What do you think?
Rate this book
Enforcers #1
Noble Magic
Lord Kenneth Victeni has every opportunity and every privilege. As the noble son of a powerful mage, he puts little thought into the lives of the talentless, the second class citizens who cannot use magic in a world ruled by mages.
That changes when he meets Thorn, a talentless who is studying at the inventor’s college, where those without magic develop steam-powered technology. The two men share a mutual attraction, and what’s more, Thorn just might be Kenneth’s lifemate—the man who, with just his presence, can double Kenneth’s magical power.
Kenneth’s ignorance of the lives of the talentless puts an obstacle in their budding relationship, however, and his life grows even worse when another mage at the collegium attacks and nearly kills him. Now Thorn and Kenneth must put aside their argument and find a way to put a stop to a mage who poses a threat to others—and along the way, Kenneth might even learn the sensitivity he needs to win over Thorn.
That changes when he meets Thorn, a talentless who is studying at the inventor’s college, where those without magic develop steam-powered technology. The two men share a mutual attraction, and what’s more, Thorn just might be Kenneth’s lifemate—the man who, with just his presence, can double Kenneth’s magical power.
Kenneth’s ignorance of the lives of the talentless puts an obstacle in their budding relationship, however, and his life grows even worse when another mage at the collegium attacks and nearly kills him. Now Thorn and Kenneth must put aside their argument and find a way to put a stop to a mage who poses a threat to others—and along the way, Kenneth might even learn the sensitivity he needs to win over Thorn.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2013
3 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Want to read
September 5, 2021$4.99 for 96 pages. I don't think so!
(at least external links in GR are now working!)
(at least external links in GR are now working!)
September 30, 2014
A copy of this book was provided to me for free through the M/M Romance Group's "Don't By My Love" program in exchange for an honest review.
I was really intrigued by the premise of this book - a society in which the nobility holds not only political, but also magical power over the proletariat. The nobles are capable of powerful magic, while the rest of the society is not. To me, that's a fascinating idea for a novel and could be an interesting metaphor for class.
Unfortunately, this read more like an outline to a novel rather than a novel itself. The ideas presented were not well developed, and neither were the characters. I had so many questions about the world - for example, what was the catalyst for the recent war between the classes? The magic-wielding nobles had been in power for centuries - what finally made the more numerous underclass rebel? Was it the growing development of technology? If so, why did the nobles permit the Talentless class to continue their inventions? If the war had been close to a stalemate, then it would make more sense that the Magi would allow some grudging concessions, but it was presented as a massacre - what motive would the nobles have for making any concessions, let alone one that threatens their power? It's stated that the nobles wanted to give the Talentless the chance to improve their lives, but again, why? Nobles are not known for caring too much about how those beneath them live. There are spells in place to prevent violence against Magi, but that doesn't seem sufficient motive to me. It would have made more sense if the Talentless conducted their research in secret.
The class differences were also kind of fuzzy. It's emphasized many times that the Magis have absolute control over the Talentless, and yet the Talentless are openly rude and hostile to Kenneth, our main character and a noble Magi, in a way that doesn't ring true for people whose lives he could literally destroy with a word. Likewise, our hero's love interest, a Talentless inventor names Thorn, assumes an immediate familiarity with Kenneth that doesn't seem right with the way the differences in the classes are presented.
Likewise, the characters and their relationship aren't well-developed, either. They are introduced when Thorn's invention startles Kenneth's horse, and Thorn insists on buying him lunch as an apology. Again, this does not click with their supposed class differences; it seems pretty insolent for a slum-dweller to offer to buy a noble anything, since it assumes a level of equality. Their conversation is mostly exposition and moving forward plot points - I would have liked more scenes where they simply get to know one another. The author seems so anxious to move the plot along that there's no time to understand who these people are, let alone what attracts them to one another other than the physical.
In conclusion, this needed to be longer. I don't like saying that in general because there are many stories that do better as shorts or novellas, but this wasn't one of them. I'm not suggesting George RR Martin levels of length, but even just another fifty pages would have made a difference. The writing was fine, the ideas were great, but it needed to slow down. As a reader of sci-fi and fantasy, I love getting immersed in a new world, but I didn't get the chance here.
I was really intrigued by the premise of this book - a society in which the nobility holds not only political, but also magical power over the proletariat. The nobles are capable of powerful magic, while the rest of the society is not. To me, that's a fascinating idea for a novel and could be an interesting metaphor for class.
Unfortunately, this read more like an outline to a novel rather than a novel itself. The ideas presented were not well developed, and neither were the characters. I had so many questions about the world - for example, what was the catalyst for the recent war between the classes? The magic-wielding nobles had been in power for centuries - what finally made the more numerous underclass rebel? Was it the growing development of technology? If so, why did the nobles permit the Talentless class to continue their inventions? If the war had been close to a stalemate, then it would make more sense that the Magi would allow some grudging concessions, but it was presented as a massacre - what motive would the nobles have for making any concessions, let alone one that threatens their power? It's stated that the nobles wanted to give the Talentless the chance to improve their lives, but again, why? Nobles are not known for caring too much about how those beneath them live. There are spells in place to prevent violence against Magi, but that doesn't seem sufficient motive to me. It would have made more sense if the Talentless conducted their research in secret.
The class differences were also kind of fuzzy. It's emphasized many times that the Magis have absolute control over the Talentless, and yet the Talentless are openly rude and hostile to Kenneth, our main character and a noble Magi, in a way that doesn't ring true for people whose lives he could literally destroy with a word. Likewise, our hero's love interest, a Talentless inventor names Thorn, assumes an immediate familiarity with Kenneth that doesn't seem right with the way the differences in the classes are presented.
