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Books of Andresium #1
Tallis
The Empire of Andresium is threatened by the corruption of the immortals, ancient beings given the gift of eternal life after the death of the last reigning empress. A prophecy speaks of their eventual downfall at the hands of one of their own, however. Tallis is known by most simply as "The Loren," and seeks to avoid her destiny while trying herself to remain untainted by the decaying morals and indifference to the fates of men that plague her kind. As the events of the prophecy begin to unfold, Tallis finds herself conflicted between upholding her dedication to justice, and falling victim to the ramifications of following the desires of her own heart.
- GenresFantasy
58 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 11, 2022
I didn't know much about this when I went into it. It was something that had been on my kindle for awhile and I took a chance with it. I was pleasantly surprised with it, however, I wish it was more than just a novella. I didn't know that going in and it seemed like the story just ended right when it started picking up. Considering this came out in 2012 and there's been nothing since, I don't have high hopes of any continuation.
For such a short amount, Rae really packed a lot in. There was so much to digest in the world building along with the plot, that it all seemed to come at you very fast. Which isn't bad, but I would have liked to have more time to really understand the world and what was going on. Tallis seems an intriguing character stuck in a horrible position and that ending was just horrific for her. There's definitely intrigue here but sadly, I don't see any resolution in sight.
For such a short amount, Rae really packed a lot in. There was so much to digest in the world building along with the plot, that it all seemed to come at you very fast. Which isn't bad, but I would have liked to have more time to really understand the world and what was going on. Tallis seems an intriguing character stuck in a horrible position and that ending was just horrific for her. There's definitely intrigue here but sadly, I don't see any resolution in sight.
December 6, 2014
This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
After entering the giveaway for this book on Goodreads I noticed that the author was willing to provide review copies so I quickly got in contact with her because I was intrigued by the synopsis and boy I am super happy I did, I'm also kicking myself for not picking it up quicker as I have the eBook version I wasn't aware it was a lovely short read at 58 pages. You're probably sat there thinking "psssh how can a wonderful fantasy story be told in 58 pages" and I'm here to tell you that this book right here does exactly that by being beautifully written, seriously I felt like I was reading poetry! I was a little lost for the first few pages whilst being introduced to the world but soon figured out what was what even with all this long and wacky names, that I'm pretty sure I couldn't pronounce if I tried but it doesn't matter one bit. I really enjoyed this book specifically due to the fact its was a welcome change of scenery to all the YA I've been reading lately, with some of the characters being immortals it obviously had a much maturer writing style on none of the teenage setting I've been reading so much of lately, it so great. The story follows Tallis, an immortal with wings who shows no emotion, whilst her "doomday" fate draws closer and she's fighting which path to go down... It's a little difficult to talk about this book and to not give spoilers away because at the end of the day it is a short one (and a lot happens) so if you don't want any spoilers you should probably look away now, what I do write though I'll try to leave vague-ish. As mentioned Tallis is brought up to show no emotion for one reason or another but as the day draws closer where she could potentially die she opens up her heart and body to some very strong emotions - love, lust, passion and desire - which in the end turns out to be a very big mistake! The ending was so emotional I felt like my heart had been physically ripped out of my chest and it's a complete cliffhanger, but not in the sense that you expect another book in the sense that Tallis could go in either direction as their is closure for the reader but not Tallis. Its a little hard to explain, poor Tarameen :(
Recommend? Yup! Its a great read
After entering the giveaway for this book on Goodreads I noticed that the author was willing to provide review copies so I quickly got in contact with her because I was intrigued by the synopsis and boy I am super happy I did, I'm also kicking myself for not picking it up quicker as I have the eBook version I wasn't aware it was a lovely short read at 58 pages. You're probably sat there thinking "psssh how can a wonderful fantasy story be told in 58 pages" and I'm here to tell you that this book right here does exactly that by being beautifully written, seriously I felt like I was reading poetry! I was a little lost for the first few pages whilst being introduced to the world but soon figured out what was what even with all this long and wacky names, that I'm pretty sure I couldn't pronounce if I tried but it doesn't matter one bit. I really enjoyed this book specifically due to the fact its was a welcome change of scenery to all the YA I've been reading lately, with some of the characters being immortals it obviously had a much maturer writing style on none of the teenage setting I've been reading so much of lately, it so great. The story follows Tallis, an immortal with wings who shows no emotion, whilst her "doomday" fate draws closer and she's fighting which path to go down... It's a little difficult to talk about this book and to not give spoilers away because at the end of the day it is a short one (and a lot happens) so if you don't want any spoilers you should probably look away now, what I do write though I'll try to leave vague-ish. As mentioned Tallis is brought up to show no emotion for one reason or another but as the day draws closer where she could potentially die she opens up her heart and body to some very strong emotions - love, lust, passion and desire - which in the end turns out to be a very big mistake! The ending was so emotional I felt like my heart had been physically ripped out of my chest and it's a complete cliffhanger, but not in the sense that you expect another book in the sense that Tallis could go in either direction as their is closure for the reader but not Tallis. Its a little hard to explain, poor Tarameen :(
Recommend? Yup! Its a great read
May 27, 2012
While reading Tallis, I was immediately captivated by M.C. Rae's style of writing. It is simply impressive! I found myself pausing every couple of paragraphs to absorb what I had just read, since the fantasy world created is full of exceptional detail. From the descriptions of the setting to the intricate storyline, I am in awe at what is included in this novella.
Tallis is “The Loren” and immortal. There is a prophecy involving herself that she'd rather not see fulfilled. She shows no emotion, but her love, Tarameen, might just draw the feelings out of her:
“At this point in my existence, to allow myself to feel...What is the point in that? My fate is not my own. My destiny is not to seek out the longings of my own heart. I am the Loren. How can I allow myself to love?”--Tallis, M.C. Rae
Now, I didn't know Tallis is the first in a series while I was reading it. I reached the end, and I wanted more. That couldn't be the end!!! I was so ecstatic to learn there will be other books! Read Tallis and delve into an intriguing fantasy world!
Tallis is “The Loren” and immortal. There is a prophecy involving herself that she'd rather not see fulfilled. She shows no emotion, but her love, Tarameen, might just draw the feelings out of her:
“At this point in my existence, to allow myself to feel...What is the point in that? My fate is not my own. My destiny is not to seek out the longings of my own heart. I am the Loren. How can I allow myself to love?”--Tallis, M.C. Rae
Now, I didn't know Tallis is the first in a series while I was reading it. I reached the end, and I wanted more. That couldn't be the end!!! I was so ecstatic to learn there will be other books! Read Tallis and delve into an intriguing fantasy world!
May 29, 2012
Unlike majority of the books I pick up, I wasn’t instantly drawn into the story. I think this is mainly because this is a fantasy, and I had to gain an understanding for the world or settings before I could pay attention to the plot. This was a very short read, yet mid way I found myself liking it more and more. The writing is beautiful; and I can easily at random pick any line form the story to use as an ice breaker in a poetic public speech. This was a forbidden love tale of immortals and ancient secrets. Just as soon as the drama blossomed and the prophesy begins to make more sense; the proverbial crap hits the fan and we are lead to believe the “real” action is about to begin. Sadly, it ended too soon.
*Disclaimer: Book given by YA Bound for an honest review.*
*Disclaimer: Book given by YA Bound for an honest review.*
June 20, 2012
McRae's descriptions are more than worth the price of admission. This kind of story is a pure delight. For a novella, you get quickly and hopelessly addicted to every page.
May 21, 2012
Please excuse me is this is less of a review and more of an ode to McRae’s prose. There is something about her writing that drew me in, and I enjoyed reading every word. It was the best thing about the book, in my opinion! Her prose was lush and beautifully descriptive, and the words just seemed to flow and fall right off the page. Here are a few examples (I included one romantic example for us diehard romantics out there *swoon*):
Night was a harbor to them, sheltering their words as they sat, locked in conversation under the vastness of the heavens, until the dawning sun again tugged at their paradise. The stoic gave way to the poet, as the Loren told the Systerian of distant lands and ancient times. (pg. 23)
“My eyes refuse to drift from yours. My hand tells me touch, and I can scarcely recall my control before it has drifted away from my side. My feet carry me to you, longing to pass time which I have not, and knowing how it should be spent in meditation of what’s to come.” (pg. 22)
I just fell in love with McRae’s writing style. It is unique, it fits the tone of the novel exceptionally well, and it made the book that much more enjoyable for me to read.
Alright, I am going to try and leave the whole prose thing behind for now. Onto other things! This book, being only ~60 pages long, is more of short story than anything, but do not let that fool you! It is packed full of romance, fantasy, betrayal, magic, and so much more. Tallis, the main character of the story, is one of the few remaining immortals, and she has a wealth of long sought-after magical knowledge that the other immortals would do just about anything to learn. She faces some hard times and difficult dilemmas, but she remains resolute and steadfast through everything. She is definitely a strong female character, and I immediately liked her when she started throwing some carefully scripted insults in guys’ faces (you have got to love a girl who can tell guys off!). Overall, she was a brilliant lead, and I cannot wait to read more about her and the future that awaits her in the next book.
The only downside to this book is the fact that it is so short, and the only reason I am really saying that is because I want more! Readers, beware, this book ends in a cliffhanger that will leave you craving the next installment in the series. Also, with so much stuffed into 60 pages, the book could get rather intense at times in terms of backstory and plot explanations, but it was relatively easy to follow along with what was occurring/being explained. McRae does a wonderful job packing everything into such a short story, and with great characters, an intriguing plot, and lyrical prose, Tallis is a book you should not miss out on!
Night was a harbor to them, sheltering their words as they sat, locked in conversation under the vastness of the heavens, until the dawning sun again tugged at their paradise. The stoic gave way to the poet, as the Loren told the Systerian of distant lands and ancient times. (pg. 23)
“My eyes refuse to drift from yours. My hand tells me touch, and I can scarcely recall my control before it has drifted away from my side. My feet carry me to you, longing to pass time which I have not, and knowing how it should be spent in meditation of what’s to come.” (pg. 22)
I just fell in love with McRae’s writing style. It is unique, it fits the tone of the novel exceptionally well, and it made the book that much more enjoyable for me to read.
Alright, I am going to try and leave the whole prose thing behind for now. Onto other things! This book, being only ~60 pages long, is more of short story than anything, but do not let that fool you! It is packed full of romance, fantasy, betrayal, magic, and so much more. Tallis, the main character of the story, is one of the few remaining immortals, and she has a wealth of long sought-after magical knowledge that the other immortals would do just about anything to learn. She faces some hard times and difficult dilemmas, but she remains resolute and steadfast through everything. She is definitely a strong female character, and I immediately liked her when she started throwing some carefully scripted insults in guys’ faces (you have got to love a girl who can tell guys off!). Overall, she was a brilliant lead, and I cannot wait to read more about her and the future that awaits her in the next book.
The only downside to this book is the fact that it is so short, and the only reason I am really saying that is because I want more! Readers, beware, this book ends in a cliffhanger that will leave you craving the next installment in the series. Also, with so much stuffed into 60 pages, the book could get rather intense at times in terms of backstory and plot explanations, but it was relatively easy to follow along with what was occurring/being explained. McRae does a wonderful job packing everything into such a short story, and with great characters, an intriguing plot, and lyrical prose, Tallis is a book you should not miss out on!
June 1, 2012
-more like 3.5 stars
-review originally posted at Willing to See Less
I had some difficulties getting into Tallis, since it pretty much dives straight into the main conflict. I couldn't follow the story and forgot character names. Since it's so short (55 pages in pdf), there wasn't much world building or character development, not even much story background. Instead, the reader is given a snippet of the story set right before a turning point.
Halfway through, I really started to enjoy it. Some things became clearer and I found myself fretting over the choices Tallis was going to make. It became so easy to get lost in it, and I was heartbroken-and on the edge of my seat-by the time the epic ending came.
Tallis was my favorite character. She is distant, cold on the outside as it's appropriate for her high position. But whenever she was near Tarameen, she was caring and loving and the totally opposite of the strong immortal who has to take the throne. Also, she refuse to be simply a tool for the prophecy and insists on being the only master of her soul and heart, and makes her choices accordingly. As for the language and writing, it's rich and wonderfully complimenting the story. Great job!
As you can tell from my review, my only complaint is that it's too short! I didn't want to part with the characters. It's a book that completely sucks you in. If you're a fan of high fantasy, make room on your shelf for Tallis!
-review originally posted at Willing to See Less
I had some difficulties getting into Tallis, since it pretty much dives straight into the main conflict. I couldn't follow the story and forgot character names. Since it's so short (55 pages in pdf), there wasn't much world building or character development, not even much story background. Instead, the reader is given a snippet of the story set right before a turning point.
Halfway through, I really started to enjoy it. Some things became clearer and I found myself fretting over the choices Tallis was going to make. It became so easy to get lost in it, and I was heartbroken-and on the edge of my seat-by the time the epic ending came.
Tallis was my favorite character. She is distant, cold on the outside as it's appropriate for her high position. But whenever she was near Tarameen, she was caring and loving and the totally opposite of the strong immortal who has to take the throne. Also, she refuse to be simply a tool for the prophecy and insists on being the only master of her soul and heart, and makes her choices accordingly. As for the language and writing, it's rich and wonderfully complimenting the story. Great job!
As you can tell from my review, my only complaint is that it's too short! I didn't want to part with the characters. It's a book that completely sucks you in. If you're a fan of high fantasy, make room on your shelf for Tallis!
June 6, 2012
I was totally impressed with this book!!! I found this author here as she had this book up in one of the give-aways, and I was saw that she was needing some reviewers as well. I contacted her, told her I was interested, and now have a copy for my Kindle. Thank you so much very much. Our protagonist had so many hard and terrible choices to make here. No, I don't like reading spoilers in reviews, but if you really want them, all you have to do is get it, you will find it so much more enjoyable to read. Tallis started her long life tragically and it ended just as tragic. Finally she had someone who totally understood her and you get to understand all the stoicism that she possessed and why. I wish there was more to be read, but this work is may be a stand alone sadly, at least that is my impression, though it could be a great series. But I think it will not end up being hope I'm so wrong about that. I am sure of this though, I will buy her books as they are released and wait for more.
M.C. Rae has a great writing style, and I a big fan. This book is a fantasy romance involving Gods that are plotting fiends, and one thing in her past was the, well, coming back to haunt her. A well written book that had me up into the night reading. I think anyone would really enjoy the book as much as I
*The next day I read it is going to be a series... I'm so excited about this! Yeah!!!
http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/78...# have
M.C. Rae has a great writing style, and I a big fan. This book is a fantasy romance involving Gods that are plotting fiends, and one thing in her past was the, well, coming back to haunt her. A well written book that had me up into the night reading. I think anyone would really enjoy the book as much as I
*The next day I read it is going to be a series... I'm so excited about this! Yeah!!!
http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/78...# have
May 21, 2012
A huge Thank You to YA Bound for allowing me to be a part of this tour and reading this book. I have to say at first when I started reading it I was hooked into a world I have not read before. The description of the world had me drawn in. I have to say I have never really read a book like this but I am so happy I did. I will say this the book was short! Lord I was reading and reading and then it was done and I screamed WHAT THE HECK!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need more ASAP! This book is so hard to review without be spoilerish so I will leave this review off with a quote from the book.
"The peaceful solemnity belied the chaos that would soon ensue. Such
are mornings at a facility of learning: hand-rubbed eyes, laden with the
dust of sleep, late hours kept in pursuit of knowledge. With the sun, the
purpose of pursuit is born anew. The world remakes itself once more,
pushing away all that happened on its last visit. The day is a newly hatched
egg, its surface smooth and white. The bell of the tower rings, the rooster
calls, the egg cracks. All must rise, all must to their duties keep. Each pupil
must pull his share."
Doesn't this scream READ ME....... READ ME........
"The peaceful solemnity belied the chaos that would soon ensue. Such
are mornings at a facility of learning: hand-rubbed eyes, laden with the
dust of sleep, late hours kept in pursuit of knowledge. With the sun, the
purpose of pursuit is born anew. The world remakes itself once more,
pushing away all that happened on its last visit. The day is a newly hatched
egg, its surface smooth and white. The bell of the tower rings, the rooster
calls, the egg cracks. All must rise, all must to their duties keep. Each pupil
must pull his share."
Doesn't this scream READ ME....... READ ME........
June 16, 2012
I have to say when I first started reading this book I thought it would be an easy read because it is shorter novella, but the language the author used in this book surprised me, it was still an easy read because the story is amazing; but the language it is kind of an ‘archaic’ language. For me, stuff like this or like old Shakespeare language is harder for me to read. Not that I’m stupid or anything, lol I just happen to read over words fast, even though I’m a slower reader so these types of languages make me read even slower. I always want to make sure that I am understanding everything.
Review originally posted at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
Review originally posted at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
May 21, 2012
looks and sounds wonderful!!!
Want to Read
May 22, 201222/05 YESS I WON THIS BOOK IN A GIVEAWAY! :)
May 10, 2012
Review coming soon!
June 27, 2012
Did I enjoy this book: This book was okay...not great, not that good...just okay, in my opinion.
The story is definitely there. It was interesting but I always felt like I was missing something. The book just jumped right in with no backstory or explanation or anything. I felt lost from the start. It almost felt like a second book in a series or like a very rough draft where you get the story out but have to go back and fill in the blanks.
The book was also very detailed. It had a lot of description and metaphors...beautifully written, but more than I needed in such a short story. I wanted to really like Tallis but I didn't know enough about her in the beginning to actually care about her throughout the story. And Tarameen really loved Tallis and I wanted to root for them. But his backstory was also confusing. I didn't understand his schooling and place in the hierarchy of the school.
All-in-all, this book was okay...not great. The story is there...I just wish there was more of it.
Would I recommend it: I would not.
Will I read it again: I will not read this book again. I will try other books by this author though.
http://everyfreechancebookreviews.blo...
The story is definitely there. It was interesting but I always felt like I was missing something. The book just jumped right in with no backstory or explanation or anything. I felt lost from the start. It almost felt like a second book in a series or like a very rough draft where you get the story out but have to go back and fill in the blanks.
The book was also very detailed. It had a lot of description and metaphors...beautifully written, but more than I needed in such a short story. I wanted to really like Tallis but I didn't know enough about her in the beginning to actually care about her throughout the story. And Tarameen really loved Tallis and I wanted to root for them. But his backstory was also confusing. I didn't understand his schooling and place in the hierarchy of the school.
All-in-all, this book was okay...not great. The story is there...I just wish there was more of it.
Would I recommend it: I would not.
Will I read it again: I will not read this book again. I will try other books by this author though.
http://everyfreechancebookreviews.blo...
July 28, 2012
I wish that Tallis was a novel instead of a novella. I felt like just as I was getting into it, it ended. While I'm sure M.C. Rae (aka. Killian McRae) has intentions to expand the Books of Andresium series, I not the most patient reader and a 57 page novella felt like a teaser! I think Tallis could have been fleshed out a bit more into a novel instead of a novella.
The world M.C. Rae creates in Tallis is very intriguing and I would definitely like to learn more about it. The world feels very complex, but I really feel like 57 pages wasn't enough to do it justice.
At first I had some trouble connecting with Tallis, as she's very strong and stoic and comes off a bit flat and boring in the beginning. However, it's not too far in that her character becomes more developed and we see some vulnerability in Tallis.
Overall, I felt that Tallis was a bit too short and I would have preferred it to be a novel, but I'm definitey interested in reading the next books in the series when they come along.
The world M.C. Rae creates in Tallis is very intriguing and I would definitely like to learn more about it. The world feels very complex, but I really feel like 57 pages wasn't enough to do it justice.
At first I had some trouble connecting with Tallis, as she's very strong and stoic and comes off a bit flat and boring in the beginning. However, it's not too far in that her character becomes more developed and we see some vulnerability in Tallis.
Overall, I felt that Tallis was a bit too short and I would have preferred it to be a novel, but I'm definitey interested in reading the next books in the series when they come along.
May 1, 2012
[2012-04-23] St George's Day and my book has arrived! It's the paperback, but has the Kindle cover artwork...I may see if I can create another edition.
[2012-04-24] Finished the book (it is only 58 pages!). Review will follow. I have mixed feelings - see my updates for some idea of my feelings.
[2012-05-01] I have decided that of my mixed feelings, my enjoyment of Tallis is uppermost. I shall be looking out for the next installment.
My longer review can be found here.
[2012-04-24] Finished the book (it is only 58 pages!). Review will follow. I have mixed feelings - see my updates for some idea of my feelings.
[2012-05-01] I have decided that of my mixed feelings, my enjoyment of Tallis is uppermost. I shall be looking out for the next installment.
My longer review can be found here.
June 28, 2012
Genuinely enjoyed this short tale, and look forward to more of the story of Tallis. This is an entirely different world, rich in lore and tradition, but every bit as susceptible to deception and evil as our own. The writing is beautiful, fluid and easy to read, creating such lovely images in your mind that you simply want to read more, learn more. And the story is captivating. I'm entranced.
April 18, 2012
3.25 stars.
Brief review may follow.
Brief review may follow.
April 9, 2015
It's a phantasy story with mysterious world and amixture of
immortals and mortals. It was interesting, intriguing and easy to read and lwft me wondering what will happen.
immortals and mortals. It was interesting, intriguing and easy to read and lwft me wondering what will happen.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews