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Bakkian Chronicles #3
Amulet of Aria
Realizing they can no longer keep the future king safe, bodyguards Steve and Sarah escort the Lentarian prince, Mikal, back to his home world to not only determine the best course of action, but also to verify the king and queen haven’t become targets themselves.
In Mikal's home world, dragon raids are on the rise. The dwarves are preparing to go to war, and the evil sorcereress has managed to reach across time and space to attack Mikal on his protector's home world. Their only hope to save Mikal from Celestia and her minions lies with the recovery of a piece of an ancient talisman believed lost centuries ago. Having the ability to enhance the holder's jhorun, namely their magical talent, to unheard of levels, the amulet pieces must be found before they fall into the wrong hands.
But are they too late? Don’t miss the exciting final chapter in the Bakkian Chronicles!
In Mikal's home world, dragon raids are on the rise. The dwarves are preparing to go to war, and the evil sorcereress has managed to reach across time and space to attack Mikal on his protector's home world. Their only hope to save Mikal from Celestia and her minions lies with the recovery of a piece of an ancient talisman believed lost centuries ago. Having the ability to enhance the holder's jhorun, namely their magical talent, to unheard of levels, the amulet pieces must be found before they fall into the wrong hands.
But are they too late? Don’t miss the exciting final chapter in the Bakkian Chronicles!
- GenresFantasy
308 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2012
24 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Jeffrey M. Poole
44 books228 followersJeffrey M. Poole is a professional writer living in picturesque southwestern Oregon with his wife Giliane, and their dog, Kinsey the corgi. He is the best-selling author of cozy mystery series Corgi Case Files and of fantasy series Bakkian Chronicles, Tales of Lentari, and the Dragons of Andela. He is presently plotting out his seventeenth mystery novel and writing his fifteenth fantasy novel.
Jeffrey’s interests include astronomy, archaeology, archery, scuba diving, collecting movies, and tinkering with any electronic gadget he can get his hands on.
Proud member of:
SFWA - Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association
MWA - Mystery Writers of America
In September, 2020, the Corgi Case Files mystery series was picked up by Columbine Publishing Group and published under its mystery imprint, Secret Staircase Books. Beginning in 2023, all three fantasy series will also be published under the Secret Staircase Books imprint.
Fans can follow Jeffrey online at www.AuthorJMPoole.com or on Facebook at: Facebook.com/BakkianChronicles.
Jeffrey’s interests include astronomy, archaeology, archery, scuba diving, collecting movies, and tinkering with any electronic gadget he can get his hands on.
Proud member of:
SFWA - Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association
MWA - Mystery Writers of America
In September, 2020, the Corgi Case Files mystery series was picked up by Columbine Publishing Group and published under its mystery imprint, Secret Staircase Books. Beginning in 2023, all three fantasy series will also be published under the Secret Staircase Books imprint.
Fans can follow Jeffrey online at www.AuthorJMPoole.com or on Facebook at: Facebook.com/BakkianChronicles.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 12, 2012
Amulet of Aria is the third and final installment in the Bakkian Chronicles (not counting a short story set in another magical realm we all know and love -Disneyland). It follows the efforts of Steve and Sarah, earthlings from Idaho whose destiny it is to protect Mikal, Prince of Lentari, a magical world accessed via a portal in a home inherited by them. Book 3 sees a return to Lentari once creatures begin to seek out the Prince on Earth. The antagonist in the final installment is Celestia, possessed of one part of the Amulet of Aria, a talisman which boosts the power of one's Jhorun (magical talent). Celestia aims to use the power of the Amulet to bring about the downfall of the Kingdom by pitting Dragonkind against the Dwarven race, in the hopes of de-stabilizing the realm and giving her the opportunity to steal Prince Mikal, whom she hopes to marry and make her own. It is up to the fire-thrower Steve and his teleporting wife, Sarah, to make sure this does not come to pass.
