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True Quest: The Story Begins

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Ontar and Echo's first mistake might be their last.

A failed mission for the thieves' guild has earned them the ire of the necromancer Narcos, and he has no patience for the living. Looking to make it up to the guild, and hoping for their protection, the pair seek out a renowned mystical sword as reparation. Unfortunately, Narcos also searches for the blade for it is the key to releasing a demon who knows the location of an even greater artifact; one that will shape the very destiny of the realm itself.

But the demon has his own plans.

Now, Ontar and Echo are trapped between the dead and a demon, and they're running out of time. Fail again, and the world pays an unspeakable price. Total annihilation!

498 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 15, 2023

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18 people want to read

About the author

Grant Andreasen

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Jim Scriven.
317 reviews19 followers
December 6, 2023
I enjoyed this story, but if you're looking for something with depth and complexity, this is not your book. It read with a very DnD vibe - heck, "Quest" is in the title. The author clearly has some fun with the corny world he's created, the cheap magic, and a laissie-faire approach to character deaths - just like in DnD RPG.

If you're good with a story that doesn't make you think too hard, just allows you to follow along, have some simple laughs, and watch an adventure unfold, you may enjoy this story. I have to admit I found the character development not as robust as I'd prefer - pretty one-dimensional - you get what you see. The author does some basic worldbuilding, and does introduce some relevant character backstories, so there are bones to build upon as this is clearly book 1 of what is intended to be more.
Profile Image for A.M. Wiley.
Author 4 books38 followers
June 12, 2025
True Quest: The Story Begins is a thrilling and fast-paced introduction to a fantasy world teetering on the brink of destruction. Centered on the ill-fated duo, Ontar and Echo, this debut sets the stage for an epic saga filled with danger, dark magic, and desperate choices.

After a failed mission for the thieves' guild leaves them hunted by the merciless necromancer Narcos, Ontar and Echo find themselves on a high-stakes quest to retrieve a legendary sword. What begins as a bid for redemption quickly turns into a deadly race against time, as the sword proves to be the key to releasing a demon—one who harbors secrets that could shift the fate of the entire realm.

The stakes are high, the pace relentless, and the consequences—if they fail again—absolutely catastrophic.

The strength of the novel lies in its richly imagined world and its morally complex protagonists. Ontar and Echo aren’t your typical heroes—they’re flawed, desperate, and often at odds, which makes their dynamic all the more compelling. The threat of Narcos and the shadow of the demon add layers of suspense, keeping readers on edge with every twist.

With sharp dialogue, vivid action scenes, and a plot that steadily raises the tension, True Quest: The Story Begins promises not just an adventure, but the beginning of something much bigger. It's a story about mistakes, second chances, and the terrifying weight of destiny.

For fans of sword-and-sorcery tales with a dark edge, this book is a gripping entry into a world where trust is rare, danger is everywhere, and failure isn't just personal—it could end everything.
Profile Image for Prashanth Bhat.
2,159 reviews139 followers
May 28, 2025
Ontar and Echo delivers a high-stakes fantasy adventure full of peril, magic, and dark intrigue. The story follows two rogues whose botched heist puts them in the crosshairs of a ruthless necromancer, thrusting them into a desperate quest to retrieve a powerful enchanted blade. The pace is brisk, with sharp dialogue and engaging world-building that brings the danger-laced setting to life. The stakes escalate quickly, with a demon's secret agenda adding an extra layer of tension. Readers will enjoy the dynamic between Ontar and Echo—their chemistry and banter lend levity to a narrative filled with grim consequences.

positive points.

Fast-paced, action-driven plot with plenty of twists

Intriguing magic system and layered mythology

Strong character dynamics and morally complex choices

An unpredictable antagonist in the form of the demon

negative points
Some background elements, like the thieves’ guild and realm politics, could be more fleshed out

Secondary characters lack depth at times

The climax feels slightly rushed given the buildup

Overall, it’s an entertaining, adrenaline-fueled tale that balances humor, danger, and fantasy. Ideal for readers who enjoy morally gray heroes and high-risk quests with world-ending consequences.


worth your time
Profile Image for Sameer Gudhate.
1,365 reviews46 followers
February 21, 2024
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing universe of *True Quest: The Beginning of the Tale* crafted by the ingenious Grant Andreasen. In this fantastical realm, adventure beckons with treacherous twists and mystical marvels that set the mind ablaze. Andreasen celebrated as a rising luminary in the domain of fantasy, spins a narrative that grips the spirit and ignites the imagination, assuring readers an odyssey of unparalleled excitement and fascination.

Meet Ontar and Echo, an unlikely duo thrust into a perilous journey after angering the formidable necromancer Narcos. Their quest for redemption leads them on a race against time to secure a mystical sword before Narcos unleashes a demon upon the world. With fate hanging in the balance, Andreasen's narrative unfolds with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Andreasen's prose dances off the page, painting vibrant scenes and breathing life into his characters. His narrative voice is a symphony of suspense and wit, carrying readers through a world where danger and wonder collide. With each page, Andreasen's mastery of language and storytelling shines through, captivating readers from start to finish.

Ontar and Echo leap off the page as vibrant, multi-dimensional characters grappling with themes of redemption and destiny. Andreasen weaves their stories together with finesse, presenting readers with a cast of characters as rich and complex as the world they inhabit. Through their journey, Andreasen explores timeless themes that resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

From its heart-pounding pacing to its clever plot twists, True Quest is a masterclass in storytelling. Andreasen's skillful navigation of the narrative ensures that readers are swept along for the ride, never knowing what awaits them around the next corner. With a structure as solid as the blade Ontar and Echo seek, Andreasen delivers a tale that is as exhilarating as it is unforgettable.

At its core, True Quest is a story about the power of choice, the bonds of friendship, and the courage to face one's demons. Andreasen's exploration of these themes adds depth and resonance to the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the choices that shape their own lives. Through the lens of fantasy, Andreasen offers insights into the human experience that are both profound and poignant.

Prepare to be moved as True Quest takes you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. From moments of heart-pounding action to poignant reflections on sacrifice and redemption, Andreasen's narrative tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression. As Ontar and Echo face trials and tribulations, readers will find themselves cheering them on every step of the way.

True Quest shines in its rich character development and immersive world-building. Andreasen's ability to craft a world that feels alive and vibrant is unparalleled, drawing readers into a realm where magic and danger lurk around every corner. With its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters, True Quest is a testament to Andreasen's talent as a storyteller. While True Quest delivers a thrilling adventure, some readers may find certain elements of the plot to be familiar territory within the fantasy genre. However, Andreasen's fresh take on these tropes quickly dispels any sense of predictability, ensuring that the story remains engaging from start to finish.

As a fan of fantasy literature, True Quest exceeded all my expectations and left me eagerly awaiting Andreasen's next masterpiece. With its gripping narrative, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, True Quest is a must-read for anyone who craves adventure and excitement. Andreasen's talent shines brightly in this captivating tale, and I cannot wait to see where his imagination takes us next.

In True Quest: The Story Begins, Grant Andreasen has crafted a fantasy epic that will capture the hearts and minds of readers everywhere. With its spellbinding narrative, richly drawn characters, and captivating themes, True Quest is a journey you won't soon forget. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, True Quest is sure to delight and inspire.
Profile Image for Nohemibook.
480 reviews27 followers
December 26, 2024
En esta historia conocemos a Ontar y Echo dos seres que buscan compensar al gremio de ladrones después de fallar una misión por lo que están adentrados en la búsqueda de una famosa espada mística sin embargo no son los únicos en busca del artefacto y si fallan esta misión el mundo entero afrontará las consecuencias de su error.

En esta historia el autor nos lleva a un mundo de fantasía increíble donde crea escenarios muy buenos con descripciones que te hacen sentir que puedes acompañar a los protagonistas en su aventura y que te recuerda bastante a ciertos videojuegos donde la acción se mantiene a lo largo de la historia y te mantiene enganchado de principio a fin.

En cuanto a los personajes me gusta como son bastante complejos y vas descubriendo mas de ellos mientras avanza la trama y aunque lo principal y mejor del libro es sin duda como desarrolla la historia los personajes están bastante bien creados.

En general un libro de fantasía que te adentra en la historia y te mantiene ahí sin saturarte de información y si manteniendo interesante la trama de principio a fin, recomendado sin duda para quienes gustan de la fantasía tanto en libros como en videojuegos o quienes quieren comenzar a leer este genero.

Agradezco mucho a Booktasters y al autor por el envío del libro digital para esta colaboración lo disfrute mucho.

------------------------------------------------


In this story we meet Ontar and Echo, two beings who seek to compensate the Thieves' Guild after failing a mission, so they are immersed in the search for a famous mystical sword. However, they are not the only ones in search of the artifact and if they fail this mission, the entire world will face the consequences of their mistake.

In this story, the author takes us to an incredible fantasy world where he creates very good scenarios with descriptions that make you feel like you can accompany the protagonists on their adventure and that reminds you a lot of certain video games where the action is maintained throughout the story and keeps you hooked from beginning to end.

As for the characters, I like how they are quite complex and you discover more about them as the plot progresses, and although the main and best thing about the book is undoubtedly how the story develops, the characters are quite well created.

Overall, a fantasy book that draws you into the story and keeps you there without overwhelming you with information and keeping the plot interesting from start to finish. It is definitely recommended for those who like fantasy in both books and video games or those who want to start reading this genre.

I am very grateful to Booktasters and the author for sending the digital book for this collaboration. I enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Denver C..
Author 2 books5 followers
May 19, 2025
WHILE EVOKING A SENSE OF CLASSIC, D&D STYLE ADVENTURE, TRUE QUEST STRUGGLES TO DO MUCH MORE THAN THAT.

Now, I would not say that True Quest is bad. I did enjoy my read overall, as it felt heavily inspired by and seemed to be trying to recreate the feeling of a classic adventure with a band of characters coming together into a Dungeons and Dragons style party.

The book has a similar approach to death and violence as that classic world and many of its stories do - it happens a lot and sometimes almost comically in its suddenness. (Though obviously many of the actual novels in the Forgotten Realms, etc., take these things more seriously, I refer to the stories that are born from the tabletop games instead.)

The prose felt overly simplistic and there were some odd choices with punctuation and how speech is written at times that just bothered me. The sheer amount of exclamation marks was just… too much. I’ve never seen so many of them in a single novel.

Story-wise, it felt safe. That’s where most of the ‘classic feel’ I was talking about comes in - necromancy, demons, a lost vault of magical artifacts and a band of so-called-heroes with varied morality trying to do good is a combination that will inevitably bring a smile to your face. When True Quest leans into that, it’s at its very best.

Ultimately, the thing that I struggle with most - and is most responsible for bringing my rating down to three stars - is that the characters just didn’t feel real and interactions were sort of glossed over where characterization and background could have been deepened instead. There were multiple moments where the book would say something along the lines of, “then they talked about their past adventures.” Basically a way of saying ‘yadda yadda’ fill-in-the-blank.

Then, when truly awful stuff happened, the cast’s reactions just didn’t feel human or real. It was more like we were told they felt bad but then suddenly they’re moving on or smirking about something. One character in particular loses everything, but then mechanically talks about it with the person responsible instead of breaking down and losing his freaking mind, which is what would happen if something similar ever happened to, say, myself or pretty much anyone I know.

So, does True Quest have some issues? Yeah, it does. Yet in the end, there are worse books out there and I DID enjoy the read. If you love the classic, ‘a group of people are suddenly thrust together and forced onto a quest to stop something awful’ trope, you’ll probably enjoy it as well.

I would just say go into it with your eyes open to the flaws, because they are there.
Profile Image for Graham | The Wulvers Library.
319 reviews93 followers
November 14, 2023
True Quest: The Story Begins by Grant Andreasen is an easy read that covers a plethora of fantasy tropes and I felt like I was part of a nostalgic video game.

Ontar and Echo's first mistake might be their last.

A failed mission for the thieves' guild has earned them the ire of the necromancer Narcos, and he has no patience for the living. Looking to make it up to the guild, and hoping for their protection, the pair seek out a renowned mystical sword as reparation. Unfortunately, Narcos also searches for the blade for it is the key to releasing a demon who knows the location of an even greater artifact; one that will shape the very destiny of the realm itself.

But the demon has his own plans.

Now, Ontar and Echo are trapped between the dead and a demon, and they're running out of time. Fail again, and the world pays an unspeakable price. Total annihilation!

Andreasen pulled me in from the first page with the story here. We are treated to an RPG-like journey that spans everything I enjoy about video games. I like the descriptions that Andreasen puts down and I really feel like I am present with these characters.

The characters themselves are enjoyable, some outlandish and skittish whilst others deep and insightful. These differences make for a great dynamic and this made for a fun read. The creatures themselves were eerily pictured. I enjoyed that Andreasen didn't shy away from brutal and criminal imagery that really gives this novel the adult theme it aims for.

I'd like to see more of the magic/world that has been created. I feel that whilst Andreasen has hit the nail on the head with nostalgic adventure games, there is more to work with here so I look forward to seeing what else is in store.

If you like old-fashioned video games and a fun, fantasy ride then True Quest is the story for you.
Profile Image for WS_BOOKCLUB.
430 reviews16 followers
Read
May 9, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion. True Quest: The Story Begins is available now.

This is a book with a sense of fun and adventure. It feels like a story told between friends, or a reminiscence of a previous TTRPG session. It isn’t a complicated story, but one full of action. However, at the end of the day, this book just wasn’t for me.

The book jumps right in, letting the story unfold as things progress. This snappier pacing continues throughout the book, keeping things moving at a good clip. There is always a lot going on, as our characters face foes of all kinds, only pausing to take a deep breath before attempting break-in or two. I read a lot of fantasy (I mean, a lot) and I consider myself rather a connoisseur of battle scenes. I have to give the author props for the creativity of some of them here. It wasn’t repetitive at all.

As for the characters. Well…here I had a bit of a niggle. I liked Echo and Wink well enough but Ontar, another main character, really bothered me. He spends a lot of time ogling females or considering his ability to have an erection and, after reading about a female character’s “ample breasts”, moving on to Ontar finding himself “very hungry” left a bad taste in my mouth. The bit about the ample breasts was pretty early on, so I started with a bad opinion of Ontar’s character. I fully admit that my opinion is just that: an opinion. This won’t bother everyone as much as it irritated me.

If you are able to get past that, the rest of the book is entertaining and solidly written. The challenges the characters face are daunting, and the stakes are high. Unfortunately, True Quest: The Story Begins wasn’t for me.
Profile Image for Paola Roman.
55 reviews5 followers
September 29, 2024
An entertaining fantasy adventure, easy read and filled with action.

The novel starts with Ontar and Echo on a quest to aid the treacherous necromancer Narcos, on retrieving the sword, Spirit Slayer. Their partaking on this quest, dooms the fate of Marcain and his wife. Marcain is slaughtered by Narcos’s zombies and his body is used to summon the spirit of Eragosh, to carry out the despicable crimes under Narcos’s command, in pursuit to unleash a demon.

Ontar and Echo soon realises their mistake on aiding the necromancer and their quest for survival and redemption commences, when Wink, a fun spirited pixie joins their party. Ontar and Echo share their story on how a horrible tragedy brought their fates together, aiding them in gaining strength to persevere and fight for justice.

Wink convinces the party on rescuing the wizard Hatch, and the story follows a spellbinding journey where our heroes are faced with gruesome battles, facing an immersive world of differing fantasy creatures.

The author, Grant Andreasen, has magically conjured an impressive story that will enchant the reader, with a wonderful variation of unique characters and at the same time, making you feel part of the party.

Personally, I have read a lot of fantasy books and played many fantasy orientated games, and can honestly say, that this novel was very nostalgic. True Quest brought back many memories of some quests (WoW) and I felt there were many ‘Easter eggs’ of other fantasy literature ‘You shall not pass.’ If you enjoy playing and/or reading fantasy adventure, then this novel is the one for you!

Looking forward to the next book to see what adventures await.
235 reviews14 followers
January 10, 2024
The book " True Quest " by the author Grant Anderson is a fictional tale revolving around two amazing characters Ontar and Echo, who had very less time left with them to finish their mission..Echo had a blemish-free complexion and years of knowledge hidden in her eyes. She appeared to be in her late teens but in reality she was over hundred and twenty years old. The novel's rich descriptions and heartfelt dialogues create an immersive reading experience for the readers. Nacros was a necromancer who lived in a cemetery near the city of Miltus. By channeling the power from his deity, he can raise corpses and summon spirits to do his bidding. He was quite determined to search for the blade that would lead him to release a demon. Ontar and Echo had to do something as the demon very well knew the location of the artifact that would change the entire destiny of the place. The journey wasn't easy for the two to complete, there were obstacles and struggles they had to face. What do you think will they be able to stop Nacros before he release the demon ?? What will happen if the demon actually gets released ? Is Ontar and Echo's life at risk ? With its unique premise and heartfelt storytelling, this book has left an indelible mark on my soul. The language used is rich and lucid, easy for the readers to understand.. Hurry up! Grab your copies now and dive into this amazing tale to find out what happens next in the story.. I would definitely love to read more such books by the author. Highly recommended. Overall, I'm pretty sure you won't be able to put it down until you finish it.
Profile Image for Alex.
11 reviews
June 3, 2025
Thanks to Grant Andreasen for providing me with an ARC e-copy of his book. Much appreciated!

I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I'd say its a solid 3.5. An RPG game based fantasy adventure. I thought it was written well enough to keep you interested, and had a decent pace to the story as well.
It follows two main characters, Ontar and Echo. With Echo in particular looking to find her way in and make a name for herself in the “Thieves Guild.” The two take on a mission set on by Thieves Guild, for the Necromancer "Narcos" to secure a person of interest, and ultimately fail. This failed mission does not look well for the duo. Desperate to repair their reputations, they seek out a mystical sword of great spiritual value. Not knowing Narcos also searches for the sword as well, with a more sinister motive. As the sword possesses a demon trapped inside, that he wishes to release and secure the power to destroy the world. But this demon has motives of its own..
This story has various types of characters, fighting & swordplay, magic, sorcery, demons spirits, and witty banter that keeps the characters relatable. It was a fairly easy read, and not overly complicated. I would have like to see a bit more character backstories, world building, and particularly more about the Thieves Guild that is a significant part that sets the characters off in the first place.
Overall, I’d recommend this book to anyone into your typical fantasy genre. An especially good read for anyone breaking into the fantasy world.
9 reviews
July 21, 2025
True Quest by Grant Andreasen is a richly imagined story that draws readers into a world of danger, discovery, and personal growth. It begins with an ambitious scope and gradually reveals its heart through well-developed characters and carefully crafted scenes.

One of the book’s strongest aspects is its character work. The descriptions are vivid and clear, giving enough detail to make each figure distinct without overwhelming the reader. As the story progresses, the characters become more layered, and their decisions carry real emotional weight.

The action is particularly well written. The battle scenes are intense and easy to follow, filled with momentum and emotion. These moments keep the story moving and heighten the stakes in a way that feels both natural and exciting.

The beginning may be challenging for some readers. Many characters are introduced in quick succession, and it takes a little time to get oriented within the world. There are also moments where the narrative becomes too focused on small details, which occasionally slows the pace. That said, once the core of the story takes shape, it becomes easier to stay engaged.

This is not a book to rush through. It’s a slow-burn fantasy that rewards patience, especially in the early chapters. For readers who enjoy immersive worlds, well-written action, and characters who grow through struggle, True Quest offers a meaningful and satisfying experience. It may take a little effort to settle into, but it's absolutely worth the journey.
Profile Image for Claire Roberts.
6 reviews
February 8, 2025

True Quest was a good weekend read. The first half drew me in quickly, with vivid descriptions like Echo’s “years of knowledge behind her eyes.” I also appreciated the unique magic system, where characters could use magic by praying to ancient deities.

Another highlight was the use of possession to combine ancient knowledge, with modern understanding to determine where the necromancer needed to go. The zombie scene was enjoyable but could have used a little more atmosphere to heighten the tension.

However, I felt that characters lacked any real personal growth. The second half of the book turned into a game of “mythical beast bingo.” While it’s clear this is a fantasy story, we don’t need a constant stream of mythical creatures to remind us.

Unfortunately, I struggled to finish the book after the introduction of the mechataurs (mechanical minotaurs), who delivered the well known phrase “you shall not pass.” followed by the appearance of a glowing sword. At that point, it felt overly familiar and broke the immersion.

It’s a shame, as the beginning showed a lot of promise but ultimately fell short at the finish line.

That said, I’m curious to see how the next installment develops and where the story goes from here. The author had some really good ideas just needed a little more polishing.
90 reviews14 followers
December 5, 2023
Book: True Quest: The story begins

Author: Grant Anderson

Review:True Quest: The story begins, plunges readers into a gripping tale of survival and redemption for Ontar and Echo, two members of the thieves' guild. Their blunder sets off a dangerous pursuit by the formidable necromancer Narcos, leading them on a quest to retrieve a mystical sword that holds the key to averting a cataclysmic event. However, their mission becomes a race against time as they realize the sword's deeper connection to a demonic force that could reshape the fate of their realm.

From the outset, the narrative hooks you with its relentless pace and intricate world-building. The author's skillful storytelling vividly brings to life the tension between the characters, the looming threat, and the high stakes of their quest. The unpredictable twists and turns kept me engrossed, eagerly turning pages to uncover the outcome of their perilous journey.

This book will appeal to fantasy enthusiasts craving a captivating story filled with intrigue and high-stakes action. Don't miss this gripping tale of courage, sacrifice, and the battle against dark forces that threaten to reshape the realm.
Profile Image for Divya Mahajan.
277 reviews22 followers
June 26, 2025
True Quest: The Story Begins by Grant Andreasen is a fantasy book describing the adventures and journey of Ontar and Echo who fail their 1st mission for the thieves guild that leaves then hunted by a necromancer (yes truly) and embark on a dangerous mission for redemption. A true dungeons and dragons style adventure book The book had good pace, no difficult long and complicated words and simple storyline that engrosses the reader. There are pixies, elves halflings zombies(resurrected dead) banshees and necromancers in this vividly imagined and descriptive to minute detail world .
I rarely like fantasy books and futuristic books but surprisingly loved this book. Only drawback for me is There is no prologue or intro to characters . Though I hate long descriptions that sway from the plot, but still would have liked some background info on Ontar and Echo and their origin of partnership as well as a line or 2 about side characters and also why Ontar needs to avenge another character mentioned regularly.
Despite these flaws I couldn't stop myself liking this book and look forward to more from this author.
Thanks @Booktasters for recommending this book
Profile Image for David.
192 reviews7 followers
May 13, 2025
I enjoy fantasy stories—the way they take you on a grand adventure, with vivid scenery, memorable characters, and a complete escape from everyday life.

This book delivers exactly that. You’ll find elves, pixies, dwarves, wizards, and many other familiar creatures. Is it a complex or deeply layered story? No—but that’s part of the charm. The action starts right away, and it felt to me like playing a game of Dungeons & Dragons or an RPG, eagerly following the twists and turns to see what happens next. The pace is fast and furious all the way to the end, leaving you wanting more. The story flows smoothly from one adventure to the next.

Overall, if you’re looking for an easy, entertaining read with a sense of adventure, this is for you. If you’re hoping for a slow-burning, richly developed world that builds to an epic finale, it may not fully deliver on that front—but the journey is still highly enjoyable, and it leaves you excited for what’s to come. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Saul Baisley.
180 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2025
If you’re a fan of dungeons and dragons or other TTRPG’s then you will love this book. Reading it feels like actually playing in a game. There is also a lot of great world building at work in this story.

An elvish thief and a human warrior find themselves drawn into an epic quest while on their own quest for revenge. Along the way they stumble into numerous side quests and gain the aid of a troublesome pixie, a deposed mage lord and young ranger out on her first adventure away from home. Together they will have to solve a number of lesser problems on their way to stopping an evil necromancer and a demon from obtaining a powerful artifact that will give them the power to face the gods themselves.

Set in a high fantasy world, this book capitalizes on the side quests while still managing to progress the main story a good pace. The characters all have deep backgrounds and histories that get shared throughout the story to keep the readers interest. I would recommend this book to fans of high fantasy and fantasy based RPG’s.
Profile Image for Discovery One.
118 reviews
December 6, 2024
This is an inspiring and imaginative tale that sets the stage for an epic adventure. With its compelling characters, richly detailed world, and a narrative brimming with heart and excitement, the story captivates from the very first page. Readers are given a meaningful and captivating experience as Echo and Ontar's adventure is as much about personal development and discovery as it is about action and bravery.

Andreasen makes the narrative inspirational and approachable by deftly incorporating themes of friendship, bravery, and tenacity. There is never a dull moment because of the exciting plot twists and engaging writing.

True Quest: The Story Begins is a compelling start to what promises to be an epic saga, leaving readers eager for the next chapter of the journey.
Profile Image for Moona.
986 reviews77 followers
February 1, 2025
Grant Andreasen’s True Quest: The Story Begins is an action-packed fantasy adventure filled with danger, magic, and high stakes. Ontar and Echo, two thieves desperate to redeem themselves, set out to retrieve a legendary sword—only to find themselves entangled in a battle against the sinister necromancer Narcos and an ancient demon with its own dark agenda.

Andreasen crafts a richly detailed world where every choice carries weight, and failure means catastrophe. The tension builds steadily as the protagonists navigate treacherous alliances and mystical dangers. With compelling characters, fast-paced action, and a race against time, True Quest is a thrilling start to an epic journey, perfect for fans of dark fantasy and high-stakes quests.
Profile Image for Ashlee Tharman .
223 reviews8 followers
July 6, 2025
Ontar and Echo are on a mission to find the man who killed their families as well as up Echo's status among the Bloody Side in which her aunt is a member of. When the original mission fails, the two begin a quest of an even bigger mission: find and bring back the Spirit Slayer. While on this mission, it becomes bigger than the two imagine, and they embark on a quest unlike any other.

Another incredibly just fun read, Andreasen does an amazing job at world building and bringing paths together in this fantasy. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the characters we did, and no one was left out or behind the further into the story we got. It is obvious Andreasen very much enjoyed writing this, and it carries over into being an enjoyable read as well.
Profile Image for Lianne.
94 reviews2 followers
November 30, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4

I really had fun with this book! It is a very solid start to a fun fantasy series. It kinda reads like a D&D adventure. The stakes are quite high, but at the same time, it is not that deep or complex.

The characters were nicely written, I loved that Ontar and Echo are not your typical heroes, but flawed characters that basically ended up in this adventure purely for their own gain. Still, they are likable and I like how they work together.

It is a pretty straightforward adventure, without complex motives or storylines. That does not mean it is boring at all! There is a lot of action, dangers, and things don't always go as our heroes would like. It is definitely worth picking up!
71 reviews2 followers
October 30, 2024
A high stakes fantasy adventure that follows Echo and Ontar trying to redeem themselves after a failed mission for a thieve’s guild. After their disastrous mission, they devise a plan to rescue an imprisoned mage which leads to a series of misadventures, death and destruction.

Filled with magic and adventure, with flawed characters and a layered storyline this was a fun read that wasn’t too deep. The only thing I had trouble with, was that some sections were overly descriptive. In fact, this story reminds me of playing a video game where it doesn’t matter if the side characters live or die. Thanks to the author for a copy of the ebook.
Profile Image for Stephanie Land.
103 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2025
A D&D Campaign set in Classic Fantasy

I’m a little divided by this read. This feels like a DnD campaign in its writing style; locations and timing. Those elements are really steady and interesting to read! For example The first three chapters feel exactly like the first session of a game!

Unfortunately for me that’s where my excitement waned. I wanted more time with the characters! They each had a driving force but we spent so much time jumping around. This could however just be a personal preference for me since Characters are my favorite part of a book. If you just want to feel like you’re experiencing a DnD game this could be it for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Arshiya Sultana.
131 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2025
It's an engaging fantasy adventure which follows Echo, a strong-willed elf; Ontar, a courageous warrior; and their companions as they undertake a perilous journey through a richly imagined world. Their quest begins by a larger mission to defeat Narcos, a necromancer seeking the Crown of Darkness, an artifact capable of unleashing a demon powerful enough to overthrow the Gods. As they near their goal, Echo and Ontar must confront sacrifices and decisions that test their resolve and humanity.

I found it slow-paced, no doubt the plot was immersive with a mix of action, intrigue and emotional depth. However, it often over explains in dialogue-heavy sections, which sluggishly dragged the story.
Recommended to fans who like character-driven stories, and not recommended otherwise.

Thanks to @BookTasters & @Grant12071269 (the author) for the ecopy in exchange of an honest review.
43 reviews2 followers
June 24, 2025
Potential! This book is dripping with potential. The world Grant Andreasen created gives us most of what we’d expect in a fantasy setting but there’s so much more waiting to be discovered! Not to mention the plot-twist ending! Personally, I enjoyed Orla’s character the most only because of how adorable the concept is.

The characters also have so much room to grow and change! I believe they’re still in the stages of infancy at this point and I’m sure that they’ll undergo both good and bad situations which will lead to their, for lack of a better term, ultimate forms.

I can’t wait for what comes next! Thank you for allowing me into your world!
Profile Image for ಸುಶಾಂತ ಕುರಂದವಾಡ.
424 reviews25 followers
May 19, 2025
This is a fantasy with nice plot. The narrative is engaging, with vivid descriptions and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers invested. Author has created a crazy characters Ontar and Echo who will definitely entertain you throughout the book. The things they do in the book, you might to ask them 'Are you serious?'. It'd be a bad idea to give a trace of a story here, it'll expose the fun of cource. If you're looking some realistic to practical kinda book then this is not for you. If you're just looking for fun, go for it!
Profile Image for Kelly.
2,485 reviews118 followers
June 6, 2025
When I started reading this, my initial feeling was that the author intended to create a world for the reader. Before long, I found this world coming to life in my mind, and the characters along with it. As I read, I could picture this world, and its characters, especially Echo, whom I felt a connection with from the beginning.

I wonder if this story would fall into the high fantasy or epic fantasy genres. It seemed a little too much to read in one sitting, but if it's intended to be the start of a series, it's a great first instalment.
Profile Image for Jeffrey Abercrombie.
4 reviews
December 28, 2025
I was approached by the author and offered a free ebook. I always prefer physical copies but for this one I opted to listen to the audio book which I believe to have been a good choice for True Quest. It had a nice d&d feel and the narrator’s made me feel a little nostalgic. To me it had the feel of listening to the old D&d Saturday morning cartoon as you followed Ontar and Echo on the many twist and turns during their adventure. This would be a quick, easy read for anyone starting out in fantasy.
Profile Image for maria.
33 reviews4 followers
January 11, 2025
True Quest by Grant Andrease is a great read! The world building is very detailed and rich making the environment feel very interesting.
The character development was great to follow along, and the Journey of the main character was gripping and very enjoyable. The writting and pacing was very engaging.
Overall its a good book because while it has action and is a Fantasy read it is also thoughtful and immersive.
Profile Image for Ainslie.
12 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2025
I loved True Quest! Grant Andreasen, the author, has conjured up a incredible story filled with adventure and amazing fantasy creatures! In this book you follow two characters named Echo(an elf) and Ontar( a warrior), who are later joined by Wink( a very spirited pixie) on a quest!! I don't want to spoil anything else as this book is a must read for fantasy readers!!


If you're into dungeons and dragons, World of Warcraft and RuneScape then this book is for you!!  
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