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Saga of the Known Lands #5
A Warrior's Path
A warrior’s path is trodden in pain and death lies at its end.
They were his father’s words from long ago. Not just words, in truth, but a warning.
And yet, despite this, in the end, Cutter, like so many others, had chosen pain, had chosen death.
Maybe he had done so when he lay dying in some back alley of his home city. Maybe it had been when Yeladrian, the Fey King, had gifted him the Breaker of Pacts.
Or perhaps he had not chosen his path at all. Perhaps it had chosen him. Either way, there was no choice left to him now. His path lay before him, and so the only thing left to do was to walk it.
And so he did.
His brother beside him, Cutter walked through the shadows and into the alien darkness of the Black Wood.
He was wounded from the countless fights which had come before.
He was tired from days and weeks, a lifetime spent striving in battle.
He was hopeless, for his life had taught him little of hope but much of pain.
And yet, he was breathing. He was alive.
And so he walked the path before him.
He walked a warrior’s path.
They were his father’s words from long ago. Not just words, in truth, but a warning.
And yet, despite this, in the end, Cutter, like so many others, had chosen pain, had chosen death.
Maybe he had done so when he lay dying in some back alley of his home city. Maybe it had been when Yeladrian, the Fey King, had gifted him the Breaker of Pacts.
Or perhaps he had not chosen his path at all. Perhaps it had chosen him. Either way, there was no choice left to him now. His path lay before him, and so the only thing left to do was to walk it.
And so he did.
His brother beside him, Cutter walked through the shadows and into the alien darkness of the Black Wood.
He was wounded from the countless fights which had come before.
He was tired from days and weeks, a lifetime spent striving in battle.
He was hopeless, for his life had taught him little of hope but much of pain.
And yet, he was breathing. He was alive.
And so he walked the path before him.
He walked a warrior’s path.
- GenresFantasy
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2023
151 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 1, 2023
love this series!
All is not what it seems in the Kingdom. Treachery & deceit plague the Known Lands. Further within, in the chilling Black Wood hope dims.
Another action packed instalment! Wonderful fun lovable characters with a pinch of humour amidst its dire setting!
All is not what it seems in the Kingdom. Treachery & deceit plague the Known Lands. Further within, in the chilling Black Wood hope dims.
Another action packed instalment! Wonderful fun lovable characters with a pinch of humour amidst its dire setting!
May 28, 2024
4.5/5 rounded up
Let me start off by saying that I need the next/last(?) book in the series ASAP. That alone should tell you that this is NOT the last of the Saga of the Known Lands. Not only that, but fair warning; this book ends on a cliffhanger!
I started reading this series with the thought that it was complete. As I was halfway through this installment I thought: "Ok, either there's another book after this in the future, or it's all going to crash together at the end with everything being rushed to a conclusion."
To an extent I'm glad there's another book after this one, as there is so many plotlines going that it would have been nearly impossible [not to mention absurdly chaotic & messy] to wrap everything up in this book.
On the other hand I'm irritated I have to wait for the next one.
My one gripe is that this book feels very much like a bridge. There isn't any DEFINITIVE conclusions to anything, and very much feels like an extension of the previous book.
Suffice it to say this series has been great, and this is definitely where the groundwork for the climactic finale is being set up. REEEEAAAAALLLLLLY hoping we get all the main characters to survive the inevitable war between the fey, and human kingdom that we as the readers know/assume is on the horizon. I've become so invested in their stories that I would be quite sad if someone didn't make it.
Let me start off by saying that I need the next/last(?) book in the series ASAP. That alone should tell you that this is NOT the last of the Saga of the Known Lands. Not only that, but fair warning; this book ends on a cliffhanger!
I started reading this series with the thought that it was complete. As I was halfway through this installment I thought: "Ok, either there's another book after this in the future, or it's all going to crash together at the end with everything being rushed to a conclusion."
To an extent I'm glad there's another book after this one, as there is so many plotlines going that it would have been nearly impossible [not to mention absurdly chaotic & messy] to wrap everything up in this book.
On the other hand I'm irritated I have to wait for the next one.
My one gripe is that this book feels very much like a bridge. There isn't any DEFINITIVE conclusions to anything, and very much feels like an extension of the previous book.
Suffice it to say this series has been great, and this is definitely where the groundwork for the climactic finale is being set up. REEEEAAAAALLLLLLY hoping we get all the main characters to survive the inevitable war between the fey, and human kingdom that we as the readers know/assume is on the horizon. I've become so invested in their stories that I would be quite sad if someone didn't make it.
September 24, 2023
Gripping well written fantasy - really hard to put down...
I am relatively new to the works of Jacob Peppers, but in a very short time he has gone from unknown to being one of the top five amongst my favourites in the new breed of modern fantasy authors. I now own just a few of his books, but each is exceptional. You can rest assured I will be owning more very soon.
This particular book is the fifth in the Saga of the Known Lands, but was the first I had read in the series. You can read it stand alone without any real difficulty, but it is clear that knowledge of some of the back story of the characters could be helpful, so you may benefit from starting at the beginning of the series and working through.
As with the few other books of his I have read it is masterfully written, and told from multiple points of view which only helps to heighten the tension and stress the direct relationship between the different stories that run in counterpoint.
The book covers a range of people and creatures; a former king whose propensity for violence has made him a legend in his own lifetime, his genius brother, his son who is the current unwilling occupant of the throne, a senior but legendary lady assassin, a formerly handsome ladies man whose magical powers of illusion stand against his propensity for food and drink which mean he has somewhat gone to seed, a carriage driver and his wife who are both very much more than they seem, and a huge range of magical fay creatures, to mention but a few of the protagonists. These and many other characters are all expertly woven deeply into the fabric of the book in a way that makes it really hard to put down. Although it is not short by any means, I was able to read the book in only a few days despite huge commitments and working long hours every day - I was reading it every possible moment because I wanted, even needed, to know what happens next!
This is really great stuff, and now I guess I have no choice but to go back over the rest of the earlier books in the saga and then wait with bated breath for the next in the series. To be honest, I can't wait!
I am relatively new to the works of Jacob Peppers, but in a very short time he has gone from unknown to being one of the top five amongst my favourites in the new breed of modern fantasy authors. I now own just a few of his books, but each is exceptional. You can rest assured I will be owning more very soon.
This particular book is the fifth in the Saga of the Known Lands, but was the first I had read in the series. You can read it stand alone without any real difficulty, but it is clear that knowledge of some of the back story of the characters could be helpful, so you may benefit from starting at the beginning of the series and working through.
As with the few other books of his I have read it is masterfully written, and told from multiple points of view which only helps to heighten the tension and stress the direct relationship between the different stories that run in counterpoint.
The book covers a range of people and creatures; a former king whose propensity for violence has made him a legend in his own lifetime, his genius brother, his son who is the current unwilling occupant of the throne, a senior but legendary lady assassin, a formerly handsome ladies man whose magical powers of illusion stand against his propensity for food and drink which mean he has somewhat gone to seed, a carriage driver and his wife who are both very much more than they seem, and a huge range of magical fay creatures, to mention but a few of the protagonists. These and many other characters are all expertly woven deeply into the fabric of the book in a way that makes it really hard to put down. Although it is not short by any means, I was able to read the book in only a few days despite huge commitments and working long hours every day - I was reading it every possible moment because I wanted, even needed, to know what happens next!
This is really great stuff, and now I guess I have no choice but to go back over the rest of the earlier books in the saga and then wait with bated breath for the next in the series. To be honest, I can't wait!
April 19, 2025
Too soon it ends
Too soon.... much too soon.... I didn't even realize I was at the book's end until there were no more words to read. Thank goodness for the next book. At least, I'm pretty sure it's available already. Man, I certainly hope so!
The books in this series (Saga Of The Known Lands) continue to build in excitement. The tension grew as I was pulled in deeper and deeper. The characters are very fleshed out in my mind's eye. I fret when they fret, feel relief with their relief, joy with their joy, and of course fear when they fear. Jacob Peppers is an excellent storyteller and a master in his craft!
The only downside I find, my only disappointment, is that it must end at some point. I wish it weren't so. This is one of those few series that I have come across to where I wish it would just go on forever. But alas, it always must end at some point or another. Just hopefully not for a little bit yet.
And now.... on to the next!
Too soon.... much too soon.... I didn't even realize I was at the book's end until there were no more words to read. Thank goodness for the next book. At least, I'm pretty sure it's available already. Man, I certainly hope so!
The books in this series (Saga Of The Known Lands) continue to build in excitement. The tension grew as I was pulled in deeper and deeper. The characters are very fleshed out in my mind's eye. I fret when they fret, feel relief with their relief, joy with their joy, and of course fear when they fear. Jacob Peppers is an excellent storyteller and a master in his craft!
The only downside I find, my only disappointment, is that it must end at some point. I wish it weren't so. This is one of those few series that I have come across to where I wish it would just go on forever. But alas, it always must end at some point or another. Just hopefully not for a little bit yet.
And now.... on to the next!
September 27, 2023
Cutter and his brother, Feledias, is on a suicidal mission in the Black Woods, seeking for a peaceful solution to the enmity and war between the Fey and humans...until a surprise Fey candidate intervened.
On the homefront Cutter's son, Matt, is having sleepiness nights of his own, for reasons he could not establish.
The rest of Cutter's group, Maeve, Chal and Priest are having some lethal challenges of their own.
In The Warriors Path a lot is happening but not really much accomplished despite no dearth of deaths
Yet the action and challenges they all face is quite real and rather nerve wracking that the reader dare not stop reading for fear of missing out on something crucial.
Then it ends on a cliffhanger. Makes one wonder forlornly how soon the next book in line is due to get published.
Enjoy.
On the homefront Cutter's son, Matt, is having sleepiness nights of his own, for reasons he could not establish.
The rest of Cutter's group, Maeve, Chal and Priest are having some lethal challenges of their own.
In The Warriors Path a lot is happening but not really much accomplished despite no dearth of deaths
Yet the action and challenges they all face is quite real and rather nerve wracking that the reader dare not stop reading for fear of missing out on something crucial.
Then it ends on a cliffhanger. Makes one wonder forlornly how soon the next book in line is due to get published.
Enjoy.
January 1, 2026
Matt is having nightmares; Priest has lost his faith; Chall & Maeve are seeking out the court historian at the main library, Matt is having nightmares, and Bernard and Fel have been captured in the middle of the Dark Woods and are fighting for their lives.
Footnote: 1) It is interesting that Petran complains of Falidar being long-winded in his books when this book, in places, has a similar problem.
Fave scenes: the treatment of Petran, Mauve putting Chall out of action, Vorrun’s adherence to duty, and Mauve’s study visitors.
Footnote: 1) It is interesting that Petran complains of Falidar being long-winded in his books when this book, in places, has a similar problem.
Fave scenes: the treatment of Petran, Mauve putting Chall out of action, Vorrun’s adherence to duty, and Mauve’s study visitors.
October 24, 2023
Another great read!
Love that these characters are ordinary people that refuse to give in to evil. They never give up but keep fighting against seemingly unbearable evil. Also love the humor and sarcasm amid the action. They never give up, just keep moving forward. Keep writing Mr. Peppers, can't wait for the next book 😊
Love that these characters are ordinary people that refuse to give in to evil. They never give up but keep fighting against seemingly unbearable evil. Also love the humor and sarcasm amid the action. They never give up, just keep moving forward. Keep writing Mr. Peppers, can't wait for the next book 😊
December 22, 2023
path of Warriors review
I liked the book but it did not tie up ANY ends whatsoever. I don’t care if there is a next volume out or coming out, you have to tie up something. But not a single storyline has any closure. I am quite disappointed by that. Every single thing is just left wondering who lives and who dies. Who the major player is. Very disappointed.
I liked the book but it did not tie up ANY ends whatsoever. I don’t care if there is a next volume out or coming out, you have to tie up something. But not a single storyline has any closure. I am quite disappointed by that. Every single thing is just left wondering who lives and who dies. Who the major player is. Very disappointed.
August 30, 2024
While I really enjoyed the previous books, this book felt quite disjointed and badly finished. Almost like “I have enough pages so I’ll finish here.” It felt like the author was busy with other books and series but somehow had to write this book as well. IMO, it’s time to finish this series or narrow the writing focus.
March 3, 2025
I'm torn on stars for this one.
I thought it would be the last book, but no. There is another to come.
Frustratingly Cutter and his brother, Feledias, are STILL in the Black Woods
A lot is happening but not really much accomplished.
Still, there is no lack of deaths
It's a good series, but I think it could have been improved by less books and more tighter writing.
I thought it would be the last book, but no. There is another to come.
Frustratingly Cutter and his brother, Feledias, are STILL in the Black Woods
A lot is happening but not really much accomplished.
Still, there is no lack of deaths
It's a good series, but I think it could have been improved by less books and more tighter writing.
October 3, 2023
It ended too quickly!!!!!
I love this series. Every bit about it. It is a great story. And now I am stunned that the book is ended. What happens???? I can think of no better review then to say, I cannot wait for the next part of the story.
I love this series. Every bit about it. It is a great story. And now I am stunned that the book is ended. What happens???? I can think of no better review then to say, I cannot wait for the next part of the story.
October 5, 2023
So much left unsaid…..
This book was full of intrigue and adventure. I find that a little humor can help the story along, and I’m now back enjoying this story. Too bad it had to end and we have to wait, but all good things are worth the wait.
This book was full of intrigue and adventure. I find that a little humor can help the story along, and I’m now back enjoying this story. Too bad it had to end and we have to wait, but all good things are worth the wait.
November 23, 2023
Better than the last
While this series is rapidly produced the quality remains the same. The characters are still developing and the story ever growing. Not as much in the main line s s the others though.
While this series is rapidly produced the quality remains the same. The characters are still developing and the story ever growing. Not as much in the main line s s the others though.
November 22, 2024
A fine weaving
Of intrigue, action, and becoming. Adept at weaving plot lines, the author has applied an overlay of human caring that brightens and sharpens almost everything. A pleasure to read and to anticipate how things will develop further.
Recommended.
Of intrigue, action, and becoming. Adept at weaving plot lines, the author has applied an overlay of human caring that brightens and sharpens almost everything. A pleasure to read and to anticipate how things will develop further.
Recommended.
February 24, 2025
Another none stop roller-coaster. The writing is amazing. The story telling is breathtaking.
So many twists and turns in this one. More world building and loads of great back stories.
Onto book 6 in the morning.
So many twists and turns in this one. More world building and loads of great back stories.
Onto book 6 in the morning.
November 21, 2025
Although I like these stories this author is extremely verbose and repeats himself too much! I end up skimming several pages to get back to the story. More of a personal preference, but then this is MY review.
October 21, 2023
Action plus
I love this series. Lots of twist and turns. I just don't like waiting for the next in the series.
I love this series. Lots of twist and turns. I just don't like waiting for the next in the series.
Read
November 10, 2023See you on the other side
Old world charm interspersed with a good amount of hijinks from the different characters. I'm sure there will be another one since it was left in the air
Old world charm interspersed with a good amount of hijinks from the different characters. I'm sure there will be another one since it was left in the air
November 18, 2023
Absolutely fantastic fantasy story that will absolutely draw you in once again. These characters take you along their dangerous journey. How will this all end.
December 10, 2023
Awesome
Another fantastic read.
A Bit naughty ending!
Well done!
Let's see if can all they survive to the next saga
Another fantastic read.
A Bit naughty ending!
Well done!
Let's see if can all they survive to the next saga
June 7, 2024
Great
Good read. Fast-paced while still defining the complex story lines and characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series
Good read. Fast-paced while still defining the complex story lines and characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series
November 14, 2024
great story…excellent characters
I'm moving eight in to the concluding book in this exceptional saga. Highly recommend this series and all the author’s works as well.
I'm moving eight in to the concluding book in this exceptional saga. Highly recommend this series and all the author’s works as well.
May 11, 2024
First of all, I'm very hooked on this series because I love the way Jacob Peppers writes a story. The characters have so much depth that you can't help but fall into. I don't find the usual long, drawn out, and boring character back story that typically leads me to abandon the book and not bother with any of the other author's books.
.
.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews