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James Potter #4
James Potter and the Morrigan Web
As James Potter returns to Hogwarts in the wake of "the Night of the Unveiling", he discovers that even in the protected center of the magical world, nothing is quite the same.
Despite the Ministry's efforts, the Vow of Secrecy is crumbling the world over, eroding age-old safeguards and threatening magical and Muggle governments with dark magic conspiracies.
Amidst the turmoil, a gravely suspicious new headmaster, Rechtor Grudje, institutes Draconian security measures hinting more at dictatorial control than safety.
At the same time, an international exchange program allows students from Hogwarts, Alma Aleron, Durmstrang, Beauxbatons and a mysterious fifth school to attend each others' classes, introducing an entirely new social dynamic and potential for exploration. Along with Alma Aleron's Zane Walker, this brings a new face to Hogwarts, the infuriating yet intriguing Natasia Hendrix, who harbors her own complicated-- and far-reaching-- secrets.
As the school year progresses, James' works is gradually overshadowed by a growing danger known as the Morrigan Web, a mythical, magical doomsday weapon which threatens to tumble the entire world, Muggle and magical alike, into the hands of the vicious Lady of the Lake.
In the center of it all, Petra Morganstern and her sister Izzy-- the Sister Fates of the Lady of the Lake-- move quietly in the shadows, out of sight, weaving their own mysterious master plan.
Despite the Ministry's efforts, the Vow of Secrecy is crumbling the world over, eroding age-old safeguards and threatening magical and Muggle governments with dark magic conspiracies.
Amidst the turmoil, a gravely suspicious new headmaster, Rechtor Grudje, institutes Draconian security measures hinting more at dictatorial control than safety.
At the same time, an international exchange program allows students from Hogwarts, Alma Aleron, Durmstrang, Beauxbatons and a mysterious fifth school to attend each others' classes, introducing an entirely new social dynamic and potential for exploration. Along with Alma Aleron's Zane Walker, this brings a new face to Hogwarts, the infuriating yet intriguing Natasia Hendrix, who harbors her own complicated-- and far-reaching-- secrets.
As the school year progresses, James' works is gradually overshadowed by a growing danger known as the Morrigan Web, a mythical, magical doomsday weapon which threatens to tumble the entire world, Muggle and magical alike, into the hands of the vicious Lady of the Lake.
In the center of it all, Petra Morganstern and her sister Izzy-- the Sister Fates of the Lady of the Lake-- move quietly in the shadows, out of sight, weaving their own mysterious master plan.
740 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2013
2424 people are currently reading
15018 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
July 14, 2013
In an update to my review, the book continues! At present (mid July 2013) Mr Lippert is releasing this book one chapter at a time via www.JamesPotterSeries.com. This is expected tho last for about a month, after which it will be released in full. The book is given away for free, but readers may "buy a coffee" for Mr Lippert via PayPal donation on the site. I have loved all the books, and found it well-worth donating some to help this author continue writing the books we love. Let's all keep the books coming!
Previous review -
The first 47 pages of this book may be found at http://www.jamespotterseries.com/chap..., but the sad tragedy appears to be the fact that the story may never go any further. The author, for reasons explained on the first page, has had to set aside continued writing of a wildly engaging series as it has been seen as mere "fan fiction", without literary worth, and has compromised his ability to find a publisher.
Can we all suggest to Mr Lippert that he start a Kickstarter or Indiegogo project to collect the funds necessary to finish the book and, hopefully, the series? I think there are enough readers out there, like me, who would gladly contribute to his livelihood in exchange for these wonderful stories.
Please keep writing!
Previous review -
The first 47 pages of this book may be found at http://www.jamespotterseries.com/chap..., but the sad tragedy appears to be the fact that the story may never go any further. The author, for reasons explained on the first page, has had to set aside continued writing of a wildly engaging series as it has been seen as mere "fan fiction", without literary worth, and has compromised his ability to find a publisher.
Can we all suggest to Mr Lippert that he start a Kickstarter or Indiegogo project to collect the funds necessary to finish the book and, hopefully, the series? I think there are enough readers out there, like me, who would gladly contribute to his livelihood in exchange for these wonderful stories.
Please keep writing!
Currently reading
January 10, 2013Why can't I read this book ?
March 11, 2013
There are only 47 pages available to read so far, but they are intense, descriptive and captivating. I do hope the balance of the novel is finished soon, as I am most anxious to see how all the story lines mesh and resolve each issue. Read three short stories by the author here www.harrysfirstchristmas.com/ and scroll to the bottom to the forum to find the link to the 47-page PDF file that is the book so far.
jamespotterseries.com/chapters/JPMW_i...
Direct link
jamespotterseries.com/chapters/JPMW_i...
Direct link
November 25, 2023
This is a fabulous series...have shared it with everyone at work. For those who haven't been able to download the 47 pages, you need to go to Norman Lippert's website. On the page that has his short stories available for download (which you can download to your bookshelf in iBook also), scroll to the bottom of the page and go on the Grotto Forum...from the forum, you will be able to go on a link to download the first 47 pages. I am so excited by finding a new author, that I have purchased 2 of his books that are not James Potter books and can't wait to read them.
November 6, 2012
Whew!!! Thanks Men In Black and Bewitched for being the jump off point for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. If it weren't for you, G. Norman Lippert would not have been able to take James Potter and made his fourth book, well at least the first 47 pages of it, the best in the magical world. These 47 pages have me so psyched out!!! I am absolutely mad about this book. I've read the it three times already, imagining where it's going to go. I will never read another book until I read this finished book. So it's up to G.N.Lippert to not deprive me of the written word.
April 30, 2013
This was a great read so far!! Very disappointing that the author Isn't being taken seriously because it is considered fan literature!!! He's taken the concept and made it completely his own! I would buy all his novels and put them on the shelf alongside the original series. Can't help but think that JK Rowling would appreciate these herself!! Here is the link to read the beginning of the 4th, and final (for now) book
"There are only 47 pages available to read so far...Read three short stories by the author here www.harrysfirstchristmas.com/ and scroll to the bottom to the forum to find the link to the 47-page PDF file that is the book so far.
jamespotterseries.com/chapters/JPMW_i...
