sure. But it was written well enough and had an interesting concept. So it might just not have been for me personally. Overall, not recommended to my blog readers.
The Good
A Way of Life That Time Forgot...
When I first heard the concept of The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality I was very intrigued. Modern people living in a medieval kingdom? Though scary, it sounded like an amazing experience. Which is why I grabbed at the chance to review this book.
I loved reading about the transition from modern cloths, speech, and overall society to a fanciful world from the past. The idea of such an adventure was like something you would pay for to experience at least once in your life. And Jack was very eager to play out this new way of life. He must be braver than I because my stomach was in knots the whole time. Losing the conveniences and laws of our current society would horrify me. So I liked that Jack was courageous enough for the both of us. He took everything in stride which is admirable in a way.
Albert, Jack's wealthy friend, really did take a small part of the world and make a kingdom identical to one you would find in medieval times. Though the people were a bit odd, I enjoyed seeing how easily people assimilated to a simpler though more labor intensive way of life.
From the Top to the Bottom...
But things eventually take a turn for the worse. I can't say too much because it really would ruin the surprise, but the tragedies just don't stop until it all seems hopeless. Jack goes from the top to the very bottom in a matter of seconds and the rest of the village is too frightened to stand up for what is right. So Jack is left with taking a rough journey of self-discovery that he never expected.
I really did get a sense of the time period being portrayed. The action was pretty good once we got to it. The suspense was so intense my stomach hurt from nerves most of the time. I was very eager to see how everything would end.
The Bad
Let me start off by saying that I think many people will enjoy The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. But it just didn't hit me the way I hoped. The beginning was very slow and I had to force myself not to skim.
No Love for the People...
I very much disliked Jack. He never asked questions or thought about his actions. He pretty much let other people dictate his life, and I felt no sympathy for him when bad things happened to him. What did he expect? You act reckless, crappy things will happen to you. Then he falls in love within a matter of hours and pretty much wants to do anything with a pair of legs and boobs throughout the whole novel. Then Jack's reluctance in everything after he finally realizes maybe he should start acting cautiously was annoying because he misses his time to shine. He was never the hero I hoped he would be. I didn't really like any of the characters. They weren't very realistic and they often made horrible decisions.
This is the End? Finally!
The build up to the ending was great, then the ending just fell flat. Truthfully, I was just happy it was over. The pacing was slow which made it hard not to skim. Then we had all these little foreboding things happen and they never came to fruition. They were barely even mentioned again.
The Snuggly
There is some sex in this book but nothing is really described in detail. It is mostly glanced over. The romance is kind of odd because Jack falls in love fast and falls in love with two women (almost three). Neither relationship is very healthy.
Overall
This book was not for me. It was hard for me to finish. I had to force myself. All the characters were unlikable, and I barely cared for them because of their stupid actions. The only reason I gave it 2 stars was because I do believe some people will like this book. Who? I am not sure. But it was written well enough and had an interesting concept. So it might just not have been for me personally. Overall, not recommended to my blog readers.
December 19, 2014
Teaser:
She let me go then; and if you don't think I felt totally crazy, you have to remember that I was dressed fro head to foot as a medieval warrior, and with what I had on my horse thrown in, I was carrying about two hundred pounds of armor and weapons and standing in the middle of some impossible kingdom on the farthest edge of reality. I wasn't in any state to make a rational decision about anything, but in my gut I knew that going back to Marysville wasn't an option, whether or not that could be accomplished anyway. The life I had left behind didn't seem attractive or even real anymore. It was more like a half-remembered dream. The only solid ground I had in the world was right under my feet, I couldn't say that I was actually in love with Albert's kingdom, but I was certainly intrigued and amazed by what I had already seen, and I had been anxious to begin my quest because I wanted to see more. So I knew in my gut that my course was set, dangerous as it obviously now appeared to be.
My Thoughts:
At times this book, it reminded me of "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" - the modern man (modern for when the book was published) who finds himself in a medieval kingdom and has to adapt, that same character becoming enmeshed in political intrigues, and the choices that a moral adult has to make. Of course, in ACYIKAC, the main character travels back in time whereas in The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality takes place in one time period but two very different cultures.
Jack Darcey is down on his luck, not sure where his life is going or what he is doing, when an employee of an old prep school friend shows up and drags him to his friend, Albert Keane's, house. Albert spins him a story of his new kingdom up in Canada and sells Jack on joining him there. Of course, the situation isn't quite what Albert, King Albert actually, presented it, but Jack, now Sir Jack, a knight of the realm, finds that he likes life in King Albert's Kingdom - it reminds him in some ways of camping but minus any of the modern accouterments. It's a simpler way of life and one that lets him, in his role of knight, to indulge his protective streak and play hero. But soon, it's not just playing; life in the kingdom has it's violent side and people, regardless of lifestyle, are still capable of greed, jealousy, cruelty and violence. As Jack is still learning how things work in the kingdom, he becomes embroiled in politics and what seemed an idyllic paradise turns into a nightmare.
Hanmer presents a clear look at ideals, dreams and reality and how the choices we make define us. At times, the characters are a little too good to be real and the commoners seem a little too happy with their, admittedly chosen, rural lifestyle. But overall, Hanmer writes real, believable, engaging characters and I was drawn into the story fairly quickly. Events played out realistically in my opinion and his depiction of prison life in the dungeon and the lasting effects it has on a person were chilling while not graphic.
"The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality" is an engrossing, quick read that blends politics, action, romance, a hint of religion, with some psychological insight into modern life. It's a serious book but not heavy, an enjoyable afternoon's read.
I received a print ARC for review as part of a blog tour.
She let me go then; and if you don't think I felt totally crazy, you have to remember that I was dressed fro head to foot as a medieval warrior, and with what I had on my horse thrown in, I was carrying about two hundred pounds of armor and weapons and standing in the middle of some impossible kingdom on the farthest edge of reality. I wasn't in any state to make a rational decision about anything, but in my gut I knew that going back to Marysville wasn't an option, whether or not that could be accomplished anyway. The life I had left behind didn't seem attractive or even real anymore. It was more like a half-remembered dream. The only solid ground I had in the world was right under my feet, I couldn't say that I was actually in love with Albert's kingdom, but I was certainly intrigued and amazed by what I had already seen, and I had been anxious to begin my quest because I wanted to see more. So I knew in my gut that my course was set, dangerous as it obviously now appeared to be.
My Thoughts:
At times this book, it reminded me of "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" - the modern man (modern for when the book was published) who finds himself in a medieval kingdom and has to adapt, that same character becoming enmeshed in political intrigues, and the choices that a moral adult has to make. Of course, in ACYIKAC, the main character travels back in time whereas in The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality takes place in one time period but two very different cultures.
Jack Darcey is down on his luck, not sure where his life is going or what he is doing, when an employee of an old prep school friend shows up and drags him to his friend, Albert Keane's, house. Albert spins him a story of his new kingdom up in Canada and sells Jack on joining him there. Of course, the situation isn't quite what Albert, King Albert actually, presented it, but Jack, now Sir Jack, a knight of the realm, finds that he likes life in King Albert's Kingdom - it reminds him in some ways of camping but minus any of the modern accouterments. It's a simpler way of life and one that lets him, in his role of knight, to indulge his protective streak and play hero. But soon, it's not just playing; life in the kingdom has it's violent side and people, regardless of lifestyle, are still capable of greed, jealousy, cruelty and violence. As Jack is still learning how things work in the kingdom, he becomes embroiled in politics and what seemed an idyllic paradise turns into a nightmare.
Hanmer presents a clear look at ideals, dreams and reality and how the choices we make define us. At times, the characters are a little too good to be real and the commoners seem a little too happy with their, admittedly chosen, rural lifestyle. But overall, Hanmer writes real, believable, engaging characters and I was drawn into the story fairly quickly. Events played out realistically in my opinion and his depiction of prison life in the dungeon and the lasting effects it has on a person were chilling while not graphic.
"The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality" is an engrossing, quick read that blends politics, action, romance, a hint of religion, with some psychological insight into modern life. It's a serious book but not heavy, an enjoyable afternoon's read.
I received a print ARC for review as part of a blog tour.
April 26, 2012
The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality by Gahan Hanmer offers a modern day medieval tale with a message of survival and hope. Hanmer takes us on an imaginative journey filled with romance, violence, and deception. I found the tale to be enchanting as it delivered a message about technology and its impact on human relationships.
Protagonist Jack Darcey is the hero in this novel. When we meet Jack, he is at a crossroads in his life. He is down on his luck and unsure which road to travel next. His old friend from prep school, Albert, sends an employee to deliver Jack to his home. Albert spins a tale about the kingdom he has created in the woods of Canada. He urges Jack to join him. Jack finds the kingdom is isolated from the outside world as a helicopter delivers him. Here he finds a kingdom complete with a grand castle. There is no electricity, a dungeon and a monastery. He finds farmers and skilled workers to perform all sorts of tasks. The monks teach school and run a hospital of sorts. Just as Sir Jack, now a knight begins to enjoy this medieval life, conflict brews and a battle breaks out. A prediction is made that Sir Jack can save the kingdom and the tale that unfolds is fascinating and at times dark.
I didn't love Jack, but he ultimately tries to do right. Jack really takes to this medieval life and as a knight he truly looks out for all the people of the kingdom. His journey of self-discovery while painful was enlightening. At times I wanted to shake him and his actions annoyed me. Duke Hawke someone from Jack’s past wants to rule the kingdom. I cannot help but wonder if Albert didn't deliberately set up this chess game. I would have liked to have seen some of the characters more fleshed out, and some of the conversations seemed awkward. The tale was filled with good and evil characters. Sadly even in this utopia; greed, jealousy and politics still exists.
Hanmer world-building was delightful and the tale he spun interesting. He weaves a tale, all while posing the questions, "Are we losing our humanity as we become more connected?” His depiction of time spent in a dungeon felt genuine and was eerie. I find this time period romantic, but would miss modern inventions. While I felt parts of this tale were flawed, I enjoyed the overall story.
Protagonist Jack Darcey is the hero in this novel. When we meet Jack, he is at a crossroads in his life. He is down on his luck and unsure which road to travel next. His old friend from prep school, Albert, sends an employee to deliver Jack to his home. Albert spins a tale about the kingdom he has created in the woods of Canada. He urges Jack to join him. Jack finds the kingdom is isolated from the outside world as a helicopter delivers him. Here he finds a kingdom complete with a grand castle. There is no electricity, a dungeon and a monastery. He finds farmers and skilled workers to perform all sorts of tasks. The monks teach school and run a hospital of sorts. Just as Sir Jack, now a knight begins to enjoy this medieval life, conflict brews and a battle breaks out. A prediction is made that Sir Jack can save the kingdom and the tale that unfolds is fascinating and at times dark.
I didn't love Jack, but he ultimately tries to do right. Jack really takes to this medieval life and as a knight he truly looks out for all the people of the kingdom. His journey of self-discovery while painful was enlightening. At times I wanted to shake him and his actions annoyed me. Duke Hawke someone from Jack’s past wants to rule the kingdom. I cannot help but wonder if Albert didn't deliberately set up this chess game. I would have liked to have seen some of the characters more fleshed out, and some of the conversations seemed awkward. The tale was filled with good and evil characters. Sadly even in this utopia; greed, jealousy and politics still exists.
Hanmer world-building was delightful and the tale he spun interesting. He weaves a tale, all while posing the questions, "Are we losing our humanity as we become more connected?” His depiction of time spent in a dungeon felt genuine and was eerie. I find this time period romantic, but would miss modern inventions. While I felt parts of this tale were flawed, I enjoyed the overall story.
April 15, 2012
Yesterday we went to see College Girl in her directing debut. It was wonderful. She was happy. The birds were chirping and life was beautiful. You know one of those sun shining moments. So you know I was thrilled for everything going on right.
Well almost thrilled for everything. All but the fact she hi-jacked my book. I mean I have read it. And I did let her borrow it. It was all cool. Til College Girl said...NO! She was not going to give it back. It was on HER keeper shelf. The lil snit....well she is not a snit. But I like the book too. Oh and she says that possession is 9/10ths the law. I think she is just going to keep my book.
Actually I am not surprised. When I was reading 'The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality' I kept thinking, "Oh College Girl is going to love this one!" And yeah, she does. This was written by Gahan Hanmer. He is just right for my theater College Girl since his career has been in the theater as actor, director, designer and technician. Gahan has created a book like one that I have never read. Wonderful concept and fully played out. Bravo!
I hate telling you about a book really as I love to have one unfold in front of me. But it is not fair to hold back either. So here is where you want to run away too for an afternoon of medieval times. Albert Keane decided to create a kingdom to share with others who dream of a different life. One that they can be proud of for creating. He has brought in talented and amazing people. And now they call him King Albert. It is now time to bring in the last member of their feudal kingdom, Jack Darcey. The final one to be there to teach the knights the art of sword play and fencing. But is that all there is to do? I think not.
"The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality' swept me away. It swept College Girl away. As a matter of fact I think there is part of both of us still there. Waiting to see what is going to happen next. Gahan, there is more to come....right? Thanks so to Tribute Books for sharing. Hooking us. Now if only we get to find out what happens next. Pretty please!
Well almost thrilled for everything. All but the fact she hi-jacked my book. I mean I have read it. And I did let her borrow it. It was all cool. Til College Girl said...NO! She was not going to give it back. It was on HER keeper shelf. The lil snit....well she is not a snit. But I like the book too. Oh and she says that possession is 9/10ths the law. I think she is just going to keep my book.
Actually I am not surprised. When I was reading 'The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality' I kept thinking, "Oh College Girl is going to love this one!" And yeah, she does. This was written by Gahan Hanmer. He is just right for my theater College Girl since his career has been in the theater as actor, director, designer and technician. Gahan has created a book like one that I have never read. Wonderful concept and fully played out. Bravo!
I hate telling you about a book really as I love to have one unfold in front of me. But it is not fair to hold back either. So here is where you want to run away too for an afternoon of medieval times. Albert Keane decided to create a kingdom to share with others who dream of a different life. One that they can be proud of for creating. He has brought in talented and amazing people. And now they call him King Albert. It is now time to bring in the last member of their feudal kingdom, Jack Darcey. The final one to be there to teach the knights the art of sword play and fencing. But is that all there is to do? I think not.
"The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality' swept me away. It swept College Girl away. As a matter of fact I think there is part of both of us still there. Waiting to see what is going to happen next. Gahan, there is more to come....right? Thanks so to Tribute Books for sharing. Hooking us. Now if only we get to find out what happens next. Pretty please!
April 5, 2012
The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality by Gahan Hanmer is a creative blend of modern and medieval spun into a beautiful tale of survival, and happiness. Jack Darcey is not sure what to do with his life now that his dreams have been pull out from underneath him. When his old school friend, Albert Keane, offers him the chance to leave everything he knows behind, Jack does not have anything better to do.
The kingdom is very much cut off from the modern world, and the only way to get to kingdom surrounding by thousands of miles of wilderness is via helicopter. This is something that Albert failed to mention. While at first, Jack is disoriented by the lack of clocks, modern amenities, he soon falls in love with the peace the kingdom brings. After being knighted, Jack realizes not everything is peaceful in the kingdom. The Duke, Guy Hawke, wants to be in control of the kingdom, but he has one problem, Jack is standing in the way.
At first, I felt just as disoriented as Jack trying to picture a kingdom that is in the modern world, but that was more like a part of history. Once I was settled in the idea, the story picked me up and transported me back to medieval times. Jack was a great choice for a main character, simply because of his feelings of right and wrong, and his need to protect all the people of the kingdom. He truly was a noble knight perfect for legends and stories.
While the story is about a knight and his journey, there is also an undercurrent to the story. The undercurrent of the story is about the lack of connection between people, in our present day, due to technology. In the Kingdom, everyone relies on everyone else; otherwise, they would not make it through the winter. This is a great adult fantasy novel, which is almost like time travel without the need for a time machine. I would recommend this to both fantasy, and historical fiction lovers.
**Unabridged Bookshelf received a copy for this book, in exchange for an honest review**
The kingdom is very much cut off from the modern world, and the only way to get to kingdom surrounding by thousands of miles of wilderness is via helicopter. This is something that Albert failed to mention. While at first, Jack is disoriented by the lack of clocks, modern amenities, he soon falls in love with the peace the kingdom brings. After being knighted, Jack realizes not everything is peaceful in the kingdom. The Duke, Guy Hawke, wants to be in control of the kingdom, but he has one problem, Jack is standing in the way.
At first, I felt just as disoriented as Jack trying to picture a kingdom that is in the modern world, but that was more like a part of history. Once I was settled in the idea, the story picked me up and transported me back to medieval times. Jack was a great choice for a main character, simply because of his feelings of right and wrong, and his need to protect all the people of the kingdom. He truly was a noble knight perfect for legends and stories.
While the story is about a knight and his journey, there is also an undercurrent to the story. The undercurrent of the story is about the lack of connection between people, in our present day, due to technology. In the Kingdom, everyone relies on everyone else; otherwise, they would not make it through the winter. This is a great adult fantasy novel, which is almost like time travel without the need for a time machine. I would recommend this to both fantasy, and historical fiction lovers.
**Unabridged Bookshelf received a copy for this book, in exchange for an honest review**
April 3, 2012
Loved this one!!
I’ve never actually wanted to live in medieval times. It sounds like a lot of hard work and dirt and not much fun. I’m pretty sure that if Jack Darcey, down-on-his luck former actor, had ever thought about it, he would have agreed, but he didn’t get a choice. He was basically kidnapped and taken off to live in the kingdom his old school chum, Albert Keane, has created in the midst of the Canadian wilderness.
That’s how The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality by Gahan Hanmer begins. Jack is surprised with what he finds. King Albert has truly created a medieval kingdom, plunked down in the forests of modern-day Canada, but completely isolated. There is the requisite castle, complete with dungeon, and a monastery. There is nothing modern, no clocks, no machine-manufactured clothing, no guns or cars. Everything is done by hand. Farmers work the land, artisans ply their trades, monks keep school and visit the sick. But no one misses the modern world. And it almost has me convinced. Maybe life would be better if we were more connected to the land, knew who made the shirt we wear, cared for our horses instead of sending the car to an over-priced garage that couldn’t get my parts in for like three weeks, if we provided our own entertainment instead of sitting in front of shiny boxes for hours on end.
But it’s not all happiness and sunshine in the land, as Jack, now Sir jack, soon finds out. There’s a fight brewing, a battle that will lead to many deaths, especially with the lack of modern medicine or surgeries, and it’s up to Jack to become the hero the kingdom needs.
It’s a unique, imaginative story, with great characters, good and bad. There’s romance and adventure, betrayals, sexual trysts and violence. It’s a magical story, but without any actual magic. It’s also about people, and what we makes us human.
I’ve never actually wanted to live in medieval times. It sounds like a lot of hard work and dirt and not much fun. I’m pretty sure that if Jack Darcey, down-on-his luck former actor, had ever thought about it, he would have agreed, but he didn’t get a choice. He was basically kidnapped and taken off to live in the kingdom his old school chum, Albert Keane, has created in the midst of the Canadian wilderness.
That’s how The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality by Gahan Hanmer begins. Jack is surprised with what he finds. King Albert has truly created a medieval kingdom, plunked down in the forests of modern-day Canada, but completely isolated. There is the requisite castle, complete with dungeon, and a monastery. There is nothing modern, no clocks, no machine-manufactured clothing, no guns or cars. Everything is done by hand. Farmers work the land, artisans ply their trades, monks keep school and visit the sick. But no one misses the modern world. And it almost has me convinced. Maybe life would be better if we were more connected to the land, knew who made the shirt we wear, cared for our horses instead of sending the car to an over-priced garage that couldn’t get my parts in for like three weeks, if we provided our own entertainment instead of sitting in front of shiny boxes for hours on end.
But it’s not all happiness and sunshine in the land, as Jack, now Sir jack, soon finds out. There’s a fight brewing, a battle that will lead to many deaths, especially with the lack of modern medicine or surgeries, and it’s up to Jack to become the hero the kingdom needs.
It’s a unique, imaginative story, with great characters, good and bad. There’s romance and adventure, betrayals, sexual trysts and violence. It’s a magical story, but without any actual magic. It’s also about people, and what we makes us human.
April 21, 2015
To call this book "unusual" would be an understatement. It's like all the classic portal fantasy (person from this world ends up in another world), but without the portal. Instead, the main character is transported to "another world" established in the wilderness of Northern Canada. An intriguing setup, I must admit.
Unfortunately, the book falls a bit flat from Page 1. It stars out with some interaction with a sheriff that made no sense at all, and the book continues on VERY slowly for the next chapter or two. There's none of that "jolt" or "rush" to make you interested, so I had to force myself to keep reading. The story has no real cohesion at first. It sort of jumps from one plot thread to the next without taking any time to dwell on each.
It takes way too long for the main character to end up in the "fantasy world", and even longer for any story to build. The main character's backstory is done in an amateur fashion, using an info dump rather than adding bits and pieces throughout the book.
There are quite a few punctuation and grammatical errors, and the occasional tense switch makes it very hard to read. It's hard to differentiate between flashbacks/back story and the present tense, as there is nothing to indicate any sort of change. The writing comes off a bit stilted and hard to follow.
That being said, I have yet to read a better description of fencing and sword-fighting. When the character first picks up a sword (he fenced in school but hadn't for years), the description of getting the feel and heft of the blade is masterfully done. It goes on for a few paragraphs, and it is highly complex without being dry. Absolutely well done.
The book started out slow and had a few issues, but it ended well enough. The ending was perhaps a bit cliché, but I felt satisfied when I closed the book.
Unfortunately, the book falls a bit flat from Page 1. It stars out with some interaction with a sheriff that made no sense at all, and the book continues on VERY slowly for the next chapter or two. There's none of that "jolt" or "rush" to make you interested, so I had to force myself to keep reading. The story has no real cohesion at first. It sort of jumps from one plot thread to the next without taking any time to dwell on each.
It takes way too long for the main character to end up in the "fantasy world", and even longer for any story to build. The main character's backstory is done in an amateur fashion, using an info dump rather than adding bits and pieces throughout the book.
There are quite a few punctuation and grammatical errors, and the occasional tense switch makes it very hard to read. It's hard to differentiate between flashbacks/back story and the present tense, as there is nothing to indicate any sort of change. The writing comes off a bit stilted and hard to follow.
That being said, I have yet to read a better description of fencing and sword-fighting. When the character first picks up a sword (he fenced in school but hadn't for years), the description of getting the feel and heft of the blade is masterfully done. It goes on for a few paragraphs, and it is highly complex without being dry. Absolutely well done.
The book started out slow and had a few issues, but it ended well enough. The ending was perhaps a bit cliché, but I felt satisfied when I closed the book.
April 22, 2012
Jack Darcey is a down-on-his-luck man taking possession of property he inherited. While attempting to get settled he's kidnapped (sort-of) and taken to the home of a former schoolmate, Albert, and his partner, Jenna. Here is when Jack is tricked into leaving with them to Albert's isolated kingdom out in the middle of nowhere. This kingdom has been several years in developing so when the trio arrive, leaving modern day convenience behind them forever, Jack sees a brand new world. This world was expertly written by Mr. Hanmer and portrayed quite well. I had no problem picturing King Albert's realm and everyone in it.
"The Kingdom On The Edge Of Reality" is light and easy fantasy suitable for adults. The concept is fresh and new: Leaving the modern world behind to live in an isolated area of Canada, reverting back to the medieval way of life. There are absolutely no modern amenities; clocks, mass manufactured clothing, etc. Everything is 100% old school. This novel was action-packed but not over the top. There was humor, sometimes at the expense of Jack, he is after all the newest member of the kingdom and not entirely privy to the way of life.
I kept envisioning the Renaissance Festival that is held here in Michigan every summer. I worked there when I was 17, 18, & 19 (basically...many, many moons ago). Everything appears primitive (as primitive as it can be with the health department breathing down your backs each and every day) and you truly get the feeling of hard work, simplicity, and, as in the book, a complete sense of being in a time warp.
If you enjoy the medieval time period and fantasy fiction then this book will be right up your alley.
(ARC provided at no cost in exchange for an honest review).
"The Kingdom On The Edge Of Reality" is light and easy fantasy suitable for adults. The concept is fresh and new: Leaving the modern world behind to live in an isolated area of Canada, reverting back to the medieval way of life. There are absolutely no modern amenities; clocks, mass manufactured clothing, etc. Everything is 100% old school. This novel was action-packed but not over the top. There was humor, sometimes at the expense of Jack, he is after all the newest member of the kingdom and not entirely privy to the way of life.
I kept envisioning the Renaissance Festival that is held here in Michigan every summer. I worked there when I was 17, 18, & 19 (basically...many, many moons ago). Everything appears primitive (as primitive as it can be with the health department breathing down your backs each and every day) and you truly get the feeling of hard work, simplicity, and, as in the book, a complete sense of being in a time warp.
If you enjoy the medieval time period and fantasy fiction then this book will be right up your alley.
(ARC provided at no cost in exchange for an honest review).
January 21, 2015
This is actually a really interesting book. It starts out feeling like a early-1900s pulp-serial, akin to something Edgar Rice Burroughs would have written. Yet, as I got further into the book I began to realize this is a very thoughtful book. Yes, there are lots of sword-fights and damsels in distress (more on this later), but the book explores if civilization is helpful or hurtful. All the people in this novel have withdrawn from the modern world to a more Middle Ages style world, but when Guy Hawke begins to act less civilized, the people don't like it. It's almost as if civilization, at least modern societal concepts of everyone working together, carry over even if the technology doesn't.
The other thing that struck me about this book was about the women. The women all seem very... loose. Jack has sex with several different women and encounters others participating in the same 'free love' kind of thing, and yet none of the women complain. At first I thought this was a fault of a male author attempting to write female characters (which I think is partly present), but it also shows just how little power females had to do anything. Early in the book, Jack encounters a rape, but nothing really comes of it, because the boys are nobility. Later in the book Jack kind of writes it off as crazy boy hormones running wild. Hanmer probably wasn't even trying to touch on this aspect, but it struck me as I was thinking about the story and the theme of civilization. In some respects, maybe reverting to the Middle Ages isn't as great as some might think it. Of course, when faced with reality, have we really come that far?
The other thing that struck me about this book was about the women. The women all seem very... loose. Jack has sex with several different women and encounters others participating in the same 'free love' kind of thing, and yet none of the women complain. At first I thought this was a fault of a male author attempting to write female characters (which I think is partly present), but it also shows just how little power females had to do anything. Early in the book, Jack encounters a rape, but nothing really comes of it, because the boys are nobility. Later in the book Jack kind of writes it off as crazy boy hormones running wild. Hanmer probably wasn't even trying to touch on this aspect, but it struck me as I was thinking about the story and the theme of civilization. In some respects, maybe reverting to the Middle Ages isn't as great as some might think it. Of course, when faced with reality, have we really come that far?
April 28, 2015
When you start reading a book and it starts to remind you of great authors, you know it’s going to be a pleasant experience. “The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality” reminded me of Jan Terlouw’s "How to Become King", "Gulliver’s Travels" by Jonathan Swift, "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" (Mark Twain), and Monteiro Lobato’s "The Twelve Labours of Hercules". Finding similarities to classics became secondary after I realized that Gahan Hanmer had developed his own style.
Written in the first-person, we get to follow Jack Darcey through his misfortunes: 20 years had passed since high-school and he hadn’t accomplished anything. After his theater burned down he went to the boondocks of NY state, to a small cottage, only to find out that it was occupied by a militia of sorts. He got knocked-out by a shorty man shortly afterwards and was dragged to the mansion of an old friend, the filthy-rich Albert Keane, who decided to build a medieval kingdom for himself in Canada!
Apparently Jack’s lucky changed for the better, but did it really? The kingdom reserves some unpleasant surprises...
I liked particularly how the characters were built. Jack is the ideal protagonist, not perfect, definitely not a “Mary Sue”, and Keane is the ideal foil for him. The characters seemed so real that I could easily imagine them speaking to each other. In spite of being a serious work that can incite thought, there’s plenty of humor throughout the book as well, proving once again that humor is an intrinsic part of well-crafted novels.
I enjoyed this book so much that I’m following the tour and I entered the Author's contest. You can find more about it at the book’s website!
Written in the first-person, we get to follow Jack Darcey through his misfortunes: 20 years had passed since high-school and he hadn’t accomplished anything. After his theater burned down he went to the boondocks of NY state, to a small cottage, only to find out that it was occupied by a militia of sorts. He got knocked-out by a shorty man shortly afterwards and was dragged to the mansion of an old friend, the filthy-rich Albert Keane, who decided to build a medieval kingdom for himself in Canada!
Apparently Jack’s lucky changed for the better, but did it really? The kingdom reserves some unpleasant surprises...
I liked particularly how the characters were built. Jack is the ideal protagonist, not perfect, definitely not a “Mary Sue”, and Keane is the ideal foil for him. The characters seemed so real that I could easily imagine them speaking to each other. In spite of being a serious work that can incite thought, there’s plenty of humor throughout the book as well, proving once again that humor is an intrinsic part of well-crafted novels.
I enjoyed this book so much that I’m following the tour and I entered the Author's contest. You can find more about it at the book’s website!
April 26, 2015
What can I say about The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality?
I really, really, really enjoyed this book.
Jack is quite a stubborn mule – to be nice – and really starts off the book as someone who needs a good kick in the rear, but once he gives in – the fun starts.
I would love nothing more than to live in King Albert’s world. I have always wished for more simpler times (I really am an old soul).
I loved that King Albert just made his very own kingdom, hidden from the rest of the world, and runs the kingdom as if in medieval times.
Everything – weaponry, work, laws (or lack thereof), language, clothing – is all from the medieval time.
I felt like The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality had a slight romantic touch with action and drama as well.
The author really sucks you into the story and you feel like not only are you a part of the kingdom yourself, but you get caught up in the drama that is going on and wish you were there to assist or do things differently.
I highly recommend this read.
I was informed that it is a book recommended for ages 10 and up. There is an ‘affair’ and a few sexual incidents, but I don’t recall it being graphic or R rated. I would probably put this read around a PG – bordering on PG 13 – rating. If it is something that your 10 year old is mature enough to handle, then by all means, they will surely enjoy the read!
It was great fun and I am sure that all readers would truly enjoy it as well!
I really, really, really enjoyed this book.
Jack is quite a stubborn mule – to be nice – and really starts off the book as someone who needs a good kick in the rear, but once he gives in – the fun starts.
I would love nothing more than to live in King Albert’s world. I have always wished for more simpler times (I really am an old soul).
I loved that King Albert just made his very own kingdom, hidden from the rest of the world, and runs the kingdom as if in medieval times.
Everything – weaponry, work, laws (or lack thereof), language, clothing – is all from the medieval time.
I felt like The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality had a slight romantic touch with action and drama as well.
The author really sucks you into the story and you feel like not only are you a part of the kingdom yourself, but you get caught up in the drama that is going on and wish you were there to assist or do things differently.
I highly recommend this read.
I was informed that it is a book recommended for ages 10 and up. There is an ‘affair’ and a few sexual incidents, but I don’t recall it being graphic or R rated. I would probably put this read around a PG – bordering on PG 13 – rating. If it is something that your 10 year old is mature enough to handle, then by all means, they will surely enjoy the read!
It was great fun and I am sure that all readers would truly enjoy it as well!
May 10, 2015
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality is a modern tale but a ridiculously rich man has built a kingdom in the middle of nowhere in Canada and the kingdom is based on medieval times. I thought this idea was creative and enticing so I was looking forward to reading this book.
Gahan Hanmer’s writing flows well but I found myself doing quite a bit of skipping and not missing anything important.
The main character, Jack, doesn’t make it easy for you to like him. He just lets life happen and doesn’t make his own decisions. Actually, there were few characters in this story that I did find likable. His friend, Albert, is pretentious. Several women jump into bed with Jack without a second thought.
I found the idea of Kingdom on the Edge of Reality a good concept but I felt that there was something missing; however, I do believe that many readers will like it.
The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality is a modern tale but a ridiculously rich man has built a kingdom in the middle of nowhere in Canada and the kingdom is based on medieval times. I thought this idea was creative and enticing so I was looking forward to reading this book.
Gahan Hanmer’s writing flows well but I found myself doing quite a bit of skipping and not missing anything important.
The main character, Jack, doesn’t make it easy for you to like him. He just lets life happen and doesn’t make his own decisions. Actually, there were few characters in this story that I did find likable. His friend, Albert, is pretentious. Several women jump into bed with Jack without a second thought.
I found the idea of Kingdom on the Edge of Reality a good concept but I felt that there was something missing; however, I do believe that many readers will like it.
April 20, 2012
The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality is a captivating step back into the medieval world. An old school friend of Jack Darcey's has contacted him and told him of a fantastical place - a kingdom set far from the modern world. Albert invites Jack to enter the kingdom, but it isn't until much later when Jack realizes Albert had an ulterior motive for his invitation.
I enjoyed The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. I thought it strongly showed how interdependent we are on the people around us and how that connectedness isn't a bad thing. We spend so much time "alone" in the world, we don't often stop and look around at the people closest to us. Full of intrigue, sword fights, humor, and showcasing the strength of many against the one, this novel is a great read for fantasy lovers!
I enjoyed The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality. I thought it strongly showed how interdependent we are on the people around us and how that connectedness isn't a bad thing. We spend so much time "alone" in the world, we don't often stop and look around at the people closest to us. Full of intrigue, sword fights, humor, and showcasing the strength of many against the one, this novel is a great read for fantasy lovers!
May 16, 2015
I just finished reading "The Kingdom on the Edge of Reality", by Gahan Hanmer and I enjoyed it. I liked the storyline and the characters were well written. Anyone who likes a good fantasy novel will not want to miss this one. This book is one that will keep you guessing. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a review and all opinions a re my own.
February 21, 2015
This has a lot to offer in so many ways and yet it didn’t quite sweep me away like I wanted it to. Not an author to dismiss, but this effort, though with enough going for it to keep me reading, didn’t hit very well at all.
May 3, 2012
Enjoyable read. I was pulled into a what felt like a romp at a renaissance festival.
ooo, but it does turn serious with some action thrown in to keep you on your toes.
ooo, but it does turn serious with some action thrown in to keep you on your toes.
April 21, 2015
Review to come :)
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