Likewise, the characters and their relationship aren't well-developed, either. They are introduced when Thorn's invention startles Kenneth's horse, and Thorn insists on buying him lunch as an apology. Again, this does not click with their supposed class differences; it seems pretty insolent for a slum-dweller to offer to buy a noble anything, since it assumes a level of equality. Their conversation is mostly exposition and moving forward plot points - I would have liked more scenes where they simply get to know one another. The author seems so anxious to move the plot along that there's no time to understand who these people are, let alone what attracts them to one another other than the physical.
In conclusion, this needed to be longer. I don't like saying that in general because there are many stories that do better as shorts or novellas, but this wasn't one of them. I'm not suggesting George RR Martin levels of length, but even just another fifty pages would have made a difference. The writing was fine, the ideas were great, but it needed to slow down. As a reader of sci-fi and fantasy, I love getting immersed in a new world, but I didn't get the chance here.
February 3, 2020
3 1/2 - 4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Kenneth is a mage of noble birth, he has had every opportunity and is studying at the mages collegium. Looking for a piece of steel needed for a project he has to enter the talentless area and meets Thorn, a young inventor, who begins to change his views about the talentless. Thorn is an inventor in his last year of college, when one of his inventions gets away from him and scares a noble mages horse he jumps at the opportunity to discover more about magic. As the two young men become friends they discover a connection between them, but Kenneth’s ignorance of the talentless cause’s problems. But, they also make a chilling discovery that just might cost them their lives if they don’t work together.
This is a great beginning to the Enforcer’s series, of a magi and a talentless who meet by chance and change each other’s lives. Kenneth has been sheltered throughout his life, he was protected from the full impact of the war between magi and talentless and the only talentless he has ever met are servants. Kenneth has lived with his father telling him how dangerous the talentless and their inventions are, but when he meets Thorn he discovers that the talentless are interesting and not always treated fairly. Thorn knows the suffering of the talentless but he is still intrigued by the young magi, he is attracted to Kenneth but their differences come between them until Kenneth is attacked and left for dead.
Noble Magic is a well written story that mixes steampunk for the talentless with magic for the magi. Not only is it a slight romance with danger thrown in, but it also tells of two different classes of people who find a common ground against the odds. Both Kenneth and Thorn are great characters, Kenneth with his slightly proud snobby attitude and Thorn with his down-to-earth welcoming attitude, put them together and you have a couple who will never be boring. I liked how this world was portrayed with the two sides separated by magic, those that have it hold all the power and those that don’t are treated like second class citizens. The magi using magic but not really understanding it and the talentless creating machinery hoping to mimic the advantages that the magi have.
Thorn and Kenneth begin something new in this story, a magi and a talentless working together is completely unheard of. Their relationship is shaky but develops quickly and they are there for each other in times of need. The storyline is good and is just the beginning as they are invited to test for the Enforcer’s, their relationship is just beginning as well so it will be interesting to see how they both cope with their new situation.
I recommend this to those who love steampunk, magic, danger, developing love, an interesting storyline and a happy for now ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Kenneth is a mage of noble birth, he has had every opportunity and is studying at the mages collegium. Looking for a piece of steel needed for a project he has to enter the talentless area and meets Thorn, a young inventor, who begins to change his views about the talentless. Thorn is an inventor in his last year of college, when one of his inventions gets away from him and scares a noble mages horse he jumps at the opportunity to discover more about magic. As the two young men become friends they discover a connection between them, but Kenneth’s ignorance of the talentless cause’s problems. But, they also make a chilling discovery that just might cost them their lives if they don’t work together.
This is a great beginning to the Enforcer’s series, of a magi and a talentless who meet by chance and change each other’s lives. Kenneth has been sheltered throughout his life, he was protected from the full impact of the war between magi and talentless and the only talentless he has ever met are servants. Kenneth has lived with his father telling him how dangerous the talentless and their inventions are, but when he meets Thorn he discovers that the talentless are interesting and not always treated fairly. Thorn knows the suffering of the talentless but he is still intrigued by the young magi, he is attracted to Kenneth but their differences come between them until Kenneth is attacked and left for dead.
Noble Magic is a well written story that mixes steampunk for the talentless with magic for the magi. Not only is it a slight romance with danger thrown in, but it also tells of two different classes of people who find a common ground against the odds. Both Kenneth and Thorn are great characters, Kenneth with his slightly proud snobby attitude and Thorn with his down-to-earth welcoming attitude, put them together and you have a couple who will never be boring. I liked how this world was portrayed with the two sides separated by magic, those that have it hold all the power and those that don’t are treated like second class citizens. The magi using magic but not really understanding it and the talentless creating machinery hoping to mimic the advantages that the magi have.
Thorn and Kenneth begin something new in this story, a magi and a talentless working together is completely unheard of. Their relationship is shaky but develops quickly and they are there for each other in times of need. The storyline is good and is just the beginning as they are invited to test for the Enforcer’s, their relationship is just beginning as well so it will be interesting to see how they both cope with their new situation.
I recommend this to those who love steampunk, magic, danger, developing love, an interesting storyline and a happy for now ending.
September 16, 2014
(This story was provided free via the Goodreads Don't Buy my Love Read and Review program in return for an honest review.)
This was a solid first book in a series. You're introduced to Kenneth who has strong magic and is a noble to boot. He is in a slum looking for some raw materials and is cheated by a shopkeeper. One nit at the outset, I was completely befuddled by the fact that they'd make noble-born students get their own raw materials (from the slums) for experiments. But I suppose without that our two heros would have never met so I'll set that aside. Thorn is a talentless, what they refer to those who don't have magic and he and one of his machines scares Kenneth's horse. This leads to dinner and his helping Kenneth get the materials he needs which leads to more interactions from our two MCs. I thought their meeting and the initial distrust from Kenneth was well done and believable.
I really didn't like Kenneth when we're first introduced to him and again didn't care for his reaction to Thorn's hand. I actually don't think you were supposed to like him but he grew on me, this was really well done by the author. You find out he's someone who has been put in a box all his life, everyone assumes he's going to be a battlemage like his father and, for really great reasons, doesn't want to do that. I think it took courage to pursue Alchemy in the face of his father's disapproval. That earned some points with me. Then there was the duel at the climax of the book and his actions there completely won me over.
The world building was very well done, the colleges, the slums, the fact that talentless have no last name, the wards that maintain the hold that the maji have on regular humans.
I really did like Thorn from almost the first moment we meet him. He's honorable and upbeat in the face of so much hardship in his life. I could not figure out what the draw was for him to Kenneth though and due to that I have to say, even toward the end, I wasn't really feeling the connection between the characters. That said I'm interested and invested enough to want to read more about them.
This was a solid first book in a series. You're introduced to Kenneth who has strong magic and is a noble to boot. He is in a slum looking for some raw materials and is cheated by a shopkeeper. One nit at the outset, I was completely befuddled by the fact that they'd make noble-born students get their own raw materials (from the slums) for experiments. But I suppose without that our two heros would have never met so I'll set that aside. Thorn is a talentless, what they refer to those who don't have magic and he and one of his machines scares Kenneth's horse. This leads to dinner and his helping Kenneth get the materials he needs which leads to more interactions from our two MCs. I thought their meeting and the initial distrust from Kenneth was well done and believable.
I really didn't like Kenneth when we're first introduced to him and again didn't care for his reaction to Thorn's hand. I actually don't think you were supposed to like him but he grew on me, this was really well done by the author. You find out he's someone who has been put in a box all his life, everyone assumes he's going to be a battlemage like his father and, for really great reasons, doesn't want to do that. I think it took courage to pursue Alchemy in the face of his father's disapproval. That earned some points with me. Then there was the duel at the climax of the book and his actions there completely won me over.
The world building was very well done, the colleges, the slums, the fact that talentless have no last name, the wards that maintain the hold that the maji have on regular humans.
I really did like Thorn from almost the first moment we meet him. He's honorable and upbeat in the face of so much hardship in his life. I could not figure out what the draw was for him to Kenneth though and due to that I have to say, even toward the end, I wasn't really feeling the connection between the characters. That said I'm interested and invested enough to want to read more about them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Kenneth is a mage and the son of a nobleman who was prominent in a recent war against the talentless - those without magic in this universe. The story opens with Kenneth going into talentless territory to obtain a block of silver. He's thrown from his horse when a mechanical object spooks the horse. The inventor of the object, Thorn, apologizes by inviting him to lunch, and thus starts a relationship that grows throughout the book.
The concept for this story is quite appealing; a universe with magic and steampunk themes, lovers from antagonistic segments of society, an intrigue with a mysterious new weapon. Thorn is a likable character, with a sunny disposition and a thirst for knowledge. Kenneth seems a sort of social misfit, living in the shadow of a powerful man with expectations that don't match Kenneth's own ambitions. His insecurities and the prejudices of his upbringing have him come across as a bit cold and arrogant, but we're able to see the truth underneath, making him an interesting and flawed character.
All of this could have made for an outstanding story, but I was ultimately left disappointed. Thorn's personality doesn't account for his easy and immediate attraction to Kenneth, especially when you discover later what happened to him in his childhood. The potential conflicts due to both characters' backgrounds are swept aside in favor of insta-love, when the effort of overcoming them could have made the story truly compelling. The antagonist of the piece worked fairly well, but the way it was written, with him able to just walk away without us learning anything of his motivations, felt incomplete and unsatisfying. And a purely personal pet peeve: the word smirk is overused to a huge degree in fan fiction, and is often misapplied. So was the case here - a tender moment between characters should not include a mocking, unpleasant smile. Neither of these characters has the type of personality that would smirk at another, especially their love interest.
The world building was fairly good, though could have used a bit more depth. The relationship and the alteration of Kenneth's path in life needed more foundation and development to realize its full potential. The author writes in an easy style that makes for a quick read(though with a few too many editing mistakes), but ultimately falls short in execution.
Kenneth is a mage and the son of a nobleman who was prominent in a recent war against the talentless - those without magic in this universe. The story opens with Kenneth going into talentless territory to obtain a block of silver. He's thrown from his horse when a mechanical object spooks the horse. The inventor of the object, Thorn, apologizes by inviting him to lunch, and thus starts a relationship that grows throughout the book.
The concept for this story is quite appealing; a universe with magic and steampunk themes, lovers from antagonistic segments of society, an intrigue with a mysterious new weapon. Thorn is a likable character, with a sunny disposition and a thirst for knowledge. Kenneth seems a sort of social misfit, living in the shadow of a powerful man with expectations that don't match Kenneth's own ambitions. His insecurities and the prejudices of his upbringing have him come across as a bit cold and arrogant, but we're able to see the truth underneath, making him an interesting and flawed character.
All of this could have made for an outstanding story, but I was ultimately left disappointed. Thorn's personality doesn't account for his easy and immediate attraction to Kenneth, especially when you discover later what happened to him in his childhood. The potential conflicts due to both characters' backgrounds are swept aside in favor of insta-love, when the effort of overcoming them could have made the story truly compelling. The antagonist of the piece worked fairly well, but the way it was written, with him able to just walk away without us learning anything of his motivations, felt incomplete and unsatisfying. And a purely personal pet peeve: the word smirk is overused to a huge degree in fan fiction, and is often misapplied. So was the case here - a tender moment between characters should not include a mocking, unpleasant smile. Neither of these characters has the type of personality that would smirk at another, especially their love interest.
The world building was fairly good, though could have used a bit more depth. The relationship and the alteration of Kenneth's path in life needed more foundation and development to realize its full potential. The author writes in an easy style that makes for a quick read(though with a few too many editing mistakes), but ultimately falls short in execution.
June 6, 2013
I was definitely in the mood for a good steampunk/magic read and Ms. Silvius definitely did a great job satisfying my craving. I’ve read a couple of books by this author before and I’ve always enjoyed the worlds she creates as well as her unique and sexy heroes.
Since the blurb does an excellent job at describing the book, I won’t rehash a lot of it. I thought the story was a good solid read because of the creative world-building and unique setting it was in. I also liked the politics between the mage and the talentless. I thought it was well thought out as well as portrayed in an easy to understand manner without the story getting bogged down with too much information. I found myself becoming sympathetic toward both the mage and the talentless and I’m definitely interested in seeing if they’ll ever really have peace and respect between them.
I also liked both of the heroes. Although the story is in third person, it’s told through Kenneth’s thoughts and feelings. Because of his nobility, Kenneth is a bit of a snob, but I really enjoyed watching his character start to change and evolve as his relationship with Thorn deepened as the story continued. With Thorn’s friendship and love, Kenneth becomes more confident in what he’s meant to do and begins to see the ‘talentless’ people with a different perspective.
I also liked Thorn. He’s open, warm and an all-around nice guy. He’s a bit more of a mysterious than Kenneth, but I liked how he was open to learning more about Kenneth’s magic and hoping to bridge the differences between the ‘talentless’ and the mage.
Noble Magic is the first book in the Enforcers series. Because of it, this story ends a little open ended, but I’m definitely anxious to read more about these characters and interested to see how everything turns out for them. If you are looking for a well-written, solid steampunk romance, then Noble Magic is definitely a choice for you to consider.
Recommended!
Since the blurb does an excellent job at describing the book, I won’t rehash a lot of it. I thought the story was a good solid read because of the creative world-building and unique setting it was in. I also liked the politics between the mage and the talentless. I thought it was well thought out as well as portrayed in an easy to understand manner without the story getting bogged down with too much information. I found myself becoming sympathetic toward both the mage and the talentless and I’m definitely interested in seeing if they’ll ever really have peace and respect between them.
I also liked both of the heroes. Although the story is in third person, it’s told through Kenneth’s thoughts and feelings. Because of his nobility, Kenneth is a bit of a snob, but I really enjoyed watching his character start to change and evolve as his relationship with Thorn deepened as the story continued. With Thorn’s friendship and love, Kenneth becomes more confident in what he’s meant to do and begins to see the ‘talentless’ people with a different perspective.
I also liked Thorn. He’s open, warm and an all-around nice guy. He’s a bit more of a mysterious than Kenneth, but I liked how he was open to learning more about Kenneth’s magic and hoping to bridge the differences between the ‘talentless’ and the mage.
Noble Magic is the first book in the Enforcers series. Because of it, this story ends a little open ended, but I’m definitely anxious to read more about these characters and interested to see how everything turns out for them. If you are looking for a well-written, solid steampunk romance, then Noble Magic is definitely a choice for you to consider.
Recommended!
September 16, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kenneth and Thorns meeting was a bit of a whirlwind affair. Kenneth is out trying to but steel alloy for his school alchemy project and on his way back from the slums his horse gets spooked by a project Thorn had been working on for school. To make up for spooking Kenneth's horse Thorn offers to treat him to a meal. It's there that Thorn breaks the news to Kenneth that he's been swindled and the product he spent so much for isn't real. Thorn offers to remedy the situation as another apology for scaring Kenneth's horse and just because he wants to get a look at Kenneth's school (or so he says). Kenneth is clearly attracted to Thorn and after an awkward meet up with Thorn for school material ends up seeking out Thorn in apology and thereafter time and again for school materials.
A very nice read. I loved reading and getting to see how their love story unfolded. There was intrigue when Kenneth got attacked. I found it suspenseful. The duel was entertaining and learning about about the working between magi and talentless was fascinating. The author did an okay job in depicting the feelings between the talentless and magi. I wouldn't mind reading more of Kenneth and Thorn's story and what will happen after they both take on the role of enforcer.
Kenneth and Thorns meeting was a bit of a whirlwind affair. Kenneth is out trying to but steel alloy for his school alchemy project and on his way back from the slums his horse gets spooked by a project Thorn had been working on for school. To make up for spooking Kenneth's horse Thorn offers to treat him to a meal. It's there that Thorn breaks the news to Kenneth that he's been swindled and the product he spent so much for isn't real. Thorn offers to remedy the situation as another apology for scaring Kenneth's horse and just because he wants to get a look at Kenneth's school (or so he says). Kenneth is clearly attracted to Thorn and after an awkward meet up with Thorn for school material ends up seeking out Thorn in apology and thereafter time and again for school materials.
A very nice read. I loved reading and getting to see how their love story unfolded. There was intrigue when Kenneth got attacked. I found it suspenseful. The duel was entertaining and learning about about the working between magi and talentless was fascinating. The author did an okay job in depicting the feelings between the talentless and magi. I wouldn't mind reading more of Kenneth and Thorn's story and what will happen after they both take on the role of enforcer.
January 16, 2017
Disclaimer: This book was provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I haven’t’ read too much in the steampunk sub-genre but wanted to read this as I liked the concept for this story. Interesting world where mages now rule over the rest of humanity (called talentless) after a war the mages won. There is also a separation between the two groups, with the talentless living in what is referred to as slums. Each have their own college, one of magic and one of inventors because the magi use their magic for their everyday needs while the talentless use their hands and minds to invent things to replicate/mimic what mages do with magic.
Talentless are considered underlings and Magi are dominant but when it came to sex between the MCs, the roles in bed were reversed. An interesting twist! And yep, that talentless did have his talents! :) Liked the descriptions of magic and the mage's world (the bubble of warmth the mage created in the cold and how his partner could step into it made me smile, I want those!). Nice backstory on Kenneth and the mages, but I would like to know much more about the talentless world than we were given. Its understandable given that the book was from the mage, Kenneth’s POV. Had unanswered questions such how did Thorn, a talentless poor student, have money to pay for the big meals and the rare/expensive steel and the copper wire he gave Kenneth? Was he from a wealthy talentless family? Would have liked more background on Thorn. Perhaps in other installments (its first of a series) will get more from the talentless/Thorn POV.
At first, Kenneth based everything he thought and felt for the talentless on his father and his society’s ideas rather than his own experience with them. He makes so many negative assumptions about Thorn and treats him so poorly that its quite hard to like him at first.
Pretty close to being insta-love, which I have no problem with in general. But I was left unsure as to what Thorn saw in Kenneth initially
The story was engaging because the writer touched my emotions and made me feel for the characters and the world she’s created.
I haven’t’ read too much in the steampunk sub-genre but wanted to read this as I liked the concept for this story. Interesting world where mages now rule over the rest of humanity (called talentless) after a war the mages won. There is also a separation between the two groups, with the talentless living in what is referred to as slums. Each have their own college, one of magic and one of inventors because the magi use their magic for their everyday needs while the talentless use their hands and minds to invent things to replicate/mimic what mages do with magic.
Talentless are considered underlings and Magi are dominant but when it came to sex between the MCs, the roles in bed were reversed. An interesting twist! And yep, that talentless did have his talents! :) Liked the descriptions of magic and the mage's world (the bubble of warmth the mage created in the cold and how his partner could step into it made me smile, I want those!). Nice backstory on Kenneth and the mages, but I would like to know much more about the talentless world than we were given. Its understandable given that the book was from the mage, Kenneth’s POV. Had unanswered questions such how did Thorn, a talentless poor student, have money to pay for the big meals and the rare/expensive steel and the copper wire he gave Kenneth? Was he from a wealthy talentless family? Would have liked more background on Thorn. Perhaps in other installments (its first of a series) will get more from the talentless/Thorn POV.
At first, Kenneth based everything he thought and felt for the talentless on his father and his society’s ideas rather than his own experience with them. He makes so many negative assumptions about Thorn and treats him so poorly that its quite hard to like him at first.
Pretty close to being insta-love, which I have no problem with in general. But I was left unsure as to what Thorn saw in Kenneth initially
The story was engaging because the writer touched my emotions and made me feel for the characters and the world she’s created.
October 18, 2014
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
What part does luck play in your quality of life and determining your destiny? Initially, in the case of Kenneth Victeni, the rebellious son of an authoritarian father, almost everything. Noble Magic, the first of four books inThe Enforcers Series, penned by Ravon Silvius, is about a dystopian society experiencing an ongoing post-revolution, class struggle between the non-magical, working class talentless, and the magically gifted, ruling class magi. At the beginning of the story, who Kenneth is and what he will become have been pre-ordained by his birthright. His insular life of wealth and privilege has made Lord Kenneth insensitive to the persecution and suffering his people have inflicted on the talentless. His focus is on one thing: He must excel at his alchemy studies in order to avoid becoming a battle mage like his father.
When Thorn enters his life, the evolution of Kenneth begins. With Thorn comes enlightenment, and Kenneth slowly begins to realize they can work together to improve relations between their classes. The combination of Kenneth’s power and heritage as a noble mage and Thorn’s technological skill and creativity could make them a truly formidable force. There are, as usual, obstacles to their possible HFN. For example, in order for them to become a couple, Kenneth must be willing to do the unthinkable and date a man who is neither magical nor noble. On the other hand, although Thorn is a talentless, he may be Kenneth’s lifemate, which means their joining would greatly enhance Kenneth’s natural abilities and possibly make him the most powerful mage in their world.
Since this is the first book in the series, it makes sense to me that the author focused on worldbuilding and character development. This book also represents a first for me. I have never read anything in the steampunk/dystopian genre before, and I do not feel qualified to attempt an in-depth analysis of the author’s success or failure in these areas; however, I do know what I like, and I enjoyed reading Noble Magic.
It is a well-written book. I appreciated not having my mental grammar sentry and my inner spell check monster sounding constant alarms like they are doing now as I write. I screamed for joy that the insta-lust was acknowledged as such, and the author used plot development to allow love to build gradually through shared experiences, which created a foundation of mutual admiration, trust, and respect between the two MCs. I also thought there was just the right amount of hot, man-love to satisfy my voyeuristic tendencies, stimulate my libido, and keep me flipping those pages!
I could picture what it was like to live in their world, and I finished the book wanting to know what would happen next. To that end, I have purchased The Exam, the next novel in this series. Noble Magic rates a solid 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for me because I just liked it so much.
What part does luck play in your quality of life and determining your destiny? Initially, in the case of Kenneth Victeni, the rebellious son of an authoritarian father, almost everything. Noble Magic, the first of four books inThe Enforcers Series, penned by Ravon Silvius, is about a dystopian society experiencing an ongoing post-revolution, class struggle between the non-magical, working class talentless, and the magically gifted, ruling class magi. At the beginning of the story, who Kenneth is and what he will become have been pre-ordained by his birthright. His insular life of wealth and privilege has made Lord Kenneth insensitive to the persecution and suffering his people have inflicted on the talentless. His focus is on one thing: He must excel at his alchemy studies in order to avoid becoming a battle mage like his father.
When Thorn enters his life, the evolution of Kenneth begins. With Thorn comes enlightenment, and Kenneth slowly begins to realize they can work together to improve relations between their classes. The combination of Kenneth’s power and heritage as a noble mage and Thorn’s technological skill and creativity could make them a truly formidable force. There are, as usual, obstacles to their possible HFN. For example, in order for them to become a couple, Kenneth must be willing to do the unthinkable and date a man who is neither magical nor noble. On the other hand, although Thorn is a talentless, he may be Kenneth’s lifemate, which means their joining would greatly enhance Kenneth’s natural abilities and possibly make him the most powerful mage in their world.
Since this is the first book in the series, it makes sense to me that the author focused on worldbuilding and character development. This book also represents a first for me. I have never read anything in the steampunk/dystopian genre before, and I do not feel qualified to attempt an in-depth analysis of the author’s success or failure in these areas; however, I do know what I like, and I enjoyed reading Noble Magic.
It is a well-written book. I appreciated not having my mental grammar sentry and my inner spell check monster sounding constant alarms like they are doing now as I write. I screamed for joy that the insta-lust was acknowledged as such, and the author used plot development to allow love to build gradually through shared experiences, which created a foundation of mutual admiration, trust, and respect between the two MCs. I also thought there was just the right amount of hot, man-love to satisfy my voyeuristic tendencies, stimulate my libido, and keep me flipping those pages!
I could picture what it was like to live in their world, and I finished the book wanting to know what would happen next. To that end, I have purchased The Exam, the next novel in this series. Noble Magic rates a solid 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for me because I just liked it so much.
June 8, 2014
The world is divided between mages—those who are able to practice magic—and the talentless, who cannot. War has brought the mages into positions of power over the talentless. The mages are the haves, while the talentless are the have-nots.
Kenneth Victeni is a noble mage, whose father, Lord Victeni, is the most powerful battlemage around. Kenneth’s interests don’t lie with war, though. He prefers alchemy, which he is studying at the magi collegiate, where he will shortly graduate.
Necessity brings Kenneth to the talentless slums. He requires a piece of steel for an experiment in class the next day. Inside the shop, he finds himself at the mercy of the shopkeeper with a bad attitude. Kenneth suspects he’s been ripped off on the price, but what can he do? He takes his steel and goes.
Back on his horse once more, an encounter with a small mechanical object spooks his steed and Kenneth is thrown. The man who inadvertently caused his spill rushes to his rescue. Kenneth can’t help but notice how good-looking he is. The man, whose name is Thorn, offers to buy Kenneth a meal and, for reasons unknown to himself, he agrees. During the meal, Thorn reveals that Kenneth has indeed been cheated and offers to find what Kenneth needs and bring it to him at the collegiate. Kenneth is skeptical but he agrees. With the weather changing for the worse, though, he doubts he’ll see the man again.
Why is Thorn acting so mysterious? And someone else is visiting the slums, someone who also has a magic signature. Who can it be and why is he there?
This is the first book in the Enforcers series, and my very first time reading this author. It won’t be the last, by any means. I enjoyed this book immensely, watching Kenneth and Thorn meet, observing their mutual attraction grow, and seeing how they handle certain innate class prejudices on both sides. Thorn has an interesting secret, which Kenneth doesn’t deal with well, at first. And then there is the issue of a lifemate. When a mage finds his lifemate, his power is greatly enhanced. But only two mages can be lifemates—or can they?
The sex was hot, and I loved getting to know Kenneth and Thorn. I bought all four books in the series, so I’ll be writing more reviews. I hope there will be lots more books!
A great read, well done, hot and exciting—a truly enjoyable love story.
October 5, 2014
Lord Kenneth Victeni is the noble son of a powerful war mage. Told all his life the talentless are less than the magi and hasn’t put much thought into it. One day he passes into the slums to buy some steel for his alchemy class and meets Thorn, also a student but talentless not magi who agrees to help him find his steel.
Kenneth has lived a sheltered life continually pounded by his father about what he should do. Alchemy is his rebellion as he refuses to do battle magic but he’s not a confident man and the talentless unnerve him, even Thorn.
Thorn lost much in the war between the magi and talentless but his good humor and charm remain. He’s fascinated by magic, wants to learn its properties so he can use invention to copy them for the benefit of his people.
Kenneth gets a crash course in the real lives of the talentless when an enemy steals his magic and tries to kill him. But he becomes closer to Thorn then ever even learning a secret about Thorn that Kenneth may not be able to look past.
Kenneth and Thorn are polar opposites in a way and this is very much an opposites attract story. I loved both characters, Kenneth with so much power but so few social skills and Thorn desperate for knowledge and friendly with everyone. They have very realistic ups and downs not pretending that two men from opposites sides of a war can meld together like perfection at first sight. They find their balance and when the final battle comes they fall together easily to be the team they need to be.
This is not an adventure story, there’s only one battle and it’s fairly short. It’s about character, what you want to be vs what you are destined to be and can the two coexist. And can you get past your prejudices to find worth in someone you should hate.
A wonderful story all around that did get a bit of a frown for me because it is a cliffhanger of sorts. This is a series after all. But for that I loved pace, the dialogue, the emotion, and the plot. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a copy of this story for an honest review at no charge as part of the Goodreads M/M DBML program.
Kenneth has lived a sheltered life continually pounded by his father about what he should do. Alchemy is his rebellion as he refuses to do battle magic but he’s not a confident man and the talentless unnerve him, even Thorn.
Thorn lost much in the war between the magi and talentless but his good humor and charm remain. He’s fascinated by magic, wants to learn its properties so he can use invention to copy them for the benefit of his people.
Kenneth gets a crash course in the real lives of the talentless when an enemy steals his magic and tries to kill him. But he becomes closer to Thorn then ever even learning a secret about Thorn that Kenneth may not be able to look past.
Kenneth and Thorn are polar opposites in a way and this is very much an opposites attract story. I loved both characters, Kenneth with so much power but so few social skills and Thorn desperate for knowledge and friendly with everyone. They have very realistic ups and downs not pretending that two men from opposites sides of a war can meld together like perfection at first sight. They find their balance and when the final battle comes they fall together easily to be the team they need to be.
This is not an adventure story, there’s only one battle and it’s fairly short. It’s about character, what you want to be vs what you are destined to be and can the two coexist. And can you get past your prejudices to find worth in someone you should hate.
A wonderful story all around that did get a bit of a frown for me because it is a cliffhanger of sorts. This is a series after all. But for that I loved pace, the dialogue, the emotion, and the plot. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a copy of this story for an honest review at no charge as part of the Goodreads M/M DBML program.
August 21, 2017
Noble Magic tells the story of noble-born Mage Kenneth Victeni and the Talentless inventor Thorn. After a chance meeting in the Talentless slums, Kenneth and Thorn become attracted to one another despite the differences their social standings afford them.
Kenneth is our protagonist and we soon learn that although his father is a revered Battle Mage his son has no such inclinations. The war between Mages and Talentless is long over and Kenneth's interests lay in alchemy. However, after a sudden and deadly attack which places Kenneth in peril, he and Thorn must work together to uncover the assailant and in doing so, hope to bridge the divide between the empowered Mages and the Talentless they keep underfoot.
If you've somehow made it through my loose plot outline I'll reward you by telling you that if you're a lazy reader you needn't bother reading the book. The plot is as basic as my outline. The frustrating thing about Noble Magic is the fact that it definitely has the potential to be something far more engaging than it actually is. It's likeable but disappointing; the story has very little in the way of character development and the world building is shallow at best. The flow of the narrative is weak and the overall feeling of the book is that it was written by a rather talented (and dirty-minded) 15year old; someone too unskilled and impatient to flesh out the story the way it needed to be rather than with quick flashes of plot between flirtations and heated loins.
Reading Noble Magic is like watching a movie except they've cut half the script and instead of actors they've used cardboard cutouts. I haven't read the rest of the series yet but I'm not so disappointed in this that I won't at least give them a shot. I've already paid for them, at any rate...
Kenneth is our protagonist and we soon learn that although his father is a revered Battle Mage his son has no such inclinations. The war between Mages and Talentless is long over and Kenneth's interests lay in alchemy. However, after a sudden and deadly attack which places Kenneth in peril, he and Thorn must work together to uncover the assailant and in doing so, hope to bridge the divide between the empowered Mages and the Talentless they keep underfoot.
If you've somehow made it through my loose plot outline I'll reward you by telling you that if you're a lazy reader you needn't bother reading the book. The plot is as basic as my outline. The frustrating thing about Noble Magic is the fact that it definitely has the potential to be something far more engaging than it actually is. It's likeable but disappointing; the story has very little in the way of character development and the world building is shallow at best. The flow of the narrative is weak and the overall feeling of the book is that it was written by a rather talented (and dirty-minded) 15year old; someone too unskilled and impatient to flesh out the story the way it needed to be rather than with quick flashes of plot between flirtations and heated loins.
Reading Noble Magic is like watching a movie except they've cut half the script and instead of actors they've used cardboard cutouts. I haven't read the rest of the series yet but I'm not so disappointed in this that I won't at least give them a shot. I've already paid for them, at any rate...
September 26, 2014
I received my copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the "Don't Buy My Love" event hosted by the M/M Romance Group on Goodreads.
Rating: 3.5 stars
World-building: There were a few areas of world-building that I thought could have been expanded, but as this is the first book in a series I'm willing to overlook that. The dynamics between the magic users and the talentless was interesting, I especially liked the issue of the surnames. I also really like the mix of fantasy (from the mages) and steampunk (from the talentless), it gave it a twist from the standard fantasy books.
Main Characters: Kenneth isn't just a mage, but also a noble with a powerful father, so he is used to a world of privilege. Thorn is much more the inquisitive student type, but being a talentless he is also one of the lower-class. The two really are about as opposite as it is possible to be in their world. Even given the lifemate element to their relationship, I thought it was a bit too fast paced given the differences in their background. I would have appreciated a bit more time for the two of them before they really got together.
I liked Thorn a good bit more than Kenneth, probably because Thorn actually appeared to want to learn about things. Kenneth just seemed to naive for my tastes.
Side/Secondary Characters: I didn't really get a good feel for anyone other than the MCs. There are other characters that make an appearance, but none that are more than just a two-dimensional characters, no real depth.
I do want to read the rest of the series to see how things work out long term with the whole Mage/talentless combination.
Rating: 3.5 stars
World-building: There were a few areas of world-building that I thought could have been expanded, but as this is the first book in a series I'm willing to overlook that. The dynamics between the magic users and the talentless was interesting, I especially liked the issue of the surnames. I also really like the mix of fantasy (from the mages) and steampunk (from the talentless), it gave it a twist from the standard fantasy books.
Main Characters: Kenneth isn't just a mage, but also a noble with a powerful father, so he is used to a world of privilege. Thorn is much more the inquisitive student type, but being a talentless he is also one of the lower-class. The two really are about as opposite as it is possible to be in their world. Even given the lifemate element to their relationship, I thought it was a bit too fast paced given the differences in their background. I would have appreciated a bit more time for the two of them before they really got together.
I liked Thorn a good bit more than Kenneth, probably because Thorn actually appeared to want to learn about things. Kenneth just seemed to naive for my tastes.
Side/Secondary Characters: I didn't really get a good feel for anyone other than the MCs. There are other characters that make an appearance, but none that are more than just a two-dimensional characters, no real depth.
I do want to read the rest of the series to see how things work out long term with the whole Mage/talentless combination.
September 22, 2014
(This story was received free from the Goodreads Don't Buy My Love review program in return for an honest review.)
A couple of wishes with this story. First, more world-building, please. The author throws us into an unusual world of magic users who rule over the talentless, the non-magical people. We get a little bit of history and just a touch about the hierarchy even within the ruling magical class. All of it not enough for me to really feel like it was real.
I also would have liked the relationship between the two main characters, Kenneth and Thorn, to have been drawn out a little more. Kenneth seems to be quickly aware that Thorn is destined to be with him...and Thorn accepts this? Why, especially considering the two classes are enemies.
Even with these wishes, I liked this story. It had a unique story line, with steam punk elements. The story moved quickly, but in the end, the end arrived much too soon.
The author set the reader up nicely to be sucked in...and then disappointed when it finished way too soon in my opinion. I hate being left in the lurch.
A couple of wishes with this story. First, more world-building, please. The author throws us into an unusual world of magic users who rule over the talentless, the non-magical people. We get a little bit of history and just a touch about the hierarchy even within the ruling magical class. All of it not enough for me to really feel like it was real.
I also would have liked the relationship between the two main characters, Kenneth and Thorn, to have been drawn out a little more. Kenneth seems to be quickly aware that Thorn is destined to be with him...and Thorn accepts this? Why, especially considering the two classes are enemies.
Even with these wishes, I liked this story. It had a unique story line, with steam punk elements. The story moved quickly, but in the end, the end arrived much too soon.
The author set the reader up nicely to be sucked in...and then disappointed when it finished way too soon in my opinion. I hate being left in the lurch.
September 25, 2014
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
Lord Kenneth is a noble mage son of a famous Battle mage who led the Mages to victory over the talentless (non magic users).He is also interested in the more peaceful magic of alchemy and doesn't want to be forced to be a battle mage. Thorn is a talentless Inventor. they should have nothing in common but when they meet spark fly and instant attraction not only that but Thorn might be the life mate of Kenneth the one person who by beiong with him can vastly increase the power of Kenneth's magic. but there is trouble brewing in this country a weaker mage has discovered a way to steal and store another mage's energy then use it against others. not to mention the predujices of both the Mages and the talentless against each other. Kenneth and Thorn struggle against this to have a relationship and to live.
Lord Kenneth is a noble mage son of a famous Battle mage who led the Mages to victory over the talentless (non magic users).He is also interested in the more peaceful magic of alchemy and doesn't want to be forced to be a battle mage. Thorn is a talentless Inventor. they should have nothing in common but when they meet spark fly and instant attraction not only that but Thorn might be the life mate of Kenneth the one person who by beiong with him can vastly increase the power of Kenneth's magic. but there is trouble brewing in this country a weaker mage has discovered a way to steal and store another mage's energy then use it against others. not to mention the predujices of both the Mages and the talentless against each other. Kenneth and Thorn struggle against this to have a relationship and to live.
May 21, 2013
A nice read, even if I think the pacing was a bit off here and there but nothing glaring.
This is one of those book that felt longer than it actually is. Sort of like when I thought I should have been at page 50 but actually at page 20.
The world building was pretty standard steam punk/magic style with the starcrossed lovers plot. There was no age given to the MCs but seemed to imply that they were in their early 20s. Kenneth, the sheltered magi lord, fallen for the rough and ready journeyman inventor, Thorn.
I won't go too much into the plot. The story was definitely the beginning of the arc (hence the series name). So I am curious to see what will happened later.
This is one of those book that felt longer than it actually is. Sort of like when I thought I should have been at page 50 but actually at page 20.
The world building was pretty standard steam punk/magic style with the starcrossed lovers plot. There was no age given to the MCs but seemed to imply that they were in their early 20s. Kenneth, the sheltered magi lord, fallen for the rough and ready journeyman inventor, Thorn.
I won't go too much into the plot. The story was definitely the beginning of the arc (hence the series name). So I am curious to see what will happened later.
June 6, 2013
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
This is a world rich with color, magic and imagination. The talentless are not able to deal magic while Mage’s can. After the great war magic won and most Talentless are sent into slums to live. What a story! I could not stop reading, I was to absorbed in the world, invested in the characters. I hear there is a sequel out and I for one, can’t wait to read it!
Noble Magic is so much more than just a great story, it’s an adventure and experience that no one should pass up!
This is a world rich with color, magic and imagination. The talentless are not able to deal magic while Mage’s can. After the great war magic won and most Talentless are sent into slums to live. What a story! I could not stop reading, I was to absorbed in the world, invested in the characters. I hear there is a sequel out and I for one, can’t wait to read it!
Noble Magic is so much more than just a great story, it’s an adventure and experience that no one should pass up!
June 21, 2013
What is it with these things and ignoring everything for the sake of sex at the end?
It makes it tawdry.
The cover's really weird, but the story was kind of interesting. I hate how everything was ignored in the end, as I said, and kind of pissed it trailed into bk 2 like that. I seems like it was broken up solely for the sake of earning more money, which just makes the entire thing kind of gauche and leaves a proverbial bad taste in my mouth.
*sigh
Onto book 2, I guess (although where this one ended has me going grudgingly).
I think I still kind of liked it...
It makes it tawdry.
The cover's really weird, but the story was kind of interesting. I hate how everything was ignored in the end, as I said, and kind of pissed it trailed into bk 2 like that. I seems like it was broken up solely for the sake of earning more money, which just makes the entire thing kind of gauche and leaves a proverbial bad taste in my mouth.
*sigh
Onto book 2, I guess (although where this one ended has me going grudgingly).
I think I still kind of liked it...
June 9, 2014
Cute story, but it feels more like a beginning than a story in itself,so I don't have that much to say except than I need to read the next one in the serie.
If you liked this you'll totally love Lord of the White Hell, which has a very similar setting and premise, but it's more complex (probably because it's longer, too).
If you liked this you'll totally love Lord of the White Hell, which has a very similar setting and premise, but it's more complex (probably because it's longer, too).
January 26, 2015
Good story but too short. All three should have been one book.
The relationship between the two MC seemed a bit rushed at the beginning. I think there should have been a little more time involved in developing their relationship.
The relationship between the two MC seemed a bit rushed at the beginning. I think there should have been a little more time involved in developing their relationship.
May 21, 2013
Blend of all genres I like. I really enjoyed it, reminds me a bit of Trudi Canavan with magic wielding and non magic wielding people...
October 13, 2023
Good concept but poor execution.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews