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The Lost Edge #1
Edge of the Woods
A young swordsman must retrieve a magical blade—and learn the truth about his past—in this fantasy adventure from the New York Times –bestselling author.
A young man lives among the trees of a primeval forest, raised by a wizened old sage and friend to the faeries and spirits of his home. He bears only half a name—Lien, an ancient word meaning “blade” or “edge”—and no knowledge of his heritage. As he grows, so too does his need for independence and answers. Thus, he begins his adventure, seeking a shattered sword and the truth behind the mysterious mark on his right hand.
To earn his freedom from his adoptive grandfather, Lien will seek to complete the trials of Anathema, a long-hidden weapon of devastating power. To succeed, he must master his own burgeoning power, learning swordplay and magic from fractured figments of ancient legends. Though his training will push him to the brink, failure comes at an even greater cost. For only with his talents fully forged will Lien stand a chance against his true destiny itself.
Set within bestselling author Andrew Rowe’s Arcane Ascension universe, and inspired by Japanese manga and role-playing games, Edge of the Woods is the first volume of an epic new fantasy series perfect for fans of The Legend of Zelda .
“ Edge of the Woods is an incredibly unique and interesting look into Andrew Rowe’s world that manages to completely capture the whimsical charm of a fairy tale, the heart of found family stories, and the vibrancy of an enchanted forest in one charming book. [It] serves as an amazing introduction to a new continent and characters and may just be Andrew’s best work yet!” —Tobias Begley, author of the Journals of Evander Tailor series
“My friends and family are probably pretty tired of me relentlessly recommending Andrew Rowe’s books to them. But . . . well, they’re about to get another Rowe recommendation with Edge of the Woods , which absolutely rocks. [It] has old school Zelda nostalgia and vibes, sword magic, badass action scenes, more sword magic, an amazing new setting, even more sword magic. . . . Did I mention the sword magic? I really like the sword magic. Swoooooorrrd maaaaaaggggggiiiiiiiccccc.” —John Bierce, author of the Mage Errant series
Praise for Andrew Rowe
“Rowe’s world building is extraordinary and it comes as no surprise that he is a video game designer by trade. . . . I will look forward to watching Rowe’s literary career.” — Fantasy Literature on Sufficiently Advanced Magic
“One of the things I think Rowe does very well is giving us battles that are filled with tension. . . . The fight sequences are highly enjoyable.” — Fantasy Book Review on Six Sacred Swords
A young man lives among the trees of a primeval forest, raised by a wizened old sage and friend to the faeries and spirits of his home. He bears only half a name—Lien, an ancient word meaning “blade” or “edge”—and no knowledge of his heritage. As he grows, so too does his need for independence and answers. Thus, he begins his adventure, seeking a shattered sword and the truth behind the mysterious mark on his right hand.
To earn his freedom from his adoptive grandfather, Lien will seek to complete the trials of Anathema, a long-hidden weapon of devastating power. To succeed, he must master his own burgeoning power, learning swordplay and magic from fractured figments of ancient legends. Though his training will push him to the brink, failure comes at an even greater cost. For only with his talents fully forged will Lien stand a chance against his true destiny itself.
Set within bestselling author Andrew Rowe’s Arcane Ascension universe, and inspired by Japanese manga and role-playing games, Edge of the Woods is the first volume of an epic new fantasy series perfect for fans of The Legend of Zelda .
“ Edge of the Woods is an incredibly unique and interesting look into Andrew Rowe’s world that manages to completely capture the whimsical charm of a fairy tale, the heart of found family stories, and the vibrancy of an enchanted forest in one charming book. [It] serves as an amazing introduction to a new continent and characters and may just be Andrew’s best work yet!” —Tobias Begley, author of the Journals of Evander Tailor series
“My friends and family are probably pretty tired of me relentlessly recommending Andrew Rowe’s books to them. But . . . well, they’re about to get another Rowe recommendation with Edge of the Woods , which absolutely rocks. [It] has old school Zelda nostalgia and vibes, sword magic, badass action scenes, more sword magic, an amazing new setting, even more sword magic. . . . Did I mention the sword magic? I really like the sword magic. Swoooooorrrd maaaaaaggggggiiiiiiiccccc.” —John Bierce, author of the Mage Errant series
Praise for Andrew Rowe
“Rowe’s world building is extraordinary and it comes as no surprise that he is a video game designer by trade. . . . I will look forward to watching Rowe’s literary career.” — Fantasy Literature on Sufficiently Advanced Magic
“One of the things I think Rowe does very well is giving us battles that are filled with tension. . . . The fight sequences are highly enjoyable.” — Fantasy Book Review on Six Sacred Swords
21 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 12, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
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September 7, 2024DNF at 45 % for now. Might get back to this some day since I love so many books from Andrew Rowe.
This book is a story within a story which I generally love. However it was too focused on the details of the magic system which made it feel like a textbook at times. This doesn’t bother me as much in a school setting but for me it didn’t fit into the story.
Furthermore it was unbelievable that the protagonist would tell it like this to a stranger on the road. I liked the quest the main character is on but it meandered just too much to hold my attention. I’m really sad to dnf it, I was really looking forward to this one…. 🥺
This book is a story within a story which I generally love. However it was too focused on the details of the magic system which made it feel like a textbook at times. This doesn’t bother me as much in a school setting but for me it didn’t fit into the story.
Furthermore it was unbelievable that the protagonist would tell it like this to a stranger on the road. I liked the quest the main character is on but it meandered just too much to hold my attention. I’m really sad to dnf it, I was really looking forward to this one…. 🥺
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December 4, 202304 Dec 2023
Rating: I'd put it at about 3.5 stars but that's due to purely subjective reasons so I'm going to not actually rate it on GR. Also, I skim-read a lot and that takes away my rating qualifications.
1. I think this one has the same issue that plague Rowe's other books (which are probably a feature and not a bug?) where it goes really (and I do mean really) into detail over magic systems at the expense of forming more meaningful character growth and relationships? But from what I remember his other books start out good at balancing both points and then become more magic-focused while this one does the opposite. Ngl, the first two-thirds of this was kindof a slog. I probably wouldn't have stuck to it if there interludes and the first chapter didn't hook me.
2. I do genuinely like the intricacy of the magic system, though. It's part of what makes the story good. But it's a mixed blessing of sorts.
3. The last third was pretty good though, and there are some plot hooks in the last chapter that do make me want to see more. And that's pretty impressive for a book that is, like The Name of the Wind, mostly about a character narrating their own backstory. Not usually a fan of that trope.
Rating: I'd put it at about 3.5 stars but that's due to purely subjective reasons so I'm going to not actually rate it on GR. Also, I skim-read a lot and that takes away my rating qualifications.
1. I think this one has the same issue that plague Rowe's other books (which are probably a feature and not a bug?) where it goes really (and I do mean really) into detail over magic systems at the expense of forming more meaningful character growth and relationships? But from what I remember his other books start out good at balancing both points and then become more magic-focused while this one does the opposite. Ngl, the first two-thirds of this was kindof a slog. I probably wouldn't have stuck to it if there interludes and the first chapter didn't hook me.
2. I do genuinely like the intricacy of the magic system, though. It's part of what makes the story good. But it's a mixed blessing of sorts.
3. The last third was pretty good though, and there are some plot hooks in the last chapter that do make me want to see more. And that's pretty impressive for a book that is, like The Name of the Wind, mostly about a character narrating their own backstory. Not usually a fan of that trope.
September 27, 2023
I love Rowe's books, I preordered this (even though I knew I wouldn't get to it asap)and so I'm pretty surprised to have a DNF here.
If you enjoy learning incredibly in-depth and well thought out magic systems with a smattering of intriguing characters I think you'll enjoy it. Like the type of person who enjoys reading all the rules before playing a new game.
I can stick with a book that has an intriguing story or a compelling character but I don't get grabbed by the world building aspect.
Feels like there was an intentional choice to change writing style for this book and I will try and give this some more reading, but this style is a lot different than his other books that I've loved and it's just not for me.
If you enjoy learning incredibly in-depth and well thought out magic systems with a smattering of intriguing characters I think you'll enjoy it. Like the type of person who enjoys reading all the rules before playing a new game.
I can stick with a book that has an intriguing story or a compelling character but I don't get grabbed by the world building aspect.
Feels like there was an intentional choice to change writing style for this book and I will try and give this some more reading, but this style is a lot different than his other books that I've loved and it's just not for me.
September 15, 2023
Slow early on but picks up later
It has a storytelling framing which I don't usually like, but it wasnt enough to get me to stop reading. The book starts out kind of slow, but after the halfway point it started picking up and I was excited to read to it. Overall I think it's a good book and you understand the stylistic choices more at the end. I'll be reading the rest as they come out. The second half and the ending have me excited for more.
It has a storytelling framing which I don't usually like, but it wasnt enough to get me to stop reading. The book starts out kind of slow, but after the halfway point it started picking up and I was excited to read to it. Overall I think it's a good book and you understand the stylistic choices more at the end. I'll be reading the rest as they come out. The second half and the ending have me excited for more.
November 26, 2023
Honestly wanted to dnf this book about half way in. If this was my first Andrew Rowe book I might have been more into it but after reading all of his other series this felt like too much of the same.
A LOT of time is spent on the magic system that sounded so similar to his other ones that I ended up skimming thru those parts. Which unfortunately feels like a majority of this book.
It just felt like too much of the same with slightly different names. I forced myself to finish it since all the books seem to be connected in some way. I really wanted to like this as much War of Broken Mirrors or Sufficiently Advanced Magic but it just wasn't working out
A LOT of time is spent on the magic system that sounded so similar to his other ones that I ended up skimming thru those parts. Which unfortunately feels like a majority of this book.
It just felt like too much of the same with slightly different names. I forced myself to finish it since all the books seem to be connected in some way. I really wanted to like this as much War of Broken Mirrors or Sufficiently Advanced Magic but it just wasn't working out
April 18, 2025
Re-read: Very slow. End is good, but man is the rest of it slow and confusing.
This was a fun and unique book. Felt like stepping into a traditional fairytale, with all the crazy rules as per tradition. The characters are interesting and likable, plot intriguing, and combat fun.
Yet I do have a few complaints. The pacing is ...slow. Honestly didn't know where the book was going for most of the time, and still a bit lost at the big picture.
Still. I had a great time with this one. Hope everything becomes clearer in the next.
This was a fun and unique book. Felt like stepping into a traditional fairytale, with all the crazy rules as per tradition. The characters are interesting and likable, plot intriguing, and combat fun.
Yet I do have a few complaints. The pacing is ...slow. Honestly didn't know where the book was going for most of the time, and still a bit lost at the big picture.
Still. I had a great time with this one. Hope everything becomes clearer in the next.
September 18, 2023
I really like the stories set in this universe, particularly the Arcane Ascension books. This book was disappointing because it really lacked character development. The magical system is fun, but it almost feels like a textbook that should be a bonus.
October 9, 2023
Obviously just the beginning of a longer thing. Requires The Whole Thing to be evaluated, but i'll keep reading.
July 1, 2025
A good read, but it takes a good while to get going. I don't know how many books are planned for this series, but it feels like the start to a larger series.
For the most part, I felt like it was a bit too hard on the magic explaining. I like that stuff, especially from Andrew Rowe, but here it felt like it was too direct. The writing felt somewhat more amateurish, less well-edited maybe, than the Arcane Ascension books.
I think the best way to describe this "problem" is that the story follows a classic Hero's Journey, but the Call to Action hasn't happened yet, in all of the first book. Where Sufficiently Advanced Magic immediately drops you into the action, and then later reveals the grander scope of the story and the worlds magic bit by bit, Edge of the Woods starts with a whole book of backstory. The main character is in his home village, learning magic to get strong enough to leave. While the magic is interesting, in my opinion it doesn't excuse the lack of story.
Having said that, near the end of the story I did start to get pulled in. Once I accepted that this was likely the start of a much larger whole, and once hints of this grander scope were beginning to become visible, I started enjoying the story a lot more. And I have to say, the final chapter is sublime. The book uses a framing narrative, similar to the Kingkiller Chronicle, where through hearing the story we learn more about the character telling the story, and the final chapter reflects wonderfully on this.
All in all, I'd recommend this book if you enjoy Rowe's other works and are willing to accept a less polished start. If you haven't read any Rowe books yet, I'd say start out with Six Sacred Swords or Arcane Ascension instead, since they feel a lot more streamlined.
For the most part, I felt like it was a bit too hard on the magic explaining. I like that stuff, especially from Andrew Rowe, but here it felt like it was too direct. The writing felt somewhat more amateurish, less well-edited maybe, than the Arcane Ascension books.
I think the best way to describe this "problem" is that the story follows a classic Hero's Journey, but the Call to Action hasn't happened yet, in all of the first book. Where Sufficiently Advanced Magic immediately drops you into the action, and then later reveals the grander scope of the story and the worlds magic bit by bit, Edge of the Woods starts with a whole book of backstory. The main character is in his home village, learning magic to get strong enough to leave. While the magic is interesting, in my opinion it doesn't excuse the lack of story.
Having said that, near the end of the story I did start to get pulled in. Once I accepted that this was likely the start of a much larger whole, and once hints of this grander scope were beginning to become visible, I started enjoying the story a lot more. And I have to say, the final chapter is sublime. The book uses a framing narrative, similar to the Kingkiller Chronicle, where through hearing the story we learn more about the character telling the story, and the final chapter reflects wonderfully on this.
All in all, I'd recommend this book if you enjoy Rowe's other works and are willing to accept a less polished start. If you haven't read any Rowe books yet, I'd say start out with Six Sacred Swords or Arcane Ascension instead, since they feel a lot more streamlined.
September 12, 2023
This was an epic read! The world building was very intriguing and detailed. It showed the author's impeccable attention to details and creativity. Those were also evident with the characters. I really liked that the MC didn't start off super powered that he had to grind his way up in very creative ways and he also recognized his flaws.
This is my first book by the author. It took me a bit of a while to get used to his style and get into the story. I found the first few chapters to be slow-paced. I was glad I continued on. It's a fantastic story!
This is my first book by the author. It took me a bit of a while to get used to his style and get into the story. I found the first few chapters to be slow-paced. I was glad I continued on. It's a fantastic story!
October 27, 2023
Unreliable narrator! Quite a few similarities with ‘name of the wind’ on this one. Character development was great though I feel it needed more centric characters. Loved the epilogue!
October 30, 2023
Here’s the thing: the size of my 3 star bucket is many times that of the other buckets. This one was almost lower, but it ended with a flourish.
The first half is mostly exposition on the magic system. I really do not care that the author has written a rule book of some sort on the many magic systems in his world. People do enjoy that thing, but I do not. I enjoy the anime style progression stuff, but I don’t think a tightly drafted code of law that would make a legal code nerd salivate is required.
The second half is a training montage and a couple twists. Much better. I skimmed any magic system deep dives after about 40% through the book.
The first half is mostly exposition on the magic system. I really do not care that the author has written a rule book of some sort on the many magic systems in his world. People do enjoy that thing, but I do not. I enjoy the anime style progression stuff, but I don’t think a tightly drafted code of law that would make a legal code nerd salivate is required.
The second half is a training montage and a couple twists. Much better. I skimmed any magic system deep dives after about 40% through the book.
September 29, 2025
I didn't really like this. Although it does get significantly better as the book progresses, and the final few chapters were really good and successfully goaded me into reading the next one once it's released, the first 70% of this was still just a wikipedia entry.
January 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this don’t get me wrong but why does it feel like another Keras origin story??
July 9, 2024
I wish I could rate books without my rating counting toward the overall rating, seems unfair. but ya, if I ever want to look back and see whether i should read book 2 or whatever, I want to remind myself that it was sooo not for me. I suspect the main problem is that a lot of what I found tedious and boring, many other fans were saying "OH so that is how person X from book X relates to place Y in book Y! THat's so cool!" and i'm saying "if edge is telling a story to scribe, i bet scribe fell asleep" there should be a warning on the book cover saying 'I know this says the lost edge #1 but it's not a standalone book ready all these other books first if you want to enjoy it!'
I liked andrew's arcane ascension series, but this one is like... a 0/10 whenever there is no dialog, and then 6/10 when there is dialog... and the % of the time that any characters are interacting is soo low, that i almost quit several times, but i kept coming back to goodreads and reading htat it eventually gets good, so i stuck it out to the end, and i regret it. the second half is waaay better than the first half, but not good enough to make up for the overall experience.
So here is the roller coaster of when the book was good vs bad from my personal "I dont get any of these references and I only really care about imagining cool character interactions" perspective...
intro: 3/5 it sets the stage without being boring, and there are a bunch of peoples insights about other people and dialog and stuff, i'm sold, i will read this book.
Scribe framework: 5/5 but only because it was kept very brief, i liked it.
Any scene with Annie in it: 5/5
Any scene with the smiling sword saint: 5/5
Any scene with grandpa: 5/5
Brief meeting with a cool character who's name I either never learned or dont remember sharing a meal and learning about quirky funny dude then wondering how he's going to be relevant in the future: 5/5
Any scene with red and grey and the others: 3/5 good enough
Any scene where edge is not with anyone, and is at least planning stuff: 2/5 at least there's a plan!
Any scene where edge is alone, and we as the reader are learning about the world or lore or backstory or magic system: 0/5 i can tap my foot and survive til the next scene, and if I HAVE to know this, then I guess i can forgive... but this had better be less than 10% of the book, or i will be mad (it was more than 50% of the book, so i am very mad)
Obviously this book is beloved by many, so success, no adjustments needed, but theoretically I COULD have been on board, if all of the worldbuilding and magic system building had just involved dialog and characters. I had the same complaint about arcane ascention, which I eventually loved, it felt like andrew the author wanted us to know all the important details about the setting and world and magic system prior to distracting us with the fun character interactions, and i just wish we could be trusted to figure that stuff out while having fun, instead of like, sitting thru a tutorial before getting to play.
Maybe write the book as-is, and then just cut out everything that doesn't involve multiple characters being cool together, and keep track of what you lost by cutting that, and see whether it can all be implied by what remains, then bam, ben-approved book. I know, I know, not all books are for me, I just wish I could have known this wasn't for me before spending 18 hours reading it, or that the whole world would magically adjust so that it WAS for me... hehe.
I liked andrew's arcane ascension series, but this one is like... a 0/10 whenever there is no dialog, and then 6/10 when there is dialog... and the % of the time that any characters are interacting is soo low, that i almost quit several times, but i kept coming back to goodreads and reading htat it eventually gets good, so i stuck it out to the end, and i regret it. the second half is waaay better than the first half, but not good enough to make up for the overall experience.
So here is the roller coaster of when the book was good vs bad from my personal "I dont get any of these references and I only really care about imagining cool character interactions" perspective...
intro: 3/5 it sets the stage without being boring, and there are a bunch of peoples insights about other people and dialog and stuff, i'm sold, i will read this book.
Scribe framework: 5/5 but only because it was kept very brief, i liked it.
Any scene with Annie in it: 5/5
Any scene with the smiling sword saint: 5/5
Any scene with grandpa: 5/5
Brief meeting with a cool character who's name I either never learned or dont remember sharing a meal and learning about quirky funny dude then wondering how he's going to be relevant in the future: 5/5
Any scene with red and grey and the others: 3/5 good enough
Any scene where edge is not with anyone, and is at least planning stuff: 2/5 at least there's a plan!
Any scene where edge is alone, and we as the reader are learning about the world or lore or backstory or magic system: 0/5 i can tap my foot and survive til the next scene, and if I HAVE to know this, then I guess i can forgive... but this had better be less than 10% of the book, or i will be mad (it was more than 50% of the book, so i am very mad)
Obviously this book is beloved by many, so success, no adjustments needed, but theoretically I COULD have been on board, if all of the worldbuilding and magic system building had just involved dialog and characters. I had the same complaint about arcane ascention, which I eventually loved, it felt like andrew the author wanted us to know all the important details about the setting and world and magic system prior to distracting us with the fun character interactions, and i just wish we could be trusted to figure that stuff out while having fun, instead of like, sitting thru a tutorial before getting to play.
Maybe write the book as-is, and then just cut out everything that doesn't involve multiple characters being cool together, and keep track of what you lost by cutting that, and see whether it can all be implied by what remains, then bam, ben-approved book. I know, I know, not all books are for me, I just wish I could have known this wasn't for me before spending 18 hours reading it, or that the whole world would magically adjust so that it WAS for me... hehe.
May 16, 2024
A Long Complicated Story, Well Built Fantasy World
So it took me awhile to read this one. It's a tad unusual. It seems to be a unique mix of game mechanics where one slowly gathers material to build up powers + skills and a regular fantasy story. I suppose tales like this exist but this is actually my first time reading one... I admit I do have some mixed feelings about it.
So I will tell you the things I liked first. I most definitely liked the characters and the setting. The main character is named Edge (Lein). Yes he has two very different names. But he seems to be the oddball in the forest he lives in. By that I mean he thinks differently and he takes different approaches to things too. He seems very honest and he doesn't want to harm anyone - and that ideal of his certainly seems to conflict with his incredible desire to have a sword. Any sword. But of course a greater sword would be better. But how can you be a swordsman without harming someone?? He thinks outside the box and does things he certainly shouldn't be able to do.
I loved his friendship with the fairy Ana and I especially liked his conversations later with the Smiling Sword Saint. And that group at the training school. Edge certainly manages to make friends wherever he goes.
In many ways the plot seemed to be a "quest" type story almost. Edge is always out looking for things to help him advance in his magical skills... That requires traveling and as he travels he runs across some very unique situations. And creatures too. We get to explore a good chunk of this newly created world. Often Edge is off on his own with no backup at all and he often runs into enemies way more powerful than he is. Basically he lives on his wits? Tons of action in here and fights. Magic blazing on almost every page.
Plus there is a big mystery about Edge too. No one really knows what he is. Is he human? He doesn't know. He certainly is not a fairy even though he lives in a fairy forest. Plus he has a seal on his hand that is hiding something. His grandfather refuses to tell him what. But its huge whatever it is. Powerful.
Now for a few things I didn't like. This book mentions essence countless times. Edge is always collecting it. Non-stop. And part of the story read like the instructor manual from Dungeons and Dragons. Mentioning all of these warrior classes. It was kind of strange and I did feel this slowed down the story plot. It was especially bad just before the midpoint of the book.
I do feel the overall story over rides this "gaming" element that is in the book. Maybe I am just not used to it?
The characters and the plot are very memorable. That is a big plus.. And I must admit that I am curious now as to what will happen next. I see there is a book #2 in this series.
So it took me awhile to read this one. It's a tad unusual. It seems to be a unique mix of game mechanics where one slowly gathers material to build up powers + skills and a regular fantasy story. I suppose tales like this exist but this is actually my first time reading one... I admit I do have some mixed feelings about it.
So I will tell you the things I liked first. I most definitely liked the characters and the setting. The main character is named Edge (Lein). Yes he has two very different names. But he seems to be the oddball in the forest he lives in. By that I mean he thinks differently and he takes different approaches to things too. He seems very honest and he doesn't want to harm anyone - and that ideal of his certainly seems to conflict with his incredible desire to have a sword. Any sword. But of course a greater sword would be better. But how can you be a swordsman without harming someone?? He thinks outside the box and does things he certainly shouldn't be able to do.
I loved his friendship with the fairy Ana and I especially liked his conversations later with the Smiling Sword Saint. And that group at the training school. Edge certainly manages to make friends wherever he goes.
In many ways the plot seemed to be a "quest" type story almost. Edge is always out looking for things to help him advance in his magical skills... That requires traveling and as he travels he runs across some very unique situations. And creatures too. We get to explore a good chunk of this newly created world. Often Edge is off on his own with no backup at all and he often runs into enemies way more powerful than he is. Basically he lives on his wits? Tons of action in here and fights. Magic blazing on almost every page.
Plus there is a big mystery about Edge too. No one really knows what he is. Is he human? He doesn't know. He certainly is not a fairy even though he lives in a fairy forest. Plus he has a seal on his hand that is hiding something. His grandfather refuses to tell him what. But its huge whatever it is. Powerful.
Now for a few things I didn't like. This book mentions essence countless times. Edge is always collecting it. Non-stop. And part of the story read like the instructor manual from Dungeons and Dragons. Mentioning all of these warrior classes. It was kind of strange and I did feel this slowed down the story plot. It was especially bad just before the midpoint of the book.
I do feel the overall story over rides this "gaming" element that is in the book. Maybe I am just not used to it?
The characters and the plot are very memorable. That is a big plus.. And I must admit that I am curious now as to what will happen next. I see there is a book #2 in this series.
September 14, 2023
The word that kept popping into my head while reading this story was Whimsical. The old world myths and legends weaved into Edge's world were mixed with a more modern magic system in a way that was fun and interesting. For anyone who has already read Rowe's other series, the system has some intriguing similarities to those you are familiar with while also establishing it's own rules and possibilities in this new area of the world.
Edge's story is a fun adventure with a goal that will be familiar to many fantasy readers. To grow in his power and obtain answers about his past that are always kept just out of reach. Something I appreciated about this story was that Edge's progress never felt slow, but did feel earned without having to torture the character or find a difficult to believe fix. Every step felt logical and I found the pacing to be impressive for reasons I will let you discover for yourself.
For those who have read Rowe's other series I think you will be pleasantly surprised by how naturally the connections are woven in, and in some cases left less vague than in previous novels. While I do wish there had been a few more answers than teases in this book, I still found myself satisfied and even excited by the ones I did get.
I received a free copy of this book via Podium Team and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Edge's story is a fun adventure with a goal that will be familiar to many fantasy readers. To grow in his power and obtain answers about his past that are always kept just out of reach. Something I appreciated about this story was that Edge's progress never felt slow, but did feel earned without having to torture the character or find a difficult to believe fix. Every step felt logical and I found the pacing to be impressive for reasons I will let you discover for yourself.
For those who have read Rowe's other series I think you will be pleasantly surprised by how naturally the connections are woven in, and in some cases left less vague than in previous novels. While I do wish there had been a few more answers than teases in this book, I still found myself satisfied and even excited by the ones I did get.
I received a free copy of this book via Podium Team and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2023
A mix of Legend of Zelda and your traditional coming of age fantasy
Overall I enjoyed this, the callbacks and use of traditional Fae lore was great. And the supporting characters are a fun crew that I can’t wait to learn more about. Our MC Edge, or Lien, is a very old school MC in that he’s a young man with a mysterious sealed power that his elder caretaker won’t tell him about. Feels very much like the older epic fantasy we all grew up on.
More in depth critique:
The fights are fairly fun, though not as top notch as some I’ve read. The Essence power system is cool, and similar enough to Rowe’s other works to feel familiar. The story itself bothers me simply because it stretches my suspension of disbelief due to the MCs age during it. He starts off turning 13 and then goes on to fight beasts, camp out at an abandoned ruin for years and generally be totally self sufficient from 13-15.
I know it’s a fantasy novel, but that one about ruined it for me. The ending was a nice cliffhanger for the next book, and I’m desperately curious to see both where things go with the unanswered questions about Edge as well as his tie ins to the wider world and other stories that are being told in Rowe’s other series.
Overall I enjoyed this, the callbacks and use of traditional Fae lore was great. And the supporting characters are a fun crew that I can’t wait to learn more about. Our MC Edge, or Lien, is a very old school MC in that he’s a young man with a mysterious sealed power that his elder caretaker won’t tell him about. Feels very much like the older epic fantasy we all grew up on.
More in depth critique:
The fights are fairly fun, though not as top notch as some I’ve read. The Essence power system is cool, and similar enough to Rowe’s other works to feel familiar. The story itself bothers me simply because it stretches my suspension of disbelief due to the MCs age during it. He starts off turning 13 and then goes on to fight beasts, camp out at an abandoned ruin for years and generally be totally self sufficient from 13-15.
I know it’s a fantasy novel, but that one about ruined it for me. The ending was a nice cliffhanger for the next book, and I’m desperately curious to see both where things go with the unanswered questions about Edge as well as his tie ins to the wider world and other stories that are being told in Rowe’s other series.
September 18, 2023
3 1/2 stars. A classic story of a young man with a mysterious past/unknown power and his coming of age. Set in the larger world of Arcane Ascension and a couple of other series that have some similarities and difference in the magic system (you don't have to read the others to understand this one; there is a character who show up in one of the other series but he doesn't play a large role and you aren't even exactly sure who it is). This is set on a different continent and with many characters of the fae race who did not show up in any of the other series you do get to see and explore more of this world.
Parts are a bit slow. There are some info dumps to explain the magic system which aren't too long. I got a bit lost in the explanation of different types of swords and moves that could be made with them.
But overall, the characters are a bit whimsical (inspired by Robin Hood and other forest inhabitant type characters), there is action and just a fun story. There are more secrets to be revealed in the next of the series and I look forward to seeing how this connects up with the wider world he has created.
Parts are a bit slow. There are some info dumps to explain the magic system which aren't too long. I got a bit lost in the explanation of different types of swords and moves that could be made with them.
But overall, the characters are a bit whimsical (inspired by Robin Hood and other forest inhabitant type characters), there is action and just a fun story. There are more secrets to be revealed in the next of the series and I look forward to seeing how this connects up with the wider world he has created.
December 25, 2025
so unfortunately, the (many) reviews about it being just info-dumps and basically a guide book were correct. i think someone need to tell him and say 'hey so it's a novel, not an entry of a wikipedia about this completely imagined world'. To be fair tho, where there were actual STORY and PLOT, it was GOOD. There was this one interlude where i was completely shocked at how good it was and thought 'oh so they CAN write a story', but it was almost 300 pages in... so..... yeah. The story after about 450 pages in were fine, but again, it was FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY PAGES IN.
okay this needs a new paragraph. the queerness. surprisingly, it was very woke (at least for litrpg). It had queer characters (albeit very very secondary ones) and two (weirdly placed) talks about gender and pronouns. sorry, not 'talks', maybe just, 'mentions'. If you catch it, there were something off about it though. I can't really put my finger on why exactly (i mean i can guess, but i virtually don't know anything about the author so i'll hold my tongue).
okay this needs a new paragraph. the queerness. surprisingly, it was very woke (at least for litrpg). It had queer characters (albeit very very secondary ones) and two (weirdly placed) talks about gender and pronouns. sorry, not 'talks', maybe just, 'mentions'. If you catch it, there were something off about it though. I can't really put my finger on why exactly (i mean i can guess, but i virtually don't know anything about the author so i'll hold my tongue).
September 28, 2023
A well written coming of age fantasy novel. Edge of the Woods follows protagonist Lien (Edge) during his early teen years, at his home in the Fae Woods. He is determined to strengthen his magic, centered around sword essence in particular, gain independence, and strike out on his own. He has a long way to go before he can reach his destiny, but this is a pretty good start.
This was such an enjoyable piece of high fantasy. Edge is a plucky young man, not afraid to throw himself into danger, but also highly intelligent and empathetic. You have to love him. The magic system is seriously thought out, and clearly explained. I enjoyed every bit of information that was given. I also really liked the narrative choice, to have future Edge describing his past via telling the story to a fellow traveler. Very fun. I'm definitely interested in seeing where his tale goes next.
I received a free copy of this book via Podium Team and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such an enjoyable piece of high fantasy. Edge is a plucky young man, not afraid to throw himself into danger, but also highly intelligent and empathetic. You have to love him. The magic system is seriously thought out, and clearly explained. I enjoyed every bit of information that was given. I also really liked the narrative choice, to have future Edge describing his past via telling the story to a fellow traveler. Very fun. I'm definitely interested in seeing where his tale goes next.
I received a free copy of this book via Podium Team and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2025
This book feels like reading supplementary material for a tabletop RPG, or watching a character mess around in a video game tutorial level. It's a fun concept, but it's also quite difficult to get invested in the main character's struggles.
The story uses a frame narrative - third person framing first person. The main character has a mysterious past, and recounts some of it while traveling with a scribe/mage/scholar. It's reminiscent of The Name of the Wind.
The bulk of these recollections are a dissection of the magic system, and the main character wanting to get stronger. This gives the book a slice-of-life feel, as the main character talks about crafting items, collecting materials, and exploring dungeon-like wilderness. I personally enjoy reading about that, and didn't mind the leisurely pace.
Unfortunately, the pace swings between gentle and janky because of the narrator's frequent infodumps. The reader has to sift through walls of text and decide what is important to the main character's story, and what isn't. It can be quite difficult to tell, as many, many concepts are given page time.
The magic system is detailed, but holds few surprises for anyone familiar with common RPG (especially JRPG) mechanics. I appreciate that the author has been very transparent about his inspirations for this series, and that he's very passionate about developing magic systems. I'm also aware that exploring systems in detail is a large part of the LitRPG/PF genre.
But Edge of the Woods is still marketed as a story, not a game appendix. In my opinion, this series doesn't have enough actual storytelling to carry the rest of it. Which is a shame.
The story uses a frame narrative - third person framing first person. The main character has a mysterious past, and recounts some of it while traveling with a scribe/mage/scholar. It's reminiscent of The Name of the Wind.
The bulk of these recollections are a dissection of the magic system, and the main character wanting to get stronger. This gives the book a slice-of-life feel, as the main character talks about crafting items, collecting materials, and exploring dungeon-like wilderness. I personally enjoy reading about that, and didn't mind the leisurely pace.
Unfortunately, the pace swings between gentle and janky because of the narrator's frequent infodumps. The reader has to sift through walls of text and decide what is important to the main character's story, and what isn't. It can be quite difficult to tell, as many, many concepts are given page time.
The magic system is detailed, but holds few surprises for anyone familiar with common RPG (especially JRPG) mechanics. I appreciate that the author has been very transparent about his inspirations for this series, and that he's very passionate about developing magic systems. I'm also aware that exploring systems in detail is a large part of the LitRPG/PF genre.
But Edge of the Woods is still marketed as a story, not a game appendix. In my opinion, this series doesn't have enough actual storytelling to carry the rest of it. Which is a shame.
November 5, 2023
Good book for the most part, except throwing in gender politics (they, them) for no reason. Those that support such BS will find the little of it thrown in unacceptable...those against it like myself will be annoyed by it's mention.
Then there is the gift...when the MC is told everything is harmful, and that the MC is under powered...he goes for it anyways...even though there is no pressing reason to go this route...for a gift that we are told will only bring harm.
I love MC's that raise or pass the bar...but that is not the case here...we have a self indulgent child who thinks they are always right...even when everything and everyone says they are not...yet they go their own way anyways.
I can't recommend buying the book, but if borrowing it from a friend, it might we worth a try.
Then there is the gift...when the MC is told everything is harmful, and that the MC is under powered...he goes for it anyways...even though there is no pressing reason to go this route...for a gift that we are told will only bring harm.
I love MC's that raise or pass the bar...but that is not the case here...we have a self indulgent child who thinks they are always right...even when everything and everyone says they are not...yet they go their own way anyways.
I can't recommend buying the book, but if borrowing it from a friend, it might we worth a try.
December 14, 2023
Struggling to decide how I feel about this one, but if you told me that this was one of the other options for Keris' backstory and was trunked in favor of Six Sacred Swords I would be like "Duh, obviously." Keris--I mean Edge--is a precocious, sword-obsessed orphan with mystery parentage and an apparent magical link to some mysterious, dangerous magical sword. He's got a close female friend who is the guardian of a different magical sword that he's determined to win from her, and all he wants in life is to do sword fights and righteousness. There's a weird side thread (main thread?!) in the future, from which time he's telling the story of his youth to Scribe, who might as well be Jonah, I don't know.
January 9, 2024
I love Andrew Rowe, I really, truly do. But ughhhhhh. EPIC fantasy adventure? No. I understand that it’s a new land and a new magic system from what we’ve experience so there’s necessary world building that needs to happen but so. much. detail. I’m pretty sure Edge, the narrator/main character, said “I should explain this” or “let me explain this” 104 times (hyperbole, leave me alone). I wish I could give it 3.5 stars because it’s not a bad book and Rowe weaves a wonderful universe and honestly I’ll keep reading the series because I’m devoted to Rowe lol, but I would list his series as 1. arcane ascension, 2. Shattered legacy, 3. Six sacred swords, 4. Lost edge of the woods (this series), and 5. War of broken mirrors. Don’t come for me 😅 reviews are opinions and this is mine.
April 11, 2024
3.5/5
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It scratches the itch of Progression Fantasy while still having fun and engaging world building. I don't think it is quite as strong as Rowe's other series in this world. Arcane Ascension is one of my favorite fun fantasy series over the last few years, so I think "Edge of the Woods" had a high bar to live up to.
That being said, I will be very excited to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next!
One quibble: In this world Rowe has written books about 3 protagonists (so far), all of which are focused on magic swords. Clearly this is an intentional theme, but there is so much other interesting magic and lore in this world that it seems almost a shame that all we get to see are swords!
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It scratches the itch of Progression Fantasy while still having fun and engaging world building. I don't think it is quite as strong as Rowe's other series in this world. Arcane Ascension is one of my favorite fun fantasy series over the last few years, so I think "Edge of the Woods" had a high bar to live up to.
That being said, I will be very excited to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next!
One quibble: In this world Rowe has written books about 3 protagonists (so far), all of which are focused on magic swords. Clearly this is an intentional theme, but there is so much other interesting magic and lore in this world that it seems almost a shame that all we get to see are swords!
July 7, 2025
I like Rowe's writing but this book did not click with me. The book read too much like a textbook at times, just endless discussions of magic system and different mana types with not that much of a actuall plot or action. There were some but it was too few for me, I have expected a bit more.
Also, the main character remained me too much of Corin from AA series and I would love more diversity. Edge as well as Corin was too focused on technical aspects, making himself stronger through tricks and workarounds. Which isn't bad, I love it with Corin, but once again I just wanted something that feels different.
And the plot was a bit confusing, there are some mysteries I was profoundly lost in, so hopefully they will be resolved later.
Also, the main character remained me too much of Corin from AA series and I would love more diversity. Edge as well as Corin was too focused on technical aspects, making himself stronger through tricks and workarounds. Which isn't bad, I love it with Corin, but once again I just wanted something that feels different.
And the plot was a bit confusing, there are some mysteries I was profoundly lost in, so hopefully they will be resolved later.
September 18, 2023
Genuinely a phenomenal book
I am what people would describe as an avid reader, like 30-50 books a year (I know more of an addiction at that point lol) but as any other avid reader will now a lot of fantasy and fiction books start becoming difficult to read as they end up repeating a lot of content and sort of outing themselves as being pretty formulaic.
This is one of the few books that breaks the mold, fantastic world building, actually believable and enjoyable character dialog and development, great fight scenes and just such interesting perspectives and twists that truly can catch you off guard. 11/10 solid recommend.
I am what people would describe as an avid reader, like 30-50 books a year (I know more of an addiction at that point lol) but as any other avid reader will now a lot of fantasy and fiction books start becoming difficult to read as they end up repeating a lot of content and sort of outing themselves as being pretty formulaic.
This is one of the few books that breaks the mold, fantastic world building, actually believable and enjoyable character dialog and development, great fight scenes and just such interesting perspectives and twists that truly can catch you off guard. 11/10 solid recommend.
October 5, 2023
Great story, awesome new character and new aspects of the world. The echos are an awesome concept, and I want to hug AR for the lgbT inclusion in his stories, particularly with some completely badass characters which is so rare. I do kind of wish there was less explanation of the exact magic system details because that stuff is kind of boring to me compared to story and character development, but I get that some people are into it. I'd say I can't wait for the next one except I'd really rather AR be working on the next W&W book haha. Although I'd make an exception for more of the Smiling Sword Saint. Can somebody clone this man please??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2025
3⭐ definitely not my favourite and I likely won't contlnue the series.
I liked the fae world and lien well enough but overall I just felt completely disconnected from this story. Somehow training with the Sword Saint didn't hit like corin in school or keras with dawn.
The format was clearly inspired by Name of the Wind where the MC is telling their story to someone. In NotW it was Chronicler and in this book, it's Scribe.
The magic also just felt less satisfying overall.
I liked the twist ending but realistically it's not enough to keep me engaged in the series. It's still Rowe so it's still fun, but this series overall just wasn't my fave.
I liked the fae world and lien well enough but overall I just felt completely disconnected from this story. Somehow training with the Sword Saint didn't hit like corin in school or keras with dawn.
The format was clearly inspired by Name of the Wind where the MC is telling their story to someone. In NotW it was Chronicler and in this book, it's Scribe.
The magic also just felt less satisfying overall.
I liked the twist ending but realistically it's not enough to keep me engaged in the series. It's still Rowe so it's still fun, but this series overall just wasn't my fave.
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