Tales of Tikpo: Concordia

by Brian Shukwit

For fans of Brian Jacques Redwall series and David Peterson’s Mouseguard, and readers captivated by fast paced action and high concept world building.
Thaddeus, a young tikpo leaves his abusive home and is taken in by a gadder named Story. Throughout that time Story works as a florist for the royal family of Solitary and Thaddeus her helper. When he and his friend witness a murder, he is beaten and left for dead. Determined to keep the young tikpo from further harm, Story tells Thaddeus of her mysterious past. She once trained in the magic sword art used by Kingsmen, now since vanished. Thaddeus becomes steadfast to never again be the victim and begins his training to resurrect the Kingsmen and master the sword art that is known as Concordia.
It is during that time that the kingdom descends into chaos and Thaddeus at the center of it. The royal family begins to be mysteriously murdered and the King goes to great lengths to bring Solitary a powerful Kingsmen once again. Thaddeus sets out to prove his skill as a Kingsmen, bring an end to the chaos, and solve the mystery of who is behind these murders.
Follow Thaddeus as he grows stronger, follow Story as you dive into her past, and follow the Kingdom of Solitary as it struggles to maintain order. This is Concordia.

This is part one of the Tales of Tikpo series.

360 pages, Paperback

Published September 13, 2023

About the author

Imagination has always been one of my greatest tools. Escaping to far away worlds in an instant with just a thought. Creating places, friends, dangers, adventure and excitement all in the comfort of my own mind. The stories would build up so I just HAD to get them out - so I began writing them down. At an early age, they were not some genius material or prodigy writing but it was fun for me. So I kept doing it and doing it. So, when I came into my 30's I had enough people telling me to put myself out there, so here I am. I write because I enjoy it. I write because the worlds I create need to escape. I don't write for money or fame, I write so people can have a piece of my imagination to take with them, and read my "heart novels". I hope you enjoy my works and I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Stay tuned for more imagination!

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this and gently suggested to my 13 and 12 year olds that they should read it. I had read it and enjoyed it, though it is not a genre I would typically pick up. But, ohmygoodness, did my boys ever latch on to it. For my oldest, it has replaced pretty much every other favorite he had, including Redwall and the Ranger's Apprentice. And this fills me with such great joy, because clearly this author knows his target audience very well! He has written a novel that strikes them to the core--and when a teenager tells all his friends to buy it, you know it's something special.

I have been going out of my way to support indie authors because I know they have taken so. much. on their shoulders. How amazing, how rewarding it is to not only be able to support them, but to also see their heart-novels become instant classics within my home!

I am giving it 5 stars based on my sons' feedback. It isn't my usual genre, and I am keenly aware that I am not the target audience. So, to rate it fairly, I am giving more weight to my teen & preteens opinions.

[Kelly Hellmuth · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Tales of Tikpo: Concordia," author Brian Shukwit takes readers on an imaginative journey into a world where bravery comes from the lowliest of places. This novel features a thrilling protagonist—a tikpo (think large mouse-like creature) named Ted—who proves that origins don't matter when it comes to courage and determination.

The world-building of this book is the true highlight. There is so much to this world, and I am eager to learn more about its lore. In Concordia, Brian takes the reader on a genuine hero's journey, with the protagonist experiencing Shamerra in all its glory. The story covers a huge swath of time and therefore moves quickly; there are times when I wish the author had slowed down a bit and gone deeper into Ted's emotional journey.

The action sequences pull in the reader, showcasing Ted's remarkable abilities. I was surprised to find that this was not a story for young children when I reached the first action sequence. The battles are fast-paced and adrenaline-pumping, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. In addition, the novel weaves in valuable life lessons about bravery, perseverance, and the strength found in embracing one's uniqueness. Minor spoiler, no one is safe in Concordia, and Brian doesn't pull any punches.

In conclusion, a good story should leave its readers with questions, and Brian accomplishes this well. Concordia is only the first of what I'm sure will be a massive epic tale. The world of Shamerra is one I want to revisit.

[B.R.R. Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Concordia is an absolute delight of a read! This coming-of-age tale takes place in a part of our world you're probably not familiar with, Little Shamerra. A (seemingly) nobody tikpo named Thadeus ends up under the care of Story, who raises him and teaches him the lost art of the Kingsmen. As he trains and grows, he finds himself in the middle of political intrigue, danger, and the opportunity to become a Kingsman himself. It's a thrilling ride filled with exciting twists, unexpected turns, and a touch of romance. I really can't wait for the next book in the series to come out!

[Emily Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an adventure! If you are a fan of Redwall or The Green Embers and animals with swords and epic world building, make sure to pick up a copy of Concordia! I truly enjoyed getting to know Ted and Story and the other unique characters of this book. I'm looking forward to the next in the series (and also a little scared!)