Direct link"
"There are only 47 pages available to read so far...Read three short stories by the author here www.harrysfirstchristmas.com/ and scroll to the bottom to the forum to find the link to the 47-page PDF file that is the book so far.
jamespotterseries.com/chapters/JPMW_i...
Direct link"
November 6, 2013
After the poor performance in the third book, I approached this one with lessened expectations and actually found it a return to form in many ways. Characters were developed better and the annoying trend of "fully capable eleven year olds" came to a halt with Lily Potter--though I find the idea that James is intimidated by an eleven year old enough to give up the invisibility cloak something that no fourteen year old boy would be in actual life--especially if it's his baby sister. But that was the only situation where I called into question how these characters would act in real life. Part of the reason characters such as Rose Weasley developed a bit better than they had in prior stories they'd been in was because they actually encountered problems that challenged them in ways. They couldn't easily solve these problems and actually had to work at things and strive to achieve something. Rose's ability to believe in James was a good dilemma that brought her down from her "special pedestal" as I referred to it in my review of the second book.
The only time I felt the novel came to a halt in terms of plot was when all the characters stopped doing things and stood before the Mirror of Erised for a length of a few pages. Sure it was nice to see the mirror serve as more than we expected from its prior uses in the original series, but that section dragged on for longer than it needed.
Small problems in terms of detail plague this book, like for example the fact that Victoire Weasley should have graduated at the end of the second book, and not still be a student or treated as a child here in the fourth. But I can forgive minute problems like that as knowing all the appropriate ages for characters in a fantasy world this expansive would be quite exhausting to keep track of for a person not having created it in the first place.
As for the story itself, it was a good example of taking the foundations of the Potterverse and building off of it, rather than trying to merge science fiction with fantasy awkwardly as the last book in the series attempted to do. I also found Mr. Lippert's return to the "long prologue" and "long epilogue" format a welcomed relief.
Mr. Lippert's introduction of the Ministry of Magic's misstep in attempting to force academic interactions between all magical schools plus a muggle school, seemed an appropriate reaction to the climax of the previous book, as well as a way to keep readers who enjoyed the last book's setting hopeful of seeing more of that setting. One thing I have to question--if they could just create a wardrobe that transports students from one place to another--then why did they make that dangerous ocean voyage in the first place?
My favorite new character that completely won me over was Nastia, whom should be relished for all her potential in this story.
Overall it's a return to the potential the first book in this series contained with a murderous plot, worthy villains, tough challenges and a decent tying of things together. Overall a decent job well done. Hopefully the next book follows in this one's footsteps rather than naught.
The only time I felt the novel came to a halt in terms of plot was when all the characters stopped doing things and stood before the Mirror of Erised for a length of a few pages. Sure it was nice to see the mirror serve as more than we expected from its prior uses in the original series, but that section dragged on for longer than it needed.
Small problems in terms of detail plague this book, like for example the fact that Victoire Weasley should have graduated at the end of the second book, and not still be a student or treated as a child here in the fourth. But I can forgive minute problems like that as knowing all the appropriate ages for characters in a fantasy world this expansive would be quite exhausting to keep track of for a person not having created it in the first place.
As for the story itself, it was a good example of taking the foundations of the Potterverse and building off of it, rather than trying to merge science fiction with fantasy awkwardly as the last book in the series attempted to do. I also found Mr. Lippert's return to the "long prologue" and "long epilogue" format a welcomed relief.
Mr. Lippert's introduction of the Ministry of Magic's misstep in attempting to force academic interactions between all magical schools plus a muggle school, seemed an appropriate reaction to the climax of the previous book, as well as a way to keep readers who enjoyed the last book's setting hopeful of seeing more of that setting. One thing I have to question--if they could just create a wardrobe that transports students from one place to another--then why did they make that dangerous ocean voyage in the first place?
My favorite new character that completely won me over was Nastia, whom should be relished for all her potential in this story.
Overall it's a return to the potential the first book in this series contained with a murderous plot, worthy villains, tough challenges and a decent tying of things together. Overall a decent job well done. Hopefully the next book follows in this one's footsteps rather than naught.
December 30, 2019
This book was...complicated. There was alot going on all at one time. The ending subsided pretty good, but some things I just wasn't satisfied with. First off, it was a little silly for Dumbledore to come back. Not even just impractical, it was cheesy. I could have done without that. Also, I didn't like Nastasia's fate just left hanging. Does she die or does she end up fine? Whatever happened to "Timothy?" What was his punishment, and what was the conclusion of all of the world leaders that had evacuated the Great Hall? Lastly, as a minor gripe, there were SEVERAL grammatical and spelling errors, and those just drive me bonkers.
August 28, 2013
WOWZERS!! Loved it! Anxiously awaiting Mr. Lippert to resume writing it. I added this book to Goodreads myself and created the cover from some graphics on the web and using Gimp! Also I read it on my Kindle (I used Calibre & Sigil and created both an EPUB and a MOBI).
The completed book certainly lived up to my expectations! It is a fantastically well crafted story with a whole lot of surprises and also a lot of pathos and some nostalgia thrown in at the end.
I'd sure like to see the Potter cinema franchise add this series to it's string of movies.
The completed book certainly lived up to my expectations! It is a fantastically well crafted story with a whole lot of surprises and also a lot of pathos and some nostalgia thrown in at the end.
I'd sure like to see the Potter cinema franchise add this series to it's string of movies.
October 4, 2014
WOW is all I can manage! Action-packed, this installment will have your gears turning from start to finish! And I guarantee your mind will be blown with the conclusion. I haven't flown through a book this quickly in ages. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
Want to read
August 22, 2012How do you download the friggin book.... It wont let me load it to read it and I marked it "to read"
October 17, 2013
James Potter and the Morrigan Web is the 4th book in the series. It is in a genre called fan-fiction, which means that is is based on the ever-popular Harry Potter series, but not written by the same author. This being the case, Norman Lippert does a wonderful job staying true to the charcters and the places of the original book.
Now, for my little soapbox speech, since this is fan-fiction, you can not buy these books. They are only available for free on his website. Yep, he doesn't get a dime for writing them, just our love of them. Anyone who knows writing or reading books, knows what it takes to write a book. Now, Norman is honest in that he would like to write the 5th book, already has a title, but is just not sure he can. My plea to everyone, if you have read any of the James Potter series, you read this review and you like it, buy some of this guys other books. They are all good. Let's support this guy though the works that he does get paid for so he can continue to write the ones that he gives us for free.
This book begins with the veil of secrecy being torn. when that happened the great Wizard city of New Amsterdam, which would be like New York City and just happens to be about fifty feet in the air above New York, so when the veil is gone, all the sudden, all these Muggles see this great city above them. Of course it freaks them out! Now, this of course brings out the different factions of people, the ones who want to repair the veil quickly and return to a world apart of wizards and muggles seperate, another that wants to make use of the tear and try to live together in harmony, and then the age old group that wants to enslave the muggles even if it means acting like they want harmony first.
I find this a history repeating itself theme, it happened in the Harry books. Voldemort rose, the next generation cme along and he was able to rise again, now with the next generation of James, the threat is rising again. But don't think it only happens it books, it happens in real like all the time. Let's see, Slavery in United States, Holacaust in Germany, genocide in Africa and on and on the list goes, we never seem to learn from our mistakes. The same things happen over and over again.
As a parent, this was one thing I loved about the Harry Potter and now the James Potter books. I could read them with my kids, and we could enjoy the stories and another world, but at the same time, the themes, the issues could be brought back and related to current events and things that are going on in our world today. It was a wonderful way to have a conversation with my kids. I think it is a great tool for any parent, and everyone knows that parents need all the tools they can get in keeping communication open with their kids.
It's really hard to give much about the book without giving it all away. Just know that all your favorites are there. Professors Longbottom and McGonnal, James, Albus and Lily, Rose and Scopious, Ralph and Zane. Of course it would be a Potter book without a visit from the old guard, Harry and Ginny, Ron and Herminoe and even Haqrid.
The story is well-written, it's captivating and entertaining. It keeps you wanting to read, and although it is completely different than the Harry Potter series, it doesn't feel that different, it seems natural that things would have grown and changed, although not much in the time that Harry has been away from school. It all just works well together.
Now, for my little soapbox speech, since this is fan-fiction, you can not buy these books. They are only available for free on his website. Yep, he doesn't get a dime for writing them, just our love of them. Anyone who knows writing or reading books, knows what it takes to write a book. Now, Norman is honest in that he would like to write the 5th book, already has a title, but is just not sure he can. My plea to everyone, if you have read any of the James Potter series, you read this review and you like it, buy some of this guys other books. They are all good. Let's support this guy though the works that he does get paid for so he can continue to write the ones that he gives us for free.
This book begins with the veil of secrecy being torn. when that happened the great Wizard city of New Amsterdam, which would be like New York City and just happens to be about fifty feet in the air above New York, so when the veil is gone, all the sudden, all these Muggles see this great city above them. Of course it freaks them out! Now, this of course brings out the different factions of people, the ones who want to repair the veil quickly and return to a world apart of wizards and muggles seperate, another that wants to make use of the tear and try to live together in harmony, and then the age old group that wants to enslave the muggles even if it means acting like they want harmony first.
I find this a history repeating itself theme, it happened in the Harry books. Voldemort rose, the next generation cme along and he was able to rise again, now with the next generation of James, the threat is rising again. But don't think it only happens it books, it happens in real like all the time. Let's see, Slavery in United States, Holacaust in Germany, genocide in Africa and on and on the list goes, we never seem to learn from our mistakes. The same things happen over and over again.
As a parent, this was one thing I loved about the Harry Potter and now the James Potter books. I could read them with my kids, and we could enjoy the stories and another world, but at the same time, the themes, the issues could be brought back and related to current events and things that are going on in our world today. It was a wonderful way to have a conversation with my kids. I think it is a great tool for any parent, and everyone knows that parents need all the tools they can get in keeping communication open with their kids.
It's really hard to give much about the book without giving it all away. Just know that all your favorites are there. Professors Longbottom and McGonnal, James, Albus and Lily, Rose and Scopious, Ralph and Zane. Of course it would be a Potter book without a visit from the old guard, Harry and Ginny, Ron and Herminoe and even Haqrid.
The story is well-written, it's captivating and entertaining. It keeps you wanting to read, and although it is completely different than the Harry Potter series, it doesn't feel that different, it seems natural that things would have grown and changed, although not much in the time that Harry has been away from school. It all just works well together.
August 9, 2014
There aren't enough words to describe how much I love this series of books! I have honestly felt like a child again, these stories have given me the same warm tingly feeling that Harry Potter always had. If anyone hasn't read these so far I suggest that you do, no actually, I don't suggest you do, I demand that you do! Honestly - you will thank me later. It is the perfect mix of fantasy, sci-fi and mythology for me and I hope to the highest mights of the universe that G Norman Lippert is able to finish the series! I also wish to thank him for rekindling my childhood spirit an imagination through some of the darker parts of my life that I have been facing (oddly coinciding with book releases). So as a summary, read this book and other books/novels by this author as he is very gifted and talented in the literary arts :)
December 11, 2013
I feel like a dweeb reading these, but they don't even seem like fan fiction. I really enjoy them and I'm hoping for more in the future!
October 22, 2013
This book was my favourite of all the books Mr. Lippert has written in the JP series.
Like many other readers, I found it difficult at times to align the actual age of the characters and their behaviours, responses to certain events as well as how they were treated. James was portrayed as far older than he actually was, and treated by Harry Potter as such. Of course I understand the concept of how Harry would not want to be as unhelpful as he had found many adults when he was younger, but the gap was too much. Maybe because the characters themselves are older now, but I found their interactions much more believable in this story.
Most of the plots were somewhat transparent, but fun to read nevertheless. The reappearance of Merlinus Ambrosius may seem like fan service, but I'm glad indeed. In a small time, Merlinus has become a beloved character to me.
Last but not the least, I think Judith, the lady of the lake, needs to be more vividly described. She still seems a little vague to me, as far as antagonists go, she doesn't make the necessary impact. Perhaps the writer wants to make this vagueness create some mystery around her? Just a thought.
Anxiously looking forward to the next book, which I hear, alas, is the last.
Like many other readers, I found it difficult at times to align the actual age of the characters and their behaviours, responses to certain events as well as how they were treated. James was portrayed as far older than he actually was, and treated by Harry Potter as such. Of course I understand the concept of how Harry would not want to be as unhelpful as he had found many adults when he was younger, but the gap was too much. Maybe because the characters themselves are older now, but I found their interactions much more believable in this story.
Most of the plots were somewhat transparent, but fun to read nevertheless. The reappearance of Merlinus Ambrosius may seem like fan service, but I'm glad indeed. In a small time, Merlinus has become a beloved character to me.
Last but not the least, I think Judith, the lady of the lake, needs to be more vividly described. She still seems a little vague to me, as far as antagonists go, she doesn't make the necessary impact. Perhaps the writer wants to make this vagueness create some mystery around her? Just a thought.
Anxiously looking forward to the next book, which I hear, alas, is the last.
May 2, 2013
Confession: I read this book even before finishing the 3rd book. I know, I know!
But here's the thing. As what the author mentioned, it does not give anything away and he is open to any speculations as to how things turn out for young James and his band of misfits. He gave a hint though about Lucy and Merlins demise.
I have loved the book ever since one of my friends told me about it. I have shared it with several other librocubicularists and everyone is doing the same. If there is an online petition or if this "legitimate literary community" would accept online petitions, I would gladly sign up.
I'm not a literary genius myself but I find the book very readable and totally worth it.
To Mr. Lippert, if you publish your books, I'd totally buy them! We understand the need for acceptance from this legitimate literary community and we support you all the way in case you publish your works for profit.
But here's the thing. As what the author mentioned, it does not give anything away and he is open to any speculations as to how things turn out for young James and his band of misfits. He gave a hint though about Lucy and Merlins demise.
I have loved the book ever since one of my friends told me about it. I have shared it with several other librocubicularists and everyone is doing the same. If there is an online petition or if this "legitimate literary community" would accept online petitions, I would gladly sign up.
I'm not a literary genius myself but I find the book very readable and totally worth it.
To Mr. Lippert, if you publish your books, I'd totally buy them! We understand the need for acceptance from this legitimate literary community and we support you all the way in case you publish your works for profit.
August 7, 2014
4.5 stars. This book was written with the same charm that sucked me into the first of the James Potter books. While there were definitely some parts of the story I could have dealt without, I truly enjoyed this installment of the series. It kept me enthralled for most of the entire story, and I loved the end scene with the mirror. It brought a tear to my eye! While I am a Harry Potter purist, Lippert makes it his own, and makes it something enjoyable. There are parts when I have to remind myself that it's not actually real! I'll be excited to see what comes next.
August 8, 2017
Update: wonderful book! The James Potter Series completely satisfied my craving for more of the world of Harry Potter.
March 10, 2019
Of course, this review will have some spoilers. Beware!
Except not just on this book, but the ENITRE series itself! I’ll copy and paste this review to the rest of them as well. Maybe.
I don’t expect the author to read this. I don’t expect a reply. I’m a writer myself and I wanted to get this off my chest or I won’t be able to type again.
Therefore...
After reading The Cursed Child (the sequel to JK Rowling’s series), I started reading The Hall of Elder Crossing. With conviction, I can definitely say that George Norman Lippert’s James Potter series is the superior one in storytelling. The Cursed Child has way too many moments that made me shake my head and asked, “Ms. Rowling, why in the world would you do this?”. There were just so much questionable moments in terms of characters’ choices, plot-line, development, and lore. This is mostly judged from what I had learned from the original Harry Potter series.
Which brings me to Mr. Lippert’s work.
What really made me admire his story is just how SMART he uses the lore of Ms. Rowling’s world to continue the series. The way he set up the inclusion of Merlin into the main plot of the entire series; the way he developed James Potter’s identity; the way he included the American wizarding school (at least a small taste of it in the first book); the foreshadowing - oh gosh, so MANY foreshadowing, it’s bloody brilliant at how everything connected the deeper you go! And the way the whole puzzle fits together at the end - greatly enjoyable! And last but not least, how he portrayed Harry Potter as a father. Unlike The Cursed Child, James Potter’s version made a lot more sense. #thatsmyharry
I would even theorize that the reason The Cursed Child was a bad taste for me is because Mr. Lippert used up so many good materials to the point Ms. Rowling was left with little to go for. Hell, the Child of Voldermoth plot almost resembles Mr. Lippert’s version, which is unfair on my part to jab at since it’s likely countless fans have always thought of a Voldy offspring that even JK Rowling knew it would be a mistake to past away such opportunity of storytelling. So sorry in advance.
Anyway, the way the entire main plot that Mr. Lippert had always intended to go for the whole series was beautifully stacked together with minimal error to my best observation. When the final passage of The Crimson Thread came to an end, I can easily trace it back to the very first book - to be able to see the clear straight line from beginning to the end. Everything that happens now and onward was due to the journey taken from the previous four books. Nothing was left behind, and everything was acknowledged in the last book. No more loose ends. When I closed the last page, I felt my whole senses turned off momentarily, and then back to normal, knowing with a heavy, but positive, heart that the entire story was finally over with satisfaction. I wait on my chair, wondering, “Now what?”, and that is when I know I have read a great story. To be so immersive to the point it’s hard to return to your own life.
Additionally, his way of telling story and wrapping it up is also great. The Vault of Destiny has a brilliant shocking climax that one would imagine could work so well on the big screen, as well as imagining a great sound score playing as the moments happen. The Morrigan Web has a great way of tying it all up in its continuation of the previous book with the climax pushing my at the edge of my seat! His idea of skipping two years after the fourth book was a bold, but refreshing move. After all, since book one, we are lead to believe that James is not like his father (not exactly - to the T - at least), so having skipped two years in time to his last year of Hogwarts cements the concept really well.
Now this is where I want to mainly talked about the final book, The Crimson Thread, since how it ends really ties up all the previous books and would determine if the entire journey was worth it or not. A lot of people would called the resolution a cop-out for making it look somewhat like a it’s-all-a-dream cliché. For me, I see it as something similar to X-Men: Days of Future Past. In it, Logan change the past, saved the future, and remembered both realities once he woke up. This is what James went through. A dream is the realm of the imagination conjured within our unconscious thought when falling asleep, but in James and Logan’s case, those events were real, and that’s the important fact to remember.
All. Events. Happened.
When James woke up, it wasn’t from a dream where the reality with Petra alive didn’t happened. It did happened, but they were now in what is considered to be a different reality because what James and Petra merely did was shifting it to a new course and repaired it by having Petra died fatefully on that voyage.
From there, history played out as it is, but with few changes that works out for everyone. Lucy lives, the vow of secrecy was left unbroken, Nastasia sanity survived, Judith was easily defeated, etc. It was great at how Mr. Lippert did his best to make sense of it all, and it was enough to convince me.
Except for one plot point that didn’t.
In Moreigan Web, if the Night of the Unveiling didn’t happened, what transpired the Summit event? The reason why it happened was because the world leaders came together to be convinced by the magical world that they were not a threat by showing a friendly sport game. The world leaders didn’t need to be convinced if the Night of the Unveiling didn’t happened, which was the case in the new repaired reality James and Petra brought everyone to. So how did Avior convinced them come together. Also, since Judith could see the past and future of herself, because she is one of the Fates, why did see recreate the Morrigan Web event, as well as allying with Avior if she knew she couldn’t win. Think about it: In the first reality, Petra and Izzy were Judith’s host/s, and was at the prime of her power, yet she lost, so what makes her think that she could win this time in the new reality where she did not have a host at all, especially when Izzy was now a Guardian with a mind set that is incorruptible? My deduction skill tells me that Judith had likely thought she could have Avior or Nastasia as her host, and powering herself more that way, but this information isn’t enough to explain it.
And another thing I would like to pick on.
It’s been heavily implied from The Curse of the Gatekeeper that Merlin and James now truly trust each other by the end of it, and Merlin himself was willing to return to the world from the dead because although he hates the modern era, James and his friends and family were worth coming back to. He has tried to help Petra by stopping her through words or force, but not killing her as James wanted. James knew by then that Merlin has the best interest for the world’s safety.
Yet after everything, James still couldn’t bring himself to trust Merlin with what he knew! It’s hard for me to describe it all here, but all I can say is that there were just too many obvious signs pointing that some people shouldn’t be trusted and some should. As Rose once said, James had a track record of trusting the wrong people and not trusting the right one. It was a character flaw I had hoped for him overcome, but hardly improved at all by the end of it. Granted, one detail near the end of the story stated that as a Gryffindor, he was a loyal to a fault. I could back that as a fair reason. After all, James’ namesake grandfather died for trusting the wrong friend. Not only that, his career path also changed completely from an inspired Auror to a actual Headmaster of Hogwarts. Albus was the one that followed James’ old dream, and I admit, being an Auror (a chief deputy at that!) really fits Albus character.
Part of me realized that maybe his career path changed because of how he identified himself back in the first book. He inspires other to help - give them courage when they need it or deserve it. That doesn’t sound like a Auror to me, despite his amazing deduction and intuition skill (except when he aims it at the wrong people). Therefore, I could also rally behind that.
It’s just that, overall, when I see James in the epilogue 19 years later as a grown man, part of me still see him as the 11-17 year old. Barely changed. Changed, still, but just barely. The second part of the epilogue gave me a good insight of his growth, but there wasn’t enough exploration.
And in a spiteful wish, I honestly wanted James to tell his friends about the entire event after he had repaired and change their reality, just to see their reaction. I think they deserved the truth after everything they’ve been through together, as well as his father, even thought they technically did not experienced the event anymore due to the alteration.
Moving on, I finally want to talk about my most favorite part of this series: the second part of the epilogue in The Crimson Thread!
When a series comes to an end, there’s usually this overall lesson that sums up the entire series all together. Each installment has a memorable lesson of their own, but the whole is greater than the sum of its parts! I just loved what Mr. Lippert is trying to tell us readers. I can’t just explain it all here (too long!), I would rather have people finding it out for themselves, because the hard work they put into this whole journey is what’s going to make the lesson counts! It is the reason why it warms my heart so much in the end and enable me to trace it all the way back to the first book. It truly wraps everything up in a perfect knot while giving hope to the future by our own imagination instead of relying too much on Mr. Lipper’s writing. The lesson is something worth living by as you move on with your life and face the unknowable future. To all of those who had read it, I hope it does the same for you and wish you fortune. To those who had suffered and read the lesson, hold on to it and never let go! All is not lost! Your happy ending is yet to be written, but only if you choose yourself to be part of the bigger story!
So...here we are. End of the review. All I have left to say is that this was a very committed story that truly feels like it could be canon to the Harry Potter series. George Norman Lippert did a spectacular job as a storyteller, and that if my children would ever be invested in the Harry Potter series, I would recommend them his story as a great sequel to the original. Thank you for this amazing adventure!
Except not just on this book, but the ENITRE series itself! I’ll copy and paste this review to the rest of them as well. Maybe.
I don’t expect the author to read this. I don’t expect a reply. I’m a writer myself and I wanted to get this off my chest or I won’t be able to type again.
Therefore...
After reading The Cursed Child (the sequel to JK Rowling’s series), I started reading The Hall of Elder Crossing. With conviction, I can definitely say that George Norman Lippert’s James Potter series is the superior one in storytelling. The Cursed Child has way too many moments that made me shake my head and asked, “Ms. Rowling, why in the world would you do this?”. There were just so much questionable moments in terms of characters’ choices, plot-line, development, and lore. This is mostly judged from what I had learned from the original Harry Potter series.
Which brings me to Mr. Lippert’s work.
What really made me admire his story is just how SMART he uses the lore of Ms. Rowling’s world to continue the series. The way he set up the inclusion of Merlin into the main plot of the entire series; the way he developed James Potter’s identity; the way he included the American wizarding school (at least a small taste of it in the first book); the foreshadowing - oh gosh, so MANY foreshadowing, it’s bloody brilliant at how everything connected the deeper you go! And the way the whole puzzle fits together at the end - greatly enjoyable! And last but not least, how he portrayed Harry Potter as a father. Unlike The Cursed Child, James Potter’s version made a lot more sense. #thatsmyharry
I would even theorize that the reason The Cursed Child was a bad taste for me is because Mr. Lippert used up so many good materials to the point Ms. Rowling was left with little to go for. Hell, the Child of Voldermoth plot almost resembles Mr. Lippert’s version, which is unfair on my part to jab at since it’s likely countless fans have always thought of a Voldy offspring that even JK Rowling knew it would be a mistake to past away such opportunity of storytelling. So sorry in advance.
Anyway, the way the entire main plot that Mr. Lippert had always intended to go for the whole series was beautifully stacked together with minimal error to my best observation. When the final passage of The Crimson Thread came to an end, I can easily trace it back to the very first book - to be able to see the clear straight line from beginning to the end. Everything that happens now and onward was due to the journey taken from the previous four books. Nothing was left behind, and everything was acknowledged in the last book. No more loose ends. When I closed the last page, I felt my whole senses turned off momentarily, and then back to normal, knowing with a heavy, but positive, heart that the entire story was finally over with satisfaction. I wait on my chair, wondering, “Now what?”, and that is when I know I have read a great story. To be so immersive to the point it’s hard to return to your own life.
Additionally, his way of telling story and wrapping it up is also great. The Vault of Destiny has a brilliant shocking climax that one would imagine could work so well on the big screen, as well as imagining a great sound score playing as the moments happen. The Morrigan Web has a great way of tying it all up in its continuation of the previous book with the climax pushing my at the edge of my seat! His idea of skipping two years after the fourth book was a bold, but refreshing move. After all, since book one, we are lead to believe that James is not like his father (not exactly - to the T - at least), so having skipped two years in time to his last year of Hogwarts cements the concept really well.
Now this is where I want to mainly talked about the final book, The Crimson Thread, since how it ends really ties up all the previous books and would determine if the entire journey was worth it or not. A lot of people would called the resolution a cop-out for making it look somewhat like a it’s-all-a-dream cliché. For me, I see it as something similar to X-Men: Days of Future Past. In it, Logan change the past, saved the future, and remembered both realities once he woke up. This is what James went through. A dream is the realm of the imagination conjured within our unconscious thought when falling asleep, but in James and Logan’s case, those events were real, and that’s the important fact to remember.
All. Events. Happened.
When James woke up, it wasn’t from a dream where the reality with Petra alive didn’t happened. It did happened, but they were now in what is considered to be a different reality because what James and Petra merely did was shifting it to a new course and repaired it by having Petra died fatefully on that voyage.
From there, history played out as it is, but with few changes that works out for everyone. Lucy lives, the vow of secrecy was left unbroken, Nastasia sanity survived, Judith was easily defeated, etc. It was great at how Mr. Lippert did his best to make sense of it all, and it was enough to convince me.
Except for one plot point that didn’t.
In Moreigan Web, if the Night of the Unveiling didn’t happened, what transpired the Summit event? The reason why it happened was because the world leaders came together to be convinced by the magical world that they were not a threat by showing a friendly sport game. The world leaders didn’t need to be convinced if the Night of the Unveiling didn’t happened, which was the case in the new repaired reality James and Petra brought everyone to. So how did Avior convinced them come together. Also, since Judith could see the past and future of herself, because she is one of the Fates, why did see recreate the Morrigan Web event, as well as allying with Avior if she knew she couldn’t win. Think about it: In the first reality, Petra and Izzy were Judith’s host/s, and was at the prime of her power, yet she lost, so what makes her think that she could win this time in the new reality where she did not have a host at all, especially when Izzy was now a Guardian with a mind set that is incorruptible? My deduction skill tells me that Judith had likely thought she could have Avior or Nastasia as her host, and powering herself more that way, but this information isn’t enough to explain it.
And another thing I would like to pick on.
It’s been heavily implied from The Curse of the Gatekeeper that Merlin and James now truly trust each other by the end of it, and Merlin himself was willing to return to the world from the dead because although he hates the modern era, James and his friends and family were worth coming back to. He has tried to help Petra by stopping her through words or force, but not killing her as James wanted. James knew by then that Merlin has the best interest for the world’s safety.
Yet after everything, James still couldn’t bring himself to trust Merlin with what he knew! It’s hard for me to describe it all here, but all I can say is that there were just too many obvious signs pointing that some people shouldn’t be trusted and some should. As Rose once said, James had a track record of trusting the wrong people and not trusting the right one. It was a character flaw I had hoped for him overcome, but hardly improved at all by the end of it. Granted, one detail near the end of the story stated that as a Gryffindor, he was a loyal to a fault. I could back that as a fair reason. After all, James’ namesake grandfather died for trusting the wrong friend. Not only that, his career path also changed completely from an inspired Auror to a actual Headmaster of Hogwarts. Albus was the one that followed James’ old dream, and I admit, being an Auror (a chief deputy at that!) really fits Albus character.
Part of me realized that maybe his career path changed because of how he identified himself back in the first book. He inspires other to help - give them courage when they need it or deserve it. That doesn’t sound like a Auror to me, despite his amazing deduction and intuition skill (except when he aims it at the wrong people). Therefore, I could also rally behind that.
It’s just that, overall, when I see James in the epilogue 19 years later as a grown man, part of me still see him as the 11-17 year old. Barely changed. Changed, still, but just barely. The second part of the epilogue gave me a good insight of his growth, but there wasn’t enough exploration.
And in a spiteful wish, I honestly wanted James to tell his friends about the entire event after he had repaired and change their reality, just to see their reaction. I think they deserved the truth after everything they’ve been through together, as well as his father, even thought they technically did not experienced the event anymore due to the alteration.
Moving on, I finally want to talk about my most favorite part of this series: the second part of the epilogue in The Crimson Thread!
When a series comes to an end, there’s usually this overall lesson that sums up the entire series all together. Each installment has a memorable lesson of their own, but the whole is greater than the sum of its parts! I just loved what Mr. Lippert is trying to tell us readers. I can’t just explain it all here (too long!), I would rather have people finding it out for themselves, because the hard work they put into this whole journey is what’s going to make the lesson counts! It is the reason why it warms my heart so much in the end and enable me to trace it all the way back to the first book. It truly wraps everything up in a perfect knot while giving hope to the future by our own imagination instead of relying too much on Mr. Lipper’s writing. The lesson is something worth living by as you move on with your life and face the unknowable future. To all of those who had read it, I hope it does the same for you and wish you fortune. To those who had suffered and read the lesson, hold on to it and never let go! All is not lost! Your happy ending is yet to be written, but only if you choose yourself to be part of the bigger story!
So...here we are. End of the review. All I have left to say is that this was a very committed story that truly feels like it could be canon to the Harry Potter series. George Norman Lippert did a spectacular job as a storyteller, and that if my children would ever be invested in the Harry Potter series, I would recommend them his story as a great sequel to the original. Thank you for this amazing adventure!
October 20, 2012
Just when is the cutoff for "Autumn?" I'm hoping in your mind that means October! And not November! Can't take the suspense!
January 14, 2013
I really really want Lippert to finish this book and keep writing this series. I'm sad that there is nothing more to read and hope to read more of this story. Please keep writing it!!
Want to read
March 3, 2013I'm sure this could be a very entertaining sequel, but there is no way to download or purchase. What's up with that?
December 31, 2024
There are nearly too many bad actors, and the story almost collapses under the duplicitousness of them all but unless and/or until proven otherwise by the next and final entry, this is the crowning achievement of Lippert’s James Potter series. He hits his stride, overcoming the pacing issues he has struggled with up until now by keeping the action chugging along while not sacrificing descriptive storytelling interspersed with the right amounts of nostalgia, heart and humor.
January 26, 2014
The latest installment in the James Potter series deals with the aftermath of the unveiling of the wizard world to the Muggles. Petra is public enemy #1, no one but James seems to believe that Judith exists, Harry is being shut out of Ministry affairs, Hogwarts has another oppressive headmaster, an evil twin of Albus Dumbledore seems to be on the loose, and a powerful weapon called the Morrigan Web may be in development. Oh, and evil wizards are also trying to take over the Muggle world under the guise of "equality," all while the Hogwarts kids are doing exchange courses at other magical and Muggle schools. Phew.
This is certainly an action-packed follow-up to the last book, but I felt a bit like the author was pulling some cheesy moves. Particularly at the end, the temporary appearance of Dumbledore to explain everything and say goodbye to Harry and the seemingly permanent return of Merlin felt like cop-outs. I love those characters too, but sometimes people just have to stay dead.
I am also concerned about the author's proclamation that even though he knows where the series is going, he can't promise even one more James Potter book. I understand that he's doing this all for free, but combined with his half-joking plea for someone to get him a book contract, it sounds a bit like he's holding the series hostage and trying to use his fan base to get ahead. I guess that's reasonable, but it sort of leaves a bad taste in my mouth. At the end of the day, he can't really make a profit on this unless J.K. Rowling allows him to use her characters, so there's nothing we fans can do to help besides donate money to him and but his other books (both of which I have done).
Anyway, I'd recommend this book to fans of the series. And to people who feel like they need more resolution about the death of Dumbledore.
This is certainly an action-packed follow-up to the last book, but I felt a bit like the author was pulling some cheesy moves. Particularly at the end, the temporary appearance of Dumbledore to explain everything and say goodbye to Harry and the seemingly permanent return of Merlin felt like cop-outs. I love those characters too, but sometimes people just have to stay dead.
I am also concerned about the author's proclamation that even though he knows where the series is going, he can't promise even one more James Potter book. I understand that he's doing this all for free, but combined with his half-joking plea for someone to get him a book contract, it sounds a bit like he's holding the series hostage and trying to use his fan base to get ahead. I guess that's reasonable, but it sort of leaves a bad taste in my mouth. At the end of the day, he can't really make a profit on this unless J.K. Rowling allows him to use her characters, so there's nothing we fans can do to help besides donate money to him and but his other books (both of which I have done).
Anyway, I'd recommend this book to fans of the series. And to people who feel like they need more resolution about the death of Dumbledore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2013
I love the continuation of the Potter universe. Mr Lippert you do it really well. Sometimes your writing style can be a little slow to get in to but I do find that on the whole it is similar to what the originals were like. I didn't like the American setting in the last book but I loved the different cultures you portrayed in this book mainly because it was set back in Hogwarts. A couple of things I will say: 1) There is not much use of spells in the book and James seems pretty much useless. Another thing is that plot devices are too obvious. In the original series the cast would come up with a solution that I had never even thought of. Hermione was a genius and Harry Potter was the bravest of us all. In this book however, you give the game away and the readers can instantly see the solution while the protagonists don't have a clue. This makes them seem dumb. If you would have had some of the revelations happen in the reverse, your characters could have instantly picked up on it and they have seemed competent. That is how Rowling generally handled it.
Anyhow, I did love the book and I like the new characters/story. I enjoy watching your world grow and I eagerly await the next James Potter.
P.S I bought your other books and I did so because I enjoy this series. I have seen you grow as a writer (something that I am not), and your books just get better and better. It is a real shame that you cannot profit from these stories. Good luck in the future!
Anyhow, I did love the book and I like the new characters/story. I enjoy watching your world grow and I eagerly await the next James Potter.
P.S I bought your other books and I did so because I enjoy this series. I have seen you grow as a writer (something that I am not), and your books just get better and better. It is a real shame that you cannot profit from these stories. Good luck in the future!
May 28, 2014
What an emotional roller coaster!! A must read for any true Harry Potter fan!
As life continues on for James his family and friends since the unveiling of New Amsterdam, things seem to be getting worse and worse. A new Headmaster is appointed by the Ministry of Magic to replace the late Merlinus, which can only mean trouble and proves to be so. New rules are implemented, all in the name of safety for the school and its students. A new "foreign exchange" program, so to say, is being forced on the students, and few people believe James when he talks about the Lady of the Lake.
In a whirlwind of events that are set into motion things go from bad to worse. Secrets and truths begin to come out, but with increased securities James has to be careful who he relays the information he has obtained to. Just as you think things can't really go much further south than they are and many people are fixing to be killed a solution presents its self, but will there be enough time... Guess you will just have to read it to find out.
As life continues on for James his family and friends since the unveiling of New Amsterdam, things seem to be getting worse and worse. A new Headmaster is appointed by the Ministry of Magic to replace the late Merlinus, which can only mean trouble and proves to be so. New rules are implemented, all in the name of safety for the school and its students. A new "foreign exchange" program, so to say, is being forced on the students, and few people believe James when he talks about the Lady of the Lake.
In a whirlwind of events that are set into motion things go from bad to worse. Secrets and truths begin to come out, but with increased securities James has to be careful who he relays the information he has obtained to. Just as you think things can't really go much further south than they are and many people are fixing to be killed a solution presents its self, but will there be enough time... Guess you will just have to read it to find out.
June 13, 2014
I am not too familiar about fan fiction etiquette and rules...but if I were J. K. Rowling, I would have used everything in my sphere of influence to publish the James Potter books. Given that everything started with Ms. Rowling's works, this fan fiction series, on its own, is just super awesome!
Similar to the Harry Potter's books, each installment in the series tops the previous one; the characters grow, the story intensifies. Not only once or twice, while reading the Morrigan Web, did I think that the climax was over and the story about to end, only to check on my progress and see that there were still some ways to go. And, dig this...just like in the battle at Hogwarts, I was moved to tears at the last part, when Harry and James were looking through the mirror of Erised. That was one emotional scene.
George Norman Lippert can't promise to follow through with another book, but I am sure all his fans (that includes me) are hopeful. If ever he gets published and there'd be a price to pay, I'll be one among many who will pre-order.
Similar to the Harry Potter's books, each installment in the series tops the previous one; the characters grow, the story intensifies. Not only once or twice, while reading the Morrigan Web, did I think that the climax was over and the story about to end, only to check on my progress and see that there were still some ways to go. And, dig this...just like in the battle at Hogwarts, I was moved to tears at the last part, when Harry and James were looking through the mirror of Erised. That was one emotional scene.
George Norman Lippert can't promise to follow through with another book, but I am sure all his fans (that includes me) are hopeful. If ever he gets published and there'd be a price to pay, I'll be one among many who will pre-order.
July 12, 2020
This is the most interesting book in the series, that brings together the previous three books together and sets the stage for the next blockbuster novel.
This is not just a series that is mooched off of Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. It is a riveting adventure and high-fantasy saga all on its own. From the characters to a different era of Hogwarts, from the Alma Aleron to the spies and miscreants, this novel spins a tale that spans the feel of the original Harry Potter series, while at the same time, incorporating a factor of today's chick youth and their rebellious natures.
Every book in the series is an electrifying mix of interesting characters, dynamic scenarios, dangerous villains, and powerful magic, put together with utmost dedication and care, to make it a fast-paced thriller like very few others. Romance, adventure, magic, travel through a lot of unconventional means, and the ultimate build-up to the final darkness looming over the horizon, you'll find everything broiled together in this series that will keep you up at nights to know just what happened next.
This is not just a series that is mooched off of Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. It is a riveting adventure and high-fantasy saga all on its own. From the characters to a different era of Hogwarts, from the Alma Aleron to the spies and miscreants, this novel spins a tale that spans the feel of the original Harry Potter series, while at the same time, incorporating a factor of today's chick youth and their rebellious natures.
Every book in the series is an electrifying mix of interesting characters, dynamic scenarios, dangerous villains, and powerful magic, put together with utmost dedication and care, to make it a fast-paced thriller like very few others. Romance, adventure, magic, travel through a lot of unconventional means, and the ultimate build-up to the final darkness looming over the horizon, you'll find everything broiled together in this series that will keep you up at nights to know just what happened next.
October 27, 2014
Another brilliant piece in the series by Lippert. I'm so glad I discovered James Potter! Unlike Rowling's series where there was a concrete, palpable enemy linking the seven books, James' story is more of a struggle against an abstract enemy; taking the form of the Progressive Element or WULF, and eventually FATE in the form of Lady of the Lake. Many of the key characters are grey than black and white - Merlin, Petra - and the story had a wider global scope than Rowling's Hogwarts world. I absolutely love Zane! And Rose too, she's a great character-mix of Hermione and Ron. While there are a couple of loose ends in the story towards the end - what did they do with the Collector? Where did Ginny disappear after the match? How exactly did Harry & co escape from their "imprisonment"? How was Merlin able to come back? - I think I enjoyed the story and can put my imagination to work on the bits of what is missing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2013
This was an excellent installment in the James Potter series and the best written one yet. Mr. Lippert's chops as a writer are definitely honed and delivering excellent plots and and story. More than any other of his stories so far, I felt I was fully involved in the world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts in particular. His full opus is evolving nicely, and this story was quite the ride! The surprises he brought along kept my mind amused and my need to expolore the Harry/James Potter universe well entertained.
Wonderful job, Mr. Lpppert!!!
I urge those that could allow Mr. Lippert to continue to follow his dream to suppport him, by allowing licensing and financial support for the James Potter series to happen. Allow him to change his "day job" to his dream job of being able to devote his time to writing of James Potter, Merlinus, and all the wonderful stories I know he has tucked up in the imaginative noggin of his.
Wonderful job, Mr. Lpppert!!!
I urge those that could allow Mr. Lippert to continue to follow his dream to suppport him, by allowing licensing and financial support for the James Potter series to happen. Allow him to change his "day job" to his dream job of being able to devote his time to writing of James Potter, Merlinus, and all the wonderful stories I know he has tucked up in the imaginative noggin of his.
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