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Requiem for the Rift King #1
Storm Without End
Kalen’s throne is his saddle, his crown is the dirt on his brow, and his right to rule is sealed in the blood that stains his hand. Few know the truth about the one-armed Rift King, and he prefers it that way. When people get too close to him, they either betray him or die. The Rift he rules cares nothing for the weak. More often than not, even the strong fail to survive.
When he’s abducted, his disappearance threatens to destroy his home, his people, and start a hopeless and bloody war. There are many who desire his death, and few who hope for his survival. With peace in the Six Kingdoms quickly crumbling, it falls on him to try to stop the conflict swiftly taking the entire continent by storm.
But something even more terrifying than the machinations of men has returned to the lands: The skreed. They haven’t been seen for a thousand years, and even the true power of the Rift King might not be enough to save his people — and the world — from destruction.
When he’s abducted, his disappearance threatens to destroy his home, his people, and start a hopeless and bloody war. There are many who desire his death, and few who hope for his survival. With peace in the Six Kingdoms quickly crumbling, it falls on him to try to stop the conflict swiftly taking the entire continent by storm.
But something even more terrifying than the machinations of men has returned to the lands: The skreed. They haven’t been seen for a thousand years, and even the true power of the Rift King might not be enough to save his people — and the world — from destruction.
- GenresFantasy
406 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2013
23 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Blain
84 books1,312 followersRJ Blain suffers from a Moleskine journal obsession, a pen fixation, and a terrible tendency to pun without warning.
When she isn't playing pretend, she likes to think she's a cartographer and a sumi-e painter. In reality, she herds cats and a husband, and obeys the commands of Tsu Dhi, the great warrior fish.
In her spare time, she daydreams about being a spy. Should that fail, her contingency plan involves tying her best of enemies to spinning wheels and quoting James Bond villains until she is satisfied.
When she isn't playing pretend, she likes to think she's a cartographer and a sumi-e painter. In reality, she herds cats and a husband, and obeys the commands of Tsu Dhi, the great warrior fish.
In her spare time, she daydreams about being a spy. Should that fail, her contingency plan involves tying her best of enemies to spinning wheels and quoting James Bond villains until she is satisfied.
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July 10, 2014I Really Liked It
There were some great things I really enjoyed about this book. First, there are talking horselike creatures that are rather nifty and the Rift people have horses they are extremely fond of. I’m a huge fan of incorporating animals in books so it was very pleasant to read about the connection the characters had with these animals. Might have been my favorite part.
Something I also liked was the main protagonist, the Rift King himself. Unlike most of our heroes, he’s not a towering walking mass of muscle, not that I mind those. He’s short, missing an arm, and rather skinny. Furthermore, he kinda gets hurt a lot. That’s not to say he’s weak; he can actually be a bit of a badass. As much as I enjoyed it, I also found that Blain’s constant referral to his childlike size made me think of him more as a child, or at least a teenager, when he’s actually thirty. Even in the book he’s mistaken as a child. It screws with my perception a bit.
Of course, I like the fact the Rift King has overcome some major obstacles. He’s had a bad round of it, but he keeps fighting. He’s a strong character and one you can get behind. He has some vulnerabilities that were touched on, which I hope we see more of in the second book. Which brings me to my next thought: This felt like a setup. There was a lot of information thrown at you with little initial explanation, and several things were more hinted at; vague sentences that later revealed themselves. Honestly, this was the biggest negative for me. If I would have known some stuff up front, I would have had more sympathy for the characters. I would have understood more. I would have connected more. Sometimes I felt like I was in the dark trying to find my way to the door with little luck. To compound that feeling, I did find myself a bit lost during some action scenes. This just might be because I lack a solid imagination.
Another thing I enjoyed was the relationship between the Guardians and the Rift King. It was interesting to read about and gave the story a nice lift. I might still be a bit confused about the whole Rift people and their traditions, but it’s coming together. Like I said, this book felt like a setup for book 2 in the fact that it’s got a base, but there’s still a lot of questions and thoughts half explored. It was annoying, but it’s got me curious enough that I’ll be reading book 2 when it comes out.
These negatives kept me at the slightest distance. Still, there were some very interesting ideas in this book and I enjoyed the story immensely. I hope now that we have a nice built up base that book 2 will be more satisfying.
There were some great things I really enjoyed about this book. First, there are talking horselike creatures that are rather nifty and the Rift people have horses they are extremely fond of. I’m a huge fan of incorporating animals in books so it was very pleasant to read about the connection the characters had with these animals. Might have been my favorite part.
Something I also liked was the main protagonist, the Rift King himself. Unlike most of our heroes, he’s not a towering walking mass of muscle, not that I mind those. He’s short, missing an arm, and rather skinny. Furthermore, he kinda gets hurt a lot. That’s not to say he’s weak; he can actually be a bit of a badass. As much as I enjoyed it, I also found that Blain’s constant referral to his childlike size made me think of him more as a child, or at least a teenager, when he’s actually thirty. Even in the book he’s mistaken as a child. It screws with my perception a bit.
Of course, I like the fact the Rift King has overcome some major obstacles. He’s had a bad round of it, but he keeps fighting. He’s a strong character and one you can get behind. He has some vulnerabilities that were touched on, which I hope we see more of in the second book. Which brings me to my next thought: This felt like a setup. There was a lot of information thrown at you with little initial explanation, and several things were more hinted at; vague sentences that later revealed themselves. Honestly, this was the biggest negative for me. If I would have known some stuff up front, I would have had more sympathy for the characters. I would have understood more. I would have connected more. Sometimes I felt like I was in the dark trying to find my way to the door with little luck. To compound that feeling, I did find myself a bit lost during some action scenes. This just might be because I lack a solid imagination.
Another thing I enjoyed was the relationship between the Guardians and the Rift King. It was interesting to read about and gave the story a nice lift. I might still be a bit confused about the whole Rift people and their traditions, but it’s coming together. Like I said, this book felt like a setup for book 2 in the fact that it’s got a base, but there’s still a lot of questions and thoughts half explored. It was annoying, but it’s got me curious enough that I’ll be reading book 2 when it comes out.
These negatives kept me at the slightest distance. Still, there were some very interesting ideas in this book and I enjoyed the story immensely. I hope now that we have a nice built up base that book 2 will be more satisfying.
October 19, 2016
Full review plus interview with R. J. Blain over at Fantasy Book Critic
OVERVIEW/ANALYSIS: Storm Without End is the first book in the Return Of The Rift King series, the story begins with Kalen who seems to be wrestling with some big internal demons while trying to be as incognito as possible. He’s a bit diminutive in size and so folks often mistake him for being a child. Those who try to inflict harm upon him for believing him to be small, don’t live long enough to change their erroneous ways. He finds himself waking up without boots and at pains to recall how he got into his current state. In the place known as the Rift, there are several guardians who are alarmed at the disappearance of the Rift King and are actively working to figure what happened exactly. If this blurb sounds confusing, then it is exactly what the author intended.
The book drops the reader into the happenings without much of an explanation very similar to the Malazan books. The reader shares the confusion experienced by the main character Kalen as both are trying to figure out what exactly is happening. The Rift is a hot, dry place that separates the sox kingdoms and keep the fragile peace. However with the disappearance of the rift king, all bets are off and nobody knows what exactly is happening. This book actively uses the reader’s vertigo as the author slowly unveils the world and the geo-political rumblings within. While I admired the author’s approach in setting up the story this way, the reading experience was certainly hampered to a minor degree.
Going on to the characterizations, this being a multi-POV book, we do get to see the action unfold from other characters besides Kalen and that is helpful as the world is fleshed out better. Kalen however is the main draw as the readers will be drawn to him the most, he certainly is a big highlight of the book as he struggles to accept his power and the troubles that follow because of it. I loved watching his internal and external struggles and an extra bonus to the author for providing us with a hero who is physically handicapped but does his best even with it. Fantasy books have at large ignored physically handicapped characters and so this was an interesting change. The pace of the story is such that while the readers might feel confused at the beginning, there is enough impetus provided to keep on reading. Plus after the first third, the story picks up properly and then we are racing along all the way to the brutal climax. Another plus point is the addition of sentient horses to the plot and this was another cool feature about the book. I can't wait to read more about them and see their increasing influence across the plot.
Now the things that didn’t make the story work, firstly was the fact that majorly this book felt like a big set-up for the entire series. Some authors like Tad Williams and Kate Elliott can pull such a thing off however Storm Without End suffers because of this feature. Also there’s a lot of world details that seem confusing as those very details only are hinted towards the end.
Overall I feel that this book is a good book that perhaps needed a couple more drafts. It has some telling action sequences, a very likeable hero trapped in desperate circumstances and overall an intriguing plot. I enjoyed it in spite of its minor foibles and will be interested to see where the author takes the story in the sequel. Storm Without End is an interesting fantasy that features a physically handicapped protagonist and hints at darker and more fantastical things to come.
OVERVIEW/ANALYSIS: Storm Without End is the first book in the Return Of The Rift King series, the story begins with Kalen who seems to be wrestling with some big internal demons while trying to be as incognito as possible. He’s a bit diminutive in size and so folks often mistake him for being a child. Those who try to inflict harm upon him for believing him to be small, don’t live long enough to change their erroneous ways. He finds himself waking up without boots and at pains to recall how he got into his current state. In the place known as the Rift, there are several guardians who are alarmed at the disappearance of the Rift King and are actively working to figure what happened exactly. If this blurb sounds confusing, then it is exactly what the author intended.
The book drops the reader into the happenings without much of an explanation very similar to the Malazan books. The reader shares the confusion experienced by the main character Kalen as both are trying to figure out what exactly is happening. The Rift is a hot, dry place that separates the sox kingdoms and keep the fragile peace. However with the disappearance of the rift king, all bets are off and nobody knows what exactly is happening. This book actively uses the reader’s vertigo as the author slowly unveils the world and the geo-political rumblings within. While I admired the author’s approach in setting up the story this way, the reading experience was certainly hampered to a minor degree.
Going on to the characterizations, this being a multi-POV book, we do get to see the action unfold from other characters besides Kalen and that is helpful as the world is fleshed out better. Kalen however is the main draw as the readers will be drawn to him the most, he certainly is a big highlight of the book as he struggles to accept his power and the troubles that follow because of it. I loved watching his internal and external struggles and an extra bonus to the author for providing us with a hero who is physically handicapped but does his best even with it. Fantasy books have at large ignored physically handicapped characters and so this was an interesting change. The pace of the story is such that while the readers might feel confused at the beginning, there is enough impetus provided to keep on reading. Plus after the first third, the story picks up properly and then we are racing along all the way to the brutal climax. Another plus point is the addition of sentient horses to the plot and this was another cool feature about the book. I can't wait to read more about them and see their increasing influence across the plot.
Now the things that didn’t make the story work, firstly was the fact that majorly this book felt like a big set-up for the entire series. Some authors like Tad Williams and Kate Elliott can pull such a thing off however Storm Without End suffers because of this feature. Also there’s a lot of world details that seem confusing as those very details only are hinted towards the end.
Overall I feel that this book is a good book that perhaps needed a couple more drafts. It has some telling action sequences, a very likeable hero trapped in desperate circumstances and overall an intriguing plot. I enjoyed it in spite of its minor foibles and will be interested to see where the author takes the story in the sequel. Storm Without End is an interesting fantasy that features a physically handicapped protagonist and hints at darker and more fantastical things to come.
January 1, 2015
Storm Without End makes no secret of its multi-volume nature. It says it right on the cover but if I'm going to pick the thing that irked me most reading this book it was the lack of a complete story. It's not just that there are things left unresolved. It's that nothing is resolved at all. I didn't feel like I'd reached the end of a story arc.
That complaint out of the way I should emphasise that I fully expect to read the next book in the series and that one of the reasons I found the abrupt end so frustrating is that I was really interested in the mysteries that had been set up. Multi-book stories are both popular with readers (who seem to like long fantasy stories) and also a good thing for the author because the second book is a known quantity and easier sell. But balancing giving a satisfying story with hooking people in for the next part is not an easy thing. There's certainly plenty of hook here.
Who, What, Where?
We're brought into this fantasy world almost entirely in the dark and rather mysteriously our primary viewpoint character Kalen also seems to be in the dark. Confused about where he is and how he got there.
This authorly sleight of hand has two benefits. It legitimately lets people explain things or figure things out without it feeling like a blatant infodump and it also allows the story to sparingly hand out information keeping the reader in the dark.
At times that can be quite frustrating and you just want to know what's going on and who that guy is referring to, and why is The Rift so dangerous anyway? But, it does keep you interested. Perhaps the more substantive complaint is that even by the end of this first book there are still an awful lot of unknowns. And some of it is stuff where I feel that characters should at least be asking the questions even if they don't get definitive answers back.
Politics and Religion Mix With Violence
There's a lot of both politics and religion going on in Storm Without End. But we're mostly seeing the results of that, not the maneuvering that creates the situation. So to that extent the world we're presented with is both deep and shallow at this point.
We know almost nothing actually about the religion of the invading country except that it appears to be quite nasty. We also know almost nothing about the true nature of the Rift King even though he is the primary viewpoint character for the story. The implication is that there is more to be revealed in both cases.
What we do know is that a combination of politics and religion has basically created the conditions for the invasion that is happening. Why Kalen, the Rift King has ended up in the middle of it is less clear. And what he or anyone else is going to do about it, I guess will be answered in the next book?
Always At A Disadvantage
Kalen himself is actually quite an appealing character. He's clearly very capable (most of the time, sometimes he's just jumpy) but he spends most of this book at one major disadvantage or another. As the Rift King he has significant power (hinted at for much of the book and this one is explained at least partially before the book is done) but circumstances contrive to keep him frequently helpless whether it's from a broken hand or some other situation.
What's appealing about him is that this endless succession of bad luck doesn't seem to get him down that much. He just keeps planning and trying and fighting back. And when he gets to build up steam a little he can do some damage.
But it does mean he spends the whole book being reactionary, as do his allies. He seems to have been caught by surprise by this invasion (despite being a King and having substantial intelligence at his command) and gets repeatedly caught and handed off to different groups that he then has to attempt to escape from.
Summarizing it like this it sounds a bit negative, but the thing is that the pacing and the action keep that side of the book hopping along nicely. There's always something dramatic or dangerous happening, you always want to read the next chapter to see how he gets out of it.
Talking Animals?
Well, sort of. Kalen and the others from the Rift seem to be able to telepathically communicate with their horses and the animals seem to be substantially smarter and more dangerous than your regular horse.
In addition there are other horse-like creatures that are also able to communicate telepathically. I'm not clear if there's a link between the two or not. These certainly aren't cutesy talking animals, they can be downright vicious in fact and they do have distinct personalities of their own.
There's really nothing cutesy about this story at all. The Rift is clearly a bloody and dangerous place as are the other kingdoms.
Lots of Potential, All Setup
So basically I enjoyed reading this, until it stopped. It feels, looking back on it, as though I've mainly read setup for what will happen in the next two books.
But I really want to read what will happen.
That complaint out of the way I should emphasise that I fully expect to read the next book in the series and that one of the reasons I found the abrupt end so frustrating is that I was really interested in the mysteries that had been set up. Multi-book stories are both popular with readers (who seem to like long fantasy stories) and also a good thing for the author because the second book is a known quantity and easier sell. But balancing giving a satisfying story with hooking people in for the next part is not an easy thing. There's certainly plenty of hook here.
Who, What, Where?
We're brought into this fantasy world almost entirely in the dark and rather mysteriously our primary viewpoint character Kalen also seems to be in the dark. Confused about where he is and how he got there.
This authorly sleight of hand has two benefits. It legitimately lets people explain things or figure things out without it feeling like a blatant infodump and it also allows the story to sparingly hand out information keeping the reader in the dark.
At times that can be quite frustrating and you just want to know what's going on and who that guy is referring to, and why is The Rift so dangerous anyway? But, it does keep you interested. Perhaps the more substantive complaint is that even by the end of this first book there are still an awful lot of unknowns. And some of it is stuff where I feel that characters should at least be asking the questions even if they don't get definitive answers back.
Politics and Religion Mix With Violence
There's a lot of both politics and religion going on in Storm Without End. But we're mostly seeing the results of that, not the maneuvering that creates the situation. So to that extent the world we're presented with is both deep and shallow at this point.
We know almost nothing actually about the religion of the invading country except that it appears to be quite nasty. We also know almost nothing about the true nature of the Rift King even though he is the primary viewpoint character for the story. The implication is that there is more to be revealed in both cases.
What we do know is that a combination of politics and religion has basically created the conditions for the invasion that is happening. Why Kalen, the Rift King has ended up in the middle of it is less clear. And what he or anyone else is going to do about it, I guess will be answered in the next book?
Always At A Disadvantage
Kalen himself is actually quite an appealing character. He's clearly very capable (most of the time, sometimes he's just jumpy) but he spends most of this book at one major disadvantage or another. As the Rift King he has significant power (hinted at for much of the book and this one is explained at least partially before the book is done) but circumstances contrive to keep him frequently helpless whether it's from a broken hand or some other situation.
What's appealing about him is that this endless succession of bad luck doesn't seem to get him down that much. He just keeps planning and trying and fighting back. And when he gets to build up steam a little he can do some damage.
But it does mean he spends the whole book being reactionary, as do his allies. He seems to have been caught by surprise by this invasion (despite being a King and having substantial intelligence at his command) and gets repeatedly caught and handed off to different groups that he then has to attempt to escape from.
Summarizing it like this it sounds a bit negative, but the thing is that the pacing and the action keep that side of the book hopping along nicely. There's always something dramatic or dangerous happening, you always want to read the next chapter to see how he gets out of it.
Talking Animals?
Well, sort of. Kalen and the others from the Rift seem to be able to telepathically communicate with their horses and the animals seem to be substantially smarter and more dangerous than your regular horse.
In addition there are other horse-like creatures that are also able to communicate telepathically. I'm not clear if there's a link between the two or not. These certainly aren't cutesy talking animals, they can be downright vicious in fact and they do have distinct personalities of their own.
There's really nothing cutesy about this story at all. The Rift is clearly a bloody and dangerous place as are the other kingdoms.
Lots of Potential, All Setup
So basically I enjoyed reading this, until it stopped. It feels, looking back on it, as though I've mainly read setup for what will happen in the next two books.
But I really want to read what will happen.
January 6, 2016
This is one fantastic book! Be prepared to read this one from front to back covers in as few sittings as possible - it is that good.
The pace is relentless, the characters extremely well thought out and the storyline never lets the reader go. This is a book the reader becomes totally immersed in from the first page and it doesn't let the reader down at any point throughout the gripping, thrilling rollercoaster of a ride that this story is. We see the land around us as we read. We fight for our lives alongside each character. We feel the heat of victory, the fear, the sadness and the relief throughout each turning page... and we feel the desperate need for real life to not intrude while we follow the characters throughout their lands.
This is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone who likes the thrill of the chase not just the fantasy fans.
I won a paperback copy of the book
The pace is relentless, the characters extremely well thought out and the storyline never lets the reader go. This is a book the reader becomes totally immersed in from the first page and it doesn't let the reader down at any point throughout the gripping, thrilling rollercoaster of a ride that this story is. We see the land around us as we read. We fight for our lives alongside each character. We feel the heat of victory, the fear, the sadness and the relief throughout each turning page... and we feel the desperate need for real life to not intrude while we follow the characters throughout their lands.
This is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone who likes the thrill of the chase not just the fantasy fans.
I won a paperback copy of the book
February 9, 2017
Very few books with high body counts make it to my favorites shelf, but Storm Without End is sitting in a bloody puddle right next to Inquisitor and Winter Wolf. Furthermore, R.J. Blain is now on my 'buy her book as soon as I can afford it' list.
Storm Without End blew me away. I completely lost track of time while I was enthralled with Kalen's world. I finished about 40 minutes ago, and I am still in shock. What an awesomely twisty tale of betrayal, magic, family, honor, duty, and death. Although I prefer first person point of view and a single narrator, I have no argument with the decision to use two different third person points of view. I may add more to this review after I read Storm again. I have no idea where I will find the patience to wait for book #2.
Storm Without End blew me away. I completely lost track of time while I was enthralled with Kalen's world. I finished about 40 minutes ago, and I am still in shock. What an awesomely twisty tale of betrayal, magic, family, honor, duty, and death. Although I prefer first person point of view and a single narrator, I have no argument with the decision to use two different third person points of view. I may add more to this review after I read Storm again. I have no idea where I will find the patience to wait for book #2.
May 25, 2018
I had to think of how to define this book without too many comparisons , because I really enjoyed its fresh viewpoint. Mystical fantasy would be the best; it’s difficult task but when story elements are well balanced it’s awesome! Mercedes Lackey’s stories of Valdemar would be my first comparison for human/ animal bonding & interactions. I don’t say this lightly because I & my son love Valdemar; they only other series we have found similar is Kristen Britain’s Green Rider series. The equine companions pick their rider & have the right to refuse or accept any other rider. They also can share the telepathic link with others that have the capability to accept this link. Having this link is a gift that comes with the added requirement of accepting the opinions & decisions of their companions as an team member. There is just enough explanation to explain a situation but not so much as to drag down the action.
The difference here starts with the Rift as an independent community; they follow no king or queen. They are the final arbitrators in any conflict between Dominions ; they enforce the peace & cooperation of all. They are not allowed to take sides in any minor squabbles between Dominions. They only step in if the fighting will affect the general well-being of all. They also have the duty of resolving civil disagreements & record keeping of all paperwork...the least liked of all the duties! ; )
The Rifters do have a King whose word is the final law in all things. They keep to themselves & only leave the Rift if necessary for errands & missions. This story revolves around Kalen, the Rift King, who is discovered to have gone missing. None of the Guardians noticed him leaving, which is alarming in itself, because their main duty is guarding the King everywhere he goes. Everywhere. The search for Kalen is one viewpoint; Kalen’s disorientation is the second viewpoint. He has no idea where he is, where his companions are , or how they got there. He thought this was impossible ...the kidnapping of a Rifter. The story evolves into a plot by evil blood cultists...and to say more would spoil the story! The second book will be the next one downloaded to my IBooks !
The difference here starts with the Rift as an independent community; they follow no king or queen. They are the final arbitrators in any conflict between Dominions ; they enforce the peace & cooperation of all. They are not allowed to take sides in any minor squabbles between Dominions. They only step in if the fighting will affect the general well-being of all. They also have the duty of resolving civil disagreements & record keeping of all paperwork...the least liked of all the duties! ; )
The Rifters do have a King whose word is the final law in all things. They keep to themselves & only leave the Rift if necessary for errands & missions. This story revolves around Kalen, the Rift King, who is discovered to have gone missing. None of the Guardians noticed him leaving, which is alarming in itself, because their main duty is guarding the King everywhere he goes. Everywhere. The search for Kalen is one viewpoint; Kalen’s disorientation is the second viewpoint. He has no idea where he is, where his companions are , or how they got there. He thought this was impossible ...the kidnapping of a Rifter. The story evolves into a plot by evil blood cultists...and to say more would spoil the story! The second book will be the next one downloaded to my IBooks !
July 23, 2017
Interesting and Unique
RJ Blain has created a unique world and characters. The plot was interesting and well paced. The editing needs work and sometimes the writing is a little too oblique. While I don't like to be spoon fed sometimes the plot was a little hard for me to follow. With that said I do recommend this book. I have already purchased the second one in this series and will start it as soon as I finish this review.
RJ Blain has created a unique world and characters. The plot was interesting and well paced. The editing needs work and sometimes the writing is a little too oblique. While I don't like to be spoon fed sometimes the plot was a little hard for me to follow. With that said I do recommend this book. I have already purchased the second one in this series and will start it as soon as I finish this review.
August 4, 2018
Couldn’t even finish this book. I tried but then I read posts off her page and couldn’t help but think what a presumptive witch with a B! She is so condescending towards her readers that she doesn’t deserve to have readers. Then I read her books and realized it’s her way of brushing off the fact that she writes trash!
December 26, 2018
As always, I enjoyed Blain's characters. I struggled a bit though during the scenes without the main character present. There were a lot of details that I had difficulty finding relevant to the main story.
August 15, 2019
This is book one and I would t read any further of the series cause if they’re anything like this boom you’re going to be disappointed.
January 13, 2023
Not my speed in terms of plot, but the writing and world building kept me happy. Some authors are good like that, and Blain's one of 'em.
April 10, 2015
I'm so glad that I read Storm Without End just before Storm Surge (the sequel) came out. Because by the time the book ends, you'll want to purchase the next one.
Storm Surge starts with Kalen, the Rift King, as he's out of his kingdom. Why? We don't know, but the poor guy is going to undergo a lot of suffering before the book ends. At the same time, his guardians are out there searching for him, because if he dies, the Rift will Ride. Ok, I don't know what that really implies, but it's a cool phrase that's repeated quite a few times.
Kalen, the poor guy with the worst luck in this book, is a young 30 year old Rift king who's been reigning for 15 years. Because of his small size and missing arm, people can underestimate him. Even I underestimated what he could do, although I could see he was smart. But at the end of the book, I found out just how powerful he is, which justified the reasons why the Rift King was so feared.
Apart from Kalen, there are a few other characters, like his father Breton and his - whoops, almost had a spoiler there. Suffice to say, Kalen's familial relations are complicated, even if we don't include his many, many adopted foals (sons/daughters. The Rift seems to love their horse and horse-inspired terms). Anyway, Breton comes across to me as a really sweet guy, although as a Guardian, I'm pretty sure I'd be scared of him if I met him.
As for the Rift, well, I haven't really figured out what it was. I know slightly more about this world at the end of the book than at the start, but I can't say I know everything. I know, for instance, how Kalen becomes the Rift King (and how Rift Kings are made), but the reason why the Rift King is so important, I still don't know.
This book basically builds up for the next book. This world that R.J. has built is very unfamiliar to me, so the time spent on getting to know it should pay off in the later books. At least, given the promising cast of characters so far, I hope it does.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Storm Surge starts with Kalen, the Rift King, as he's out of his kingdom. Why? We don't know, but the poor guy is going to undergo a lot of suffering before the book ends. At the same time, his guardians are out there searching for him, because if he dies, the Rift will Ride. Ok, I don't know what that really implies, but it's a cool phrase that's repeated quite a few times.
Kalen, the poor guy with the worst luck in this book, is a young 30 year old Rift king who's been reigning for 15 years. Because of his small size and missing arm, people can underestimate him. Even I underestimated what he could do, although I could see he was smart. But at the end of the book, I found out just how powerful he is, which justified the reasons why the Rift King was so feared.
Apart from Kalen, there are a few other characters, like his father Breton and his - whoops, almost had a spoiler there. Suffice to say, Kalen's familial relations are complicated, even if we don't include his many, many adopted foals (sons/daughters. The Rift seems to love their horse and horse-inspired terms). Anyway, Breton comes across to me as a really sweet guy, although as a Guardian, I'm pretty sure I'd be scared of him if I met him.
As for the Rift, well, I haven't really figured out what it was. I know slightly more about this world at the end of the book than at the start, but I can't say I know everything. I know, for instance, how Kalen becomes the Rift King (and how Rift Kings are made), but the reason why the Rift King is so important, I still don't know.
This book basically builds up for the next book. This world that R.J. has built is very unfamiliar to me, so the time spent on getting to know it should pay off in the later books. At least, given the promising cast of characters so far, I hope it does.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
April 25, 2014
3 1/2 stars
Storm without End is the first of R.J. Blain’s Requiem for the Rift King series. The epic fantasy series revolves around the Rift King of Kalen that suddenly finds himself outside of his kingdom and in hostile territory. His disappearance threatens the peace in the Six Kingdoms. His protectors ride out of the rift in search of their king and hoping to prevent war and destruction.
Like any epic fantasy novel, Blain introduces us to a complete new world resulting in a lot of explaining and confusion until the reader has a grasp on the fantasy world. I felt, however, that there were entirely too many secrets to which the writer was constantly alluding. Of course, there needs to be an element of secrecy in such a novel, but in this case it was, in my humble opinion, a tad much. I was also disappointed that in spite of the writer being a woman she kept to the time honored tradition of not including a strong female character in the narrative. Dare I hope that one will emerge in the next book of the series? The story was also very violent, as to be expected, but the violence against women and children was chilling. This book is not for the faint-hearted. I hate to make any comments about typo’s and grammatical errors as I know how hard it is for an indie author to find a good editor or do it all on her own. Unfortunately, there were enough errors that it was at times disruptive to the reader.
The story itself was very well-thought out. There were twists and turns to keep the reader enticed. Although it took me quite a while to get into the novel, I was turning the pages quicker and quicker towards the end to learn what answers to secrets the author deemed the reader worthy of learning at the end of the first novel of the series.
I recommend this book for lovers of epic fantasy novels that are not weak stomached.
Storm without End is the first of R.J. Blain’s Requiem for the Rift King series. The epic fantasy series revolves around the Rift King of Kalen that suddenly finds himself outside of his kingdom and in hostile territory. His disappearance threatens the peace in the Six Kingdoms. His protectors ride out of the rift in search of their king and hoping to prevent war and destruction.
Like any epic fantasy novel, Blain introduces us to a complete new world resulting in a lot of explaining and confusion until the reader has a grasp on the fantasy world. I felt, however, that there were entirely too many secrets to which the writer was constantly alluding. Of course, there needs to be an element of secrecy in such a novel, but in this case it was, in my humble opinion, a tad much. I was also disappointed that in spite of the writer being a woman she kept to the time honored tradition of not including a strong female character in the narrative. Dare I hope that one will emerge in the next book of the series? The story was also very violent, as to be expected, but the violence against women and children was chilling. This book is not for the faint-hearted. I hate to make any comments about typo’s and grammatical errors as I know how hard it is for an indie author to find a good editor or do it all on her own. Unfortunately, there were enough errors that it was at times disruptive to the reader.
The story itself was very well-thought out. There were twists and turns to keep the reader enticed. Although it took me quite a while to get into the novel, I was turning the pages quicker and quicker towards the end to learn what answers to secrets the author deemed the reader worthy of learning at the end of the first novel of the series.
I recommend this book for lovers of epic fantasy novels that are not weak stomached.
December 19, 2014
Now, a lot of authors know that if you have a book with a horse featured in it, I’m there. Cause, I want a pony and this is the only way I’m gonna get one, vicariously. If you give that horse a bit more intelligence and personality than the average riding horse in a book, I’m there until the horse is no longer there.
Ferethian is flashy, dark, spirited, fast, intelligent, and his personality is matched only by his rider. Kalen is just as flashy and spirited as his mount. He’s so spirited, it’s hard to keep him at his job! That is, to be the Rift King.
We don’t actually get to see a lot of the Rift in this book. What we do see is the group that is supposed to keep Kalen at his job leading a high speed chase through a different countryside, battling some of the most disgusting monsters you’ve ever read about. But what happened to Kalen? By some unknown magic he got dumped somewhere very strange. And he is about to meet people he never thought he’d see. He’s going to learn about a side of himself that was hidden a long, LONG time ago. And it’s not going to make him any safer. In fact, only a man who is the Rift King could possibly be beaten this badly and still survive. What kind of magic could make the will of this man make him survive when even his followers are convinced that he’s a goner?
It’s just the kind of man he is. He’s the Rift King. I just have to admire this man. And I want more of the Rift King, and these pretty ponies, and this whole world where survival can be pretty darn difficult.
If you want exciting fantasy, then RJ Blain is one of the authors you are going to want to follow.
Ferethian is flashy, dark, spirited, fast, intelligent, and his personality is matched only by his rider. Kalen is just as flashy and spirited as his mount. He’s so spirited, it’s hard to keep him at his job! That is, to be the Rift King.
We don’t actually get to see a lot of the Rift in this book. What we do see is the group that is supposed to keep Kalen at his job leading a high speed chase through a different countryside, battling some of the most disgusting monsters you’ve ever read about. But what happened to Kalen? By some unknown magic he got dumped somewhere very strange. And he is about to meet people he never thought he’d see. He’s going to learn about a side of himself that was hidden a long, LONG time ago. And it’s not going to make him any safer. In fact, only a man who is the Rift King could possibly be beaten this badly and still survive. What kind of magic could make the will of this man make him survive when even his followers are convinced that he’s a goner?
It’s just the kind of man he is. He’s the Rift King. I just have to admire this man. And I want more of the Rift King, and these pretty ponies, and this whole world where survival can be pretty darn difficult.
If you want exciting fantasy, then RJ Blain is one of the authors you are going to want to follow.
April 22, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was the best fantasy tales that I’ve read in a long while. Blain combines the traditional elements in a fantasy tale with unique elements to create a captivating and well-rounded whole that you won`t be able to put down. This author`s vivid yet straightforward descriptions not only paint a picture for the reader but draws them right into the heart of the story.
I thoroughly appreciated the convictions that ran through many of these characters, be they human, equine, or other. The clash of beliefs and of individuals is part of what makes this story so riveting. I found myself so drawn into their lives and their personas that I could easily identify with them. I also really got to know the characters in this story on many different levels.
This novel is so well written with a seamless storyline so that you cannot help but fall in love with the story. Blain held me from the first page to the last. I can’t wait to read the sequel.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly appreciated the convictions that ran through many of these characters, be they human, equine, or other. The clash of beliefs and of individuals is part of what makes this story so riveting. I found myself so drawn into their lives and their personas that I could easily identify with them. I also really got to know the characters in this story on many different levels.
This novel is so well written with a seamless storyline so that you cannot help but fall in love with the story. Blain held me from the first page to the last. I can’t wait to read the sequel.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2013
4.5 stars. I'll be honest with this - I was a proofreader for the project, so I saw it before polishing and formatting and publishing. But I still loved the story.
Kalen and Breton's relationship is intense, fun, and very real. Kalen himself is someone I would never want to cross - he's dangerous, but has a really soft heart for all his hardened exterior.
Breton is a concerned Guardian, in more ways than one, and is driven by his desire to keep Kalen safe.
The book takes a lot of twists and turns - and Kalen gets thrown off the roller coaster more than a few times. I think RJ's ability to continue to put her characters on peril is a great attribute in her writing. You never get bored.
This book has a lot of heart and intense moments, and I'm looking forward to being involved in the sequel.
Kalen and Breton's relationship is intense, fun, and very real. Kalen himself is someone I would never want to cross - he's dangerous, but has a really soft heart for all his hardened exterior.
Breton is a concerned Guardian, in more ways than one, and is driven by his desire to keep Kalen safe.
The book takes a lot of twists and turns - and Kalen gets thrown off the roller coaster more than a few times. I think RJ's ability to continue to put her characters on peril is a great attribute in her writing. You never get bored.
This book has a lot of heart and intense moments, and I'm looking forward to being involved in the sequel.
December 21, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this dark fantasy novel. R. J. Blain takes beating the protagonist to a whole new level, making me often wish for mercy for poor Kalen as he goes through hell. There were a few times I got lost in the dialogue, having to work at figuring out who was speaking, but the ideas and plot were intriguing and different from anything I've read before.
I was surprised the book ended when it did. I'm used to a first book in a series wrapping up most of the loose ends, in case the rest of the series isn't picked up, but this book finishes more like a second book in a trilogy, leaving the reader hungry for more. Perhaps more book #1's will start ending in this manner, with indie authors not having to worry if their publishers will continue with the series.
I look forward to the next book in the series!
I was surprised the book ended when it did. I'm used to a first book in a series wrapping up most of the loose ends, in case the rest of the series isn't picked up, but this book finishes more like a second book in a trilogy, leaving the reader hungry for more. Perhaps more book #1's will start ending in this manner, with indie authors not having to worry if their publishers will continue with the series.
I look forward to the next book in the series!
December 31, 2013
From the moment I started reading it, I did not want to put it down. And if I was interrupted or otherwise had to put it down, it made me grumpy. Towards the end, it started to feel a little long and I was starting to wonder when it was going to end. That, however, could be a result of reading it an electronic version than a paperback.
I absolutely loved how different and unique the world is and yet I never felt completely lost. There were no "info dumps" to get the reader caught up. There would a reference made to some aspect of the world that I wouldn't understand and then a little bit later it would get explained in a scene where it made sense to have a line or two about how or why something worked.
I absolutely loved how different and unique the world is and yet I never felt completely lost. There were no "info dumps" to get the reader caught up. There would a reference made to some aspect of the world that I wouldn't understand and then a little bit later it would get explained in a scene where it made sense to have a line or two about how or why something worked.
January 20, 2014
I started this book with expectations of a grand adventure, strong characters, and fearless warriors. Unfortunately, what I actually got was weak, child-like characters, a vague world, and a slow, dry plot. There were some excellent ideas within this story; the world could have been home to hundreds of gripping tales, and the religions should have borne out deep emotions and characters which burn themselves into my mind. It’s a shame that none of that bore fruit. Blain clearly has some interesting images and ideas, but she buried them too deeply to do this story justice.
Full review available Here
Full review available Here
March 4, 2018
Awesome story
Likely my favorite book by this author. Kalen has many handcaps to deal with. Becoming the Rift King after a childhood suffering through the effects of repeated exposure to poison, froze him in the body of an adolescent and cost him his left arm.
Instead of complaining, he sets out to achieve with wit and skill what his body doesn't have the size or strength to accomplish.
Add to that highly intelligent horses that have a special bond with their chosen rider, dedicated Rift Guardians, feuding countries, and you have a spellbinding adventure.
Well worth the read.
Likely my favorite book by this author. Kalen has many handcaps to deal with. Becoming the Rift King after a childhood suffering through the effects of repeated exposure to poison, froze him in the body of an adolescent and cost him his left arm.
Instead of complaining, he sets out to achieve with wit and skill what his body doesn't have the size or strength to accomplish.
Add to that highly intelligent horses that have a special bond with their chosen rider, dedicated Rift Guardians, feuding countries, and you have a spellbinding adventure.
Well worth the read.
May 15, 2014
I'm still divided on how I feel about this one, several weeks after finishing it. On the one hand, there are some interesting and unusual pieces and parts to the world, but on the other, there are some confusing sections. There are also *lots* of typos and small errors. Generally those things don't really bother me, but when there are enough to slow down my reading, it's annoying.
I'm not sure if I will read the second book in the series or not. Maybe. At the end of this one, I did want to know what would happen next.
I'm not sure if I will read the second book in the series or not. Maybe. At the end of this one, I did want to know what would happen next.
June 20, 2015
I almost gave this book five stars but there was just a little too much confusion, most of which is stuff I'm sure will be explained in book two. The author leads us through a maze of upheavals and happenings, good guys and bad guys and even the Rift King doesn't know what the heck is going on and how he got here. Then she (the author) gives us little tidbits of information as the story progresses and things start to make more sense. Through all that, I enjoyed the story very much and I'm delving into book two right away.
April 6, 2016
Rift King has a hard Time
There are six kingdoms, with the two largest at each other's throats for two hundred years. Splitting the continent is the Rift, somewhat similar to the Grand Canyon, dry hot and dangerous. Inhabiting the Rift are the Guardians and the Rift King, who maintain neutrality and peace between the kingdoms. For the first time the King is unique, a outsider, with one arm, looking like a 15 year old while actually 30 years of age. This makes for a very interesting set up. I enjoyed this and look forward to the second book.
There are six kingdoms, with the two largest at each other's throats for two hundred years. Splitting the continent is the Rift, somewhat similar to the Grand Canyon, dry hot and dangerous. Inhabiting the Rift are the Guardians and the Rift King, who maintain neutrality and peace between the kingdoms. For the first time the King is unique, a outsider, with one arm, looking like a 15 year old while actually 30 years of age. This makes for a very interesting set up. I enjoyed this and look forward to the second book.
May 8, 2014
This book was a strong contender for my favourites. The story was strong and compelling, and I finished it in 18 hours. Couldn't put it down.
The simmering tension between the Danarites and the Kelshites is a good, subtle filter I the back of the story, while the audience travels with Breton and Kalen across a landscape seemingly made entirely of mud and misery.
This is a very exciting book, and I urge every person to read it, and the books after it.
5/5
The simmering tension between the Danarites and the Kelshites is a good, subtle filter I the back of the story, while the audience travels with Breton and Kalen across a landscape seemingly made entirely of mud and misery.
This is a very exciting book, and I urge every person to read it, and the books after it.
5/5
July 29, 2015
In a world full of conflict, nothing is as it seems. Storm Without End thrusts its characters into peril and challenges the reader to unravel the mysteries and histories of the Rift King. Hidden agendas, secrets, and half-truths are revealed the deeper the story goes. The characters are put through a meat grinder in this gritty, complex fantasy adventure set in a unique and original world. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next installment.
December 19, 2014
3.75 stars. The best analogy I have for this book is that, from the abrupt beginning to the last page, I felt like I was trying to learn a dance I enjoyed but kept falling behind because the other dancers kept transitioning into patterns I couldn't follow. I'm mystified by some of the author's plot choices but too intrigued by both the human and nonhuman characters to turn down the next book in the series.
July 24, 2016
Storm With End pulled me into the story from the first line, It is written in such a way that I felt that I was standing next to Kalen or hovering just behind Breton, the characters in this story have depth and make you hold your breath until they are out of danger, needless to say I did not breath much while reading this book. This book is a must read in my opinion.
December 13, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author has such an incredible ability of fantasy world building, creating believable unusual characters and names and uses descriptive word crafting; even giving the horses personalities. This one is my favorite of RJ Blain's so far, and am looking forward to the continued journey of Kalen.
December 16, 2015
I was surprised at how much I actually liked this book. It was slow to start and slow to get me really interested, but once it did I was hooked. I liked how the horses played such a big part in the story. There was just enough action and story telling to keep the story going and I really need to read more about what is going to happen in the next books.
Recommended!
Recommended!
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