First, let me begin by saying that I am a huge fan of Jeffrey Poole's style of writing. I could see him writing a series aimed at middle school children, such is his ability to convey a fun, hip story. His writing is fluid and addictive, emotive and contemporary. Coupled with a well defined world with its own distinct rules, laws and races, the end result is a ripping good yarn! I highly recommend this series to anybody who likes a fast, entertaining read. From action to humor; magic to emotion, The Bakkian Chronicles offers everything a fantasy reader could ask for.
BUT....
A few Cons. Nothing too Serious, merely a few things I noticed while reading Amulet of Aria.
* A few minor spelling and grammatical issues. Nothing too glaring but enough for me to pick up on them. While understandable for an Indie offering, some readers are more harsh when it comes to these sorts of issues.
* Sentence structure. I did notice that a lot of paragraphs read very similar in terms of sentence length, which sometimes led to a more monotonous flow rather than a sharp, witty feel that is characteristic of Mr Poole's writing.
* Careful of inconsistencies. There were a few things that struck me as out of place, whether it be a character doing something previously unexplained, as if we had known all along, or even mentioning a character by name when we have yet to meet them. Little things like this can make the reader think "Wtf!? Did I miss something?"
* I had hoped to hear more of the Bakkian reference and importance in the tale. Not only that, but in a land where practically everybody has a Jhorun (magical ability), we surprisingly heard little about too many others.
* Where is the grand ending??? The final battle seemed less than epic. I had expected a little more 'evil' from the century-old Celestia. It helped reduce the scope of the story to one that seemed merely like a small fort being attacked by a few monsters. I couldn't help but feel a little let down, but that could merely be because of my great expectations for the story.
My few pedantic points aside, definitely make Amulet of Aria one of your "To Read" books, but don't forget Books 1 & 2. Like me, the only thing you will regret is that Mr Poole will not be continuing the series, although I hear the tales from Lentari have by no means ended. Stay tuned!
First, let me begin by saying that I am a huge fan of Jeffrey Poole's style of writing. I could see him writing a series aimed at middle school children, such is his ability to convey a fun, hip story. His writing is fluid and addictive, emotive and contemporary. Coupled with a well defined world with its own distinct rules, laws and races, the end result is a ripping good yarn! I highly recommend this series to anybody who likes a fast, entertaining read. From action to humor; magic to emotion, The Bakkian Chronicles offers everything a fantasy reader could ask for.
BUT....
A few Cons. Nothing too Serious, merely a few things I noticed while reading Amulet of Aria.
* A few minor spelling and grammatical issues. Nothing too glaring but enough for me to pick up on them. While understandable for an Indie offering, some readers are more harsh when it comes to these sorts of issues.
* Sentence structure. I did notice that a lot of paragraphs read very similar in terms of sentence length, which sometimes led to a more monotonous flow rather than a sharp, witty feel that is characteristic of Mr Poole's writing.
* Careful of inconsistencies. There were a few things that struck me as out of place, whether it be a character doing something previously unexplained, as if we had known all along, or even mentioning a character by name when we have yet to meet them. Little things like this can make the reader think "Wtf!? Did I miss something?"
* I had hoped to hear more of the Bakkian reference and importance in the tale. Not only that, but in a land where practically everybody has a Jhorun (magical ability), we surprisingly heard little about too many others.
* Where is the grand ending??? The final battle seemed less than epic. I had expected a little more 'evil' from the century-old Celestia. It helped reduce the scope of the story to one that seemed merely like a small fort being attacked by a few monsters. I couldn't help but feel a little let down, but that could merely be because of my great expectations for the story.
My few pedantic points aside, definitely make Amulet of Aria one of your "To Read" books, but don't forget Books 1 & 2. Like me, the only thing you will regret is that Mr Poole will not be continuing the series, although I hear the tales from Lentari have by no means ended. Stay tuned!
February 21, 2013
What fun! When I mentioned to my wife the plot of this book, she actually said, "was he writing about you?" I'm an IT guy and actually just inherited a house from a deceased aunt, but that's where the similarities between Steve, one of the protagonists, and myself end. If only the rest of my life were as adventurous and magical as Steve's. I highly recommend this book to those of you who like movies (tons of great 1 liners), fantasy (dragons, swords, magic, and whatnot), and action! Great job again, Mr. Poole! I love the writing style, and I even saw quite a few names I suggested within the pages!
October 15, 2012
Great end to a fun series. ive enjoyed the series from start to finish though it is a lighter read than a lot of what I generally read. The whole series was easy to get into and easy to keep reading. I have. recommended this to many people including my daughter who could use an introduction into the world of fantasy that is fun fast and not too dark.
July 24, 2013
This review is going to sound rather reminiscent of the past reviews for the first two Bakkian books, which isn't a bad thing. It means that Poole maintained consistency through his trilogy, and that's a plus. Again remembering the nature of the tale, I went into it with the right mindset and was not disappointed. It's another breezy fantastical jaunt with familiar places and characters.
Again, as I've said before, the adults (at least the Earth ones) reading more like teenagers or college kids than their actual ages (though I guess that's subjective to each person) is a little odd, but they're very likable characters. So I get over that. Plus we get little happy glimpses into these old friends and the epilogue was a nice touch. I also noted that one of my complaints from book one (Steve not seeming to be as realistically impacted by dramatic events as he should be) was noted in this book by way of referencing that he *was* strongly affected. I don't claim at all that I think it was my review that prompted it, but simply that I liked seeing it.
My only complaints this time were a few moments of "why didn't s/he just use their power to do [fill in obstacle that was kept as-is rather than magically gotten out of thus making it feel a little plot-contrivance-y]", and the ending battle seemed to lack a little something for me. I don't know what, precisely, but the little something that would make it really feel like the final battle of a trilogy... And admittedly, the light-heart of the book (as evidenced in some semi-adolescent moments mid-battle) made it hard to take the Big Fight as seriously as one might otherwise, but these are minor gripes.
Despite these little things, this was a solid conclusion to a solid fantasy trilogy. It's reminiscence to Xanth--which stood out to me even more this time around--is said as a tribute to the author, since I am such a long time Xanth fan. (Even the fan submissions at the end strongly smacked of Mr. Anthony and I thought that was awesome.) So anyone looking for that light, fun romp through a fantasy world should definitely check out Lentari.
It's another strong 4 stars for this third installment.
Again, as I've said before, the adults (at least the Earth ones) reading more like teenagers or college kids than their actual ages (though I guess that's subjective to each person) is a little odd, but they're very likable characters. So I get over that. Plus we get little happy glimpses into these old friends and the epilogue was a nice touch. I also noted that one of my complaints from book one (Steve not seeming to be as realistically impacted by dramatic events as he should be) was noted in this book by way of referencing that he *was* strongly affected. I don't claim at all that I think it was my review that prompted it, but simply that I liked seeing it.
My only complaints this time were a few moments of "why didn't s/he just use their power to do [fill in obstacle that was kept as-is rather than magically gotten out of thus making it feel a little plot-contrivance-y]", and the ending battle seemed to lack a little something for me. I don't know what, precisely, but the little something that would make it really feel like the final battle of a trilogy... And admittedly, the light-heart of the book (as evidenced in some semi-adolescent moments mid-battle) made it hard to take the Big Fight as seriously as one might otherwise, but these are minor gripes.
Despite these little things, this was a solid conclusion to a solid fantasy trilogy. It's reminiscence to Xanth--which stood out to me even more this time around--is said as a tribute to the author, since I am such a long time Xanth fan. (Even the fan submissions at the end strongly smacked of Mr. Anthony and I thought that was awesome.) So anyone looking for that light, fun romp through a fantasy world should definitely check out Lentari.
It's another strong 4 stars for this third installment.
July 6, 2013
Amulet of Aria is the long awaited conclusion of the Bakkian Chronicles. If you enjoyed the rest of the series then this book will not disappoint. Jeff keeps the mood fairly lighthearted throughout while still managing to keep up an impressive level of action. This particular book has a bit more of the happenings taking place in our world as opposed to being pretty much exclusively on Lentari. There is also another person who gets let in on the secret life of Steve, Sarah, and Mikal. The additional character (named Lia) works very well with the group dynamic that already exists and adds quite a bit of humor.
I was lucky enough to get to be a beta reader for this book and generally when that happens I wait a few months and read the final book before writing my review. This book was no exception, but what amazed me was how involved I became in the story even though I had already read it. The book kept pulling me along and I enjoyed every second of my reading. I keep up a pretty hectic reading schedule in an attempt to keep my blog with fresh content and it amazes me how refreshing it is to find a book that is truly a joy to read.
This whole series works well for pretty much all ages. It also serves as a great introduction to the world of independent publishing. The Prophecy (Bakkian #1) was one of the first independent books I read and it kindled a respect for the authors who go it on their own.
Copy provided by the author for beta and review.
Review written for http://indiebookblogger.blogspot.com
I was lucky enough to get to be a beta reader for this book and generally when that happens I wait a few months and read the final book before writing my review. This book was no exception, but what amazed me was how involved I became in the story even though I had already read it. The book kept pulling me along and I enjoyed every second of my reading. I keep up a pretty hectic reading schedule in an attempt to keep my blog with fresh content and it amazes me how refreshing it is to find a book that is truly a joy to read.
This whole series works well for pretty much all ages. It also serves as a great introduction to the world of independent publishing. The Prophecy (Bakkian #1) was one of the first independent books I read and it kindled a respect for the authors who go it on their own.
Copy provided by the author for beta and review.
Review written for http://indiebookblogger.blogspot.com
December 6, 2012
This was my favorite of the series. I was much more aware of pop culture references and really enjoyed the humor. I think it was a typo but if they really got 2,000 pounds of meat for 2200 dollars then I want to shop at their butcher! I really did enjoy the characters development and how back ground info was given in the course of the story. I have really enjoyed this author. He gave a couple of recomendations (sp)for other indie authors I am currently checking out. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 28, 2012
Wonderful end to the series. The story line is great, written wonderfully and will leave you wanting more. Its jam packed with action, if i had any thing bad to say its that this book I feel could have been longer/two books. I 100% would recommend this book/series.
Love the series as It's such a lighthearted, fun series to read. I am definitely intrigued to what Jeffrey Poole will think up for Lentari next!
Love the series as It's such a lighthearted, fun series to read. I am definitely intrigued to what Jeffrey Poole will think up for Lentari next!
February 15, 2013
excellent is all i have to say!! that is, if you like the type of book with adventure, science fiction, and magic all rolled into one. had to get all three books to read. had me wanting more. couldn't put it down.
November 19, 2020
Just finished this & the 2 short stories reading to my daughter. Occasional slightly mature content and a few words I occasionally change as I read. 😄
These are such GREAT stories.
She’s chomping at the bit to get started on the Tales of Lentari, book 1 - Lost City!
These are such GREAT stories.
She’s chomping at the bit to get started on the Tales of Lentari, book 1 - Lost City!
July 15, 2020
Easy fun reading
March 1, 2013
Another addictive read in this series that I would definitely recommend. Proving once again that this series defies all logic when it comes to readability.
Once again a book in this series is kept from my 'awesome!' list by the terrible editorial mistakes and limited narrative.
What is it with Jeffery M. Poole and repeating clichés? I got really fed up with just about every character in this book rolling their eyes at each other; even the damned Dragons were at it!
There is also a scene where the two main characters visit the castles resident wizard in his tower. The tower is describes as having a flight of stone stairs leading to the door to the wizards workshop. Unfortunately, during this scene, those same stairs seem to come and go at random as sometimes people step through the door and are immediately outside and at other times they step through the door and have to walk downstairs to get outside!
The other major annoyance was the use of flour as an explosive during the final battle. While I accept that in a confined space at the correct flour-to-air ratio it can be explosive, one bag of flour in the open air is hardly going to blow down walls!
An apparent lack of simple fact checking, attention to detail, a decent editor and proof readers that are actually looking for mistakes rather than just reading the story have ruined what could have been a brilliant series of books.
Once again a book in this series is kept from my 'awesome!' list by the terrible editorial mistakes and limited narrative.
What is it with Jeffery M. Poole and repeating clichés? I got really fed up with just about every character in this book rolling their eyes at each other; even the damned Dragons were at it!
There is also a scene where the two main characters visit the castles resident wizard in his tower. The tower is describes as having a flight of stone stairs leading to the door to the wizards workshop. Unfortunately, during this scene, those same stairs seem to come and go at random as sometimes people step through the door and are immediately outside and at other times they step through the door and have to walk downstairs to get outside!
The other major annoyance was the use of flour as an explosive during the final battle. While I accept that in a confined space at the correct flour-to-air ratio it can be explosive, one bag of flour in the open air is hardly going to blow down walls!
An apparent lack of simple fact checking, attention to detail, a decent editor and proof readers that are actually looking for mistakes rather than just reading the story have ruined what could have been a brilliant series of books.
Read
April 30, 2017Fantastic ending to the Bakkian Chronicles Trilogy!!
Since I first came across this trilogy of books, I have been gripped by the fantastic storylines! This author is truly amazing at bringing the world of Lentari to life, with great characters that you just cannot help liking. If only it were possible to create a portal and travel there, it would be an amazing place to visit!!!
I would strongly recommend this trilogy to anyone to read, and only hope they get as much pleasure reading them as I have. Jeffrey Poole you are truly an amazing author!
I have just received the Tales of Lentari books and cannot wait to make a start on reading them.
Since I first came across this trilogy of books, I have been gripped by the fantastic storylines! This author is truly amazing at bringing the world of Lentari to life, with great characters that you just cannot help liking. If only it were possible to create a portal and travel there, it would be an amazing place to visit!!!
I would strongly recommend this trilogy to anyone to read, and only hope they get as much pleasure reading them as I have. Jeffrey Poole you are truly an amazing author!
I have just received the Tales of Lentari books and cannot wait to make a start on reading them.
May 6, 2016
Read as part of the Bakkian Chronicles Omnibus.
Once again, I truly enjoyed the book. The story, characters and writing were quite good. However, as with the other books in the series it is in need of a good editor. There are just too many instances of missing words, wrong words, stray punctuation, etc...
Once again, I truly enjoyed the book. The story, characters and writing were quite good. However, as with the other books in the series it is in need of a good editor. There are just too many instances of missing words, wrong words, stray punctuation, etc...
July 13, 2013
What can I say? I am addicted to the world Poole has created! While these stories are easy reads I absolutely love them! I eagerly await the next installment and only hope he continues the series indefinitely.
October 18, 2012
Great ending, Looking for forward to the next book.
November 2, 2012
read it in 1 day but sadly felt it was predictable The end for me was too much a fairy tale come true.
However looking forward to the next series.
However looking forward to the next series.
November 5, 2012
This was a very enjoyable trilogy. I'd recommend it.
December 14, 2012
Sounds and looks cool. Would love a copy.
December 26, 2012
I really enjoyed this read
February 2, 2013
Good but not as great as the other two. It seemed as if we were just following a path to the end, everything was a little too neatly tied up. Not as exciting as the first book.
March 19, 2013
Pretty much read this all last night. Have really enjoyed this series of three books, they're fun, entertaining easy reading.
May 31, 2013
It is really more if a 3.5 star book. I enjoyed seeing the story wrapped up, but it's a bit too "young" or "tween" for my tastes. That said, it is very inventive.
October 12, 2013
Addictive someone said. True. Could hardly put the Kindle down.
Mr Poole. Don't let me down with the 4th book I just downloaded from Amazon!!!!!
Mr Poole. Don't let me down with the 4th book I just downloaded from Amazon!!!!!
March 5, 2014
Terrific, can't wait to read Lost City!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews